Blenheim Palace

Home of the 11th Duke of Marlborough and birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, was built between 1705-1722 for John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough in grateful recognition of his magnificent victory at the Battle of Blenheim in 1704.

One of England's largest private houses, Blenheim was built in the Baroque style by Sir John Vanbrugh and is considered his masterpiece.

Blenheim's wonderful interior reveals striking contrasts - from the lofty Great Hall to gilded state rooms and the majestic Long Library. The superb collection includes fine paintings, furniture, bronzes and the famous Marlborough Victories tapestries. The five room Churchill Exhibition includes his birth room.

The Palace grounds reflect the evolution of grand garden design. Walled garden, superb landscaping by 'Capability' Brown, Great Court, Italian Garden with parterres and a fountain by Ralph Waldo Story, Water Terraces with elaborate scalloped pools and Bernini's magnificent rivergods fountain, Formal Gardens full of wonderful urns, ornaments and statues, Pleasure Gardens - Marlborough Maze, Herb Garden.

This was incredible…so impressive and so large! The formal gardens, the statuary, so commanding and yet so perfect for this Palace. With large grounds come large imposing features…and the view beyond tied it all together. The inside of this Palace were just as impressive, but as you know, we are not allowed to take inside shots…thankfully I have the books on all of the gardens I have visited so I can refresh my mind on the interiors!