Blenheim Palace to host major royal photography exhibition

Life Through a Royal Lens first launched at Kensington Palace. It is currently running at The Amelia Scott in Royal Tunbridge Wells until 7th June, before moving to Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire from 10th July until 27th September. 

More than 100 iconic royal photographs will go on show. Visitors will be able to see images commissioned from pioneering photographers of the Victorian era, as well as 20th and 21st century modern royal portraiture by photographers such as Cecil Beaton. 

The exhibition will also include a selection of images taken by Royal Family members, alongside images by Marcus Adams, Annie Leibovitz and Rankin. The last public photograph taken of the late Queen Elizabeth II will also feature.

Eleri Lynn, chief curator at Historic Royal Palaces, said: “The medium of photography has shaped public perception of the British monarchy since Queen Victoria and Prince Albert first embraced it for their own family portraits.

“For the first time, this display of images spanning 300 years of family photoshoots, commissioned portraiture and official engagements will embark on a tour intended to span the UK. We are thrilled that visitors to Life Through a Royal Lens at Blenheim Palace will be able to explore the history behind the iconic image of modern monarchy we know today.”

Group visits

Groups can see the exhibition during a visit to Blenheim Palace, the UNESCO World Heritage Site which has been home to the Dukes of Marlborough since 1705 and is the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill.

Blenheim Palace welcomes groups of 15 or more at a discounted rate, with group tickets available for the palace, park and gardens. Groups can take advantage of a dedicated team, itinerary planning and group tours and experiences to see the private rooms, passages and areas of the palace that are not always on view. 

Free all-day coach parking and free admission for coach drivers is available, along with a voucher for them to use in the on-site cafés.