Downing Street Visitors' Books Released to National Archives

Three volumes spanning 1970 to 2003 reveal signatures and messages from global leaders, royalty, and significant historical figures.

The visitors' books from 10 Downing Street, covering the years 1970 to 2003, have been made public for the first time at the National Archives in Kew, London.
The books include signatures and messages from world leaders, such as Nelson Mandela, Mikhail Gorbachev, and multiple U.S. presidents, as well as members of the British Royal Family.
Notable entries include a heart symbol from Czech leader Vaclav Havel, reflections on the UK-U.S. 'special relationship' from George H.W. Bush, and a message of gratitude from Rudy Giuliani after the 9/11 attacks.
The volumes also document visits by controversial figures like Ugandan dictator Idi Amin and Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe, highlighting the breadth of historical interactions.
The books were discovered after one was offered for auction earlier this year, but the sale was blocked by the UK government, which claimed the volumes as Crown property.