The countdown to Christmas at Blenheim Palace 2026 has begun – and this season is set to be bigger, better and brighter than ever, with this year’s magical theme of Cinderella Inside The Palace, alongside the hugely popular Illuminated Trail, Great Skate and Christmas Market.
Tickets are on sale now for the perennial festive favourite, which runs from 13th November 2026 to 3rd January 2027, featuring The Illuminated Trail – an exceptional after-dark trail with spectacular new lights; Cinderella Inside The Palace and, back by popular demand, The Great Skate – festive ice skating under cover in the iconic Great Court.
For over ten years, Britain’s Greatest Palace has been unrivalled when it comes to Christmas, with magical memories around every corner – more to enjoy, more to explore, more to experience. Don’t leave it ‘til midnight – book your tickets now!
This Christmas 2026, Blenheim Palace will be lavishly decorated and transformed into the magical fairy tale of Cinderella by a BAFTA award-winning team of designers. From the moment you enter The Great Hall, welcomed by a twinkling tree, walk through a larger-than-life storybook into a glittering world, and wander into State Rooms filled with mistletoe, holly and baubles. As midnight strikes, the clocks all chime… a glass slipper leads Prince Charming to a happy ever after Christmas wedding like no other.
Out in the gardens, as twilight falls, treetops glisten and waterfalls shimmer. With new surprises around every corner, the spectacular Illuminated Trail, boasting more than a million lights, has everything you need for an unforgettable adventure immersed in seasonal song. It’s a shared experience with friends and family that includes a glimpse of Father Christmas himself.
Back by popular demand for a third year, Great Skate invites visitors to skate on real ice across a covered rink within the historic Great Court, set against the stunning backdrop of Blenheim Palace.
There’ll also be the delightful outdoor Christmas Market, running from Friday 13th November to Sunday 20th December; featured in the top 10 of best UK seasonal markets year after year, it will once again be filled with a variety of hand-picked, irresistible gifts, uniquely made by a range of designers and craftspeople. Soak up the festive atmosphere and tuck into seasonal showstoppers and sweet treats, and grab a mulled wine or hot chocolate beside the covered ice rink.
“We are so excited to be launching our biggest and brightest Christmas experience at Blenheim Palace,” said Matthew Findlay, RG Live, Director of Live Experiences.
He continued: “For more than ten years, it has been a magical adventure for the whole family, and this year is no exception – from exploring the Cinderella themed State Rooms, to following the twinkling light trail through the gardens, every corner is full of wonder, perfect for creating memories that both children and adults will treasure together.”
Zoe Bottrell Managing Director of Culture Creative said: “Re-imaginging Britain’s Greatest Palace for Christmas is such a privilege; the historic interior, the grounds and the gardens are the perfect backdrop for us to create a truly magical experience.”
Dominic Hare, CEO of Blenheim Palace, commented: “We’re thrilled to launch Christmas at Blenheim Palace for 2026, and incredibly proud of the fact that for over a decade it’s widely been regarded as one of the best seasonal experiences in the country.”
With limited capacity and timed entry, early booking is essential to guarantee your preferred date and time.
