The one-of-a-kind palace that was once home to Sir Winston Churchill

In England, the title of palace typically indicates that it is either a royal or episcopal residence. However, there is one lone home that bears that title that belongs to neither the royal family nor the church- Blenheim Palace.

Blenheim Palace is an English Baroque-style country house in Woodstock, Oxfordshire, and is known for being the family seat of the Dukes of Marlborough since the early 18th century. 

John Churchill was married to Sarah Jennings, one of Queen Anne’s closest friends. It was this friendship that eventually land them a title and the keys to an impressive home. 

John was first named the Earl of Marlborough by King William III for helping to depose King James II. He was then given several administrative and military roles where he began to prove himself on a bigger stage. 

Queen Anne wanted to thank John for his victories for Great Britain and granted him the title of “Duke of Marlborough”. She also gifted him a large amount of land in Oxfordshire and some of the funds to build a home. 

Construction on the English Baroque style palace began in 1705. It was not completed until 1722, as the couple was forced into exile in 1711 and did not return until after Anne’s passing in 1711. 

The 187-room home has required continual work since its completion in 1722. Each Duke has left their mark on the palace, from the home itself to the gardens and the landscape. 

In 1895, the 9th Duke married American socialist Consuelo Vanderbilt- Vanderbilt’s money saved the then-crumbling Blenheim and restored it. 

The Formal Gardens are a popular attraction and include the Rose Garden, the Duke’s Private Italian Garden, the Water Terraces, and the Churchill Memorial Garden. 

Blenheim Palace now sees nearly a million visitors a year. The Palace State Rooms remain a favourite with guests. The Churchill Exhibition is also a massive draw; visitors are able to see the room where Winston Churchill was born in 1874.