Blenheim Palace to Host Major Royal Photography Exhibition in 2026
A spectacular new exhibition celebrating more than a century of royal photography is coming to one of Britain’s grandest stately homes. Life Through a Royal Lens will open at Blenheim Palace on 10 July 2026 and run through 27 September, offering visitors an unprecedented look at how the Royal Family has shaped—and been shaped by—the camera.
Originally unveiled at Kensington Palace, the acclaimed exhibition is now embarking on a new UK-wide tour, with Blenheim Palace serving as one of its star venues. The display brings together over 100 iconic royal photographs, spanning the reign of Queen Victoria to the modern monarchy of King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
A Visual Journey Through Three Centuries of Royal Life
The Royal Family has long been one of the most photographed dynasties in the world, with images ranging from grand state occasions to tender family moments. Life Through a Royal Lens explores this long-standing relationship by showcasing works from the earliest Victorian pioneers of photography to celebrated portraitists of the 20th and 21st centuries—including Cecil Beaton, Marcus Adams, Annie Leibovitz, Rankin, and Josh Shinner.
In addition to official portraits, the exhibition features intimate, lesser-known images captured by the royals themselves. Visitors will also see the final public photograph of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, an especially poignant inclusion, as well as newly added portraits and press photographs documenting the first years of the reign of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla and recent imagery of the Prince and Princess of Wales and their children.
Curated by historians from Historic Royal Palaces, the exhibition traces how the monarchy has used photography—both consciously and creatively—to shape public perception over the last 180 years.
A Fitting Setting: Blenheim Palace’s Royal Legacy
As the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill and the historic seat of the Dukes of Marlborough, Blenheim Palace provides an evocative backdrop for this exploration of royal imagery. Its very origins are entwined with the monarchy: Queen Anne gifted the land and funds that made the palace possible, in gratitude for the Duke of Marlborough’s victory at the Battle of Blenheim.
Heather Carter, Managing Director of Visitor Attraction at Blenheim Palace, said the palace is honoured to host the exhibition.
“It feels especially fitting to showcase the British Royal Family through the ages here,” she noted. “Queen Anne’s legacy is woven into the very foundations of Blenheim Palace.”
Eleri Lynn, Chief Curator at Historic Royal Palaces, highlighted the significance of the exhibition’s nationwide tour.
“The medium of photography has shaped public perception of the British monarchy since Queen Victoria and Prince Albert first embraced it,” she said. “We are thrilled that visitors at Blenheim Palace will be able to explore the history behind the iconic image of modern monarchy we know today.”
Visiting Life Through a Royal Lens
Blenheim Palace—set amid 2,000 acres of landscaped parkland designed by Capability Brown—is already one of Britain’s top heritage destinations. With its rich history, expansive grounds, and year-round programme of exhibitions and events, the palace draws visitors from around the world.
The addition of Life Through a Royal Lens promises to be a highlight of the 2026 cultural calendar, appealing to royal enthusiasts, photography lovers, and history fans alike.
More information and ticket details can be found via Blenheim Palace’s official website:
blenheimpalace.com/whats-on/events/life-through-a-royal-lens
