Blenheim Palace Adventure Playground

Blenheim Palace wanted to create something new for families – an adventure playground that felt naturally part of the estate.

The Lost Garden sits within Blenheim’s historic walled gardens. A setting with real character, and real constraints. The ambition was to create a playful, immersive space inspired by the estate’s architecture, while keeping its impact light.

Designing for play, without losing the place

We worked alongside CAP.Co, ASA Landscape Architects and other specialists to shape the scheme from early ideas through to delivery. Our teams brought together architecture, engineering, cost and project management and health and safety to keep everything aligned and moving.

The design takes cues from Blenheim itself. Slides, tunnels and walkways echo the Grand Bridge and Hensington Towers. A flowing rill leads visitors through the space. The entrance is deliberately understated, quietly tucked into the gardens, so the sense of discovery builds as you move through.

Behind the scenes, the focus was on making it work in the real world. A balanced earthworks strategy reduced material movement across the site. Permeable drainage supports the landscape. Every decision aimed to protect what was already there.

Built for everyone to enjoy

From the outset, accessibility mattered. This needed to be a space where children of all abilities could play, explore and feel included. The final design caters for a wide age range, from toddlers to teenagers. Some areas invite calm exploration. Others bring energy and challenge. Together, they create a place that families can experience as a whole, not in parts.

Safety was carefully considered throughout, but never at the expense of fun. The result is a space that feels natural and free, while working exactly as it should.

A new chapter for family visits

Since opening in March 2023, The Lost Garden has quickly become part of the Blenheim experience. A place families return to, not just pass through. It adds something new to the estate, while fitting naturally into its setting. A simple idea, done well. A space that encourages curiosity, imagination and time spent together.