Kidlington is England’s largest village, and is located just five miles north of Oxford. The spire of St Mary’s Church, a building dating back to 1220, dominates the skyline. Kidlington is a bustling village, expanding rapidly in all directions, but valiantly resisting all attempts to reclassify it as a town.

When you visit Kidlington, you can go on a trail of historic buildings. Start with Lady Ann Morton’s Almshouse and move on to St Mary’s Church with its mediaeval glass. (The spire is known as ‘Our Lady’s Needle’.)

You can also see Grove House, Manor Farm House, a mediaeval dovecote, the Six Bells pub and Burnt Oak, a former farmhouse where French prisoners are said to have been held during the Napoleonic Wars.

Places To Go

On passing through the triumphal arch at the Woodstock entrance to Blenheim Palace, it is clear to see why Lord Randolph Churchill proclaimed: “This is the finest view in England.”

The towers of the palace appear some way off to the left, while far away to the right the Column of Victory, topped with its statue of the 1st Duke of Marlborough, rises nobly above the trees.

But what takes the eye and holds it is the great lake and its island of poplars, with Sir John Vanbrugh’s Grand Bridge and Capability Brown’s hanging beech woods beyond.

This awesome view appears so effortless and natural, but in reality was designed to take the breath away.

The palace was built on Queen Anne’s orders for John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough, in recognition of his victory at the Battle of Blenheim in 1704; a victory that saved Europe from French domination.

For further information about Blenheim Palace, opening times and admission prices call 01993 811091 or visit the website: www.blenheimpalace.com

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