Blenheim Palace unveils major ‘Blueprints of Power’ exhibition

In 2026, dare to think bigger just like the dramatist turned architect did, as Blenheim Palace announces an all-new immersive visitor experience – adding more value to group bookings next year. The Blueprints of Power exhibition will run from February next year, marking the tercentenary of the death of Sir John Vanbrugh (1664–1726).

The significant new experience for groups will shine a light on Sir John Vanbrugh’s brilliant mind, his rivalries and ambitions and take groups on an interactive journey from his early life and theatrics as playwright all the way to his high-stakes partnership with Sarah Churchill, first Duchess of Marlborough. Blueprints of Power will combine immersive visual experiences with rare archival material, recognisable outfits and costumes and the dramatic stories behind them. Group visitors will be able to step back in time and discover how this flamboyant architect’s ties to high society helped define an age.

From a building site in the early 1700s to Britain’s Greatest Palace as we know it today, the tailor-made exhibition will span the Palace encompassing the Great Hall, China Anteroom, Dining Room, Drawing Rooms, State Rooms, Saloon and more, right up to the rooftop.

Often described as ‘The Rockstar of the English Baroque’, Vanbrugh was one of the most prominent architects of his time and is celebrated for his design of Blenheim Palace and his many other achievements including his work as a dramatist and political activist. 

Blueprints of Power forms part of the national celebration coordinated by the Georgian Group that will take place in 2026, his tercentenary year. This collaboration benefits from a £193,000 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with additional support from the Paul Mellon Centre for Studies in British Art.

Vanbrugh 300 will feature a variety of events, exhibitions and activities at six of the architect’s most significant creations including Blenheim Palace, Castle Howard, Seaton Delaval Hall, Grimsthorpe Castle, Kimbolton Castle and Stowe House. 

Prices for group visits in 2026 start from £39 for a Palace, Park and Gardens adult ticket and must be booked in advance. Blenheim Palace offers discounts for group bookings of 15+ and free admission for one group leader. There is also free all-day coach parking, a free admission voucher for commercial coach drivers plus a £5 voucher for them to use in the onsite cafés.

The Blenheim Palace Group Sales team are on hand to help with all group bookings and the Partnerships team are available for pricing agreements. To make visits more enjoyable and efficient, it operates a cashless system in all areas across the site. This includes, but not limited to, ticket desks, The Palace Shop and catering outlets.

For more information on booking, contact the Groups team directly on 01993 815600 or email groups@blenheimpalace.com. The Partnerships team are available at partnerships@blenheimpalace.com. 

For more information about the upcoming Blueprints of Power exhibition, visit

www.blenheimpalace.com/whats-on/events/blueprints-of-power.html