Today we went to Blenheim Palace which was absolutely gorgeous. We had an amazing tour guide named Tim who is most likely one of the most educated and well rounded people I’ve ever met. A little cute fun fact is that he acts in Shakespere plays. I’m very excited because we get to speake with him again on Tuesday when learning all things Shakespere, which is right up his alley.

The Palaces architecture is nothing short of amazing. I find it very intresting that a Duke currently lives there, and yet so many people are inside and outside admiring the many many acres the palace sits on. There are a few room where pictures are not allowed to respect the privacy of what those rooms used to hold.

Heres some history surrounding this palace. The palace was built in the early 18th century and it was constructed as a reward for John Churchill, the 1st Duke of Marlborough, after he led British forces to victory at the Battle of Blenheim in 1704 during the War of the Spanish Succession. Queen Anne granted him the land and money to build a grand home in recognition of his military achievements and loyalty to the country. Due to a falling out, Churchill ended up needing to pay for his “gifted” house.

The gardens themselves have their own fascinating history. In addition to the formal gardens and lakes designed by Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, the estate also includes hidden pathways, fountains, and monuments built to honour the Duke of Marlborough’s achievements. The Column of Victory, located within the grounds, was built as a tribute to his success at the Battle of Blenheim and can still be seen today towering above the landscape. I quite enjoyed the secret garden, where it was so queit and peaceful.

Another intresting thing is that people dressed up during as if they were from this time. It just goes to show how important this palace is to not only tourists but also people born and raised in Britain.

This is a cute picture spot located in the secret garden:

Loacted above, is a little look into one is inside the palace. Everything is meant to look rich and important which is supported by the statues, red carpets, painted ceilings and more.