Cycle from Oxford to Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace is an absolute must-see for anyone visiting Oxford or The Cotswolds. A number of our cycling and walking tours pass this fascinating place en route - including our 'Day in Oxford & Blenheim' cycling trip. This gentle guided tour by bicycle takes in the city of dreaming spires, the surrounding rural Oxford countryside along the Thames river and some charming Cotswold hamlets, before arriving at Blenheim itself. The cycling only takes up half a day, leaving you with the whole afternoon to explore the palace, park and gardens. We will transfer you back to Oxford at the end of the day.

Why is Blenheim a must-see? Well, apart from being a wonderful piece of English heritage (you can't get more quintessentially English than this!), it's an incredibly fine example of Baroque architecture. Ornate details and intricate interiors make the whole experience a feast for the senses; add on top of this grand tapestries, imposing paintings and artisan furniture and you've got quite a palace on your hands! Built in the early 18th century as a gift to the First Duke of Malborough, today Blenhiem is the only 'non-royal' residential palace in Britain - it is still inhabited by the family today. Perhaps the most well-known resident is Winston Churchill, grandson of the 7th Duke, who was born and spent much of his time at Blenheim Palace. The 2,000 acres of Park and Gardens, designed by the famous Capability Brown, are also well worth a visit.

Blenheim Palace Flower Show

The 2014 Blenheim Palace Flower Show runs from June 20th-22nd, and is the perfect excuse to cycle Oxford to Blenheim. This year looks set to be a winner, with celebrity guests including Monty Don and Frances Tophill, a stellar line-up of designers exhibiting Show Gardens (always packed full of inspiring ideas), and of course there will be The Grand Floral Pavilion... last year there were 27 Blenheim Palace Flower Show Gold Medals awarded - will it be more this year?!

Tailor-made Blenheim holidays

Here at The Carter Company we specialise in creating bespoke cycling tours based on specific needs and requirements, so if you have something particular in mind, drop us a line and we'd be happy to assist you! In the past we have organised numerous tailor-made Blenheim holidays, involving a stop off at the palace en route, so we're well equipped to plan a cycling or walking trip that combines a bit of history and culture with some gentle activity.