Where to Fly This Christmas

Get ready for festive lights, enchanting trails and Christmas markets!

Dec 16, 2025

As a subscriber, you can listen to this episode right now by clicking on the sound clip below. The episode will be available on the 18th December on your favourite podcast app. Just search for “The Pilot’s Logbook Podcast”.

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Hey there 👋

I had a plan for this episode. A good plan! I was going to fly us to one of my absolute favourite Christmas events here in the UK.

But, as we know in aviation (and in life), the weather, or in this case, the result of a test, doesn’t always care about your plans.

So, here’s what happened. I recently took my Instrument Rating test. And... well, let’s call it a “partial success.” I flew a solid test, but there was one section that needed a do-over.

Instead of flying to record a festive podcast special, I found myself back in the cockpit with my instructor to revise a couple of issues and then I took the test again. The good news? I passed! As of last week, I am officially rated. The bad news? I completely missed my window to travel and record the new episode.

Does that mean I leave you empty-handed for Christmas? Absolutely not.

I’m taking you back to a place that left a huge impact on me last year: Blenheim Palace.

I recorded a full episode about this in 2024. And while they tweak the light trails and the themes every year, the core of the event—the magic, the atmosphere, the sheer scale of it—is exactly the same.

So, if you’re looking for a place that feels like stepping into a Narnia movie, this is it! And, instead of a rushed episode from a stressed-out pilot, here is my honest recommendation from a Christmas trip that actually went to plan. Spoiler alert: It’s fantastic.

Just a quick heads-up: this episode is from our sister podcast, Travel Plans. So if you hear me refer to Travel Plans instead of The Pilot’s Logbook, don’t worry—you’re still on the right frequency.

I loved it there, and I hope one day, you will, too.

In This Week’s Episode

The festive season presents a wonderful opportunity to explore some of the UK’s most popular Christmas markets and to see cities and towns in a different and warmer light.

And arguably, the most spectacular one is Christmas at Blenheim Palace. And that’s where we are heading for this Christmas Special episode.

Blenheim Palace, a magnificent 18th-century house and UNESCO World Heritage Site, is surrounded by over 2,000 acres of parkland and lakes. It’s one of the most stunning country houses I’ve ever visited!

Every year, they transform the grounds into what could only be described as an extravaganza - one million lights transform the Palace into a beacon for those looking for a seasonal family getaway.

So, grab your Christmas jumper, hat and gloves, and let’s explore this magical destination together!