Blenheim Palace is set to host a groundbreaking dinosaur exhibition this summer, featuring five full-scale Megalosaurus sculptures created by artist Jay Jay Burridge. The exhibition, titled 'Dinosaurs Are Forever', will run from August 11 to November 1, 2026, in the grounds of the historic UNESCO World Heritage Site in Oxfordshire.
Exhibition Details
The 'world-class' show will display reimagined Megalosaurus skeletons, celebrating the local discovery of the first ever named dinosaur. Two centuries ago, in the village of Stonesfield near Blenheim Palace, the Megalosaurus was discovered, and in 1824, it was grouped with Iguanodon and Hylaeosaurus to be collectively named 'Dinosaurs'. The fossil remains of Megalosaurus are now on display at the Museum of Natural History, University of Oxford.
Artist and Inspiration
Jay Jay Burridge, best known for writing and presenting the BBC children's art programme SMart, has created these sculptures using cutting-edge materials and technology combined with traditional hand-crafted techniques. He said: 'Until now, these dinosaurs existed only in my imagination. These sculptures connect the birthplace of dinosaurs with the technologies shaping our future.'
Visitor Information
Heather Carter, visitor attraction managing director at Blenheim Palace, expressed excitement about the exhibition: 'It’s a subject that appeals to all ages and interests, and not many people know about the first ever named dinosaur being discovered here.' Admission to the Dinosaurs Are Forever exhibition is free with any valid Blenheim Palace ticket, including Park & Gardens Day Ticket, Palace, Park & Gardens Pass, and the Palace & Play Annual Pass.
Getting There
Blenheim Palace is located in Woodstock, Oxfordshire, approximately 90 minutes from Birmingham via the M40. Alternatively, visitors can take a train from Birmingham New Street to Oxford, then a bus to Blenheim Palace. For more information and to book tickets, visit the Blenheim Palace website.
