Drone Flights

Drone Flight Permissions at Blenheim Estate

We work closely with all our drone operators to ensure all flights are carried out safely, respectfully, and in line with aviation regulations and safety requirements.

Blenheim’s beautiful landscape and historic architecture make it a popular location for aerial filming. To protect our visitors, staff, wildlife, and heritage, all drone flights must be approved in advance by our Health & Safety Team.

Please note that at this time, we’re only able to accept applications from commercial drone operators carrying out filming or photography on site.

How to Apply 

If you’d like to operate a drone over the Blenheim Estate, please complete our Drone - Apply to Fly Form and include all relevant flight details and supporting documents.

All drone flights over the Blenheim Estate require prior approval from the Blenheim Health & Safety Team. Applications and enquiries should be sent to healthandsafety@blenheimpalace.com

Please submit your application at least 7 days before your intended flight so we have time to review and assess your request.

If you have an urgent filming requirement, please still complete the form and contact your onsite Blenheim representative directly.

As part of the Estate falls within London Oxford Airport Flight Restriction Zone (FRZ) you may also need permission from them. For more details, visit Oxford Airport | Drone Restrictions Around Airport.

Please note: Flights cannot take place without prior written approval.

All permissions are granted in accordance with the terms and conditions below.

Terms and Conditions - Operators must:

• Be contactable by telephone throughout the flight (please provide a contact number on your application form).
• Comply with all specific restrictions outlined in the approval documentation.
• Remain entirely within the approved lateral and vertical limits of the flight plan.
• Maintain direct, unaided visual contact with the drone at all times to ensure safe operation and avoid collisions.
• Carry copies of the Blenheim Approval and CAA Permission for Commercial Operation (if applicable) during operation.
• Land immediately in the event of any incident or risk and report it to your Blenheim contact straight away.
• Hold drone insurance cover of at least £10 million, sufficient for all aviation-related risks.
• Comply fully with the Air Navigation Order and Rules of the Air Regulations.
• Submit a new application for any changes to operational details (such as flight area or altitude).
• Obtain additional approval from London Oxford Airport if operating within their FRZ.

Operator Responsibilities - All drone pilots must:

• Operate only within the area authorised by the airspace owner.
• Ensure all pilots flying under their operator ID are competent and trained to operate safely and legally.
• Plan and carry out flights in accordance with CAA regulations and Blenheim’s safety requirements.
• Keep all drone and software systems up to date, including airspace restriction data.
• Check for live airspace restrictions using platforms such as dronesafetymap.com
• Ensure European Class markings (where applicable) remain visible.
• Apply appropriate levels of planning, oversight, and risk management eg the more complex the operation, the greater the need for detail and control.
• Never fly directly over people who are not under the direct control of the operator.

Thank you for helping us protect Blenheim’s unique environment while capturing it responsibly. Your cooperation ensures that everyone can continue to enjoy this remarkable place safely.