If you’re thinking of popping the question this Valentine’s Day, why not take inspiration from Blenheim Palace. We've put together the Top 10 proposal spots. From secret nooks to grand romantic locations – there is a perfect place for your special proposal!
The Palace is surrounded by over 90 acres of formal gardens, including the Water Terraces, the Rose Garden and the Italian garden. Upon entering the Palace, you can explore the gilded State Rooms and priceless collections set against striking stonework, and experience the beauty and magnificence of this Grade I listed building.
- The Temple of Diana
A spot with a romantic story of its own, the Temple of Diana is where Sir Winston Churchill proposed to Clementine Hozier in 1908. The Temple overlooks the Great Lake, is a sheltered nook and just next to the new Churchill Memorial Garden which is blooming with poppies in the summer. As proposal spots go, it's hard to top this.
- The Finest View in England
Propose with the ‘Finest View in England’ as your backdrop. The side entrance to the Park, Woodstock Gate, offers views of the Grand Bridge, Queen Pool, Column of Victory, High Park and of course the Palace.
“As we passed through the entrance archway and the lovely scenery burst upon me, Randolph said with pardonable pride, ‘This is the finest view in England.’ Looking at the lake, the bridge, the miles of magnificent Park studded old Oaks, I found no adequate words to express my admiration and when we reached the huge and stately Palace, I confess I felt awed”
Written by Sir Winston Churchill’s mother, Lady Randolph Churchill after visiting Blenheim Palace in 1874.
- Vanbrugh’s Grand Bridge
The magnificent Grand Bridge was designed by Sir John Vanbrugh to serve as the primary focus in the landscape, but it was also intended to act as a viewing platform from which visitors can admire the beautiful surroundings. Propose whilst standing on the Grand Bridge looking out at the fantastic view.
- The Great Court
Surrounded by the backdrop of the beautiful Baroque-style Blenheim Palace, why not pop the question in The Great Court? Celebrate in the Orangery Restaurant with a glass of Champagne afterwards.
- Grand Cascade
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One of England’s most picturesque waterfalls, the Cascades designed by ‘Capability’ Brown, provides a magnificent backdrop to a romantic proposal. The water flows into the Bladon Lakes and winds south-westwards under Bladon Bridge.
- Rose Garden
For a summer proposal, the Blenheim Palace Rose Garden is the perfect proposal spot. The garden is contained within a circular walk, arched over by slender hoops supporting climbing roses of delicate pink. The central statue is surrounded by symmetrical beds of roses that form a delightful display of floral beauty.
7. Secret Garden
- An intimate spot in which to propose, the Secret Garden in Blenheim Palace is the best choice for an autumnal engagement. Located to the east of the South Lawn, the garden was restored by the 11th Duke as part of the Battle of Blenheim tercentenary celebrations in 2004. You will be surrounded by glorious russet colours from the assorted trees, shrubs and grasses which grace this secluded area.
- Bladon Bridge
Bladon Bridge dates back to 1772 and stands over ‘Capability’ Brown’s Serpentine River which was created by widening and rechannelling the lower Glyme. The river circles the wooded Lince before falling over another cascade into the Evenlode. Propose with a picnic against the backdrop of Beech and Cedar roundels.
9. The Boathouse on the Lakeside
- Situated next to the Great Lake the Boat House, built in 1888 for the 8th Duke and Duchess, is a quiet and romantic spot to propose. This beautiful quote is engraved onto a plinth just next to it: ‘So may thy craft glide gently on as years roll down the stream’
- Marlborough Maze
Get lost in the Marlborough Maze, perfect for a playful proposal. Designed by Adrian Fisher and Randoll Coate of Minotaur Design to celebrate the First Duke of Marlborough’s military victories, the maze features cannons, flags, banners and trumpets. Head to the two wooden bridges for tantalising views across parts of the world's second largest symbolic hedge maze.