Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire
Home to the 12th Duke of Marlborough and famously, the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, Blenheim Place is somewhere you just have to see when you’re staying nearby on your large group holiday in the UK. Built as a gift to John Churchill from Queen Anne, following his victory at the Battle of Blenheim in 1704, the palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its glorious Baroque architecture and opulent interiors with enormous tapestries and notable works of art.
Have a good look around the house on one of the tours offered; see the magnificent Palace State Rooms and Sir Winston Churchill’s bedroom, take a glimpse into the rooms used by the Marlborough family from the 1st Duke to the modern day on the Upstairs Tour. The Downstairs Tour delves into the life below stairs where the servants worked, and you can see how much goes into maintaining the place on a fascinating Restoration and Conservation Tour. Allow time to browse The Churchill Exhibition with artefacts, letters and photographs of key aspects of the life of Sir Winston Churchill.
The extensive grounds at Blenheim Palace are gorgeous, with formal gardens, a walled garden and tree tour, and woodland walks in the wider estate. Youngsters will love the Adventure Play, the Marlborough Maze, Butterfly House, and Miniature Train; when your tummy starts to rumble head for one of the restaurants and cafes and before you go home, have a pokey round in the well-stocked shop for a momento of your visit. Opening times vary throughout the year, so you’d be wise to check the website before you plan a great family day out here. Blenheim Palace is just half an hour from Oxford.
T: 01993 810530
All information correct at the time of writing