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Post:Hugo Driver. Image:Neville Cowan
Blenheim, once the residence of the British aristocracy, is also a precious cultural and historical gem that increasingly attracts international visitors, especially from Asia. This iconic British architectural masterpiece is a microcosm of an era when European powers conquered different lands and sought to assert their sovereignty throughout the world.
This place showcases the former wealth of a nation that has long since lost its global stature and influence. Visitors to Blenheim can admire a range of exquisite works of art, culture, and artifacts preserved by a family for generations, who now share their palace with the world.
The palace was a gift from Queen Anne of England to the first Duke of Marlborough after he defeated the French at the Battle of Blenheim in August 1704. This reward, a token of gratitude from Queen Anne's kingdom, was Blenheim Palace and its extensive surrounding gardens. The ceremonial rooms of Blenheim Palace display a range of exquisite furnishings and decorations accumulated over 300 years of English history.
These artifacts illustrate the stories of Blenheim Palace, the Marlborough family, the generations who lived there, England, and its connection to the world it dominated throughout the 17th and 18th centuries in terms of trade and governance. Working in the palace are professionally trained historians with extensive local knowledge. They enthusiastically guide visitors through the palace, leading small groups on tours of the magnificent library, dining rooms, and private bedrooms.
The palace's stone walls are covered with ornate European tapestries. The beautiful ceremonial rooms display collections of centuries-old Asian ceramics and French-style furnishings, a style highly popular in Europe during the Baroque period. The palace is bathed in the opulence of a bygone era, when England was on its way to becoming a major economic and political power in Europe and the world. Magnificent lampposts and chandeliers adorn the vaulted ceilings; and intricate architectural details adorn the walls of the bedrooms and drawing-rooms. The striking features along the corridors and other rooms of the palace continue to inspire artists and photographers who visit Blenheim each year. The portraits and paintings on the palace walls are also diverse and striking.
The palace library is considered a memorial to classical literature and houses the works of Winston Churchill, the famous British Prime Minister. He was born in this palace, and his life was intertwined with the story of Blenheim Palace throughout the 20th century. Visitors can also visit Churchill's grave in the nearby village, very close to Blenheim Palace.
There are many reasons to visit Blenheim at any time of year. At the palace, visitors have many dining options. You can enjoy simple lunches or stop by a bar if you want to experience what people used to enjoy there. In winter, Blenheim retains its inherent beauty and splendor. If you're lucky enough to visit Blenheim when the entire artificial lake in the palace freezes over, you'll be able to admire the beauty and tranquility of the palace in a very unique way. The palace also boasts wildlife and other architectural wonders, including an exquisitely sculpted waterfall and a beautiful bridge spanning the lake.
In autumn, visitors can explore the palace grounds and capture stunning photographs of the fall colors, with golden leaves carpeting the pathways in the gardens. The entire palace is bathed in unique shades of red, yellow, and orange, a sight only seen during this time of year.
The most impressive feature of Blenheim Palace is the treasures hidden within its walls. Generations have continued to open the palace to visitors who appreciate the opulent Baroque art in its architecture and decoration. Blenheim, with its many mysteries, awaits adventurous visitors to England. This magnificent historic palace will offer you a culturally rich travel experience and simultaneously open a door to a rich and aristocratic past of England.
Additional information:
Transportation:
- Vietnam Airlines has weekly flights to London Gatwick Airport. For more specific flight information, please visit [website/link].www.vietnamairlines.comFor more details.
From Gatwick or Heathrow Airport, you can take a train to Oxford. For details, visit:http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/.
You can also hire a private car to get here. Visit:http://www.findlaycs.com/For more details.
Accommodation and meals:You can choose from a variety of hotels in Oxford and Woodstock, such as:
- Randolf Hotel:http://www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/our-hotels/macdonald-randolph-hotel/
- The Bear Hotel:http://www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/our-hotels/macdonald-bear-hotel/
- For more detailed information about travel and accommodation for tourists in the UK, please visit the website:http://www.visitengland.com/en/EN/
Visa:
To apply for a UK visa, please visit:http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/vietnam.
General information:
You can access the website.http://www.blenheimpalace.com/to find information about Blenheim Palace.
- The currency of the UK is the pound. You can exchange money at major banks in Vietnam or at international airports.
When traveling in the UK, remember to keep your personal identification number (PIN) on your credit or debit card, as most shops will require it rather than a signature.
- Tour companies in Vietnam such as Saigontourist and Hanoitourist both provide travel advice and tours to the UK.
