Travel Plans with Fernando Pinho
Join airplane pilot and accidental adventurer Fernando Pinho on a journey to discover your next travel destination. Part toolkit, part love letter to travel, this podcast is a deep dive into exciting destinations and cultural experiences with curated guides, immersive episodes, and live Q&A sessions. So grab your passport and headphones – your next flight to adventure is boarding now!
Travel Plans with Fernando Pinho
Spectacular Christmas at Blenheim Palace | England
Join Fernando for a festive flight to Blenheim Palace, where Christmas magic comes to life!
Explore the grandeur of a UNESCO World Heritage Site transformed into a winter wonderland. Wander through Peter Pan's Neverland, marvel at the UK's top-rated illuminated trail, and soak in the festive cheer at the Christmas Market.
This Christmas special is packed with travel tips, heartwarming moments, and festive fun for the whole family.
Plus, don't miss the chance to win a delicious giveaway!
This Christmas, if you know of anyone who is alone and needs to get somewhere, please let us know. We might be able to help.
You can find out more info on the website www.fernando.today
If you wish to see photos of this trip and a list of suggestions of places to eat, visit and sleep, you can subscribe to my newsletter for free at www.travelplanspodcast.com
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Join pilot and accidental adventurer Fernando Pinho as he takes you on captivating journeys to discover exciting destinations across the UK and Europe. In this immersive podcast, you'll fly with him to find your next travel adventure. Uncover off-the-beaten-path locales and elevate your travel plans. Uncover off-the-beaten-path locales and elevate your travel plans. In this episode, we're taking you on an unforgettable Christmas experience. Get ready for festive lights, enchanting trails and Christmas markets.
Fernando :Welcome on board for a Christmas special episode of Travel Plans with me, fernando Pinho. Today we are flying to Oxford to witness one of the most spectacular Christmas events in England Christmas at Blenheim Palace. Blenheim Palace is a magnificent 18th century house surrounded by over 2,000 acres of parkland. We will start our adventure by visiting the palace's staterooms, transformed into Peter Pan's Neverland, then we will walk through the after dark, spectacular and UK's leading illuminated trail. This dazzling trail is filled with one million festive lights and enchanting displays of colour and water, promising an unforgettable experience for everyone. All of these experiences are located on the grounds of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most stunning country houses I've ever visited. We'll be taking off in the next couple of minutes and I'll talk to you again before we reach our destination, but for now, sit back, relax. Check out our newsletter, which is packed with photos and videos from this trip. The website for the newsletter is travelplanspodcastcom and the link is in the episode notes.
Fernando :November 262.B Alphen ready for departure. 262.b Cessna in 2 centuries at 9 knots runway. 24l takeoff discretion. Taking off 24L. Take off at your discretion. Taking off 24L. N262db Power set everything on the green. I will set everything on green 70 road width. Welcome back, we are cruising at 5,000 feet. Today we are flying to Oxford Airport, which is just 5 minutes away from Glenham Palace. It couldn't be closer. Every year, cities and towns around the UK put together Christmas markets and events for the whole family. Over the years I've visited a few, but most likely the most spectacular one is Christmas at Glendon Palace, and today we are going to find out why it's considered the most popular Christmas trail in the country. Glenham Palace is more than just a grand estate. It holds centuries of history and stories within its walls. Here's Nathan with our in-flight entertainment to fill you in on some fascinating facts about this iconic landmark. To fill you in on some fascinating facts about this iconic landmark.
Nathan :And now for your in-flight entertainment, we turn our attention to Blenheim Palace, the magnificent Oxfordshire estate that awaits our arrival. This architectural marvel, constructed in the early years of the 18th century, was bestowed upon John Churchill, the first Duke of Marlborough, as a token of gratitude from a nation rejoicing in his military triumphs. The Duke, a masterful strategist, led his troops to a resounding victory at the Battle of Blenheim in 1704, safeguarding England's prominence on the European stage. And what a reward he received.
