The Palace

Home to the 12th Duke of Marlborough and his family and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, Blenheim Palace is undoubtedly one of the finest palaces in the UK and a masterpiece of Baroque architecture.

Located in the heart of the pretty Cotswold market town of Woodstock, the World Heritage Site is the only non-royal country house in England to hold the title of a palace.

It was built as a gift to John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough, from Queen Anne and the nation in gratitude for his victory at the Battle of Blenheim on 13th August 1704.

Blenheim Park

The picture-perfect British stately home that is Blenheim Palace sits among more than 2000 acres of extraordinary landscaped parkland and formal gardens.

A visit to Blenheim Park offers an unforgettable experience. With its rolling hillsides, ornate bridges over water, and well-kept gardens, not to mention over 2000 acres of parkland to explore, you will find plenty of beautiful spots to enjoy with your family.

Take in the sights from the Woodstock Gate, regarded as one of the most striking views in England, to the banks of Queen Pool Lake. Enjoy the magnificence of this capability brown gardens and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Other highlights

Formal Gardens
Created over the centuries by esteemed garden designers such as Henry Wise and Achille Duchêne, the Formal Gardens surrounding the palace reflect a journey through the styles of the ages. It includes the majestic Water Terraces, the Duke’s Private Italian Garden, the tranquil Secret Garden with its hidden treasures, the Churchill Memorial Garden and the beautifully delicate Rose Garden.

Walled Gardens
Take the Miniature Train from the palace for a little adventure in our Walled Garden, perfect for all the family. Explore the Marlborough Maze and play area at your own pace and find our new trail for hours of family entertainment. The Walled Garden Pizzeria serves delicious freshly made woodfired pizza, and the extended menu includes pasta, salads and meatball subs.

The Butterfly House
Visit the Butterfly House in the Walled Garden, home to butterfly species from all around the world. Located in the Walled Garden, it has welcomed visitors to its vibrant tropical climate since the early 1980s. The Butterfly House is home to a range of butterfly species from countries such as Thailand, Malaysia and the Philippines, as well as several zebra finches.

The Orangery Restaurant
The refurbished Orangery is now open. You can enjoy refreshments at the new and fresh bar space or make a reservation for a scrumptious lunch. Experience elegant dining with our Afternoon Tea, featuring authentically British, house-made scones, delightful sweet treats, and an array of dainty sandwiches.

The Stables Café
The Stables Café in the West Courtyard is the perfect place to have breakfast, lunch or tea and cakes as you head towards the Formal Gardens. This lovely café often has Art and Photographic exhibitions from local artists for you to enjoy as you tuck into some delicious food.

Tickets

Buy tickets for the Palace, Park and Gardens. Explore 2000 acres of Parkland and 300 years of history.Buy tickets

Getting there

By train
The nearest stations to the Palace are Oxford (9.1 miles), Oxford Parkway (6.2 miles), and Long Hanborough (3 miles).

Visitors arriving at Hanborough rail station can take a free shuttle bus service at weekends every 30 minutes. The service operates between 9.10am and 5.40pm on Saturday and Sunday to coincide with GWR train arrival and departure times.

By bus
The S3 bus from Oxford to Woodstock runs every 30 minutes from Oxford train station and Oxford’s Gloucester Green bus station to the gates of the Palace. The 7 bus from Oxford to Woodstock runs from Oxford train station and George street via Oxford Parkway to the gates of the Palace. The 500 service leaves from Oxford Parkway and stops at the Palace and Woodstock.

By car
Blenheim Palace is located 8 miles north-west of Oxford, on the A44 Evesham Road. The Palace is signposted from junction nine of the M40. If you’re using satelite navigation (satnav), please use the postcode OX20 1UL. There is a 20mph spead limit across the Estate.

Opening times

The Palace
Open daily from 10.30am to 4.45pm

The Park
Open daily from 9.00am to 5.00pm

Events and Exhibitions
Opening times vary. Please check on the relevant event or exhibition page.

The Formal Gardens
Open daily from 10.00am to 4.00pm

The Walled Garden
Open daily from 10.00am to 4.00pm

The Walled Garden Pizzeria
Open Friday to Sunday from 10.00am to 4.00pm

Adventure Play
Open Friday to Sunday from 10.00am to 3.15pm

The Orangery Restaurant
Open daily from noon to 5.00pm

The Stables Café
Open daily from 10.00am to 4.30pm

Accessibility information

Blenheim Palace is committed to ensuring all visitors can enjoy its World Heritage Site. Companion tickets for blue badge holders are free, and assistance or support dogs are welcome. For additional support, contact 01993 810530 or customerservice@blenheimpalace.com

Level access is available to key areas including the State Rooms, Orangery Restaurant, Churchill Exhibition, cafes, gardens, courtyards, shops, and Adventure Playground.

Wheelchairs and single-person mobility scooters are available to hire (pre-booking recommended). Scooters cannot enter the Palace, but wheelchair transfers are offered. Outdoor routes may include uneven surfaces, so suitable footwear is advised.

For visitors with visual impairments, touch tours and audio/large print displays are available. Free British Sign Language tours run monthly, and some staff are trained in BSL and disability awareness.

Families are welcome, with under-3s admitted free. The Adventure Playground has ramps, wide pathways, and quiet sessions. Accessible toilets, baby-changing facilities, and water for assistance dogs are provided throughout the site.

For full details, including Christmas and event accessibility, view the Accessibility Guide.