WHAT’S ON THIS WEEK IN SURREY?
It’s official. The Christmas countdown has begun. Ho Ho Ho your way to a wondrous week ahead, packed with Christmas bits and a bit more. What to know what’s on in Surrey this week? Dig in.
LIVE AT CHRISTMAS / DECEMBER 2 / G LIVE, GUILDFORD
The country’s best comedians are coming to G Live for a spectacular all-star festive show! Catch a huge show headlined by Sara Pascoe, star of Live at The Apollo, Qi, 8 Out of 10 Cats & many more. Joining Sara is a spectacular line-up with Never Mind The Buzzcocks and Viceland’s Jamali Maddix, viral phenomenon Janine Harouni, and the impeccable Jen Brister as host.
For more information, visit trafalgartickets.com/g-live-guildford
CROCHET CHRISTMAS BAUBLES / DECEMBER 3 / FARNHAM MUSEUM
Make a unique set of crochet Christmas baubles in this one-off workshop. Run by experienced crochet tutor, Merrian Holland, you will be given a kit with everything you need to make three baubles including yarn, fittings & hooks. Suitable for those with crochet experience. You must be confident with basic crochet techniques such as counting stitches, chaining, sc (UK dc), dc (UK tr) and slip stitching. All other stitches needed will be taught in class.
For more information, visit farnhammaltings.com
NATURAL CHRISTMAS WORKSHOP / DECEMBER 4 / HOGS BACK BREWERY, TONGHAM
Get creative at the Hogs Back Brewery with this natural workshop. Join Lorraine and team from, Hedges and Hurdles Country Skills & Crafts, to make your own masterpiece using natural, sustainable materials to wow your family and friends.
For more information, visit hedgesandhurdles.com
CRYSTAL BOWL SOUND HEALING / DECEMBER 4 / ABINGER HAMMER
Indulge in the immersion of sound vibrations and tones produced by crystal singing bowls to help call forth healing and relaxation to the body, mind, and soul. The resonant vibration of crystal singing bowls has a powerful and impactful effect on the resonant frequency of our physical bodies.
For more information, visit hinokiforestbathing.co.uk
MINDFUL CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING EXPERIENCE WITH CACAO / DECEMBER 4 / SURREY NEST, CHILWORTH
Join in with special Cacao ceremony followed by some seasonal crafting. The cacao ceremony includes a short seated meditation and is guided by Danielle who will gently aid you to unlock and unleash the creative energy the resides in your sacral chakra (2nd chakra). As you connect to your inner artist, build your own beautiful wreath for you to take home and showcase this Christmas.
For more information, visit backontrack.live
VOLUNTEER TREE PLANTING / DECEMBER 5, 10 + 12 / HORLEY + REIGATE
Help Surrey County Council plant trees this season and support Surrey’s Climate Change Strategy and ambition to plant 1.2 million new trees by 2030. Sign up online and play your part in providing a cleaner, greener, space to call home.
For more information, visit surreycc.gov.uk
ROBIN HOOD / DECEMBER 5 – 31 / ESHER THEATRE
Head for Esher Theatre for this epic journey of action, comedy thrills and romance. Travel with Robin Hood and his band of merry men through the wilderness of Sherwood Forest on their quest to defeat the evil Sheriff Of Nottingham, and restore peace to the land. Featuring a live band and staring….. Bobby Davro(Will Scarlet), Kiera-Nicole(Fairy Faraway), Peter Straker(King Richard) with local legends Mark Bradford(The Dame) and Richard Brimblecombe (Sheriff Of Nottingham).
For more information, visit eshertheatre.com
BARB JUNGR AND DILLIE KEANE: TWO TURTLE DOVES / DECEMBER 5 / THE ELECTRIC THEATRE, GUILDFORD
Musical and cabaret legends Dillie Keane and Barb Jungr join forces to present a special festive show at Guildford’s Electric Theatre. Featuring Jenny Carr on piano, expect a night of riotous entertainment from two international stars on the stage. An evening not to be mistletoed.