Nathan :But Blenheim's significance extends far beyond its stately facade. It stands as a living testament to the passage of history Within its very walls. In the year 1874, a son was born to Lord Randolph Churchill and his American wife Jenny Jerome. That son, christened Winston, would one day rise to become the indomitable Prime Minister who steered Britain through the tumultuous years of World War II. And let us not forget the palace's breathtaking grounds. Blenheim boasts a landscaped garden considered by many to be the pinnacle of English garden design. Masterfully crafted by the celebrated Lancelot Capability Brown, these gardens are a symphony of nature's artistry, where rolling hills, serene lakes and verdant groves converge in perfect harmony. So as we descend upon our destination, prepare to be enthralled by the splendor and heritage of Blenheim Palace, a true national treasure. And now back to your pilot, fernando.
Fernando :And there you have it, a brief history of Blenheim Palace. We should be landing in just a few minutes. November 260, Delta Bravo traffic. Orbiting on left base is a Cherokee Runway 19,. Wind, 230 degrees, 6 knots. Clear to land. Clear to land. Runway 19,. Runway 360. 500.
Nathan :Tower, tower, tower, tower, tower, tower, tower, tower, tower, tower, tower, tower, tower, tower, tower, tower, tower, tower, tower, tower, tower, tower Tower.
Fernando :Tower, tower, tower, tower, tower, tower Tower, tower, tower, tower, tower, tower, tower, tower, tower, tower, tower, tower, tower Tower, tower, tower, tower Tower Tower, tower, tower, tower. And here we are at London Oxford Airport. Hi, sorry, I never know how to get out of this airport. Is this the right exit for me? Yes, all right, thank you very much, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, to get out of this airport. Is this the right exit for me? All right, thank you very much, thank you, thank you.
Fernando :This friendly airport is the perfect getaway to Oxford, the Cotswolds and, of course, blenheim Palace. They offer such an excellent service, from air traffic to the handling teams. Now we've flown to Oxford, but if you are taking a train from the station in town, you can catch bus S3. Here's a little known fact if you arrive at Blenheim Palace by bus, bike or electric car, you are in for a treat a 20% discount on tickets for the palace and gardens. Now, sadly, the discount doesn't apply to the Christmas events, but nevertheless, I brought my folding bike on the plane and I'll be arriving at the palace by bicycle. I'm quite looking forward for the scenic ride, which should only take around 10 to 15 minutes, and off we go, wheeeee.
Fernando :The road between the airport and Blenheim Palace is quite busy. However, there is a dedicated cycle lane parallel to the road, and we are about to arrive to Blenheim Palace. And let me tell you, this place is enormous. The estate covers a whopping 12,000 acres, with everything from the palace itself to farmland, rivers, lakes and over 2,000 acres of parkland. It's a far cry from my little neighbourhood. You might have seen Blenheim Palace on TV or in the movies. It has been featured in over 70 productions, including Harry Potter, james Bond and Mission Impossible. And as I cycle closer, the first thing I spot is the observation wheel standing tall like a beacon, guiding us towards our Christmas adventure. Wow, this is impressive.
Fernando :The Great Court is the first thing you see when you arrive, and it's designed to take your breath away. This huge courtyard is surrounded by the main palace building and two wings, and right in the center there's a Christmas market with over 60 wooden chalets selling all sorts of goodies. I see plenty of food, lots of gifts and festive treats and oh look, there's a stall selling chocolate foam kisses. Oh, my god, I have to try one. Please bear with me or skip forward 30 seconds. Hello, can I have a milk chocolate one please? Thank you very much. I'm sorry. I couldn't resist. These are delicious and they take me back to my childhood in Portugal.
Fernando :But there is so much to explore. For example, in the middle of the Grand Court there is also a covered ice rink where families can go skating. This has to be one of the most iconic settings in the UK. I am surrounded by this majestic palace. Hold it up with festive projections and there's a fantastic atmosphere, with music filling the air and the aroma of delicious treats. You absolutely have to see this for yourself. I'll be uploading photos and videos to our website, so check this episode's description for the link.
Fernando :Christmas at Blenheim Palace offers two main attractions. The first event is a Peter Pan inspired experience called Neverland in the Palace, and our adventure begins here with a journey through Neverland following Tinker Bell's trail of fairy dust as he enchants the palace staterooms. I've been handed a map of the 12 rooms we'll visit and which one of them tells a part of the story of Neverland, and the first room is the Great Hall. It's 67 feet high, or just over 20 meters, and the ceiling is the highest point of the entire palace and right in the middle of it there's a giant Christmas tree, and I guess it will be the first of many.
