Near Oxford, in a vast romantic park created by the landscape gardener "Capability" Brown, is Blenheim Palace. The huge romantic and stately palace was given by the English nation to John Churchill, first Duke of Marlborough, in recognition of his victory in 1704 over French and Bavarian troops. Built between 1705 and 1722 by John Vanbrugh and Nicholas Hawksmoor; the palace is characterised by eclectic inspiration and a return to national roots. It is a perfect example of an 18th century princely home in its setting.
The landscaped grounds are without an equal in England and include beech woods, rides and a bridge by John Vanbrugh across a great lake in front of the palace. The site is significant because of its architectural splendour and landscape setting, as well as it links with the various Dukes of Marlborough. It is the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill who was born there in 1874 and is buried nearby.