Your Guide to Visiting Blenheim Palace

Learn how Blenheim Palace became an integral part of British culture and how it grew from a family home into a tourist hotspot. 

With controversy and royal influence, you can go on a journey of discovery at Blenheim. Head out to one of the many palace events or explore the gardens that surround the 16th-century building.

Find out more about Blenheim Palace and how to enjoy your next visit…

Overview

Located in Woodstock, Oxfordshire, Blenheim Palace is home to the Duke of Marlborough. The World Heritage site was built between 1705 and 1722 and is the only non-royal country house that is a Palace.

Nowadays, Blenheim Palace is open to the public and hosts many family-friendly events throughout the year. You can enjoy a Spooktacular Halloween at Blenheim or discover the festive cheer at one of the magical Christmas events.

The tickets to Blenheim grant visitors’ access to over 2000 acres of stunning architecture and exotic gardens. With the option to enjoy a romantic meal at The Orangery.

Find out how to buy your Blenheim Palace tickets on their website.

History of Blenheim Palace

Dating back to the 18th-century, John Churchill was given the land after his military success throughout the Battle of Blenheim. Then with financial help from Queen Anne, the project to build Blenheim Palace began.

Over the following years, the project was thrown into turmoil, with the Palace costing much more than the original plans. The budget of £60,000 (£13,600,00 today) ended up rising to over £220,000 (£50,000,000 today). The Duke was exiled overseas and only returned once Queen Anne had passed away.

As years passed and the Palace passed from Duke to Duke, the families fortunes began to dwindle. However, when the 9th Duke of Marlborough (Charles) took over, he took matters into his own hands.

In 1896 Charles married Consuelo Vanderbilt. The marriage was one of money and allowed the restoration of Blenheim Palace.

Nowadays, the Palace is still home to the Churchill family (now Spencer-Churchill). However, the Palace and its grounds are open to the public with an entrance fee.

Throughout history, Blenheim Palace has had some notable residents. In fact, if the Churchill name sounds familiar, Blenheim Palace was the birthplace and home of Sir Winston Churchill. 

Events

Blenheim Palace has events all year round. From family-friendly half-term events to Christmas markets and concerts, the Palace is a great place to explore with the kids.

Some of these events are free with the annual pass, and you can discover artwork, jousting and Easter egg hunts. You can find out the list of up-to-date events on the Blenheim Palace website.

Some of the more notable events include:

Blenheim Palace Christmas Market

At Manor Cottages, we love a Christmas Market. The Blenheim Palace Christmas Market is no exception. Set in the stunning Great Court, you can discover over 70 stalls offering food, drinks, crafts and treats.

Open daily between 10:00 and 20:00, Blenheim Palace Christmas Market is perfect for a family day out. Access to the market is free with a pre-booked ticket to the Palace, and you can experience the Illuminated light trail*.

*Separate charges may apply.

Opening Dates: 19th November 2021 – 19th December 2021

Blenheim Palace Food Festival

For the foodies out there, Blenheim Palace Food Festival is a perfect way to indulge. In previous years, the festival has seen MasterChef winners, Bake-Off contestants and many celebrity chefs.

The children can run around and explore the palace grounds while you take in some mouth-watering street food with your friends and family. Among the stalls, you can find cheese, meats, ice cream and a variety of drinks.

In recent years, the festival has also hosted several vegan, gluten-free and organic producers.

Opening Dates: 2nd June 2022 – 5th June 2022

Salon Privé Class & Supercars

Home to some of the UK’s rarest and most desirable cars, the Salon Privé event is a luxury event for supercars, hypercars and classic cars. Running throughout the week are several events that showcase all things luxury.

Some of these events are open only to members but keep your eye open to public events if you want to witness some of the UK’s most stunning cars.

Opening Dates: 31st August 2021 – 4th September 2021

Facilities & Opening Times

Blenheim is home to many exhibitions and walks throughout the year. Many of the admission prices include a free annual pass to the Palace, park and gardens.

Blenheim Palace prides itself on providing an accessible attraction for all. Carers receive free entry into the Palace, and most of the grounds, including The Orangery Restaurant, are wheelchair accessible.

Guide dogs are welcome, and water is provided for them in the East Courtyard.

Other Attractions in Blenheim

On your visit, it is well worth making the most of Blenheim and the surrounding areas. If you are travelling with the family, there are many family-friendly activities on your doorstep.

The quiet town of Woodstock has many museums where you can learn about the impact of the war and the history of Oxfordshire.

Or, treat the kids to the exotic world of animals at the Heythrop Zoological Gardens in Chipping Norton.

Whether you are visiting for a day or a week, there is plenty to see and do. You can maximise your visit by staying in a Cotswold cottage.

See our favourite dog walks around Blenheim Palace to visit on your trip.

Where to Stay on your Visit to Blenheim Palace

Blenheim is right on the edge of the Cotswolds and offers an opportunity to explore Oxford and the Northern Cotswolds. Choosing the right cottage location can maximise your visit and boost your quality time with your loved ones.

If you want to be in the heart of the Cotswolds, Burford, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Bourton-on-the-Water are ideal. From here, you can explore the rolling green hills and discover a world away from home.

Alternatively, choosing a cottage near Oxford is perfect if you want to spend time in the city for a week of pampering and luxury.

Wherever you decide to stay, visiting Blenheim palace on your visit is perfect if you are visiting with the family. There are many events throughout the year, and it gives you a great chance to explore the Cotswolds.

With so much history, Blenheim palace offers an insight into the rich history of Britain. You can take a tour, explore the gardens or enjoy afternoon tea with your friends.

Start planning your trip to Blenheim with Manor Cottages today. Find a cottage in Woodstock online today.

Image Credits – Steve Daniels – (CC BY-SA 2.0); 14keon27sittler – (CC BY-SA 4.0); Tim Ellis – (CC BY-NC 2.0)