Joy:I would always be a little boy and to have fun. So I ran away to Kenson, to the gardens, and lived a long, long time with a bunch of fairies. And you come with us and tell the last price of all your stories. But I can't afford it. I'll teach you each of your lovely thoughts. Where is Neverland? It's there, where all the arrows are pointing Come on, follow me.
Fernando :From that moment, we went on an adventure through the corridors of the palace. Lighting, stunning projections and sound effects brought each room to life, creating a truly immersive experience. Hundreds of theatrical props and sets transformed each room, making us feel like we had stepped right into the pages of Peter Pan. But one room held a particularly special meaning A room dedicated to Great Ormond Street Hospital, or GOSH as it is most commonly known. And here's a story you might never have heard. And here's a story you might never have heard the author of Peter Pan, james Matthew Barry, supported Gorsch for many years.
Fernando :In 1929, he was asked to sit on a committee to help the hospital buy land to build a new wing. Barry declined but said he hoped to find another way to help. A few months later, the hospital was surprised to learn that Barry had donated all his rights for Peter Pan to Gosch. Many decades later, in 1988, the House of Lords voted in favour of a special clause in the UK's Copyright Act. This amendment gives the hospital the right to a royalty from Peter Pan forever, not the usual 70 years. And that's why even our visit to Blenheim Palace helps Great Ormond Street Hospital offer life-saving treatment to thousands of children. One of the most incredible rooms of the whole Neverland experience was the great library transformed into a pirate ship. The attention to detail was superb, with cannons, treasure chests and even Captain Hook lurking in the shadows. Actually, he asked me to send you a message. Is it safe for children to come here?
Nathan :It is certainly safe for children to come here, as long as they are not spies of Peter Pan.
Fernando :Very good, I'll take note of that, thank you.
Fernando :Thank you, sir.
Fernando :Now be on your way. Oh, my word, that was spectacular. This is probably the best Christmas display I've ever seen, and what makes it truly special is that it takes you through what are already quite incredible staterooms, but layering on top, peter Pan's story takes it to a whole different level, and I bet there is the child or adult who won't like it. Please check our website for all the photos and videos. Words can hardly describe it, and after this experience I need a pause and a steaming mug of hot chocolate. Let's go back to the Christmas market. It's that time of year.
Fernando :The day is almost here. Raise your glass and say cheers, say cheers, it's holiday party. Feel the love, it's holiday party.
Fernando :There are many options for food and drinks here. You can experience a themed Neverland afternoon tea in the restaurant or enjoy street food in one of the many chalets in the Grand Court. Today I'm going for that traditional Christmas dish a pizza and a hot chocolate. I know, I know. Please let me do it. Now for the main event, the renowned Christmas Illuminations Trail. This experience is considered one of the best in the country. So what is all about? The trail takes us through the gardens, lakes and parkland around the palace. There are over 20 attractions to discover, including light installations, water fountain shows and even a fire pit where you can roast marshmallows. And, of course, we might catch a glimpse of Father Christmas himself. Oh dear, each lighting installation was created by a different British or international artist. It will take us around 90 minutes to walk the trail, so to keep this segment short, I'll give you some of the highlights. All the photos and videos are on the episode's website. Let's go.
Fernando :As you join the trail, the only lights to guide your way are those from the art installations. At points it gets pretty dark, which is probably why there are plenty of signs asking you to keep your children close by, but walking in low light makes those installations even more mesmerizing when you reach them. Each display was unique and creative, blending art and technology in a way that was like stepping into a different world. The water fountain show was the highlight. Imagine water jets shooting up and down in time to the music, with colorful lights making it even more dramatic. It was like a water ballet. Halfway through the trail there is a place to rest and roast marshmallows. We crossed illuminated waterfalls and a full-scale gingerbread house. We also walked through powerful light beams projecting into the sky, to the soundtrack of love. Actually, some installations were truly inspiring, like Flock, by the artist Geraldine Pilgrim. She placed hundreds of illuminated doves across several trees, celebrating how simplicity can bring so much joy. And then, at the very end, the dreaded sorry, I mean the expected encounter with Father Christmas.
Nathan :Ho ho ho. Merry Christmas everybody. I hope you're all being good. Not many more sleeps to go now. I'll be keeping an eye, but I'm sure I can rely on you. Ho, ho, ho, ho ho.
