In a significant move for British heritage tourism, Blenheim Palace has announced the opening of its Private Apartments to visitors for the first time. The UNESCO World Heritage Site in Oxfordshire will unveil five new rooms from February 15, including the magnificent Grand Cabinet, traditionally reserved for the most distinguished guests.
The new “Family Treasures” tour marks a rare opportunity for the public to explore spaces typically kept private by the Marlborough family. Visitors will follow in the footsteps of British aristocracy through the Duke’s Bar, Family Dining Room, Smoking Room, and Duchess’s Sitting Room, before entering the Grand Cabinet – considered the most opulent room in the Palace.
The historical significance of these spaces runs deep. The Grand Cabinet, now displaying priceless artifacts including a 1750 Savonnerie Carpet, served as a wartime schoolroom for Lady Rosemary Spencer-Churchill, who later stood as one of Queen Elizabeth II’s Coronation Maids of Honour in 1953.
Among the British artistic treasures now on display are works by Sir Alfred Munnings, George Stubbs, and Sir Winston Churchill. The collection also includes personal items belonging to various Dukes and Duchesses of Marlborough, offering intimate glimpses into aristocratic life across generations.
This expansion comes as part of Blenheim’s 75th anniversary of first opening to the public – a decision initially made to fund essential roof repairs. History seems to be repeating itself, as the Palace has also announced a £12 million roof restoration project, echoing those original conservation efforts.
The Palace will further expand its visitor offerings this spring with a rooftop viewing platform and a “Life Below Stairs” experience showcasing the original kitchens, though both will be temporarily available due to the upcoming restoration work.
For British heritage enthusiasts, this rare opening of private spaces provides an unprecedented opportunity to experience one of the nation’s most significant stately homes in greater depth than ever before. The new tour adds 20 minutes to the standard visitor route and is included in regular admission prices.
