Celebrity painting challenge captures stunning views at Blenheim Palace

Visitors to Britain’s Greatest Palace were treated to an unforgettable artistic experience as comedian and podcaster Jenny Eclair and interior designer and classically trained fine artist Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen took part in a live painting challenge.

Set against the backdrop of panoramic views across the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the two celebrities spent the day on Blenheim Palace’s newly opened Rooftop View platform, capturing the iconic scenery in their own unique artistic styles.

Jenny was joined by her husband Geof, and Laurence painted alongside his wife Jackie, making it a creative and memorable day for all. Throughout the event, visitors were able to observe the painting process in real time.

Jenny Eclair said: “My partner Geof and I had such a great time up on the roof of Blenheim Palace – what a place, what a privilege, what a view! Sadly my skills fell far short of doing the place justice, but we had a hoot with Laurence Llewellyn-Bowen and his glorious wife Jackie, with the bonus of a delicious lunch in The Orangery after. We’d like to thank Blenheim for inviting us and wish the extensive roof restorations all the luck in the world. Blenheim is a precious place and everything that can be done to preserve it needs as much support as possible.”

Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen said: “Getting a Gargoyles eye view from the rooftops of Blenheim is a privilege enjoyed by so few; just me, Jenny Eclair, our spouses and a handful of historical Dukes. What a fabulous fillip to the creative juices. Jackie and I loved our time up top and now feel so highly honoured our own artistic endeavours are hanging amongst Blenheim’s sumptuous Ducal Wallpaper.”

The completed paintings will be displayed in the Saloon at Blenheim Palace for a limited time, allowing visitors to admire the works inspired by this exclusive event.

The live painting challenge also helped shine a spotlight on the Palace’s ongoing £12 million roof restoration project, essential to preserving the historic building for generations to come.

Opened earlier this year, the unique Rooftop View is a limited experience as a result of the restoration project. It operates daily from 10.30am to 4.30pm and is included as part of the Palace, Park & Gardens Pass at no additional cost. This experience is entirely free-flow, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace, with a recommended dwell time of around 30 minutes to allow for the climb, view, and descent.

The Rooftop View experience offers visitors a once in a lifetime opportunity to explore the Palace from above and enjoy unbeatable views of the Oxfordshire countryside, as part of Blenheim Palace’s wider celebration of its 75th year open to the public.

For information on Blenheim Palace’s Rooftop View experience, visit www.blenheimpalace.com/whats-on/events/rooftop-view/, and to find out more about this historic roof restoration project, visit www.blenheimpalace.com/restoration

ENDS

For more information, contact Cab Campaign – [email protected]

About Blenheim Palace 

Home to the Dukes of Marlborough since 1705, UNESCO World Heritage Site, Blenheim Palace is set in over 2,000 acres of ‘Capability’ Brown landscaped parkland and is the birthplace of one of Britain’s most famous leaders, Sir Winston Churchill.

With over 300 years of history to share and one of the most important and extensive collections in Europe, Blenheim Palace is not only an iconic part of history, but also a living, changing experience with a wealth of sporting and cultural events, themed exhibitions and tours all year around.

A short miniature train ride away from the Palace is the Walled Garden, which boasts interactive areas entirely dedicated for families to explore including Adventure Play and the Rowse Honey Hive, The Marlborough Maze and Butterfly House. With curated events, an exciting programme of annual activities, entertainment and dedicated eateries for families, these areas guarantee a memorable family day out.

Beyond the grounds and an array of Formal Gardens, the total Estate expands into a further 10,000 acres and focuses on care for the land through sustainable means, pursuing net zero, the growth of the local economy, the provision of affordable homes, apprenticeship training and supported community groups.

Blenheim Palace is Britain’s Greatest Palace.