For more information, visit electric.theatre
FESTIVE MODERN CALLIGRAPHY WORKSHOP / DECEMBER 6 / PAINSHILL, COBHAM
Get into the festive spirit with a relaxed calligraphy workshop creating your own Christmas crackers, greeting cards and gift tags. Learn everything from mark making, letter formation and numbers, whilst building your own unique hand lettering style. Great for beginners or people wanting to improve their style and flair, as well as both right and left-handed people.
For more information, visit painshill.co.uk
HAMPTON COURT PALACE FESTIVE FAYRE / DECEMBER 6 – 8 & 13 – 15 / HAMPTON COURT PALACE, EAST MOLESEY
Get that festive feeling and head for historic Hampton Court Palace to eat, drink and be merry in a socially distanced fashion this December. A must for any fervent foodie, explore the palace’s courtyards and East front gardens as they’re transformed into a Christmas wonderland. Expect delicious street food, warming drinks and a selection of stalls selling unique gifts to give to your loved ones.
For more information, visit hrp.org.uk
HERBAL TEA WORKSHOP / DECEMBER 6 / SUTTON PLACE, ABINGER HAMMER
Feeling frazzled at the thought of all the festivities ahead? Relax with a lovely cuppa of herbal tea. Scratch that, learn something new and discover the properties of herbs before making your own natural teas this December. Herbal tea workshops are a great way to create your favourite wild teas for yourself as well as for lovely, personal gifts for friends and family.
For more information, visit hinokiforestbathing.co.uk
SLEEPING BEAUTY / DECEMBER 6 – JANUARY 5 / NEW VICTORIA THEATRE, WOKING
Once upon a time in a land far away, Princess Aurora is given a twenty-first birthday present by her evil aunt Carabosse. By pricking her finger on an enchanted spinning wheel she is placed under a cruel curse and forced to sleep for 100 years. Leading the cast will be stage, screen and pantomime legend, the one-and-only Christopher Biggins as The Spirit of Dreams, along with Steps singer and musical theatre star Faye Tozer as Carabosse and illusionist, puppeteer and actor Richard Cadell (accompanied by his friend Sooty!) as Muddles.
For more information, visit atgtickets.com/new-victoria-theatre
JO CAULFIELD – HERE COMES TROUBLE / DECEMBER 6 / THE ELECTRIC THEATRE, GUILDFORD
Uh oh, here comes trouble. Jo Caulfield is coming to Guildford’s, Electric Theatre, this December. From stories about arguing with strangers on trains to dealing with over-enthusiastic supermarket staff, and trying to recapture the magic in a long-term relationship to “helping” organise her newly divorced friend’s dating life, this is pure stand-up, delivered with nothing more than a microphone and a bad attitude.
For more information, visit electric.theatre
OPPIDAN / DECEMBER 6 / THIRTY3HZ, GUILDFORD
One of the fastest rising names in UK garage, Oppidan arrives at Thirty3Hz in Guildford for a night of pure vibes. Expect plenty of 2-step, 4 to the floor and a sell-out night – get some tickets quick.
For more information, visit thirty3hz.com
LUCY PORTER: NO REGRETS / DECEMBER 6 + 14 / BELLERBY STUDIO, G LIVE, GUILDFORD
The irrepressible Lucy Porter bounces back into action with a show all about regrets. Frank Sinatra had too few to mention, but Lucy’s got hundreds, and she’s prepared to go into graphic detail about all of them. Disastrous dates, professional calamities, ruined friendships and parenting fails. Lucy describes all the mistakes she’s made, works out why they happened, and ponders how her life would have turned out if she’d acted differently. Book some tickets, no regrets.
For more information, visit trafalgartickets.com/g-live-guildford
BETFAIR TINGLE CREEK FESTIVAL / DECEMBER 6 – 7 / SANDOWN PARK RACECOURSE, ESHER
Sandown Park will celebrate the annual Betfair Tingle Creek Christmas Festival this December. Combining exciting racing and festive fun. If you like Jump racing, you’ll LOVE the Betfair Tingle Creek Festival. Two days of spine-tingling Jump racing action culminating in the Grade 1 Betfair Tingle Creek Chase.
