Autumn is the perfect time to experience Blenheim Palace’s vibrant views and red-tinted golden hues – and there is so much more for visitors to enjoy in a packed programme of events.
There are new exhibitions full of art, history, wildlife and of course, the recent reopening of Sir Winston Churchill’s birth room.
We have put together a list featuring a diverse range of activities and entertainment for all the family, including the exciting new Autumn Festival and Halloween events.
Gericault and Delacroix – Master Printmakers of the Romantic Era (11 Sept-15 Nov)
This exhibition will showcase a series of stunning 19th century equine prints including lithographs and etchings by pioneering figures in the French Romantic movement.
Many of the works in the exhibition show the dynamic and impassioned imagery of horses, while Gericault’s lithographs executed after his arrived in London feature the new, understated English style the artist adopted in his pursuit of success in the English sporting art market.
Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials (16-19 September)
A world class international equestrian event and a great family day out. There is so much to do in addition to the showcase eventing classes, such as complimentary displays and demonstrations.
There’s great shopping, thrilling arena attractions, an array of delicious food and drink, lots of children’s entertainment – and top-class equestrian sport. It really is the perfect autumn day out.
MASKED – A photographic exhibition by Joanna Vestey (18 Sept-Dec)
Sponsored by Bonhams, it is a series of limited-edition portraits of 24 leading figures in the arts, education, communications and law all portrayed wearing masks.
Among those featured in the new show are Dawn French, Juliet Stevenson, Philip Pullman; Grayson and Philippa Perry, Paul Whitehouse, Andrew Scott and Woodstock-based British art historian Janina Ramirez.
Autumn Festival (24-26 Sept and 1-3 Oct)
New for this year, celebrate harvest with a stunning food market, dragon maze trail, live music, family games, entertainment and much more.
Devised by acclaimed creative designer Charlotte Lloyd-Webber, the event is a re-imagining of the traditional Harvest and Michaelmas Festivals, but with a decidedly modern green twist.
You will be greeted by a harvest dragon, before wondering through market stalls showcasing locally produced food, beverages, crafts and gifts.
Tastings and demonstrations will tickle your taste buds along the way, whilst pausing for the live music.
SeeSaw Sunrise Walk (25 September)
A time to remember loved ones with a unique opportunity to walk through the park at sunrise. With a choice of a 1.5 or 4.5 mile walk there is something to suit all levels of fitness.
This lovely fundraising event is an opportunity to walk with others in memory of loved ones, whether they died recently or many years ago.
Meet the Hook Norton Brewery Shire Horses (1-3 Oct and 15-17 Oct)
Meet gentle giants Missy, Commander and Lucas, Hook Norton’s adorable shire horses in the new Stables Exhibition and watch them pull the brewery’s dray.
Blenheim 7K Fun Run (10 October)
Run for fun or support your chosen charity with our 7km run.
The 1-mile Junior race, open to under 15s, starts before the main 7k and makes the event a great family day out. Race entry entitles you to entry to the palace grounds, enjoy the surrounding Parkland after the race.
Halloween at Blenheim Palace (22-31 October)
A spooky, fun-filled trail for all the family this half term. As Halloween creeps closer and the days shorten, a mysterious mist falls across the gardens at Blenheim Palace. Join with family and friends to wander from dusk into darkness between one ghostly space to another… if you dare!
- For more information visit www.blenheimpalace.com/whats-on/ . Please note pre-booking is essential for all activities.
ENDS
Issued on behalf of Blenheim Palace. For more information please contact Samantha Vaughan on 07469 129743 or SVaughan@blenheimpalace.com .
About Blenheim Palace
Home to the Dukes of Marlborough since 1705, the Oxfordshire Estate was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.
Set in over 2,000 acres of ‘Capability’ Brown landscaped parkland and designed by Vanbrugh in the Baroque style, Blenheim Palace is also the birthplace of one of Britain’s most famous leaders, Sir Winston Churchill and it was his father who described the vista, on entering the Estate from the village of Woodstock, as the ‘finest view in England’.