From 12 July to 27 September, Blenheim Palace will be showcasing a major photography exhibition, Life Through a Royal Lens, which explores the British Royal Family’s enduring relationship with the camera; from the reign of Queen Victoria right through to the present day. The display of over 100 of the most iconic royal photographs can be enjoyed in the Long Library, the largest room in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, which will be transformed into a gallery. Alongside iconic photographs will be intimate images which share a glimpse of the Royal Family off duty.
The exhibition features images by pioneering Victorian photographers, modern royal portraitists like Cecil Beaton, Marcus Adams, Annie Leibovitz, and Rankin, as well as photos taken by Royal Family members themselves. Highlights include the last public photograph of Queen Elizabeth II and portraits from the first three years of King Charles III and Queen Camilla’s reign, including Josh Shinner’s recent image of the Prince and Princess of Wales, and their children.
Life Through a Royal Lens has been curated by Historic Royal Palaces – the independent charity that cares for Hampton Court Palace, the Tower of London, Kensington Palace and Hillsborough Castle and Gardens – and is toured by Nomad Exhibitions.
To coincide with Life Through a Royal Lens, visitors are invited to step into the opulent State Rooms for daily tours at 12pm (12 July-27 September) led by a costumed guide, to give insight into the 300 year history of Blenheim Palace. Here, guests will also have the opportunity to see the Green Drawing Room dressed with a regal dining table, set up in preparation for a visit from the monarchy. The dining table setting design is to mark 130 years since the Prince & Princess of Wales visited Blenheim Palace.
The royal theme will continue to the Life Below Stairs, an immersive experience which offers a unique glimpse into the 1890s, showcasing the hard work and camaraderie of the Blenheim Palace team as they prepared for a royal visit, taking inspiration from the real-life event.
Life through a Royal Lens
12 July-27 Septemvber 2026
Blenheim Palace, Woodstock OX20 1PS
See more and purchase tickets visit www.blenheimpalace.com/whats-on/events/life-through-a-royal-lens/
Image: The Duke and Duchess of Windsor late in their marriage portraying a happy life with a jovial pug. © Royal Collection Enterprises Ltd 2025 / Royal Collection Trust
