BLENHEIM Palace has closed its doors as it puts the finishing touches to its popular Christmas Lights Trail.

The Woodstock attraction is shut to the public today and tomorrow, ahead of the opening of its Christmas illumination display.

The Palace, Great Court and Formal Gardens will be out of bounds before reopening for the launch of the festivities on Friday.

However, Blenheim Park, the Orangery Restaurant, East Courtyard Visitor Centre and Pleasure Gardens are open as usual. 

The winter trail has been pitched by Blenheim's as being 'bigger than ever', and runs from Friday until New Year's Day.

Its website states: "Wander beneath unique tree canopies drenched in seasonal colour, shards of light, frosty snowflakes, stars and glistening baubles, and catch a glimpse of Santa and his elves along the way.

"Highlights include a new Field of Light, scented Fire Garden, Canopy of Light, and the mesmerising voices of the Singing Trees."

Friday will also mark the start of Blenheim's Cinderella-themed 'festive fairytale experience' in the state rooms, which runs until January 6, as well as its Christmas market in the courtyard, which runs until December 16.