The spectacular historical exhibitions of Blenheim Palace
The UNESCO World Heritage site dates back to the early 18th Century, when it was built as a gift to the 1st Duke of Marlborough and has been home to successive Dukes of Marlborough. The 12th Duke of Marlborough and his family currently live there, and you can walk around some of their private sitting rooms.
The Blueprints of Power exhibition celebrates 300 years of its architect John Vanbrugh, and his partnership with Sarah Churchill, First Duchess of Marlborough through dramatisation in each room with costumes and storytelling and even talking portraits. You soon discover that Vanbrugh was also a charismatic playwright, a soldier, a sailor, a spy, a courtier, a diplomat, a patriot and Kit-Cat Club member, and “the rock star of the English baroque”.
Other discoveries as you walk through: Original workmen tools from early 1700s; Archival plans of Blenheim Palace from early 1700s; Sandy Powell’s original costumes from The Favourite (2018 film about Queen Anne and Sarah Churchill); Original early 18th Century garments; Archival garments from early 1700s.
The exhibition finale is in The Long Library, which hosts an immersive projection experience showcasing the different stages of building Blenheim Palace.
The palace also pays homage to Sir Winston Churchill, who was born there, with an exhibition of his paintings, items he owned and even his hair! There are also permanent exhibitions Life Below Stairs and The Stables, which are equally as fascinating.
The attention to detail is spectacular, from the architectural design and interior décor to the 2000 acre landscaped grounds and manmade lake. No wonder it has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987.
P.S. did you spot the tree from Harry Potter? 👀
📍Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxford OX20 1PS
Blueprints of Power ends 31/05/26
