IT is the summer when two national institutions meet. Paddington, already the unlikely star of the late Queen Elizabeth II’s platinum jubilee celebrations, is taking a break at Blenheim Palace.

Just as Paultons Park has cornered the Peppa Pig market, Drayton Manor is the home of Thomas the Tank Engine, and Warwick Castle has adopted Julia Donaldson’s Zog, Blenheim is wooing visitors with another family favourite.

Staged across the Palace grounds from now until the beginning of September, a new immersive attraction titled Paddington Lo-Commotion offers much-loved characters, live performance, puppetry, and outdoor adventure.

What’s more, the search for ‘buried treasure’ allows visitors the chance to hop on board a real locomotive named Winston – Blenheim was Churchill’s home, of course – to cross fields lined with mighty, ancient trees. 

There’s also a free creative Activity Area, chance to drive a mini Rover emergency vehicle, get a portrait with Paddington (the latter two both sold separately) and a dedicated Paddington shop packed full of suitably branded gifts. 

The show runs until September 3, and the adventure lasts around 55 minutes, leaving plenty of time to explore the Palace’s grounds and many other attractions, now including the recently facelifted Blenheim Palace Adventure Play area.

Paddington Lo-Commotion is open to all ages, although children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. If you opt for Gift Aid when buying a ticket, by the way, you’ll be able to turn it into a pass allowing 12 months admission to Blenheim Palace.

For opening hours, prices and more information, head to the Blenheim Place website.

Read more: First look at uncanny Churchill waxwork at Blenheim Palace