This Autumn, see a different side of Britain’s Greatest Palace as there’s plenty to discover at the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Oxfordshire with a packed programme offering something for everyone.

From exploring Britain’s Greatest Palace and its extensive collections to experiencing the beauty of the Estate as it comes alive with autumnal colours, visitors can enjoy a host of seasonal experiences and events.

Must-see exhibitions 

Dinosaurs are Forever: Until 1st November

Blenheim Palace has teamed up with Future Fossils to present Dinosaurs Are Forever, a first-of-its-kind exhibition showcasing five full-scale Megalosaurus sculptures created by artist Jay Jay Burridge. Visitors can also immerse themselves in history by meeting a costumed Victorian explorer guide as part of the exhibition.

Family Treasures: Until 7th November

The final opportunity before Christmas for visitors to access five additional private apartments filled with rare artworks, furnishings and personal treasures of the Marlborough family. 

Life Through a Royal Lens: Until 27th September

Explore the British Royal Family’s enduring relationship with the camera; from the reign of Queen Victoria right through to the present day. The display of over 100 of the most iconic royal photographs can be enjoyed in the Long Library, the largest room in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, which has been transformed into a gallery. 

Visitors can also step back 130 years in the State Rooms to discover the story of Blenheim Palace’s most important royal visit, when the Prince and Princess of Wales arrived for a four-day stay. At just 19, Consuelo, Duchess of Marlborough, was tasked with orchestrating the visit. Guests can view the gowns on display, from the four daily changes Consuelo wore in a single day of the visit, to more recent coronation gowns including Lady Rosemary's, worn as a Maid of Honour at the coronation of Elizabeth II.

On The Face of It All: Until 15th October 

An intimate art exhibition in the Stables Café by artist Joy Carroll, who has tended the gardens at Blenheim Palace for over ten years. When the Collections team at the Palace saw a portrait of Sir Winston Churchill sketched by Joy, they immediately asked to exhibit her work. Working only in pencil, each portrait in the collection marks a moment or memory that matters to Joy, offering a rare and personal window into her artistic journey.

World-class events 

Blenheim Palace will continue to play host to a packed programme of world-class events against the stunning backdrop of the Palace, including Salon Privé (2nd - 6th September), Agria Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials (17th - 20th September), The Sustainable Fashion Show (29th September) and DogFest (3rd - 4th October).

Spooktacular fun 

Thrill-seekers can enjoy a night of spooky chills between 22nd October and 1st November at Halloween at Blenheim Palace. Returning once again, visitors are invited to step into a thrilling after-dark trail featuring striking light displays, immersive entertainment, and plenty of surprises along the way. Timed entry tickets must be purchased in advance for entry.

There's also a host of ghoulish goings on as Haunted Half Term returns to the Walled Garden from 24th October to 1st November. The popular ZooLab animal show is back, where little ones can come face to face with fanged but friendly snakes and tarantulas as well as giant snails and frogs. Animal enthusiasts will also have the chance to stroke and handle the creepy creatures. Full timings are available on the Blenheim Palace website.  What’s more, families can head to the circus workshop to learn fun tricks, enjoy witchy storytelling sessions, wizard walkabouts and more.

Autumn Paws Outdoors returns 

Following its success last year, the Formal Gardens, Courtyards and Walled Garden will again be opened up to dogs for Autumn Paws Outdoors. From Tuesday 1st September until Sunday 4th October, visitors and their furry friends are invited to explore the Palace grounds for a limited time. Guests can meander through the Formal Gardens or enjoy the fresh air in the Walled Garden, all in the company of their canine companions.

Seasonal Sunday roasts

Blenheim Palace’s Orangery restaurant is the perfect spot for a cosy roast dinner this autumn, featuring classic roast favourites beef, chicken and vegetable wellington with all the trimmings. Every dish showcases vegetables grown in the estate’s two-acre working kitchen garden, using organic and regenerative techniques. 

The Orangery's wider menu has been developed in collaboration with renowned chef Marco Pierre White - the first British chef to be awarded three Michelin Stars - who has worked closely with the chefs to share his expert knowledge and signature dishes.

Park & Gardens seasonal highlights

As summer fades, visitors can discover Blenheim Palace in a new season as ancient oaks and beech trees transform the Gardens and wider Estate into a mix of gold, copper and rust. Follow the lakeside walk to the Cascades, where, from late September, a bridge previously closed to visitors will open, offering a new perspective of the Cascade Gardens above. From the Formal Gardens to the furthest reaches of the parkland, autumn brings a new palette to Blenheim’s historic landscape.

Britain’s Greatest Palace Glow Up 

Blenheim Palace is gearing up to reveal its ultimate ‘Glow Up’, as the scaffolding is taken down and the UNESCO World Heritage Site is restored to its former glory following an extensive £12 million restoration. The two-year project aimed to preserve the palace’s historic architecture and safeguard its heritage for future generations. It has brought together incredible craftsmanship and intricate workmanship, including re-leading the roof, retaining and replacing slates across the Heights, Galleries, and Saloon. The prominent statue of Britannia can be seen once again standing atop the Palace on the Oxfordshire skyline, and the Great Court’s columns are exposed, allowing visitors to see the recognisable view of the 300-year-old Palace.

With no two days out the same this autumn, discover more at Blenheim Palace with a valid Palace & Gardens Ticket or Palace and Play Pass, which grants access to both Blenheim Palace and Adventure Play for a full year, to enjoy all that Britain’s Greatest Palace has to offer, including a sensational line-up of events. 

As a charity, each visit helps protect Blenheim Palace; honouring the past, enriching the present and shaping the future to inspire generations to come. All admission income and donations are reinvested into the vital work of caring for the Palace, its collections and its extraordinary landscape. Gift Aid helps your support go even further.

For more information and to book tickets, visit www.blenheimpalace.com/whats-on/autumn/