Blenheim Park: Of Kings, Queens and Heroes

Route description

Henry I of England first built a hunting lodge in Woodstock and in 1129 he built 7 miles of
walls to create the first enclosed park, where lions and leopards were kept. The lodge
became a palace under Henry’s grandson, Henry II, who kept his mistress the ‘Fair
Rosamund’ in the house. Three hundred years later Princess Elizabeth was imprisoned
there by her sister Queen Mary 1st .
Then in 1704 the estate was given to John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough following his
success at the Battle of Blenheim. The area was renamed and the magnificent palace we see
today, was built. Not only that, his descendent, Sir Winston Churchill was born there.
During the walk through ancient woodland and along the lake, we will see the palace and
traces of an earlier past.

• Please wear weather-appropriate footwear and clothing for walking
• Please bring a drink, a snack, and sunscreen
• The day before a walk, please check to ensure it is still running – and for any exceptional weather forecasts / warnings
• All walk leaders are appropriately trained and have basic first-aid skills
• Assistance dogs (on short leads) are welcome
• Guided walks with the Wardens are free, but we welcome donations to help us sustain our work across the Cotswolds National Landscape.