Blenheim Palace Guided Tour from Oxford- private tours
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Enjoy a guided tour of one of England's most famous palaces & gardens but also home to the Churchill family and Duke of Marlborough. Our tour will describe the destiny of events which led to the creation of Blenheim palace. Its creation was no easy achievement- the main architect was even refused entry to see his completed work! However, it is open today for all to enjoy its sumptuous interior and its expansive gardens, lake house and maze.
Palace entry ticket worth £41 per person is included in your tour price. Guided tour duration is 90 minutes+.
Upon arrival at Blenheim palace, your guide will take you on a guided tour lasting approximately 90 minutes. You will then have free time to visit other parts of the palace and gardens on your own.
OPTION ALSO EXISTS TO SELECT TO ADD ON A 90 MINUTES PRIVATE WALKING TOUR OF OXFORD AT START OF THE TOUR FOR ADDITIONAL £100 FEE.
DISCLAIMER: during mid November to end December, the palace has a Christmas display that may obstruct state rooms
Available options
Oxford Tour + Palace Tour
Oxford city tour + Palace Tour: Meet guide OUTSIDE Oxford visitor info centre, 15 Broad street, OX1 3AS for 90 minute+ Oxford tour + 90 minute palace tour.
Palace tour only
What's included
Local guide for guided tour of the palace (this does not include tour of the gardens and estate)
Cost of taxi from Oxford to the palace outwards is paid by the guide
Complimentary hot drink and guidebook souvenir at palace cafe paid by the guide
Entry ticket to palace state rooms included with optional 1 year pass, worth £41 per person
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Guided tour of the palace lasting approx 90 minutes. You will then have free time after the end of the tour to explore the palace exhibition spaces and gardens
What's not included
Gratuities
The tour does not include a tour of the gardens and the estate grounds but you can do this after.
The cost to book a taxi back to Oxford may be £25+ and that is not included
Mid Nov to late December, the state room displays may be partially obstructed by Christmas display
If you prefer to return to Oxford by bus, the public bus leaves outside palace gates until 23.00
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
NL
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.3
6 reviews
5★
4
4★
1
3★
0
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1
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
11 reviews
5★
11
4★
0
3★
0
2★
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1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Blenheim palace is located just next to Woodstock village, so we recommend you visit both locations in your free time after the guided tour.
PLEASE ARRIVE ON TIME AT THE AGREED MEETING POINT:
Please arrive 5 minutes early for your tour at our meeting point. If you arrive more than 5 minutes later than the scheduled tour, then you might forfeit and lose your booking as if your arriving late, as this may interrupt the guide and other customers, if we are trying to find you after a guide has started and left the meeting point.
WE OFFER YOU THE OPTION TO EITHER MEET US in OXFORD TO CATCH TAXI WITH US TO THE PALACE OR TO MEET US AT INSTEAD AT THE PALACE, LOCATED ABOUT HALF HOUR DRIVE AWAY FROM OXFORD CITY.
INFO FOR DRIVERS AND PARKING:
If you are driving, then please allow extra 30-60 minutes over whatever time you think it will take you to get here. Oxford is NOT car friendly and it is congested roads and hard to find parking spaces....unless you park at the sign posted 'park and rides' on edge of town on any major road into the city and hop on their buses into city centre. The park and ride buses leave every 15 or every 30 minutes and take anything from 10 min to 30 min (depending on traffic) to reach city centre. So if you are going to drive, then please assume you should be aiming to park your car about one hour before your tour starts.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT:
We actually recommend instead using the much faster and reliable train services but again please aim to arrive about an hour or earlier before your tour starts as trains can be delayed and the train and coach station are about 15 minutes walk from our meeting point. There is also the coach service from London called the Oxford Tube which leaves every half hour or more but it can take much longer than its advertised 105 minute journey time. It drops you off either at High street Oxford or Gloucester Green coach station. It's quicker to ask to get off on High street near Carfax tower, then it's a 10 minutes walk to Broad street.
