Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace featuring heritage architecture and heritage elements
Blenheim Palace
Blenheim Palace which includes heritage elements, heritage architecture and a castle
Blenheim Palace showing heritage architecture and heritage elements
Blenheim Palace


Amble through a picturesque riverside park to reach this stately Baroque palace and landscaped garden.

Blenheim Palace is a grand country house with marvelous landscaped gardens, set amid gorgeous green parkland. Come here to admire its majestic fountains, picturesque grounds and the 18th-century palace building, which encompasses a range of architectural styles.

As you enter this lavish estate, you’ll be stepping into the main home of the Dukes of Marlborough. The holder of the title of duke, Charles James Spencer-Churchill, is a distant relative of Princess Diana and former Prime Minister Winston Churchill. The country house was built between 1705 and 1722, and was presented to the first Duke of Marlborough after his military success. However, political infighting soon led to his exile.

Stand in front of the palace façade and take a moment to appreciate the stately design. With the landscaped garden sitting pretty in the foreground, this is also a good spot for taking photos. Beside the well-trimmed hedges, you’ll be able to see a large pond with several fountain jets. This site’s architectural beauty and eclecticism is said to have inspired the English Romantic Movement.

Inside, the layout remains as it was in the early 18th century. Walk through the rooms and seek out the room where Britain’s beloved wartime leader Winston Churchill was born in 1874. Or join a guided tour of the State Rooms, during which you can learn more about the various dukes who lived here.

Outside, the gardens feature designated trails, as well as a rose garden, cascades and a large lake. The design of the more than 2,000 acres (809 hectares) of parklands is the work of Lancelot "Capability" Brown, England's most famous landscape architect. He was born in 1716 and to celebrate his 300th anniversary, 2016 is marked as the Year of the English Garden.

Blenheim Palace sits beside the River Glyme in the Woodstock area, less than 10 miles (16 kilometers) north of Oxford’s center. Buses depart regularly from the heart of the city, taking half an hour to reach the palace. Oxford Airport is just to the east of the site.Ticket options vary for the gardens, the park and the palace. The site opens daily from morning until early evening.

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Things to do near Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace offers a variety of activities for visitors, including an exciting adventure park and a delightful adventure playground for children. Explore the charming antiques shops nearby for unique finds. Don't miss the Blenheim Palace tours, which provide a fascinating insight into its history, with tours departing regularly throughout the day. Enjoy a memorable day filled with adventure and culture in this stunning estate.

Shopping

Discover the Covered Market, a vibrant public market only 12.9km from Blenheim Palace, offering a mix of local produce and unique gifts. Cowley Road, also 12.9km away, boasts family-friendly shops. If you're up for a drive, Bicester Avenue, located 14.5km away, offers a delightful shopping experience with entertainment options.

Recreation

At Iffley Road Track, immerse yourself in an energising atmosphere, perfect for running or walking. Port Meadow offers serene landscapes for relaxation and leisurely strolls. For a touch of sport, Bicester Golf and Country Club provides a beautiful outdoor setting for a round of golf amidst nature.

Adventure

Experience the beauty of the Thames Path National Trail, a scenic hike located 8.0km from Blenheim Palace, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. For a thrilling adventure, visit Delta Force Paintball Banbury, 18.0km away, or tackle the High Ropes course, 22.5km away, for an exhilarating zipline experience.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife by visiting the New Theatre Oxford for captivating performances, or catch a film at Cineworld Witney for a romantic evening. The Oxford Playhouse also offers a delightful cultural experience, perfect for families and couples alike, all within a short drive from Blenheim Palace.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Blenheim Palace

While visiting Blenheim Palace, you can explore a variety of attractions that highlight both historic and modern colleges and universities, as well as charming churches. These points of interest offer a rich cultural experience, perfect for families and those seeking a taste of local heritage. Whether you're keen on history or simply wish to enjoy the beautiful surroundings, Blenheim Palace and its vicinity provide a delightful array of activities for every traveller.

  • University of Oxford: Experience the rich academic heritage of the University of Oxford, located 11.3km from Blenheim Palace. Wander through its stunning architecture, tranquil gardens, and vibrant atmosphere that reflect centuries of scholarly pursuit.
  • Oxford Castle: Explore the romantic and cultural charm of Oxford Castle, situated 12.9km away. This historic site offers a captivating glimpse into the past, featuring medieval architecture and intriguing tales of its storied history.
  • Oxfordshire Museum: Just 644m from Blenheim Palace, the Oxfordshire Museum showcases the region's rich history and culture. Discover fascinating exhibits and collections that celebrate the area's heritage in a welcoming environment.

Best time to go to Blenheim Palace

The best time to visit Blenheim Palace is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January38.8°F (3.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February40.1°F (4.5°C)No RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March43.0°F (6.1°C)No RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
April46.9°F (8.3°C)No RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June58.3°F (14.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July62.2°F (16.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August61.7°F (16.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
September57.7°F (14.3°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
November45.1°F (7.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December41.2°F (5.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Blenheim Palace

To save on your visit to Blenheim Palace, consider travelling in the cheaper months of January to February or October, and aim for a Monday stay to avoid high Saturday rates. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly accommodation by sorting prices and filtering for Eco-certified hotels. Look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for additional savings. Additionally, keep an eye out for annual tickets and cancellation options for flexibility, as well as last-minute breaks for potential discounts.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Blenheim Palace are January to February and October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Blenheim Palace is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Blenheim Palace is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to tailor your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Blenheim Palace with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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