Blenheim Palace has beaten Buckingham Palace to be named the country’s best historical home.

It scooped a top award and received a runner-up position at the Group Travel Awards.

The stately home was voted The Best Historical House and/or Garden for Groups in the 2014 Group Travel Awards.

In claiming the title it beat off Longleat House, Buckingham Palace and Chatsworth House.

It was also awarded runner-up in the Best Group Dining Experience category.