Customers who visit Blenheim Palace have expressed their anger over the attraction’s handling of cancellations this weekend during Storm Bert. 

Christmas events at the Woodstock country home were all cancelled yesterday due to the strong wind and rain battering the county.

But a decision to cancel tickets for today (Sunday) did not arrive until 7am or 8am, causing frustration for people with plans to attend, and it currently only extends until 2pm when events are back on.

READ MORE: Storm Bert: Trees fall and events called off in Oxfordshire

We have been contacted by multiple people who have raised eyebrows over Blenheim Palace's opening times this weekend.

One customer, Tom Beckett, said: “People are very angry. Blenheim is putting profit before safety.

“Other places and events have closed.

"Yesterday they cancelled due to weather but refused to rule out closing today, instead making a decision at 7am today. Coaches were setting off at 7am bringing people so they are on their way.

“Expect lots of angry people at Blenheim Palace at 2pm when they inevitably cancel at 2pm and people have driven hundreds of miles.”

Another customer, who asked not to be named, said: "Blenheim Palace is not closing fully today to avoid paying refunds. Dangerous and disgusting."

An announcement by Blenheim Palace issued on Sunday morning said: “Blenheim Palace will be opening its gates from 1.30pm onwards today (Sunday, November 24) due to the adverse weather conditions overnight.”

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The first timeslot going ahead for the Christmas events will be 2pm.

It added: “Anyone who doesn't want to come today will be refunded or can rebook regardless of their booking time.”

Tickets for the palace and illuminated trail during the Christmas period, which runs until January 2, costs £69.50 for adults and £44 for children for non-annual pass holders. Family tickets of two adults and two children cost £203.

Neverland in the Palace costs £38 for adults and £22 for children.

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A spokesperson for Blenheim Palace said: “As with any UK attraction, visitor safety is paramount at Blenheim Palace, hence the closure yesterday due to the weather conditions caused by Storm Bert.

“In terms of reopening today (Sunday), while we appreciate that some visitors might leave home early due to the long distances they are travelling, we did not want to disappoint all those who have booked for today’s festive activities and advised customers as early as possible this morning. 

“We also made the decision that those who choose not to travel can receive a refund or reschedule their visit.

“We always recommend visitors keep a close eye on our website social media channels for the latest updates.”

The cancellation of Christmas events at the palace is one of many to effect Oxfordshire over the weekend due to weather conditions from Storm Bert.