Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Britain’s architectural treasures, has announced a major £10.4 million roof restoration project to safeguard its historic structure for future generations. This extensive restoration effort, starting in January 2025, will be the largest of its kind in the Palace’s history and will offer visitors unique insights into rarely seen areas of the estate.
The project focuses on urgent repairs to protect the Great Hall, the Heights (the former servants’ quarters), and the Saloon, where severe water damage has compromised timber beams and ceilings. Notably, water leakage has threatened the priceless 18th-century fresco by Sir James Thornhill, which portrays the Duke of Marlborough presenting a battle plan to Britannia. Adding to the structural challenges, the timbers are infested with Death Watch beetles, while rusting iron supports and extensive damp are causing stone delamination, impacting both the stability and safety of the roof.
To address these critical issues, Blenheim Palace has enlisted DBR Ltd, a specialist in historic building conservation, to ensure that the restoration honours the building’s 18th-century craftsmanship. Planned enhancements include an expanded rainwater system to prevent future leaks and measures to improve fire safety, reduce decay, and protect the Palace’s nationally significant art collections.
“We are embarking on one of the most ambitious conservation efforts in Blenheim Palace’s history,” said Kelly Whitton, Head of Built Heritage at the Palace. “This £10.4 million restoration combines traditional craftsmanship with innovative techniques to preserve this architectural masterpiece. By opening new areas to the public, we hope to inspire greater awareness of heritage conservation.”
Exclusive Visitor Experiences in 2025
To mark the restoration milestone, Blenheim Palace will introduce three new visitor experiences, offering an immersive look into the lives of its former inhabitants and a fresh perspective on its history.
The Rooftop View experience will feature a ticketed viewing platform, granting visitors panoramic views over the estate and the Oxfordshire countryside, including sights of the renowned Column of Victory. This experience provides a rare vantage point from above, allowing visitors to witness the conservation work in progress.
In Life Below Stairs, visitors can explore the hidden world of the Palace’s servants, stepping into the original kitchens and living quarters of the 1890s. Guided tours will recreate the bustling atmosphere of Blenheim’s staff as they prepared for royal visits, offering insight into the daily routines of the butlers, kitchen staff, and gardeners who supported the Marlborough family.
The Family Treasures tour will take visitors on an extended journey through the private apartments of the Palace, with highlights including the family dining room, smoking room, and drawing rooms frequented by dukes, duchesses, and royal guests. Among the treasures on display will be rare artworks, including a George Stubbs portrait and an ornate clock by Benjamin Vulliamy, along with the Grand Cabinet, normally reserved for special family occasions.
A Legacy of Preservation
Blenheim Palace first opened to the public 75 years ago, initially to fund roof repairs. Today, every visitor contribution supports this critical restoration project, which aims for completion in 2026. “Our visitors play a vital role in helping preserve Blenheim for future generations,” Whitton added. “With each visit, they’re not only engaging with history but actively supporting the craftsmanship that keeps our heritage alive.”
Details on the new experiences will be shared in the coming months. This restoration marks a major step in Blenheim’s conservation journey, ensuring the Palace’s legacy endures for years to come. To find out more about the roof restoration project, visit www.blenheimpalace.com/restoration and for information on the new visitor experiences for 2025, visit www.blenheimpalace.com/whats-on/events/new-for-2025
For more information on the appointed contractors visit, www.dbrlimited.com
