The weather forecast for the weekend wasn’t very inspiring so we picked what looked the best day (Monday) for a day out to Blenheim Palace. Despite it being the bank holiday we had no problems with traffic and arrived at Blenheim having made good time. The weather was kind to us, although it was cloudy at times. We enjoyed the formal gardens, the palace and the walk through the arboretum past the grand cascade before running out of time. In addition to the Palace tour we were able to visit the private apartments where by chance we were lucky enough to see the Butler at work, starting to set up the dining table.
Despite it being the bank holiday it wasn’t overly busy, perhaps due to the grounds being so big. It seems we were lucky to have chosen the Monday as I overheard one of the house guides say that they had seen 5000 people through the doors on Saturday!!
We had our day tickets converted to a yearly pass which means we can go back later in the year to see the other things that we missed.
The journey back was as pleasant as the outward journey. We did however encounter problems finding somewhere to eat. Everywhere had stopped serving and we ended up with our third option which was really a last resort.
After such a busy day yesterday I have spent today relaxing at home with some reading and a little bit of gardening. After such a lovely weekend I was saddened when a neighbour called round this evening to inform us that after the recent fallen branch ‘my oak tree’ has been sentenced with a severe trimming of branches. If I had known earlier today I would have taken some photographs when it was looking particularly beautiful in the early evening sunshine.
this is a great shot. i like the lawns a lot.
The formal garden really is quite something
i like the photo of the magnificent gardens at Blenheim Palace Cherie…
i feel sad about your oak tree… even trimmed it is still majestic….peter:)
We will have to wait and see what they do to the Oak Tree. Part one started today!!
You were fortunate not to have it too crowded on a Bank Holiday, Cherie
We were quite pleased about that
Astrid can’t stand crowds, Cherry, so whenever we can go somewhere on Monday (her day off), she’s happy. So I understand. Were you able to salvage some of the oak from the fallen branch. It’s my favorite wood in furniture/carvings…but it’s also good firewood!
The tree isn’t in my garden, although some branches seem to have dropped into our garden whilst we were at work today.
Lucky you!
So no Exeter this bank holiday, I was really looking forward to see Exeter Cathedral. 
Because of the proposed railway strike, I cancelled my hotel reservation.
Then, they announced that strike was called off the very next day I cancelled my room.
I am sorry you had to cancel your arrangements. Hopefully you will be able to reschedule the trip soon.
Another place I have not been , and it is practically on my doorstep. Great that you did not encounter a really busy time. Shame about not finding a place to eat though. Thanks for sharing your day out , maybe one day I will go. Take Care Anne
It is well worth a visit, although it is quite expensive. That is why we plan to go back to see what we missed this time around
Realistically & logistically, even though I travel further, Blenheim Palace to me is the unachievable dream. Sorry to hear about the update on your tree.
Maybe you will be able to visit on one of your holiday adventures. It is well worth it, we didn’t get to see everything and plan to go back later in the year or early next year before our ticket runs out.