Blenheim Pleasure Gardens and Train

Accessible by car, on foot or by miniature train, the Pleasure Gardens are a great spot for families to see exotic butterflies, take on the challenge of the Marlborough Maze and feast on a fabulous picnic or dine from the Deli.

 

Miniature Train

Named after Blenheim Palace's most famous family member, Sir Winston Churchill, our miniature diesel locomotive links the Pleasure Gardens to the Palace – a short trip popular with all ages. The train runs every 30 minutes daily between February and December.

 

A small fare applies of 50p per single journey. Under fives go free. Wheelchair access is available.

 

Malborough Hedge Maze           

The Marlborough Hedge Maze is one of the world's largest hedge mazes, making it great fun and quite the challenge! Designed to reflect the history and architecture of Blenheim Palace, the maze covers 1.8 acres and features two tall wooden bridges which provide vantage points for planning your way out.

 

Within the walled area containing the maze, you will also find a model of a Woodstock street, a playground and a giant chess and draughts set to play with.

 

Butterfly House            

Visit the tropical Butterfly House at Blenheim Palace Pleasure Gardens to witness exotic tropical butterflies in free flight.

 

A special hatchery contains the pupae of many of the species bred on site. If you're lucky you might see a new butterfly emerge and sit drying its wings. Our Gardens Team opens the hatchery twice a day to let the newly-emerged butterflies join the others amongst the plants and flowers. 

 

Depending on the season, you can see species of butterfly from as far away as Central and South America. A number of Zebra Finches also live in the Butterfly House, swooping from end to end and greeting visitors with a chirpy song.

 

Please see opening times for the Butterfly house on the website as they vary throughout the year.

 

Adventure Playground

Younger children can stretch their legs in our Adventure Playground – a safe, purpose-built arena including plank bridges to run across, ladders to climb, and swings and slides to enjoy! There is even a sand pit.

 

The Adventure Playground is open every day except in adverse conditions.

 

Lavender Garden            

Located next to the Butterfly House, the Lavender Garden is formed largely of the lavender known as Hidcote, and is extremely attractive to bees. Sit awhile and watch these busy insects at their work while you savour the scent of this fragrant British herb.

 

Blenheim Bygones Exhibition

The 'Blenheim Bygones' Exhibition is a permanent feature in the Pleasure Gardens. It displays the range of tools used through the ages by gardeners at Blenheim to maintain its many acres of gardens and parkland.

 

In particular, take a look at the reconstruction of the Head Gardener's Office and the Bothy Boy's Night Room. 

 

Dogs

Dogs are not permitted in the Pleasure Gardens (with the exception of assistance dogs). They are welcome in the Park only and must be kept on a lead at all times.

Discover more about the attractions on offer and take a look at some of the exciting events we have planned!

 

10.00-15.30 daily

Last entry at 15.00