Blenheim Palace
 Blenheim
Palace, the home of the Duke of Marlborough, is one of the
largest and most splendid houses in the country. It was built
in the early 18th century as a reward from Queen Anne to the
first Duke of Marlborough for his victories in Europe over
the forces of Louis XIV of France.
Blenheim was built in the baroque style by Sir John Vanburgh
and is considered his masterpiece. The marvellous interior
includes a lofty Great Hall, the majestic library and gilded
staterooms. The superb collection includes fine paintings
and furniture, bronzes and the famous Marlborough Victories
tapestries.
Sir Winston Churchill was born at Blenheim and the five room
Churchill Exhibition includes his birth room. His simple grave
in the churchyard at Bladon is just one mile away.
The palace grounds were superbly landscaped by Capability
Brown, dating from 1864.
The Pleasure Gardens complex has recently been developed
and includes a maze, herb gardens, the Butterfly House, Putting
Greens and an Adventure Playground. A miniature railway connects
the Palace to the Pleasure Gardens.
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