For more information, visit thejockeyclub.co.uk
MEET FATHER CHRISTMAS / DECEMBER 7 / WEST HORSLEY PLACE
Father Christmas has filled his sleigh with presents, fed all the reindeer, made a list and checked it twice. He will land at West Horsley Place on selected Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays in December. Come along with all your family to meet him. Your festive experience will, of course, include meeting the big man himself, but so much more besides! The house will be decked out with festive decorations, and there will be lots to see and do before and after your visit with Father Christmas.
For more information, visit westhorsleyplace.org
FESTIVE FARM OPEN DAYS / DECEMBER 7 – 8 / THE FARMYARD, MERRIST WOOD, WORPLESDON
This December, bring the whole family for an unforgettable day to meet Merrist Wood’s friendly farm animals on their Rare Breed Survival Trust accredited farm. Santa and his elves are waiting to meet you in his festively decorated stable! Kids can hand-deliver their letters to Santa or write one there and then – it’s never too late! Don’t forget to grab your exclusive “I’ve Seen Santa!” sticker to cherish the memory. After meeting Santa, visit the charming Yuletide Yard, where you can sip on delicious hot chocolate, savour warm mince pies, and soak in the festive atmosphere. Free parking on site. Yay.
For more information, visit merristwoodevents.co.uk
MALTINGS MONTHLY MARKET / DECEMBER 7 / FARNHAM MALTINGS
Offering a treasure trove of curiosities, vintage gems, and craft created by local makers and designers, make your way to the Maltings Monthly Market to browse and buy from a variety of well-stocked stalls. Shop with peace of mind and find something special that you didn’t realise you needed until now.
For more information, visit farnhammaltings.com
REIGATE SUSTAINABILITY MARKET / DECEMBER 7 / REIGATE METHODIST CHURCH, HIGH STREET, REIGATE
The Reigate Sustainability Market arrives at Reigate Methodist Church on Reigate High Street this month, Bringing together local organisations, artisans, food & drink producers and businesses that share a passion for sustainability. Spend the day learning how to make your life choices more sustainable and be inspired to change your ways to live in a cleaner and altogether greener environment.
For more information, visit nature-reclaimed.shop
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST / DECEMBER 7 – JANUARY 5 / RICHMOND THEATRE
Dreaming of a happier life, Belle finds herself transported to a cursed castle and held captive by a terrifying beast. To her surprise, the castle is full of magical characters placed under a spell by an evil enchantress. Can Belle see beyond the monster and fall in love with her captor before the last petal falls from the enchanted rose? Actress Dame Maureen Lipman returns to Richmond to star as Mrs Potty in this enchanting pantomime adventure, alongside comedy magician Pete Firman as Silly Billy. One of the most romantic pantos of all time, Beauty and the Beast will be a spectacular production for all the family.
For more information, visit atgtickets.com/richmond-theatre
SNOW WHITE / DECEMBER 7 – 31 / CAMBERLEY THEATRE
Get ready for a spellbinding pantomime like no other! This Christmas, Snow White takes the stage in an exciting new production full of laughter, magic and unexpected surprises. Join Snow White and her lively band of friends in a charming adventure packed with unforgettable songs, hilarious moments, and stunning scenery. With a few twists on the classic story, this is Snow White as you’ve never seen before. This magical re-telling of a classic fairy tale will be sure to have you laughing, smiling, cheering and booing all the way through. Don’t miss the most fun-filled show of the season – book your tickets today!
For more information, visit camberleytheatre.co.uk
‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’ – CONCERT / DECEMBER 7 / WEST HORSLEY PLACE
Bring the whole family together to experience Charles Dickens’ beloved classic ‘A Christmas Carol’, entertainingly retold through words and music by pianist and broadcaster Keelan Carew with the pupils of the Yehudi Menuhin School. Expect musical thrills, laughs and much-loved seasonal tunes in Scrooge’s transformative journey through the night before Christmas. This fun and interactive show is the perfect introduction for keen youngsters to meet the instruments and the musicians behind them. This concert will raise funds for both West Horsley Place Trust and The Menuhin School.
