The countdown to Christmas at Blenheim Palace has begun – and 2026 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 for group visitors 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 for groups 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.
Group visitors can also enjoy 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.
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.
Groups of 15+ can enjoy special Christmas pricing across the Palace and Light Trail. Adult group rates for the Light Trail are £26.10 (standard), £31.50 (peak), and £21.60 (off-peak). Palace entry is £37.90 as standard and £29.70 on selected special offer dates between 16th November and 3rd January. Child group rates are £21 (standard), £24 (peak) and £18 (off-peak) for the Light Trail, with Palace entry at £22.60 standard and £17.80 on special offer dates.
Carers with valid proof and children aged 0-2 receive free entry. A mandatory £1 donation to Oxford Youth (Registered Charity No. 1151723) is included with every Palace ticket, and a £1 per ticket booking fee applies to all tickets and is not included in the prices above.
All visitors, including drivers and group leaders must hold a valid ticket to enter the Palace and/or Light Trail. Coach parking is charged at £20 per coach and car parking at £10 per car.
Groups can also enhance their visit with private catering in a dedicated function room, choosing from a festive afternoon tea or a two or three-course Christmas lunch.
The Blenheim Palace Group Partnerships team are on hand to help with all group bookings and pricing agreements. To make visits more enjoyable and efficient, it operates a cashless system in all areas across the site. This includes, but not limited to, ticket desks, The Palace Shop and catering outlets.
For more information on booking, contact the Groups team directly on 01993 815600 or email groups@blenheimpalace.com.