Your Amazing Race: London Calling

Blenheim Palace Martin Addison [CC-BY-SA-2.0], via Wikimedia Commons
The Suburban Queen in Oxfordshire
Blenheim Palace was built in the early 18th Century (1722) to celebrate a victory over the French. Can you believe that this palatial estate was a gift from the crown? Talk about a present. Built by the 1st Duke of Marlborough, the property has been passed down through the generations.

The estate operates similar to the Biltmore Estates in Asheville, NC. The Duke and Duchess still live full time at the home but only keep 42 of the 180(ish) rooms to themselves. The property has actually been open to tourists since the late 18th century. You can always check to see what’s happening on the grounds at the estate’s events calendar.

From coffee and cake in the Oxfordshire Pantry to fine dining in The Orangery, the cafes on the property deliver a unique culinary experience in once-in-a-lifetime surroundings.

Imagine Living Like a King
The Palace Tour offers luxurious insight into the lives of one of the most prestigious families in the world. The Blenheim Palace State Rooms house one of the finest art collections in Europe. Guided tours run every 20 to 30 minutes Monday – Saturday and are included in the admission price to the grounds. Private tours are also available  (at an additional cost). These tours must be booked in advance.

I never knew [Blenheim] was packed with so much history! – Recent Visitor

Themed tours are a highlight of any visitor with an extended series of special-interest talks and walks. The Private Apartment Tours are a rare chance to take a guided tour of the private apartments of the Duke and Duchess of Marlborough located in the East Wing of the Palace. These tours are only available on selected dates. Book at the ‘Flagstaff’ Information Point, a small additional charge will apply. Due to the age of the buildings, most tours are not suitable for wheelchairs.

A Toast to Churchill
Toast a special visit to Blenheim Palace in our fabulous Champagne Bar. Serving exquisite champagnes in glamorous surroundings, the bar allows you to follow in Sir Winston Churchill’s footsteps by enjoying a chilled glass of bubbly overlooking the Water Terraces.

In reference to Prohibition in the US, Churchill stated that banning alcohol was “an affront to the whole history of mankind.” #CheersToChurchill

Also available at the Champagne Bar are Champagne lunch deals, special offers for Annual Pass Privilege Card holders and an exclusive Club Bubble menu including sumptuous Champagne Cocktails. You can start enjoying your bubbly daily at 11 am.