The UNESCO World Heritage Site in Oxfordshire has plenty coming up for groups in 2026, including exhibitions, events and activities.
What’s on in 2026?
Exhibitions:
Opening on 14th February and running until 10th April, Blueprints of Power is a major exhibition and immersive experience exploring the architect behind Blenheim Palace, Sir John Vanbrugh. The display marks the 300th anniversary of the architect dubbed the ‘Rockstar of English Baroque’.
Click here to find out more about the exhibition on the Group Leisure & Travel website.
More than 100 of the most iconic royal photographs ever taken will go on display alongside intimate images of the Royal Family off duty as part of the must-see Life Through a Royal Lens exhibition. Running from 10th July to 27th September, the exhibition will trace the relationship between the royals and the camera from Queen Victoria to the present day.
Jousting tournament:
From 2nd to 4th May, groups can experience the sights, sounds, and excitement of a medieval joust and the chaos of the battlefield with old English traditions when knights, noble steeds, archery, and falconry take over the palace grounds.
The jousting tournament, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Blenheim Palace’s South Lawn, offers a thrilling day out for history enthusiasts and those looking for something different to enjoy and the event is included with palace and gardens admission.
Festivals and celebrations:
Blenheim Palace Food Festival returns from 23rd to 25th May, with a line-up of celebrity chefs and culinary experts offering tips and advice through demonstrations and Q&A sessions. There will also be plenty of food and drink to enjoy including gourmet flavours and street food favourites. Groups can also browse a range of kitchenware traders, craft brewers, farm shops and more.
The popular Blenheim Palace Flower Show is also back for 2026, taking place on the weekend of 19th, 20th and 21st June. With horticultural displays, innovative garden designs, expert growers and artists and workshops, food stalls and horticultural shopping opportunities, the show is packed with things to do for seasoned gardeners, nature lovers, or those simply looking for a different day out.
Christmas at Blenheim takes place in November and December, bringing the festive spirit to the Oxfordshire estate. The Illuminated Trail features works by international and local artists, with glowing lights and seasonal sounds filling the air, whilst the state rooms in the Palace will be dressed their winter best, and the Christmas market will be open to browse.
Group visits to Blenheim
The birthplace of Winston Churchill, and home to the Dukes of Marlborough, Blenheim Palace welcomes groups throughout the year to discover its 300-year history.
Group tickets are available for the palace, park and gardens and must be booked in advance, with discounts for 15 or more. Groups can take advantage of a dedicated team, itinerary planning and group tours and experiences to see the private rooms, passages and areas of the palace that are not always on view and the flora and fauna of the working estate.
There is free all-day coach parking, a free admission voucher for commercial coach drivers plus a voucher for them to use in the onsite cafés. The group leader will also receive free admission.
For more information about what’s on at Blenheim Palace, visit www.blenheimpalace.com
