Blenheim Palace �Dressed for Christmas� runs until 11th December 2005.

The Palace and its courtyards have been transformed into a winter wonderland, offering visitors a truly magical experience.

Beautiful Estate grown Christmas trees greet visitors as they stroll through the Great Courtyards. And inside, glowing fires provide a warm welcome to this unique Palace.

Opulent decorations adorn the Great Hall and Long Library adding to the traditional festive atmosphere. Beautiful green and gold garlands have been draped throughout the minstrels� gallery and over the magnificent mantelpieces, and miniature Christmas trees continue the green and gold theme throughout the Palace.

Christmas wreaths add a touch of festive humour to Blenheim�s stunning statues in the Great Hall and Long Library, whilst some rather unusual decorations provide a fun �twelve days of Christmas� theme for children to enjoy.

In the Saloon, visitors can see the Marlborough family�s traditional Christmas table which is adorned with sparkling silverware, beautiful crystal, flowers, ribbons and baubles, complimented by a surprise festive centrepiece.

A traditional nativity scene is set in the impressive chapel and at weekends, carol singers, organists and brass bands bring the spirit of Christmas to life at the Palace at the weekends. The celebrations include performances from the Brazenose College Choir, Witney Town Band, Sue Douglas Child Musicians and Neil Watson Brass Band.

Palace tours run throughout the day and visit the Churchill exhibition which includes the room where the man himself was born. �Churchills� Destiny � The Story of Two Great War Leaders� exhibition, based in the stables, will remain open until December 11.

Christmas Shopping at Blenheim Palace

Blenheim�s unique shops provide an array of beautiful Christmas gifts and home grown food such as Blenheim Water, Blenheim Honey 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 a delight. Decorations reflecting those in the Palace will be on sale, along with all that one might need to celebrate the festive season in style.

From 3rd December, visitors will also be able to buy freshly harvested, home grown Christmas trees from the huge selection grown every year on the estate.

John Hoy Chief Executive of Blenheim Palace said, �Christmas at Blenheim last year was superb. We had a fantastic response from our visitors and this year we have once again decided to extend our season to recreate the magic.�

Notes to editor Blenheim Palace Prices: Adults Senior Child Family Palace Park & Gardens �11.00 �9.00 �6.00 �30.00 Park & Gardens �6.00 �4.00 �2.00 �14.00 Park Only (From 12 December) �2.50 �1.50 Notes

� Child age 5-16. Under 5�s free � Family ticket applies to 2 adults and 2 children � Student admission costs are the same as senior citizens � All prices include VAT at 17.5% � Advance tickets are non-refundable. Blenheim Palace will be dressed for Christmas from 12th November until 11th December. For group bookings and information, telephone the groups co-ordinator on 01993 810530 or visit www.blenheimpalace.com

For media information contact: Anna Shackleton at Leader, The Stone House, 123 High Street, Henley-in-Arden, Warwickshire B95 5AU. Telephone: +44 (0)1564 796200 Fax: +44 (0)1564 795490. Email: lh@leader.co.uk