A ‘Dickensian Christmas’ at Blenheim Palace 9th November – 13th December 2013

Blenheim Palace

A ‘Dickensian Christmas’ at Blenheim Palace 9^th November – 13^th December 2013

This year Christmas at Britain’s Greatest Palace will be more magical than ever with the Palace beautifully decorated for a traditional ‘Dickensian Christmas’. Step into a festive wonderland full of grand Christmas trees adorned with twinkling lights and exquisite decorations. Dickensian scenes will be brought to life as you tour the Palace to transport you back in time.

The grand Saloon table will be set for a Christmas feast inspired by the classic Dickens story ‘A Christmas Carol’, with some familiar Christmas scenes including the Victorian feast for ‘Tiny Tim’ and the Cratchit family. Grand trees in the Long Library will be decorated with lanterns and candles, along with displays of giant replica Victorian Christmas cards, excerpts from Dickens stories in the Long Library. At weekends Victorian carol singers and Dickens story telling will bring the magic of a Dickensian Christmas to life in the Palace.

Christmas Entertainment Guide

There is also plenty more festive fun to be had by all this season that includes:

Living Statues in the Palace - 30^th November – 1^st December

Living statue Dickensian characters Marley and Scrooge will be lurking in the Palace, surprising unsuspecting visitors as they explore the ‘Dickensian’ decorations. 

Late night Christmas Shopping – 5^th December

Enjoy Christmas shopping in the wonderful East Courtyard Shop, whilst enjoying live carol singing, port and liqueur tastings, and interesting demonstrations. Mulled wine and Winter Pimms will be available from The Oxfordshire Pantry. Blenheim Estate Christmas trees will be on sale next to the Information Kiosk outside the Palace.

Festive Family Fun and Santa's Grotto – 7^th - 8^th December / 14^th – 15^th December

Families will be able to enjoy a festive ride on the miniature train to the Pleasure Gardens to visit Santa’s Grotto on 7th, 8th, 14th and 15th December. The Children's Shop will be open providing pocket-money toys, treats and fancy dress costumes, and our ‘Pottering About’ craft studio where children can make their own handmade crafts for Christmas presents.

Christmas Carols and Storytelling – 23^rd – 24^th November / 7^th – 8^th December  

On selected weekends throughout the Christmas season the Palace will be filled with the sounds of festive singing from local school choirs and the Bletchingdon Brass Band, whilst the spirit of Christmas will come to life with Dickensian story readings for everyone to enjoy.

Blenheim Estate Christmas Trees – on sale from 30^th November – 23^rd December

Bring the spirit of Christmas home with you with a freshly harvested Christmas tree, grown on the Blenheim Estate. On sale at the Information Kiosk outside the Palace and Combe Saw Mills. To reserve your tree call 01993 813196 or email christmastrees@blenheimpalace.com.

Seasonal Delights

Enjoy a range of locally sourced food to satisfy the taste buds, with a variety of hot and cold meals available at our restaurants and cafes, whether you want to grab a bite for the children or try our seasonal Christmas delights, we have it all. Treat yourself this Christmas and book a delicious Festive Afternoon Tea. To book call 01235 200 965 or visit www.blenheimpalace.com to book online.

Winter Walks

Wrap up warm and take in the beautiful winter scenery within the spectacular landscaped parkland of Blenheim Palace, where an unrivaled combination of unspoilt natural beauty and history awaits you.