5 of England’s most Iconic Doors

10 Downing Street

If you were expecting to read a blog post about famous English doors and not see Number 10 Downing Street on the list, then it’s time you brushed up on your cultural knowledge. Arguably the most widely recognised on our list, this door has been around since 1766.

Despite a brief stint in a different colour when Herbert Asquith was Prime Minister, it’s remained black throughout its entire life, and it looks unlikely that anyone else will buck that trend any time soon (notwithstanding the red replacement cited as an April Fool’s joke, back in 2006).

Shakespeare’s House

Few writers are better-known and more highly-regarded than William Shakespeare, and it’s still possible to visit his house. It’s in Stratford-upon-Avon. Which is also home to several superb theatres and a calendar packed full of great writer’s plays. The door has a bit of a reputation for being awkward, too – its height forces visitors to duck as they enter. Its style perfectly epitomises that of the Elizabethan and Jacobean eras.

221b Baker Street

Another from the capital, and it’s the first on our list that’s been included because of a fictional character. For those out there not up to speed on their Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, 221b Baker Street is the home address of England’s most famous detective, Sherlock Holmes.

Brought firmly back into public focus over the past ten years, thanks to both Benedict Cumberbatch and Robert Downey Jnr’s portrayals, the door continues to attract plenty of tourists every day. Honestly, I’m yet to drive past it and not see people queuing up outside.

Phone Boxes

Few doors are more distinguishable and yet, at the same time, widespread as those found on England’s traditional red phone boxes. Although you don’t see as many of these around today, the classic design is easily identifiable as English. While the door arguably isn’t the most recognisable aspect of any phone box, it perfectly blends into its surroundings and more than contributes to the overall “look.”

Durham University

There’s no one door at Durham University that’s particularly famous. However, there’s a good chance you’ll recognise it as Hogwarts. While J. K. Rowling took inspiration from other places, such as her school, for the beloved wizarding school. Durham University was one of the go-to sets for the films.

Okay, so it’s a bit of a stretch to talk about doors here, as it’s predominantly archways and windows that make up the castle’s interior, but any excuse to talk about Harry Potter, right?