Jan. 1, 2024 to Dec. 31, 2024
Churchill 150
This year, Blenheim Palace proudly commemorates a significant milestone—the 150th anniversary of Sir Winston Churchill's birth. Join us in celebrating the remarkable life and legacy of one of history's most iconic figures. Blenheim Palace, where Churchill's extraordinary journey began, invites you to delve into the pivotal moments that shaped his life. From his birth at the palace to his heartfelt marriage proposal to Clementine Hozier, explore the storied past of a leader who left an indelible mark on history.
Embark on a fascinating journey through Churchill's living history with a series of engaging activities designed to honor his enduring impact. Walk the same halls where he once roamed, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of events that celebrate his extraordinary journey. From guided tours highlighting his connections to Blenheim to special exhibitions showcasing his personal artifacts and letters, each moment at the palace offers a deeper understanding of Churchill's legacy.
As you wander through the elegant rooms and scenic grounds, you'll encounter interactive displays that bring Churchill’s story to life. Join us at Blenheim Palace for a tribute that not only honors the past but also illuminates the extraordinary journey of Sir Winston Churchill. Celebrate with us, and be part of a memorable tribute to a legendary leader whose influence continues to inspire.
BOOK A VISIT
- Palace, Formal Gardens & Park Book now
Event open to holders of Palace, Formal Gardens & Park, tickets between Jan. 1, 2024 and Dec. 31, 2024
Available year-round, excluding Christmas. Immerse yourself in a private tour of the Palace State Rooms, Churchill exhibition and PrivateApartments, a guided buggy tour to Churchill's grave and a delightful Champagne Afternoon Tea. For availability and pricing, contact info@heritagexplore.com

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MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION




BLENHEIM PALACE
Blenheim Palace
The gift of a sovereign to the triumphant John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough, Blenheim is a symbol of national achievement and royal satisfaction. The greatest of English palaces (George III understandably remarked that he had 'nothing to equal this'), its Baroque grandeur and state recall palaces abroad, such as the Belvedere in Vienna built a few years later by Prince Eugene, Marlborough's companion in arms, rather than anything in the UK.
Blenheim might well have been merely an extravagant pile; that it proved an architecturalmasterpiece was due to the imagination of Sir John Vanbrugh, who had recently at Castle Howard completed his first house, before finising Blenheim in 1722. Its build journey was not an easy one, with Vanbrugh and Sarah, Duchess of Marlborough in constant clashes, and in the end they parted ways. From 1764, the landscape architect Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown transformed the park at Blenheim into a naturalistic haven, building a tree-fringed lake at its centre, around which today wonderful walks can be had with views of the palace.
By the late 19th century, the Marlboroughs’ finances were looking bleak, and a series of paintings, as well as Blenheim’s library were sold to ease the situation. Salvation came in 1895 when the super-rich American heiress Consuelo Vanderbilt was encouraged by her ambitious mother to marry Charles ‘Sunny’ Spencer-Churchill, 9th Duke of Marlborough, and save Blenheim from ruin. While this was successful, the venture came at a different kind of cost: the Marlboroughs’ marriage failed, and ended in 1921. The house was used as a school and then to house MI5 during the Second World War, during which the family stayed on-site, and in 1987, Blenheim was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In 1712 when going aborad, Marlborough left instructions 'that all persons may see ye whole Building to their Satisfaction' - words that still ring true today. Whilst the Palace remains the family home of the Dukes of Marlborough, Blenheim welcomes visitors annually from January - November.
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