Never one to hold back at Christmas, Blenheim Palace has pulled out all the stops this year by adding to the visitor experience with new rides, themes, experiences and of course lights.
Opening last night, the sky was lit up with a new observation wheel like a mini London eye, as well as carousels and food stalls to greet you.
All-in-all a magical evening out and a great way to stretch the legs over the festive season ahead
Venture into the courtyard and there the Christmas market unfolds against the backdrop of this year’s Neverland theme which prevails inside. Festive music accompanies you around the numerous gift stalls and more culinary options from pizza and churros to chicken waffles and greek souvlaki.
The Great Skate is a another new addition, the weather-proof skating rink attracting an avid crowd keen to make the most of all the facilities available at Blenheim this Christmas, which you can book separately.
There’s no mistaking the Peter Pan theme within, but the attention to detail and the incredible visual illusions took our breath away, the ambition and scope unrivalled. From pirate ships, mermaids and ticking crocs to Captain Hook and Tinkerbell, the mesmerising tour leaves you open-mouthed.
Released once more into the open, the start of the Illuminated Trail this year is just next to the palace itself, leading you down into the gardens where there is a particular onus on the natural habitat. Trees are lit up and adorned, light shows trailing down trunks in time with the music, water cascading in colour, beams shooting up from the lakes, acres of flares leading you on.
And while the sides of the palace are not a focus in 2024, there are numerous new additions, with different light tunnels and a DJ style light attraction. Father Christmas is also on hand to greet you, while the Boathouse has been transformed into a gingerbread house, the waft of cinnamon greeting you as you pass.
But perhaps it is the colours themselves, and the contrast between the lights and the landscape, that are the most awe-inspiring this year. Absolutely beautiful to behold, your neck arching to take it all in.
Anyone faltering, from young to old, can stop for mulled wine, hot chocolate and marshmallow toasting along the way, and if still hungry or thirsty once you emerge back into the courtyard the food stalls remain open late. We enjoyed Alex’s Crepes, not just for their flavour but Alex’s merry service.
All-in-all a magical evening out and a great way to stretch the legs over the festive season ahead.
Christmas at Blenheim Palace runs from November 15 – January 1. Book at http://Christmas at Blenheim Palace
