Christmas is a magical time to visit Blenheim Palace. This year from 10th November – 14th December (Wednesday to Sunday inclusive) the Palace is decorated in a very special theme telling the Christmas story of the Three Kings.
Visitors to the Palace can follow the journey of the Three Kings through the State Rooms decorated in glittering gold and festooned in silk. Two magnificent Christmas trees stand in splendor in the Great Hall, surrounded by palm trees in pots bejewelled in the colours of the Far East. From the balcony above the Great Hall, the Star of Bethlehem shines out to guide the Three Kings on their way. Baubles and crystals on lush ribbons, shining golden leaves, clusters of peacock feathers and striking turquoise and emerald green marabou fans provide an exotic welcome to the Palace.
The journey of the Three Kings continues to the Saloon where the grand table is dressed with gilded tableware for an exquisite banquet. Jewel encrusted golden palm trees tower over a display of fabulous peacocks, opulent gifts, and lavish golden bowls of waxed fruits and delicacies.
In the Long Library the star shines from the majestic central Christmas tree, representing the passage of the Three Kings. Guiding angels show the Three Kings through the Library to their final destination, the Chapel, where they finally find the baby Jesus in the manger, beneath the shining star.
During the festive season at the Palace there are superb festive dining options with delicious festive menus in our café’s, a spot of luxury is provided by the new Champagne Bar, and festive Sunday lunches in the Orangery or Festive Afternoon Tea in the Indian Room are available to book. The wonderful Palace shops provide a variety of Christmas gifts and decorations inspired by ‘The Story of the Three Kings’, as well as traditional Christmas foods, hampers, wines and champagnes.
From December, freshly cut Christmas trees will be on sale.
Additional Festive Activities:
Santa’s Grotto
This year Santa’s Grotto returns to Blenheim Palace, taking place in the stables on the weekends of 24th – 25th November and 1st – 2nd December. Children can visit Father Christmas, and receive a small gift.
Christmas Carols
The Great Hall and Long Library will be alive with the sounds of festive singing, come and join in! Christmas carol singing by school choirs will take place inside the Palace on 8th, 9th and 14th December. 8th: Morning: Combe School, afternoon: The Manor Prep 9th: Morning: Daneshill, afternoon: The Bats School 14th: Morning: Wood Green Secondary, afternoon: Woodstock Primary
Blenheim Palace is home to the Duke and Duchess of Marlborough, and is the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Set in over 2000 acres of ‘Capability’ Brown landscaped Park there are breathtaking views from Vanbrugh’s Grand Bridge across the magnificent lake and rolling landscape. For a magical journey through Christmas this year, visit Blenheim Palace, Britain’s Greatest Palace. For more information about Blenheim Palace call 0800 849 6500 (24 hour recorded information) or visit www.blenheimpalace.com