Fernando :Well, that was truly magical. The Bleden Palace eliminated trail is an experience unlike any other. I've seen many trails before but, to be honest, not at this scale. It's a feast for the senses, with stunning lighting displays and captivating music. It's wonderful and reminds me that even in the darkest of times there is always light to be found. I wrote that one. I know's bad, but but I mean it and we arrived right back at the Christmas market. I don't know about you, but all this walking has made me hungry again, I know.
Joy:Let's get one of those chocolate kisses. Next we'll crunch the numbers and find out how much tickets for this Christmas wonderland cost. Plus, don't miss your chance to win a special giveaway A box of those delicious chocolate marshmallow foam kisses that Fernando couldn't resist.
Fernando :Okay, we have explored the palace and wandered through the illuminated trail. It's time to take a breath and enjoy the atmosphere here at the Christmas Market. To take a breath and enjoy the atmosphere here at the Christmas market. As I stand here, surrounded by twinkling lights and festive music and the aroma of mulled wine, I can't help but feel the joy we associate with Christmas. From the grandeur of the palace to the enchantment of Neverland and the dazzling lights of the trail, this Christmas experience has been nothing short of spectacular. Now you might be thinking all this magic must come at a hefty cost, and you are right. It could be more budget-friendly, to be honest. But let's break it down. Here's something to keep in mind. The ticket prices vary depending on what time of the day you visit. You can also buy tickets for the whole experience or opt for individual events. For a family of four, a standard ticket for the whole experience will cost £197. If you can come later in the day, the cost is slightly cheaper at £171. It's still a significant expense, and that's before you factor in all the extras like the funfair rides, the food, drinks, transport and parking. The good news is that your ticket includes an annual pass that gives you free entry to Glenham Palace all year round, so from that perspective it can be good value, assuming you can return here frequently. You can also get tickets for just one attraction. For example, family tickets for the eliminated trail start at £72. Also, bear in mind that if the weather isn't great, the operator the show must go on approach. I made up this term, but it means that rain won't stop the show. So please come prepared with a jacket, a raincoat, gloves and a good pair of walking shoes or even boots. Raincoat, gloves and a good pair of walking shoes or even boots. Also, there's a lot of walk to be done, so if you come with your children, be prepared to carry them for a while. It has been a very long day and I think it's time to call it a night, but before we cycle back to the airport, let's take one last look at this magical place, but from a different perspective. Let's step into the observation wheel. From up here you can truly appreciate the scale of Christmas at Blenheim Palace. It's splendid and a great way to end our visit here today.
Fernando :We came to Blenheim Palace for this episode, but you can find Christmas joy all over the UK. There are lots of ways to celebrate from big cities to small towns. I've put a list of some amazing Christmas experiences on this episode's website. You can even fly to some of them. There are ideas for everyone, no matter what you like or how much you can spend, and I guess for most of us, christmas isn't just about fancy decorations or big events. It's about something more important. It's about spending time with the people we love. It's about those happy moments we share with family and friends, making memories we'll always cherish. And now it's time to cycle back. Are the days Gather?
Nathan :round the fireplace cause. It's about time.
Fernando :What a great experience. I hope you enjoyed this Christmas special episode and if you did.
Fernando :please share it with your friends. It will help me immensely in growing this podcast. If you want to see more from our Christmas adventure at Blenheim Palace, please visit our website at travelplanspodcastcom. There you'll find photos, videos, ticket links and a list of places to eat and stay. And remember to join our live monthly Q&A. It's an opportunity to ask me questions about any of the trips we take for these podcasts and even get personalized travel suggestions. All the details are on the website. Now for a special treat I am giving away a box of those delicious chocolate marshmallow foam kisses to the first listener who emailed me at hello at fernandotoday. That's hello at fernandotoday. That's hello at fernandotoday. Before December the 10th, please write the word giveaway in the subject line and you could be the lucky winner. Trust me, they are divine. I'll be back next month with another exciting episode, ready to take you on a journey to a new destination. From all of us here at Travel Plans, we wish you a joyous Christmas season and a new year filled with love, laughter and unforgettable travel adventures.
Joy:Psst, don't tell Fernando, but I think I found a loophole. Since I'm technically the first to hear the finished episode, does that mean I win the chocolates? No, okay, in that case, what are you waiting for? Happy Christmas.
