WHAT’S ON THIS WEEK IN SURREY?
Like Santa’s sleigh dashing through the night sky, we seemed to have flown through November and breakneck speed. Time flies when you’re having fun it doesn’t look like that fun is going to stop anytime soon. Find a flurry of super events taking place in Surrey this week with our weekly guide to what’s on.
SILENT SPACE / EVERY MONDAY / POLESDEN LACEY, GREAT BOOKHAM
Some of us need more space than others, and some of us can’t seem to find a place that provides the calm we need for our minds to get away for a while. So find space to breathe this month and head for Polesden Lacey’s Silent Space every Monday afternoon. A dedicated space for peace and quiet amongst the raging storm that life can sometimes bring.
For more information, visit nationaltrust.org.uk
OUTSIDE THE BOX COMEDY / NOVEMBER 25 / THE FIGHTING COCKS, KINGSTON
Head for The Fighting Cocks in Kingston every Monday for the Outside The Box Comedy Club and have a proper laugh. This month catch sets from the likes of Paul Sinha, Maff Brown, Marjolein Robertson and more.
For more information, visit outsidetheboxcomedy.co.uk
NOW THAT’S WHAT I CALL A MUSICAL / NOVEMBER 26 – 30 / NEW VICTORIA THEATRE, WOKING
Get ready to relive the soundtrack of your youth at NOW That’s What I Call a Musical! Celebrating 40 years of iconic and chart-topping compilation albums, this brand-new musical comedy has an unbeatable 80s soundtrack and show-stopping direction and choreography by Strictly Come Dancing‘s Craig Revel Horwood. This is an event you won’t want to miss.
For more information, visit atgtickets.com/new-victoria-theatre
CHRISTMAS CHEESE AND WINE TASTING / NOVEMBER 27 + 28 / WEST HORSLEY PLACE
The Charcuterie Box return to West Horsley Place with two special evenings this November. Showcasing a selection of artisan cheese from the UK and abroad that they have chosen for Christmas 2024 and they have got some absolute belters on the list! Get ready to discover the cheese you will want on your cheeseboard this festive season, as well as what kind of mid-winter wines you might like to add to the shopping list.
For more information, visit westhorsleyplace.org
ENTERTAINING ANGELS / NOVEMBER 27 – 30 / THE ELECTRIC THEATRE, GUILDFORD
Set in a classic English vicarage garden complete with a grass-banked flowing stream and willow, Entertaining Angels is filled with sharp-edged comedy and probing wit. After 40 years of being the dutiful vicar’s wife Grace is now bereft of husband, home and job. The return of her eccentric missionary sister Ruth brings disturbing revelations that force her to confront her husband’s ghost – and the truth of her marriage. Everyone has shocks and secrets – but throughout, the laughter constantly bubbles up. Don’t miss this gem!
For more information, visit electric.theatre
VOLUNTEER DAY: SCRUB CLEARANCE / NOVEMBER 28 / CHOBHAM COMMON
Hosted by the esteemed and vital Surrey Wildlife Trust, join the Voluntary Warden and volunteers to undertake practical tasks to help conserve the local environment this month.
For more information, visit surreywildlifetrust.org
SUSTAINABLE & ETHICAL BEEKEEPING / NOVEMBER 28 / ZERO CARBON, GUILDFORD
Honeybees are marvellous creatures. They’ve been around for millions of years – long before we arrived – and they, along with a range of other insects provide the vital service of pollinating many of the plants around us, including many of the plants that provide us with food. Find out about some of the ethical concerns raised by both beekeepers and non-beekeepers and look at how beekeeping can be practiced in a way that is sustainable for the bees and for our other pollinators at this informative workshop at Guildford’s Zero Carbon.
For more information, visit zerocarbonguildford.org
FESTIVE LATE / NOVEMBER 28 / THE LIGHTBOX GALLERY, WOKING
Enjoy a holly, jolly atmosphere and visit The Lightbox in Woking for this festive Arts and Crafts Festive Late event at The Lightbox this November. Get a head start on your Christmas shopping and browse among the stalls featuring a variety of handmade crafts, including jewellery, paintings, glasswork, and ceramics.
