I’
ve been tempted to go to the Christmas at Blenheim illuminated trail and exhibition for several years now as it’s only just up the road from Oxford Club Site. The history of Blenheim Palace is of high fashion and extraordinary display, so I guessed it would be the perfect place to see Christmas decorations at their best.
In 2021 the story of the Nutcracker is told through tableaux in the main rooms of the Palace. The vast entrance hall is filled with sparkling Christmas trees, parcels and more before the story leads you through the state rooms, ending with a host of angels in the chapel.
We took a break from things to enjoy the 70+ stalls in the Christmas market in the Great Court courtyard. I can definitely recommend the freshly-made churros with Belgian chocolate sauce - just enough to warm us up for the illuminated trail.
The website recommends allowing 90 minutes for the trail but I’d have happily spent longer, especially watching the incredible display of lights and lasers playing on the Palace itself.
Christmas at Blenheim Palace is not a cheap day out – a combined adult entry ticket, giving entry to the illuminated trail and the story of the Nutcracker, will set you back £50 and there’s an extra £10 charge for car parking – but it is spectacular and you can see there’s been no expense spared in the displays.
Every year there seems to be a Christmas attraction that hits the headlines because it doesn’t live up to expectations. Christmas at Blenheim Palace is definitely not one. If you get the chance – go.