Christmas at Blenheim Palace

I last visited the spectacular grounds of Oxfordshire’s historic Blenheim Palace in 2016, nine years ago, to see the BBC Countryfile Live Show. I had been a regular viewer of the programme for many years, so I was looking forward seeing the Live Show at one of Britain`s greatest stately homes. The stunning Palace and magnificent grounds, created by the legendary landscape gardener Capability Brown was the ideal setting in which to highlight the best of the Great British countryside.

A couple sharing a kiss under pink lights and a decorative chandelier at Blenheim Palace during the Christmas celebrations.

Blenheim Palace is the home of the 12th Duke and Duchess of Marlborough and was the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, voted Greatest ever Britain in a poll, at the beginning of this century. This World Heritage site boasts more than 300 years of history and houses one of the finest antique collections in Europe. Situated in more than 2000 acres of landscaped parkland, lakes, and formal gardens.

Illuminated sign for Blenheim Palace glowing in the evening light against the historical building, with a dark blue sky in the background.

I recently returned to the Palace, but this time to enjoy a magical after – dark light trail around part of the grounds and walk several of the grand ornate state rooms through the newly named, Palace of Oz. Inspired by L. Frank Baum’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, I walked in the footsteps of Dorothy, along the Yellow Brick Road, meeting some familiar characters along the way, including her dog Toto, The Tin Woodman, Scarecrow, Cowardly Lion, Witches and several Munchkins. I even got to meet Dorothy, as she walked the corridors of the Palace.

The Illuminated Trail featured some stunning and spectacular light shows by a range of international and local artists. I was enthralled by the multitude of glowing lights, combined with orchestral and seasonal sounds filling the air. I have been privileged to have seen several Christmas light trails across the country and the Illuminated Light Trail at Blenheim has firmly positioned itself, in my mind, as one of the best, I have seen! The lights on and around the lake combined with a stunning soundtrack were simply amazing. I stood for some time watching a remarkable series of colourful lights, synchronised to the song, ” Let It Go”, from the 2013 Disney animation film, Frozen, it was absolutely stunning!

My wife and I were able to escape the hustle and bustle of The High Street and stock-up on a couple of early Christmas presents at the celebrated Blenheim Christmas Market too? We wandered slowly around the seasonal village of wooden chalets in the Great Courtyard, absorbing the flavours and tastes of Christmas, by sampling a wide range of festive drinks and tasty treats that were on offer, and got the chance to look at lots of unique Christmas gift ideas.

The hand-picked street food vendors introduce an indulgent twist to the tantalising treats on offer. Pizzas, burgers and sausages were all on the menu. My wife and I rounded off our evening with a spiced winter warmer, hot chocolate, and toasted marshmallows.

A scenic view of a landscape with illuminated trees and a glowing orb, creating a magical atmosphere at dusk.
View of Blenheim Palace illuminated with colorful lights, with visitors walking along a pathway lined with illuminated greenery and a fountain in the foreground.
A nighttime view of Blenheim Palace illuminated with colorful lights, reflecting in a pond with floating lanterns, during the Christmas festivities.

If you are feeling particularly extravagant, you can step further into the spirit of the season with a special themed Emerald City Afternoon Tea. Visitors can sit back and enjoy selected savoury delights such as pigs in blankets, smoked salmon & dill brioche and roast beef sliders, followed by freshly baked scones and enchanting OZ-themed sweet treats. What a way to start Christmas!

We could have made some magical memories with festive ice skating at the Great Skate, in a spectacular covered ice rink, under cover in the iconic Great Court. The Great Skate is the perfect way to celebrate the festive season. Soak up the atmosphere with an indulgent hot chocolate and a choice of tasty festive treats. Get out your Christmas jumpers and put your skates on.

A beautifully illuminated vintage carousel surrounded by festive decorations at Blenheim Palace, with a Ferris wheel in the background and a twilight sky.

Visitors to the Christmas celebrations can also take their Christmas experience to new heights by enjoying a bird’s-eye view from the dazzling festive Observation Wheel. Enjoy some breath taking views of the Palace, the Christmas Market, and the spectacular twinkling Christmas lights from across the whole of the estate. The Observation Wheel gives a fresh perspective on the magic of Christmas at Blenheim Palace; we simply loved it!

I would fully recommend a visit to the Christmas experience at Blenheim Palace. It was simply awesome!

It’s Christmas at Blenheim Palace – Until Saturday 3rd January 2026

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