Blenheim Palace to host major exhibition of royal photography in 2026

They are one of the most photographed families in the world, with everything from state ceremonies and royal tours to deeply personal moments captured on camera. Now, in July a major photography exhibition arriving at Blenheim Palace will explore the British Royal Family’s enduring relationship with the camera; from the reign of Queen Victoria right through to the present day. 

Life Through a Royal Lens will see over 100 of the most iconic royal photographs ever taken go on show alongside intimate images which share a glimpse of the Royal Family off duty. The exhibition, which first launched at Kensington Palace, is embarking on a brand new UK wide tour of venues, including Blenheim Palace.

Alongside images commissioned from pioneering photographers of the Victorian era, as well as 20th and 21st century giants of modern royal portraiture such as Cecil Beaton, the exhibition includes a selection of images taken by Royal Family members themselves, alongside images by Marcus Adams, Annie Leibovitz and Rankin. The exhibition at Blenheim Palace will be brought right up to date, featuring the last public photograph taken of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, alongside portraits and press photographs from the first three years of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla’s reign, including Josh Shinner’s recent photograph of the Prince and Princess of Wales, and their children.

Life Through a Royal Lens has been created by Historic Royal Palaces – the independent charity that cares for Kensington Palace – and is toured by Nomad Exhibitions. The display is curated by expert historians in order to showcase the enduring relationship between the Crown and the camera over three centuries.

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 exhibitions, events, themed exhibitions and tours all year around. 

Heather Carter, Managing Director Visitor Attraction, said, “It’s an honour to host Life Through a Royal Lens and to celebrate the Royal Family through the art of photography. With our own royal connections, Queen Anne’s legacy is woven into the very foundations of Blenheim Palace. In gratitude for the Duke of Marlborough’s victory at the Battle of Blenheim, Queen Anne gifted the land and funds that made this magnificent palace possible – a gesture that shaped our history. It feels especially fitting to showcase the British Royal Family through the ages here.”

Eleri Lynn, Chief Curator at Historic Royal Palaces, said, “The medium of photography has shaped public perception of the British monarchy since Queen Victoria and Prince Albert first embraced it for their own family portraits. For the first time, this display of images spanning 300 years of family photoshoots, commissioned portraiture and official engagements will embark on a tour intended to span the UK. We are thrilled that visitors to Life Through a Royal Lens at Blenheim Palace will be able to explore the history behind the iconic image of modern monarchy we know today.”

To find out more about Life Through a Royal Lens, visit https://www.blenheimpalace.com/whats-on/events/life-through-a-royal-lens/.