One of the largest houses in England, Blenheim Palace has been home to the rich and powerful since the day it was completed. Ironically, though, it proved the undoing of its creator.
When was Blenheim Palace built?
Blenheim Palace was constructed between 1705 and 1722.
Where is Blenheim Palace located?
This country estate is situated in Woodstock, Oxfordshire, England, just northwest of Oxford.
Who built Blenheim Palace?
Built between 1705 and 1722 and surrounded by 554 acres of parkland, it was a gift from a grateful Queen Anne to the 1st Duke of Marlborough for his victories in the Spanish War of Succession and particularly – as its name highlights – the Battle of Blenheim, which took place near the village of Blenheim in Bavaria, Germany.
However, the English Baroque style employed by Sir John Vanbrugh proved highly controversial among the public (who were, of course, indirectly paying for it) and the architect's reputation never fully recovered during his lifetime.
The grounds were laid out by Lancelot 'Capability' Brown, who was responsible for designing more than 170 parks during his illustrious career. Commissioned by the 4th Duke of Marlborough in 1763, Brown's extravagant plans took a decade to turn into reality and included the building of dams to create the palace’s picturesque 40-acre lake.
Does the royal family own Blenheim Palace?
While the Queen technically owns the land on which Blenheim Palace stands, the palace itself belongs to the Churchill family. The family pays a symbolic rent to the Crown in the form of a Blenheim flag.
Who owns Blenheim Palace?
Blenheim Palace is owned by the Churchill family, specifically the Duke of Marlborough. The current owner is Charles James Spencer-Churchill, the 12th Duke of Marlborough.
Who currently lives at Blenheim Palace?
The 12th Duke of Marlborough, Charles James Spencer-Churchill, and his family currently reside at Blenheim Palace. Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill, daughter of the 11th Duke, has also lived at the palace throughout her life.
Without doubt the most famous person to have been born at the palace was Sir Winston Churchill, the grandson of the 7th Duke of Marlborough. A good friend of the 9th Duke, Churchill often stayed there and is buried close by at St Martin's churchyard in Bladon.
When was Blenheim Palace granted UNESCO status?
Blenheim Palace was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, recognised for its architectural significance and historical importance.
- Find out our pick of the best ten UNESCO World Heritage Sites around the UK.
Is Blenheim Palace open to the public?
Yes, Blenheim Palace has been open to the public since 1950. Visitors can tour parts of the palace and explore its extensive grounds and gardens. Book online.
Should you visit, be warned: the maze within Blenheim’s walled gardens is not for the weak-willed. Comprising hundreds of yew trees, it's two miles long, making it the second largest hedge maze in the world.