For more information, visit thelightbox.org.uk
DIWALI DHAMAKA: A FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS / NOVEMBER 29 / MANDIRA’S KITCHEN, ALBURY
Light up your Diwali with a dazzling feast at Madnira’s Kitchen this month! Enjoy festive flavours and sweet treats that make the Festival of Lights so special. Celebrate the night with traditional music and dance to make the night unforgettable. Discover the sumptuous menu online and book your space at the table pronto!
For more information, visit mandiraskitchen.com
STEAM ILLUMINATION / NOVEMBER 29 – JANUARY 4 / WATERCRESS LINE, ARLESFORD
Head out on a magical steam-powered adventure this winter as the Watercress Line welcomes the return of their seasonal spectacular. So, step aboard the illuminated train and set off along the track, catching glimpses of illuminated installations along the way.
For more information, visit watercressline.co.uk
RONI SIZE (DJ SET) / NOVEMBER 29 / THE BOILEROOM, GUILDFORD
Respected junglist and don mega of the d’n’b scene, Bristolian Roni Size should need no introduction. With production credits spanning dozens of labels, projects, and releases, from stripped-down underground classics like “Time Stretch” to the smoothly sophisticated Top 20 U.K. pop hit “Brown Paper Bag” , catch the man himself take to the ones and twos at the Boileroom in Guildford later this month.
For more information, visit theboileroom.net
GRAYSHOTT FOLK CLUB: BELLA HARDY / NOVEMBER 29 / GRAYSHOTT VILLAGE HALL
As ever, Grayshott Folk Club bring the goods to music lovers this monht. Multiple Folk Award-winning artist Bella Hardy started as a self-taught “fiddle singer”, performing at Cambridge and Sidmouth Folk Festivals from the age of 13. She is steeped in the Tradition but as her career has progressed, Bella has also absorbed musical influences from much further afield. Her debut album “Night Visiting” established her reputation as a songwriter when her first original composition “Three Black Feathers” earned a BBC Folk Award nomination.
For more information, visit grayshottfolkclub.co.uk
FOREST BATHING / NOVEMBER 30 / CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDENS, ESHER
Connect with nature and head for the healing environs of Claremont Landscape Gardens near Esher. Soak up the peace and tranquillity on a sensory journey to calm the mind and feed your soul. Using mindfulness and sensory explanation, Forest bathing involves slowing down and immersing yourself in the forest or woods, a practice that will work wonders for your wellbeing.
For more information, visit connectwiththeforest.com
12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS TRAIL / NOVEMBER 30 – JANUARY 5 / PAINSHILL, COBHAM
Inspired by the festive song, The 12 Days of Christmas Trail at Painshill for 2024 will see visitors searching out each of the gifts mentioned; from two turtle doves through to twelve drummers drumming and of course, a partridge in a pear tree! With a touch of nostalgia, figures will be made from traditional wooden materials and each one will be individually hand-painted.
For more information, visit painshill.co.uk
ETSY CHRISTMAS MARKET / NOVEMBER 30 / GUILDFORD CATHEDRAL
The community-led craft initiative Etsy comes to Guildford Cathedral for the Etsy Made Local Christmas Market. Meet local makers and discover a treasure trove of talent. Join in with the festivities from 10 am-4 pm and find locally homemade gifts to give this Christmas.
For more information, visit facebook.com/etsyguildford/
THE PERFECT ROAST / NOVEMBER 30 / THE ABINGER COOKERY SCHOOL, ABINGER HAMMER
Hmmmm. Sunday Roast. What could be better on an autumn’s afternoon? Learn how to make the most delicious roast dinner from those in the know at this one-day cookery course in Abinger. Get a step-by-step guide to cooking all those tasty trimmings and wow your friends and family with your newfound skills on a chilly weekend this November.
