Blenheim Palace has announced an extensive and varied programme of exhibitions, festivals and seasonal events for 2026, promising a year of world-class art, history, music and family-friendly activities at Britain’s Greatest Palace.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site in Oxfordshire, set within more than 2,000 acres of Capability Brown–designed parkland, will host a calendar designed to appeal to visitors of all ages, from major art exhibitions and immersive tours to food festivals, live music and outdoor spectacles.
New Exhibitions and Historic Insights
The 2026 programme begins in January with the Servants’ Tales and Gossip Tour (7 January–14 February), a guided experience offering a behind-the-scenes look at life below stairs. Visitors will hear stories of real servants, whispered scandals and long-standing ghostly legends associated with the palace.
In February, Blenheim Palace will open a major new exhibition, Blueprints of Power (14 February–10 April), marking the 300th anniversary of architect Sir John Vanbrugh. The immersive exhibition explores Vanbrugh’s ambition, rivalries and creative genius, celebrating the man often described as the “rock star” of English Baroque architecture.
Later in the year, Life Through a Royal Lens (10 July–27 September) will showcase more than 100 iconic royal photographs, alongside lesser-seen intimate images offering a glimpse of the Royal Family away from official duties.
Family Events and Seasonal Celebrations
Families visiting during February half term (14–22 February) can enjoy themed activities in the Walled Garden and Adventure Play area, including a Pip and Posy Rainbow Treasure Hunt inspired by the popular children’s television series.
Easter celebrations will take place from 3–6 April, with spring-themed activities, outdoor exploration and interactive experiences across the gardens.
Halloween returns in autumn with an immersive trail featuring illuminated installations, theatrical effects and seasonal surprises, while Christmas at Blenheim Palace (November–December) will once again include the popular Illuminated Trail, festive markets and richly decorated state rooms.
Festivals, Sport and Outdoor Spectacle
The palace grounds will host a number of major outdoor events throughout the year. Highlights include the Jousting Tournament (2–4 May), bringing medieval pageantry to life with knights, horses, archery and falconry, and the return of Giffords Circus (8–18 May), a long-standing favourite known for its imaginative, family-friendly performances.
Food lovers can look forward to the Blenheim Palace Food Festival (23–25 May), featuring celebrity chefs, expert demonstrations and a wide range of food and drink traders.
June will see the Blenheim Palace Triathlon (6–7 June), attracting athletes to compete against the dramatic backdrop of the palace and Great Lake, followed by the Blenheim Palace Flower Show (19–21 June), showcasing floral displays and hundreds of exhibitors.
A major new addition for 2026 is the Blenheim Palace Festival, a six-day music event taking place across June and July. Headliners announced include Katy Perry, Teddy Swims, Pete Tong, Alanis Morissette, Neil Young and Michael Bublé, with a line-up spanning global stars, award-winning artists and emerging talent.
The year concludes with the International Horse Trials (17–20 September), a world-class equestrian event featuring dressage, cross-country and showjumping, alongside shopping, food stalls and family entertainment.
Tickets and Visitor Information
Many events are included with a valid Palace & Gardens Ticket or Palace and Play Pass, which offers year-long access to Blenheim Palace and Adventure Play. Some events require separate tickets, and visitors are advised to check the official Blenheim Palace website for full details.
The Palace and Play Pass is priced at £165 for a family of four, with individual adult and child passes also available.
More information and booking details can be found at the Blenheim Palace website.
About Blenheim Palace
Home to the Dukes of Marlborough since 1705, Blenheim Palace is the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill and one of Europe’s most significant historic houses. Beyond the palace and formal gardens, the wider estate spans more than 10,000 acres and plays an active role in sustainability initiatives, community engagement and local economic development.
With its ambitious 2026 programme, Blenheim Palace continues to position itself not only as a site of historic importance, but as a dynamic cultural destination offering new experiences throughout the year.
Leave a Reply