Count Dracula has made an early appearance at Blenheim Palace as the Woodstock estate prepares to open its Halloween trail on Thursday 22 October.
New publicity photographs show the vampire outside the palace and overlooking its lake ahead of Halloween at Blenheim Palace, which runs until Sunday 1 November 2026.
Dracula’s Lair is among this year’s new attractions. Organisers describe a theatrical setting of mausoleums, coffins, gravestones and rolling mist, with Dracula waiting in his crypt to meet visitors.
At a glance
Where: Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire, OX20 1UL.
When: 22 October to 1 November 2026, with timed entry.
Tickets: From £19 for adults and £13.50 for children, including booking fees. Parking costs £10 and must be booked in advance.
Dracula’s Lair and a giant spider join the trail
A giant spider puppet emerging from a 20-metre web tunnel and a Monster Disco are also new for 2026. Returning attractions include the Headless Horseman and Possessed Pumpkin Farm.
Visitors can choose daylight, twilight or late-night sessions. The attraction remains the same throughout the day, according to ticket provider Ticketek, although younger children may prefer to see the surprises in daylight.
The outdoor route is around 1.3km long. Visitors should dress for the weather and wear suitable footwear. Food and drink are available at an additional cost.
Tickets and planning your visit
The advertised starting prices apply to off-peak entry. Standard and peak tickets cost more, so families should check the price for their chosen date and time before booking.
The Halloween trail is separately ticketed. Its admission does not include Blenheim’s daytime Haunted Half Term activities, a distinction worth checking when planning a visit.
For more on the attractions announced earlier this year, see our Blenheim Palace Halloween trail preview.
Useful questions before booking
Is there a quieter session?
A quieter session is scheduled for 4pm on Monday 26 October. It begins in daylight and has reduced capacity, according to Ticketek’s event information.
What should wheelchair users know?
The route crosses natural terrain with varying gradients and surfaces, which can become more difficult in wet weather. Visitors should check the event’s accessibility guidance for their needs before booking.
Current availability and booking options are on the official Halloween at Blenheim Palace page.
