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Blenheim Palace

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Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace is the home of the 12th Duke and Duchess of Marlborough and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. This National Treasure houses some of the finest antique collections in Europe and boasts over 300 years of history to discover.  Explore this World Heritage Site set in more than 2000 acres of ‘Capability’ Brown landscaped Parkland and tour the array of Formal Gardens, or take the miniature train to the family-friendly Walled Gardens.  Blenheim Palace is not only an iconic part of history, but also a living, changing experience with a wealth of events, themed tours and exhibitions throughout the year. 

Receive a warm welcome at Blenheim Palace, the home of the 12th Duke and Duchess of Marlborough and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Wonder at this masterpiece of 18th Century Baroque architecture, which houses some of the finest antique collections in Europe. Take a tour of the State Rooms and discover over 300 years of history.

Explore this World Heritage Site amongst over 2,000 acres of ‘Capability’ Brown landscaped parkland. Admire some of the finest views in England and historical monuments such as the Grand Bridge and Column of Victory. Stroll through the stunning Formal Gardens, including the Rose Garden, Water Terraces and Secret Garden.

Blenheim Palace is not only an iconic part of history, but also a living experience with a wealth of sporting and cultural events, themed exhibitions and tours throughout the year.

The Churchill Exhibition features a mix of historic artefacts and new technology, documenting key aspects of the adventurous life of Sir Winston Churchill, the famous wartime leader and writer. With photographs, letters, artefacts and excerpts from his most famous speeches, you'll gain a real sense of our ‘Greatest Briton’. Sir Winston Churchill was born at Blenheim and returned often during his long life for parties, to paint and to spend time with his cousin and close friend ‘Sunny’, 9th Duke of Marlborough. He also chose to propose to his beloved wife, Clementine at Blenheim. The exhibition is located in an area of the Palace overlooking the Water Terraces used as an artist’s studio by the wartime leader. Blenheim’s rich military history provided huge inspiration for Churchill’s own career.

For an extra special experience, why not book onto their additional Upstairs Tour which offers a unique look at 21st-century life in an 18th-century palace, in the main rooms used by the Marlborough family, from the 1st Duke to today. See the Nursery where Nanny lived and cared for the young Lords and Ladies right up until the 1990s, and beautiful paintings by artists such as Reynolds, Kneller, Sargent and Stubbs. Ever wondered what it would be like to be a guest at Blenheim Palace? From after dinner etiquette to secret corridors, gain an insight into the routine of visitors both past and present, including Charlie Chaplin, Bill Clinton and Sylvester Stallone.

The Downstairs Tour alternatively gives visitors a glimpse into the lives of Palace staff over the centuries - household staff were essential to the aristocratic way of life. Visitors can wander through the network of corridors, see the iconic bell system as well as some areas which are still in use by Palace staff today, including the kitchen. Along the way, hear about the gossip and perks of the job from the staff’s point of view.

After visiting the Palace, discover the beauty of the Formal Gardens. Created over the centuries by esteemed garden designers such as Henry Wise and Achille Duchêne, the Formal Gardens reflect a journey through the styles of the ages. The Formal Gardens surround the Palace, and they include the majestic Water Terraces, the Duke's Private Italian Garden, the tranquil Secret Garden with all of its hidden treasures, the Churchill Memorial Garden and the beautifully delicate Rose Garden. We have a brand new accessible path down to the Formal Gardens from our West Courtyard, so everyone can enjoy the stunning views across the gardens and lake. Explore the Formal Gardens Audio Tour, taking you through the gardens at your own pace.

As well as its rich history, Blenheim Palace has an impressive repertoire of features in films and television series including Harry Potter Order of the Phoenix, James Bond, The Young Victoria, Mission Impossible and Disney’s Cinderella. Experience the original filming locations right here at Blenheim Palace, walk in the footsteps of movie and television stars on our Lights, Camera, Action Trail and go behind the scenes of these famous blockbusters and many more.

Discover behind the scenes stories spanning 300 years into the Marlborough’s relationship with the British Royal Family in their latest exhibition, Royal Connections Crowns and Coronets (open March 19th – July 30th 2023). The Palace’s close connections to the monarchy are being showcased with an exhibition of previously unseen artefacts, crowns, coronets, robes and photo albums. Among these are personal effects from royal weddings, coronations, and holidays, as well as an ornate crown worn by Queen Anne which has undergone conservation and will be on public display for the first time. Visitors can feast their eyes on spectacular costumes from Bridgerton, The Crown and ITV drama Victoria, as well as an original Maid of Honour’s dress from Queen Elizabeth II’s Coronation.

Dine like royalty in Blenheim's unique new restaurant, Clementine’s on the Lawn, a beautiful glass structure in place temporarily whilst the Orangery restaurant undergoes essential restoration work. The surrounding glass allows for stunning views across the South Lawn of the Palace and Parkland whilst indulging in either a delicious afternoon tea of fresh sandwiches, warm scones and variety of luxurious sweet treats, a hearty meal or a Sunday roast. The citrus name pays homage to both The Orangery Restaurant as well as Clementine Churchill, wife of Sir Winston Churchill.

The Stables café in the West Courtyard offers a wide variety of delicious hot meals whilst the Oxfordshire Pantry in the East Courtyard is perfect for a cup of tea and a light bite. Head to the Walled Garden Pizzeria on Winston the Miniature Train for a freshly made woodfired pizza.

Blenheim Palace is home to a year-round calendar of exciting events. Step back in time at their Jousting Tournament, satisfy your taste buds at Blenheim Palace Food Festival and delight in the charming sights and scents of Blenheim Palace Flower Show.

Blenheim truly is a Palace for all seasons and age groups, with everything on offer from Easter excitement, summer fun, spooky Halloween experiences, and spectacular Christmas events, to family days out exploring the Walled Garden, Butterfly House and the Marlborough Hedge Maze.

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Address
Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, UK
Phone Number
Post Code
OX20 1PP
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