For more information, visit abingercookeryschool.com
ROBIN HOOD / NOVEMBER 30 – JANUARY 5 / YVONNE ARNUD THEATRE, GUILDFORD
The citizens of Sherwood Forest have just about had enough. The Sheriff is raising taxes and making their lives ever harder. But never fear, Robin, Marion and their gallant gang are there to fight back and stand up for the locals. Will it be love at first flight for Robin and Marion? Will Nanny Fannie Annie be all of a quiver? Join Robin and Marion as they right wrongs, sing songs and sort out the wicked Sheriff in Yvonne Arnaud’s swashbuckling panto for 2024. Starring EastEnders and Detectorists favourite Lucy Benjamin who continues her villainous panto streak as The Sherriff of Nottingham. Peter Gordon returns for his 19th year, this time as Nanny Fanny Annie, alongside Guildford Shakespeare Company’s Matt Pinches! Brimming with slapstick, slosh and silliness, Robin Hood will be full of merry men-t and guaranteed to hit the target. You Sherwoodn’t want to miss it!
For more information, visit yvonne-arnaud.co.uk
ROBIN HOOD & THE CHRISTMAS HEIST / NOVEMBER 30 – JANUARY 5 / ROSE THEATRE, KINGSTON
Join Robin Hood and his Merry Band for a spectacular festive heist! As winter’s first snow falls, there’s little Christmas cheer in Sherwood. Cupboards are bare, the nights are cold, and the cruel Sheriff of Nottingham squeezes his citizens for every penny they’re worth. But deep in the forest, in the heart of the Major Oak, legendary outlaw Robin Hood plots an audacious scheme to bring some festive joy to all. Can Robin succeed? Will the Sheriff be defeated? Will the children of Sherwood have anything to celebrate come Christmas Day? Find out when we bring a new chapter of Robin’s adventures to our stage.
For more information, visit rosetheatre.org
SWINGBRIDGE SANTA CRUISE / NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 22 / THE ELECTRIC THEATRE, GUILDFORD
Departing from Millmead Island behind the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, take a cruise along the River Wey with the big, jolly man they call Santa. Then, lasting 45 minutes, sail away in a broadbeam boat for a magical yuletide trip to remember this December.
For more information, visit electric.theatre
A TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS / NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 1 / FARNHAM MUSEUM
A day full of festive cheer for all the family! The magic of a traditional Christmas is coming to the Museum of Farnham. Join in with a range of activities to get you into the festive spirit and learn all about the traditions that make Christmas so special. Reindeer Food, Victoria Christmas treats, miniature wreath workshops and much more awaits.
For more information, visit farnhammaltings.com
FESTIVE FAMILY WORKSHOP / DECEMBER 1 / WEST HORSLEY PLACE
Join artist Honey Dearsley to make a beautiful Christmas garland in this fun for all the family workshop at West Horsley Place. Who knew folding could be so much fun! You will get to learn the art of origami while making a garland to decorate your home. Adults can get stuck in helping the kids and have some super fun creative family time.
For more information, visit westhorsleyplace.org
GUILDFORD PLANT-BASED ARTISAN MARKET / DECEMBER 1 / HIGH STREET, GUILDFORD
Whether you’re looking for environmentally friendly products for your home or want to fill your larder with some tasty vegan treats, head for this plant-based market on Guildford’s iconic High Street – browse and buy from a range of sustainable-centric sellers.
For more information, visit ethcialveganevents.com
A DORKINGDOM FAIRYTALE CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL / DECEMBER 1 / DORKING TOWN CENTRE
Get festive and immerse yourself in the spirit of Christmas as a very Dorkingdom Fairytale Christmas Festival festoons the streets of Dorking. Featuring the Surrey Hills Artisan Christmas Market on Dorking High Street, Santa’s Grotto, Funfair, Music, Entertainment and much much more.
