Formal Gardens and Architecture at Blenheim Palace

By: Haley Sefton

Blenheim Palace was designed by Sir John Vanbrugh in an old English Baroque style. This particular style allowed the Palace to gain its World Heritage Site status in 1987. Vanbrugh was hired by the 1st Duke of Marlborough for the construction of the Palace. The first foundation stone was laid on June 18, 1705 and the palace was relatively complete around 1724. Blenheim is a little over 300 years old, but some aspects have been recently added and are 100 years old, making them Victorian. Vanbrugh planned Blenheim Palace in a perspective that is best viewed from a distance, such as driving towards the main gate. This magnificence over comfort atmosphere was intentional by the architect, because he wanted to create not only a home but a national monument. It was to reflect the power and prestige of the nation.

The magnificent gardens of Blenheim Palace consist of the legacy that is Lancelot 'Capability' Brown within 2000 acres of his parkland. It is with his designs that helped Blenheim Palace gain its World Heritage Site status. His landscape settings he devised in the 1760s provided harmony and beauty for every generation of the Marlborough family to enjoy. The glorious panoramic views can be observed as you walk out of the palace into the Naturalistic Versailles setting. The Formal Gardens owe much to the 9th Duke of Marlborough who in 1920, along with Achille Duchêne, redesigned the gardens to provide the Palace with the formal majestic setting that visitors see today.There is five Formal Gardens on the grounds along with wonderful walkways and sites to visit on the grounds, for more information click here.

 

 

 

The Water Terraces

It took five years, from 1925 to 1930 for the Water Terraces to be built and involved an immense amount of planning. Today, these terraces are reminiscent of Versailles. It was here, during the summer of 1908, that Sir Winston Churchill proposed to Miss Clementine Hozier, who was to become Baroness Churchill.

 

                                                                         

 

  

The Italian Garden

This ornate garden is the current Duke's private garden. In the early 20th century the 9th Duke of Marlborough redesigned the Italian Garden on the advice of the French architect, Achille Duchene.

 

 

The Secret Garden

This newly renovated garden lies to the east of the South Lawn. In contrast to the formal gardens, because it has an informal style, and sweeping parkland. It also is a secluded area which leads you down paths over bridges and to the tranquil stream.

 

 

 

 

The Pleasure Gardens

This area is dedicated to families and can be reached by the miniature train from the Palace. It is a perfect place to enjoy the Butterfly House, or visit the Blenheim Bygones Exhibition. This is also the location of the famous Marlborough Maze and Adventure Play Area. The maze is the world’s second largest symbolic hedge maze, designed to reflect the history and architecture of the Palace. Within the maze area is a model of a Woodstock street, putting greens, as well as a giant chess and draughts set.