Blenheim Palace
About
Blenheim Palace is England's only non-royal, non-episcopal palace — a monumental Baroque masterpiece built for John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough, as a gift from a grateful nation after his victory at the Battle of Blenheim in 1704. It's also the birthplace of Winston Churchill. The scale is deliberately, defiantly enormous: the Great Hall alone could accommodate a decent-sized house. The palace interiors are lavish — the state rooms, the Long Library (183 feet of painted ceiling), and the Churchill Exhibition are all impressive. But the grounds may be the greater attraction: 2,000 acres of parkland landscaped by Capability Brown, with a lake created by damming the River Glyme, formal gardens by Achille Duchêne, and the spectacular water terraces. The Pleasure Gardens near the palace include a maze, butterfly house, and adventure playground. The annual Christmas illuminations (book early) are spectacular. The wider estate has excellent walking and cycling routes. Allow a full day for palace and grounds. It's near Woodstock, a charming Cotswolds market town worth exploring. One of the greatest country estates in Europe.
https://www.blenheimpalace.com/ 01993 810530
Tickets & Pricing
Palace, Park & Gardens: Adult £35, Child (3-16) £19.50. Park & Gardens only: £20. Annual pass available.
Opening Times
Palace: daily 10:30-17:30 (Feb-Oct). Park: daily 9:00-18:00 year-round.
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