For more information, visit hellodorking.com
GERMAN MINI CHRISTMAS MARKET / DECEMBER 1 / THE GUILDHALL, HIGH STREET, GUILDFORD
Did you know that Guildford is twinned with the German city of Freiburg? Bringing a little bit of Germany to the beautiful High Street of Guildford, enjoy this mini yuletide market this December. Indulge in the festive spirit and enjoy a wonderful selection of German Bakery treats, Wooden Toys, Gifts, Stocking Fillers, and more! Sip on traditional Gluhwein and capture the perfect Christmas selfie at our special Selfie Scene!
For more information, visit guildfordtwinning.uk
RIPLEY CHRISTMAS MARKET / DECEMBER 1 / HIGH STREET, RIPLEY
Be enchanted by Ripley Christmas market this December. Featuring a variety of stalls from local makers and find unique gifts to give, tuck into some seasonal food and drink, and listen to the odd Christmas carol to complete the day.
For more information, visit ripleyparishcouncil.gov.uk
WREATH MAKING / DECEMBER 1, 6, 7, 8 / WATTS GALLERY ARTISTS’ VILLAGE, COMPTON
The perfect past festive pastime; why not wander over to Watts Gallery Artists’ Village this winter and try to make a winter wreath? Get expert guidance and create a beautiful wreath to hang on your door.
For more information, visit wattsgallery.org.uk
BIODIVERSITY WORKSHOP / DECEMBER 1 + 15 / HOLME FARM, ADDLESTONE
An opportunity to get out in the fresh air and help make Holme Farm a wonderful place for wildlife alongside a friendly group of like-minded conservation volunteers. Activities include habitat creation, vegetation clearance, seed planting and more. No skills or experience are required, and tools and training will be provided on the day. All welcome – Boots & sensible clothes advised.
For more information, visit holmefarm.org.uk
HA!MILTON JONES / DECEMBER 1 / G LIVE, GUILDFORD
This is not a musical. Milton Jones is tone deaf and has no sense of rhythm, but at least he doesn’t make a song and dance about it. He has more important things to discuss. Like giraffes…and there’s a bit about tomatoes. You might know him from Mock the Week, Live at the Apollo or Radio 4. Or that time he stood for the Scottish National Party, fought a hard campaign, but in the end had to respect the wishes of the people of Cardiff. A whole new show of daftness. You know it makes sense. WARNING *contains jokes from the start.
For more information, visit trafalgartickets.com/g-live-guildford
PERFECT PAIRINGS FOR CHRISTMAS / DECEMBER 1, 8 + 15 / SILENT POOL, ALBURY
Explore the art of festive hosting with the artisans of Silent Pool Gin & Albury Vineyard. Enjoy English sparkling wine and Silent Pool Gin served with Christmas canapés as experts explain how to pair festive food and drinks so you’re ready to wow your guests this Christmas. Book your spot pronto for a deliciously festive afternoon.
For more information, visit alburyvineyard.com
OPEN WATER SWIM / TUE, THU, SAT + SUN / BUCKLAND PARK LAGOON, BETCHWORTH
Love nature? Love to swim outdoors? Brace yourself for a dip in Buckland Park Lake and join the Surrey Hills Adventure Company for a spot of open water swimming. You’ll need to register online, but you’ll have access to all the great activities that the company runs once you have. Whether you fancy swimming, paddleboarding or e-foiling, getting wet and wild in the great outdoors has never been easier.
For more information, visit theshac.co.uk
WINTER TOUR & TASTING / SUNDAYS / GREYFRIARS VINEYARD, PUTTENHAM
Fortunately for folks in Surrey, we are blessed with the kind of geology that makes growing grapes, a wine lovers dream. With numerous vineyards to be found throughout the county, why not take a Winter Wine Tour of Greyfriar’s Vineyard this November? Enjoy a glass of fizz in the tasting room before going on a short, wintery walk through some of their vines, a tour of the production room, and a tasting including a wine specially selected from their library collection!
