Opening in February, Blueprints of Power will mark the 300th anniversary of Blenheim Palace architect Sir John Vanbrugh.
Running from 14th February to 10th April 2026, the exhibition will explore Sir John Vanbrugh’s brilliant mind, his rivalries and relationships, from his early life and theatrics as a playwright to his partnership with Sarah Churchill, first Duchess of Marlborough.
Sir John Vanbrugh (1664–1726) was one of the most prominent Baroque architects of his time and is celebrated for his design of Blenheim Palace.
Blueprints of Power takes place inside the palace, including the Great Hall, China Anteroom, Dining Room, Drawing Rooms, State Rooms, Saloon and more, right up to the rooftop.
The exhibition will feature immersive visual experiences, rare archive material, recognisable outfits and costumes and the dramatic stories behind them. Visiting groups will be able to discover the architect’s connections to high society.
Vanbrugh 300
Blueprints of Power is part of a national celebration of Sir John Vanbrugh which will take place in 2026.
Vanbrugh 300 will will feature a variety of events, exhibitions and activities at six of the architect’s most important creations; Blenheim Palace, Castle Howard, Seaton Delaval Hall, Grimsthorpe Castle, Kimbolton Castle and Stowe House.
What else to see
Visitors to Blenheim Palace can explore the family home of Sir Winston Churchill, including the state rooms, the Churchill Exhibition, the Butterfly House and the Stables Exhibition.
Outside they can enjoy 2,000 acres of Capability Brown landscaped parkland, find their way through the Marlborough Maze, and discover the Formal and Walled Gardens.
The palace hosts a range of events throughout the year, including the Blenheim Palace Festival from 27th June to 3rd July, the Blenheim Palace Food Festival from 23rd to 25th May and the Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials from 17th to 20th September.
Group visits
Admission to Blueprints of Power is included with entry to Blenheim Palace. Group tickets must be booked in advance and discounts are available for groups of 15+.
The Blenheim Palace group sales team are on hand to help with all group bookings. Other benefits for groups include free admission for the group leader, free coach parking, admission and café vouchers for coach drivers.
For more information about the Blueprints of Power exhibition and visiting Blenheim Palace, go to www.blenheimpalace.com.
