Questionable Itinerary

I think Blenheim Palace is much nicer than Warwick Castle. Warwick does feel very commercialised and is owned by an investment company, whereas Blenheim is still family owned. It's in a lovely setting with extensive grounds. It's certainly the place I would plump for.

I have been to both and I think Blenheim is a greater choice for anyone. Younger folks who like dungeons would prefer Warwick probably. But I think Blenheim, it's gardens, its ties to Winston Churchill and its superb gift shop will be better choice. And, Oxford has so many things to see and experience.

Have been to both, and I'll add a 3rd recommendation for Blenheim. It's a true palace, probably one of the finest in the UK. Warwick is a castle, true; but i think it leans a bit towards the theme park in its desire to attract visitors.

Warwick has fun entertainment and wax works, etc., but Blenheim Palace is real with lovely furnishings and landscape. It is a short busride from Oxford. Churchill's mother was Jeanette Jerome who married Randolf Spencer-Churchill. She was an American heiress from the Gilded Age. She gave birth to Winston at Blenheim. Woodstock, adjacent to Blenheim is a charming old Market Town. If I went back for a visit, I might stay there.

I've never been to Blenheim so I can't compare, but as a castle lover, I think Warwick is one of the best. We had a car, so getting to it from the Cotswolds was easy.

Thanks to everyone who replied earlier. Your tip and advice are sincerely appreciated!

But, after reading a large sampling of negative comments about the current state of affairs at Blenheim Palace, I'm wondering if the visit would be worth the effort and expense. The current renovation and repairs have apparently had a dampening effect on most people's high expectations. Many mentioned the rather exorbitant price of entry (between £40 and £51 - not counting extras) and the many mentions of rude, disinterested staff, poor care taking of gardens, exhibit lighting, etc. Obviously the renovation work is unavoidable and must be taken into account. But the poor impressions of most visitors seem to go far beyond the inconvenience of that truly necessary work.

Several visitors mentioned comparable British palaces or stately homes. And so I'm hoping someone on this forum might suggest some other possibilities near Oxford and/or London. ( Is Windsor somewhat comparable? ) We're on a short tour to England from the States. My wife and I will have only a few days to spend in London or within about a 40 mile radius.

But, on the other hand, if a recent Blenheim visitor on this site can recommend visiting Blenheim regardless of price or current situation we would greatly appreciate hearing your defense of this palace. Thank you ever so much!

I think Windsor is great and its' easy to get to from London. It's another castle where people actually live. I especially like the chapel and the doll house at Windsor, but the state rooms are gorgeous. Also the town is lovely and the Thames is very clean as it runs through town. I took a short boat ride last time I was there. I particularly enjoyed watching children feed the swans on the river.

If Blenheim is being worked on, perhaps Windsor would be a good place to visit. You have to check to see if "Family" is there, because it may be closed for privacy. I can reccomend Hampton Court Palace, Henry VIII's Home, which can be reached by Thames Boat or Train. There are several Castles and Palaces in the Metropolitan London Area. Check "Treasure Houses of England" if you want see other Great Estate Houses such as Chatworth, my favorite. Bon Voyage!

Well the very best castle is of course right slap bang in the middle of London - the Tower of London. Hopefully that's already on your agenda.

The best stately home in the country is in my view Chatsworth but that's too far away for your plans, it can't be done in a day.

Warwick for me is far too disneyfied to recommend.