Blenheim Palace for Christmas spirit

Inspiration for Christmas is sometimes hard to find when you've traipsed up and down the high street, getting more and more jaded by the moment. If you require something special to get you back into the spirit then a visit to Blenheim Palace over the next few weeks may be just what you need.

From 10th November to 9th December, Blenheim Palace will be decorated with elegant displays of treasured yuletide traditions and in the Great Court, Christmas trees will sparkle in the colonnades, offering you a truly magical experience.

Inside Blenheim Palace glowing fires in the State Rooms provide you with a warm welcome to this unique Baroque Palace. Each room features delightful festive displays to explain the history of a particular Christmas tradition, from Holly & Ivy and a ‘Tree of Lights’, to candles and plum puddings.

Christmas trees grown on the Blenheim estate in the Long Library are decorated to explain the origins of Santa Claus, Christmas Stockings and why we give Christmas cards and gifts. You can even see the  Marlborough family’s spectacular Christmas table, pictured above, decorated for a feast with all the delightful fruits and spices associated with Christmas time.

Blenheim’s own unique shops provide an array of Christmas decorations, gifts and home grown food and a specially selected range of champagne, wines and liqueurs.  The combination of books, handcrafts, toiletries and luxurious arts and crafts, inspired by the beautiful Palace and grounds, make shopping both a delight and a relief from the high street chains.

There are plenty of activities going on during the next few weeks, so do take a quick peek at the Blenheim Palace website to find out more and to check opening days and times. www.blenheimpalace.com