Meeting point
Meet your guide wearing red lanyard. Meeting next to our black sign, OUTSIDE Oxford Tourist info centre, 15 Broad street, OX1 3AS. This is also next to the Oxfam shop which has a green sign above its shop.
About Oxford
Oxford is a historic university city renowned for its prestigious academic institutions and stunning architecture. With a rich history dating back to the 9th century, it offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern vibrancy, making it a compelling destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
University of Oxford
One of the world's oldest and most prestigious universities, the University of Oxford is a must-visit for its historic colleges, libraries, and museums.
Historical/Cultural
Half day to full day
Free to £15 for guided tours
Bodleian Library
One of the oldest libraries in Europe, the Bodleian Library is a stunning example of architectural grandeur and historical significance.
Historical/Cultural
1 to 2 hours
Free (some exhibitions may have a fee)
Ashmolean Museum
The Ashmolean Museum is the UK's oldest public museum, housing an extensive collection of art and antiquities from around the world.
Museum
1 to 3 hours
Free (some special exhibitions may have a fee)
Christ Church College
One of the most famous colleges at the University of Oxford, Christ Church College is known for its stunning architecture and historic significance.
Historical/Cultural
1 to 2 hours
£12 for a guided tour
Oxford Botanic Garden
The oldest botanic garden in the UK, Oxford Botanic Garden is a beautiful and peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
Nature
1 to 2 hours
£7.50
Must-Try Local Dishes
Oxfordshire Sausages
Made from locally sourced pork and seasoned with herbs, these sausages are a staple of Oxfordshire cuisine.
Main Course
Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Punting Lunch
A traditional Oxford experience, a punting lunch typically includes sandwiches, pastries, and drinks enjoyed while gliding along the River Cherwell.
Lunch
Various options available, including vegetarian and vegan choices.
Oxfordshire Cheese
Locally produced cheeses, such as Cotswold cheese, are a must-try for cheese lovers.
Snack/Dessert
Contains dairy, not suitable for vegans.
Popular Activities
Punting on the River Cherwell
Cycling tours
Hiking in the Cotswolds
Visiting the Oxford Botanic Garden
Punting with a picnic
Enjoying a spa day
Guided tours of Oxford's colleges and museums
Attending theater performances
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the warmest and driest period, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is lively with various events and festivals.
15°C to 22°C
59°F to 72°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Time Zone
GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Oxford is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps.
Getting there
By air
- London Heathrow Airport • 60 miles (97 km)
- London Luton Airport • 50 miles (80 km)
By train
Oxford Railway Station
By bus
Oxford Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus network in Oxford is comprehensive and affordable, covering most parts of the city. Buses are a convenient way to get around, especially for tourists.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
North Oxford
Jericho
Cowley Road
Day trips
Blenheim Palace
8 miles (13 km) • Half day to full day
A stunning baroque palace and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Blenheim Palace is the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill and offers beautiful gardens and parkland.
The Cotswolds
20 miles (32 km) • Full day
A picturesque region known for its charming villages, rolling hills, and historic sites, the Cotswolds offers a quintessential English countryside experience.
Stratford-upon-Avon
60 miles (97 km) • Full day
The birthplace of William Shakespeare, Stratford-upon-Avon is a charming town with historic sites, theaters, and beautiful gardens.
Festivals
Oxford Literary Festival • March
Oxfordshire Artweeks • May and June
Oxford Pride • September
Pro tips
- Visit the Bodleian Library and other historic sites early in the morning to avoid crowds.
- Book guided tours of Oxford's colleges in advance, especially during peak season.
- Explore the city's vibrant food scene by visiting local markets and independent restaurants.
- Take a punting tour on the River Cherwell for a unique and relaxing experience.
- Use the park-and-ride facilities to avoid traffic and parking challenges in the city center.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
