Blenheim Palace is launching a new exhibition of Winston Churchill at his birthplace, Blenheim Palace later this year.
The new attraction is part of a series of new features set to open at the Oxfordshire UNESCO World Heritage Site later this year as part of a £1.9m investment programme. Utilising a mix of historic artefacts and new technology, much of the exhibition will be located in an area of the Palace used as an artist’s studio by the wartime leader.
Churchill returned to Blenheim often throughout his long life; attending parties, painting and spending time with his cousin and close friend ‘Sunny’, the 9th Duke of Marlborough. As well as being his birthplace, it’s where he decided to propose to his beloved wife Clementine. Blenheim Palace was also one of his favourite places to relax, and its rich military history provided huge inspiration for Churchill’s own career.
In addition to the Churchill exhibition, Blenheim is creating an immersive and interactive experience, in the Palace’s historic stable block to showcase the importance of horses at Blenheim down through the centuries. As part of the new exhibition, one of the stables will include a life-size model of Churchill’s childhood pony Rob Roy, complete with a miniature bridle. Other features will include a recreation of the tack room, the stable office and an area where live horse displays can take place, as well as the chance to dress up and attempt to ride sidesaddle.
The display area will also highlight the key role the wider estate – including its ancient woodland, royal hunting lodge and ‘Capability’ Brown landscaped parkland – has played in its continued success. A new art-themed restaurant and café is being constructed as part of the new attractions, which will feature a touchless ordering app.
For more information on the new Churchill exhibition, please visit Blenheim Palace’s website.
