Oxford in 1 Day for Seniors - 90-minute guided tour of Blenheim Palace state rooms (guide-led, wheelchair accessible)
In Collaboration with Visit Oxford Tours Ltd. Updated on January 31, 2026.
A relaxed, senior-friendly private visit to Blenheim Palace with a 90-minute guided walk through the State Rooms, complimentary palace entry and a hot drink provided by your guide. Includes time to explore the palace exhibition spaces, gardens and nearby Woodstock village. Optional 90-minute private walking tour of central Oxford can be added at the start.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Visit Oxford Tours Ltd, inspired by the tour Blenheim Palace Guided Tour from Oxford- private tours. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- 90-minute guided tour of Blenheim Palace state rooms (guide-led, wheelchair accessible)
- Palace entry included (with optional one-year pass) and complimentary hot drink + souvenir guidebook
- Free time to stroll the palace exhibition spaces, gardens and Woodstock village
- Optional 90-minute private walking tour of Oxford (add-on)
Itinerary
Day 1
Meet in Oxford and travel to Blenheim Palace for a 90-minute guided tour of the state rooms, followed by relaxed free time to see gardens and Woodstock village and a leisurely lunch.
Optional add-on: 90-minute private walking tour of Oxford (extra fee)
Private, gentle-paced walking tour of Oxford's highlights (colleges, Radcliffe Camera, small lanes). This is an optional paid add-on (choose when booking). If booked, the walking tour meets at the same Visitor Information Centre address and finishes back there so the main Blenheim transfer can depart on schedule.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a 'slow pace' when booking — the guide can stop frequently for seating and rests near benches by the Radcliffe Camera.
- Bring a lightweight layer for spring mornings; some college cloisters are shaded and can feel cool.
- Accessible note: most routes are step-free at a gentle pace; mention any mobility needs so the guide can plan the flattest route and nearby toilets.
Meet your guide — Oxford Visitor Information Centre (15-16 Broad St)
Please arrive 5 minutes early. Your guide will confirm names, hand out palace tickets / souvenir guidebook and explain the short outward transfer. Complimentary hot drink is provided before departure.
Tips from local experts:
- The Visitor Information Centre (Broad St) has seating nearby and accessible toilet facilities — ask your guide if you need directions to the nearest accessible loo.
- If you’re taking the optional walking tour, confirm with the guide here so they can adjust the pace and rest stops.
- Keep your palace entry ticket and guide's contact details visible; arriving more than 5 minutes late may risk missing the pickup.
Transfer from Oxford to Blenheim Palace (outward journey covered by guide)
Short taxi/driver transfer from Broad Street to Blenheim Palace. The guide usually covers the outward taxi; travel time ~25–35 minutes depending on traffic.
Tips from local experts:
- The guide arranges and pays the outward taxi — ask for a seat with an easy-door opening if mobility is a concern.
- Expect a short walk from drop-off point to the palace entrance; request a drop-off as close as possible to the entrance if you have limited mobility.
- Carry a lightweight cushion or use the taxi's adjustable seat if you find seats firm; bring any medication you might need for the short trip.
Guided tour of Blenheim Palace — State Rooms (approx. 90 minutes)
Guided, accessible tour of the Palace state rooms and interior highlights led by your Visit Oxford Tours guide. Palace admission ticket is included (worth approx. £41) and the guide provides a complimentary hot drink and souvenir guidebook.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the guide to pause at seating areas if you need to rest during the 90-minute walk — the tour is tailored for a steady, comfortable pace.
- If you use a wheelchair or mobility aid, let the guide know so they can lead you along the most step-free routes through the state rooms.
- Note: in mid-November to late-December some state rooms may host temporary displays (Christmas) that can alter the usual route — the guide will point out any changes.
Free time: Palace exhibitions, gardens or short stroll in Woodstock village
After the guided state-room tour you have relaxed free time to visit exhibitions, the palace shop, or take a gentle walk in the formal gardens or down into Woodstock village (both very accessible).
Tips from local experts:
- The palace offers accessible paths and seating across major garden areas — pick up a map at the palace information desk that highlights step-free routes.
- Woodstock village is a short, flat walk from the palace entrance; it has benches and quiet cafés if you prefer to rest rather than tour the entire parkland.
- If you’d like a mobility scooter or wheelchair loan from Blenheim, ask palace staff at the welcome desk in advance — they can advise availability.
Leisurely lunch — The Orangery at Blenheim Palace
Sit-down lunch in the Orangery (calm atmosphere, accessible seating). A good, senior-friendly menu with lighter options and staff who can accommodate dietary needs.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a table near the entrance to minimise steps and walking distance; most staff are happy to accommodate mobility needs.
- The Orangery has quieter seating and accessible toilets nearby — mention any dietary restrictions when ordering; they are used to accommodating allergies.
- Spring tip: if the Orangery terrace is sunny, request a sheltered table for gentle sunshine without wind (perfect in May).
Return options & travel assistance (taxi or local bus)
Tour ends after lunch. Return to Oxford is not included in the standard rate — typical options: taxi (~£25) or local bus (~£3). Your guide will advise taxi ranks and nearest bus stops.
Tips from local experts:
- For the most comfortable return, pre-book a taxi at the palace taxi rank — staff can call a taxi for you so you avoid waiting in the street.
- If using public bus, the nearest bus stop in Woodstock is a short, flat walk; check the timetable in advance (Stagecoach routes) and ask staff for the step-free boarding area.
- If you need extra assistance, ask your guide before you leave; they can point you to the nearest accessible drop-off/pick-up points or advise on accessible taxis.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Seniors |
| Transfers | 2 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 5 |
| Total Places | 5 |
| Activities Types | Culture, Neighborhood, Transfer, Outdoor, Restaurant |
