The Pillared Room
The Pillared Room is the largest of the three rooms and is used when international agreements are being signed, or as the main staging area for receptions. This is where the England Rugby Union team were entertained after winning the World Cup in 2003.
The inventor John Logie Baird used the room to demonstrate one of his new-fangled televisions sets to Ramsey MacDonald and his children.
The room contains a striking Persian carpet, copied from a 16th century original which can be found in the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Interesting items
Ghost in the mirror
The Pillared Room is said to be haunted. Several staff in Number 10 report having seen or heard 'the lady' - a woman dressed in a long dress and pearls.
Chairs
These chairs were designed by William Kent and date from the 18th century. Two of the chairs were donated to the Victoria and Albert museum but 14 remain in Downing Street.
Twelve of the chairs and two small sofas were renovated to their former glory in 1999. We've documented the restoration in our restoration gallery.
George and the Dragon sculpture
St George's shield bears the flowers and motifs of the United Kingdom. Kevin Coates designed this centrepiece in 1991, which is part of a collection owned by the Silver Trust.
- Move on the the Small Dining Room
PM Record Breakers
Watch our short films
Media Centre