Blenheim Palace-the principal residence of the Dukes of Marlborough-is the only "Palace" that is non-royal and non-episcopal in England. It is one of England's largest houses, built between 1705 and 1722. Is is the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Blenheim sits on over 2000 acres and has expansive gardens. We arrived on a cloudy day. The rain we experienced in Avebury had stopped. The drive in the coach took about 1 1/2 hours. The tour of the palace was wonderful. I can't imagine living in such a place! It reminds me of Versailles, which I was fortunate enough to visit in 2001. The stone is a beautiful golden color and the gates are black and gold.

After touring the inside, we were given time on our own to explore the gardens. They were beautiful, formal gardens, also much like Versailles. There were statues, trimmed hedges, fountains, ponds and flowers. So beautiful!

​

Click on image below for expanded view.