Christmas at Blenheim Palace | Festive Lights & Markets

What to expect at Blenheim Palace during Christmas

Immersive themed indoor experience: The State Rooms host “The Palace of Oz”, inspired by The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Meet Dorothy, Toto, the Tin Woodman, and Scarecrow, as you journey through decorated rooms.
Illuminated light trail: After dark, explore a spectacular outdoor trail of glowing lights and seasonal sounds across the estate grounds.
Festive market: The Christmas Market in the Great Court features wooden chalets packed with artisan gifts, street-food vendors, and warming drinks.
Covered ice rink in the Great Court: Glide into Christmas on the covered ice-rink (“The Great Skate”) in the palace’s Great Court amid a festive atmosphere.
Festive décor and photo opportunities: With the palace dressed in seasonal lights, themed installations and spectacular views, expect plenty of Instagram-worthy moments across the estate.

Blenheim Palace Christmas events

The Palace of Oz

Dates: Nov 14, 2025-Jan 3, 2026
Timings: 10am-8pm
Location: Inside the Palace, State Rooms
Included with admission: No (separate ticket required)
Age restrictions: Suitable for all ages

Step into this magical adventure based on The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, follow the yellow brick road and meet iconic characters as you discover the Emerald City in the heart of the palace.

Illuminated Trail 2025

Dates: Nov 14, 2025-Jan 3, 2026
Timings: 10am-8pm
Location: Grounds and Gardens of Blenheim Palace
Included with admission: No (separate timed-ticket)
Age restrictions: Suitable for all ages (paths vary)

This after-dark experience features spectacular works by international and local artists, a glowing light trail with festive sounds and the signature feature of Blenheim at Christmas.

Christmas Market (Great Court)

Dates: Nov 14, 2025 to Dec 21, 2025
Timings: Opens at 10am
Location: The Great Court
Included with admission: Yes
Age restrictions: Suitable for all ages

Shop a festive village of wooden chalets filled with gifts, enjoy street food, warming drinks and soak up the atmosphere beneath the palace’s festive lights.

The Great Skate (Ice rink)

Dates: Nov 14, 2025 to Jan 3, 2026
Timings: 10:40am-8:40pm
Location: Great Court
Included with admission: No (requires separate ticket)
Age restrictions: Suitable for all ages (children may require adult supervision)

Skate beneath the palace’s illuminated courtyard roof and enjoy festive skating surrounded by twinkling lights and seasonal décor.

Visitor information

Palace opening hours: 10am to 3:45pm
Last entry: Times for last entry vary by ticket slot; timed-entry sessions are enforced.

Best time to visit: Weekday early sessions (first slots after 10am) offer a more relaxed experience and fewer crowds.

Address: Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire OX20 1UL

By train: Nearest stations - Oxford (9.1 miles), Oxford Parkway (6.2 miles), Long Hanborough (3 miles).
By bus: S3 bus from Oxford station/Gloucester Green stops at Blenheim Palace. 500 service from Oxford Parkway.
By car: A44 Evesham Road from Oxford; signposted from M40 Junction 9. Speed-limit across the Estate is 20 mph.

Parking: Advance booking required for parking (£10 per car) for Christmas at Blenheim. Blue Badge parking available (must book).

Restrooms: Accessible toilets located throughout the Palace, Great Court and Estate grounds (step-free where indicated).
Stroller/Wheelchair rental: Wheelchairs available on a first-come basis; mobility scooters not available for the trail.
Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi available in main visitor interior spaces.
Gift shop: Located within the Palace and near the Great Court market; offers festive merchandise, gifts and souvenirs.
Water fountains / Dining options: Cafés and eateries within the estate serve seasonal snacks, hot chocolate, mulled wine and more throughout the festive period.

Step-free & wheelchair routes: The State Rooms inside the Palace are largely one level and accessible. There is a ramp and lift at the main entrance.
Trail: The outdoor Illuminated Trail follows natural terrain and there are gradients and varying surfaces; additional steward support is provided.
Wheelchair rentals: Available on a first-come basis; mobility scooters not available for the trail when taking part in Christmas at Blenheim.
Service animals: Assistance dogs are permitted.
Quiet access sessions: For visitors who prefer a less crowded environment, quiet sessions for the trail and Palace are available on Nov 25, Dec 9, and Dec 29, 2025.

Entry: All tickets are timed entry, please arrive at least 10 to 15 mins before your booked slot.
Skate shoes and aids: Arrive at least 30 mins before ice-rink session for check-in and skate hire. Children under a certain age may need adult supervision.
Outside food and drink: Please do not bring external food/drink into the indoor trail or Great Court event areas unless stated otherwise.
Photography: Non-commercial photography is generally permitted, except where signage indicates restrictions. Use of tripods and selfie-sticks may be restricted in indoor spaces.
Respect the historic nature: Avoid touching artefacts or climbing on structures; remain aware of wet or uneven paths in gardens during winter weather.
Dogs: Dogs are not permitted inside the palace or on the trail.

Frequently asked questions about Blenheim Palace Christmas events

Can I book tickets just for the Christmas events without a general admission ticket?

Yes, tickets for the themed indoor experience (The Palace of Oz), the Illuminated Trail and ice-rink are separate from standard general admission and are timed-entry.

Is there a capacity limit for the events?

Yes, capacity is limited for the trail, indoor experience and ice-rink; timed-entry is enforced, and quiet access sessions have further reduced numbers.

Are the Christmas events suitable for children?

Absolutely. All major experiences are family-friendly and suitable for children. Some experiences (like skating) may have age/height supervision requirements, check at booking.

Will the events continue in poor weather?

Yes, the indoor Palace experience runs regardless of weather. The outdoor light trail may be affected by severe weather or path conditions; guests will be advised in advance if any sections are closed.

What happens if an event is cancelled and I’ve already booked my ticket?

If an event is cancelled for reasons beyond the visitor’s control (e.g., extreme weather), booking terms indicate you may be offered an alternative date, refund or credit. Please check the official ticket-terms when buying.

Is parking included with the ticket?

No, parking must be booked separately as part of your Christmas at Blenheim ticket—advance reservation is required.

Can Blue Badge visitors access closer parking or special support?

Yes. Blue Badge parking is available (must be pre-booked) and there is closer proximity to the trail start and assistance where required.

Are dogs allowed on the trail or inside the Palace?

Dogs are not permitted inside the Palace or on the illuminated trail. They may be allowed in the market area in the Great Court only under the estate’s policy.