For more information, visit westhorsleyplace.org
FESTIVE MARKET / DECEMBER 7 / GATE STREET BARN, BRAMLEY
The achingly gorgeous Gate Street Barn will host their annual Festive Food Market this December. Featuring an abundance of local artisans and suppliers offering bespoke gifts for you to give this Christmas. As well as browsing and buying from stalls, expect; live food demonstrations, handcrafted delicacies and much mulled wine. Festive treats await.
For more information, visit gatestreet.co.uk
THE HERBALISER BAND / DECEMBER 7 / THE BOILEROOM, GUILDFORD
The Herbaliser Band arrive at The Boileroom in Guildford this month, promising a monumental night of live music and samples mashed together for your pleasure. Featuring original members Ralph Lamb (trumpet/flugelhorn), Andrew Ross (tenor/baritone saxflute), (Micah Moody (drums), Patrick Dawes (percussion) with James Morton (Alto Sax)Oliver Parfitt (keyboards), Conor Cotterill (bass) & of course DJ Ollie Teeba on the turntables.
For more information, visit theboileroom.net
GUILDFORD SANTA FUN RUN / DECEMBER 8 / STOKE PARK, GUILDFORD
Kelly’s Storage have teamed up with Challengers for a fourth year in hosting the festive Guildford Santa Fun Run. Taking place in Stoke Park Guildford, 8 Dec, the festive run is for friends, family and community to come together to raise crucial funds for Challengers, powered by Kelly’s. You can choose from a 5k, or a 2.5k route more suitable for buggies, wheelchairs, and furry santa-paws, so everyone can join in the fun. Kelly’s Storage covers 100% of the event costs, meaning that every penny raised will go to Challengers – a charity which provides vital play and leisure opportunities for disabled children in Surrey and Hampshire.
For more information, visit kellystorage.co.uk
DIRTY SANTA / DECEMBER 8 / TILLINGBOURNE JUNIOR SCHOOL, CHILWORTH
Get on your bike and take on this festive trail ride in the heart of the Surrey Hills. Dig out your finest antlers and Santa suits, don your finest Christmas clobber and dress to impress as you head out on this scenic ride on some sublime trails this December. With 34km or 45km routes to choose from, receive an especially brewed bottle of Dirty Santa Beer, as well as mince pies and more Christmas goodies along the route.
For more information, visit trailbreak.co.uk
INTRODUCTION TO COLD WATER SWIMMING AND IMMERSION / DECEMBER 8, 14 + 29 / 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 an introduction to cold water swimming. Cold Water Swimming (especially at this time of year) isn’t for the fainthearted or inexperienced, but thankfully the good folk over at the SHAC have a great session whereby you’ll learn the do’s and don’t of this past time aimed at self-preservation.
For more information, visit theshac.co.uk
PERFECT PAIRINGS FOR CHRISTMAS / DECEMBER 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
FARNHAM CHRISTMAS MARKET / DECEMBER 8 / FARNHAM TOWN CENTRE
From 10 am to 4 pm forage among no fewer than 150 stalls spread across four Farnham locations; Castle Street, The Borough, Bush Hotel Courtyard and the Ivy Lane Club. Enjoy a variety of food and drink, as well as entertainment throughout the day. Hurrah for Christmas in Farnham!
For more information, visit farnham.gov.uk
IAN SHAW AND CLAIRE MARTIN’S EARLY XMAS CRACKER / DECEMBER 8 / THE ELECTRIC THEATRE, GUILDFORD
For over 25 years, Claire Martin and Ian Shaw have got together over the festive period to share a soulful and jazzy evening featuring wit and mischief, hilarious originals and rousing singalongs. Take your seat for a musical selection box of classics from Peggy Lee, Frank Sinatra, Nancy Wilson, Joni Mitchell, Stevie Wonder, David Bowie and (if you shout loud enough) The Pogues. Catch the duo as they make a welcome return to Guildford’s, Electric Theatre.
For more information, visit electric.theatre
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