For more information, visit greyfriarsvineyard.co.uk
RHS GLOW / Now until JANUARY 5 / RHS GARDEN, WISLEY
Lighting up our lives once again, the magical Christmas Glow returns to RHS Gardens Wisley this month. The festive event at RHS Garden Wisley will once again put on a captivating light show and musical accompaniment designed by an in-house team to highlight some of the garden’s best-loved sights. Twinkling lights draw visitors through the Pinetum, Seven Acres and Wisteria Walk, with spectacular moments en route and vibrant displays to be found inside and outside the Glasshouse.
For more information, visit rhs.org.uk
HAMPTON COURT PALACE ICE RINK / Now untiL JANUARY 5 / HAMPTON COURT PALACE, EAST MOLESEY
Get set to skate at Hampton Court Palace this month as their ice rink returns for the festive season. First, enjoy spectacular views of the Thames-side Tudor palace in what is undoubtedly one of the most scenic outdoor rinks in the country. Then, take part in either daytime or evening skating sessions and relax with a mug of something hot in the Café Bar.
For more information, visit hamptoncourtpalaceicerink.seetickets.com
ILLUMINATE GUILDFORD / NOW UNTIL JANUARY 5 / GUILDFORD CASTLE
Step foot into Surrey’s brand new light trail located in the heart of Guildford’s town centre. Explore stunning light installations around the 20-30 minute trail of Guildford Castle. Illuminate will be transforming all aspects of the castle into a winter spectacle this November. Explore the historic grounds as we take you on a magical journey through several activations showcasing the castle and its beautiful grounds.
For more information, visit illuminateguildford.co.uk
DREAMING OF A KINGSTON CHRISTMAS / NOW UNTIL JANUARY 5 / KINGSTON TOWN CENTRE
Kingston will transform into a winter wonderland, this Christmas offering a festive experience for all ages, with more attractions, shopping opportunities, and magical moments than ever before.Whether you’re sipping mulled wine, exploring the market, or embarking on the Nutcracker Trail, Christmas in Kingston 2024 promises to be a magical experience for the whole family.
For more information, visit kingstonfirst.co.uk
CHRISTMAS CAROUSEL / NOW UNTIL JANUARY 5 / POLESDEN LACEY, GREAT BOOKHAM
Enjoy a magical Christmas Carousel Ride set amongst a backdrop of the beautiful Polesden Lacey mansion. A fabulous festive experience, pre-booked tickets guarantee you one ride during your half-hour slot, lasting approximately 3-4 minutes. Under three years old must be accompanied on a galloper by an adult.
For more information, visit nationaltrust.org.uk
WINTER TRAIL & THE FATHER CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE / NOW UNTIL – JANUARY 5 / PRIORY FARM ESTATE
From immersive theatrical experiences that unravel enchanting tales at the Father Christmas Experience to the new Discovery Land Winter trail sprinkled with stardust, Priory Farm Estate invite you to join a journey of festive fun and unforgettable memories for all the family. Book your tickets pronto for the beginning of a pretty awesome Christmas.
For more information, visit prioryfarm.co.uk
FABULOUSLY FESTIVE / NOW UNTIL JANUARY 5 / HURTWOOD PARK POLO COUNTRY CLUB, EWHURST
Fancy feeling fabulously festive? head over to Hurtwood Park Polo Club near Ewhurst as its transformed into a Winter Wonderland complete with ice rink, Christmas village, traditional fair ground, food, drink, Santa’s Grotto and much more.
For more information, visit fabulouslyfestive.co.uk
SHAUN THE SHEEP™ – FIND THE FLOCK / NOW UNTIL JANUARY 19 / WINKWORTH ARBORETUM, GODALMING
With a nod to what’s to come… National Trust have teamed up with Wild In Art, to bring Aardman’s mischievous Shaun the Sheep™ to life with a Christmas trail around the Arboretum. Come and find twelve super-sized Shaun sculptures, each uniquely designed and decorated by talented artists and inspired by beautiful English Landscape. With fun games, carousel rides, engaging activities and delicious winter treats from the tearoom, a visit to Winkworth Arboretum this Christmas will be an unforgettable day out for all ages.
For more information, visit nationaltrust.org.uk/winkworth-arboretum