WHAT’S ON THIS WEEK IN SURREY?
Warning! There’s a lot to do this week in Surrey! We love this time of year – a smorgasbord of seasonal wonder and more. We’re talking; Christmas, Entertainment, Family, Food & Drink, Sustainability, Well-Good Wellbeing and Sports. Get ready, it’s your indispensable guide to going out this week in Surrey. Hurrah for regional media!
VOLUNTEER TREE PLANTING / DECEMBER 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
FILM CLASSICS: DIE HARD / DECEMBER 10 / NOVA CINEMA, WOKING
Some say, it’s the best Christmas movie of all time. Join John McClane as he wreaks havoc while trying to save the day. An absolute belter of a classic, starring Bruce Willis – head for Woking’s Nova Cinema for a night of movie nostalgia this December.
For more information, visit novacinema.com
GLASS PAINTING WORKSHOP / DECEMBER 11 / CASS ART, KINGSTON
Explore your creativity and learn the art of glass painting at this workshop at CassArt in Kingston. Let your imagination run wild as you transform plain glass into stunning works of art. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, this event is perfect for anyone looking to try something new and have fun.
For more information, visit cassart.co.uk
RURAL ROARS / DECEMBER 11 / WONERSH MEMORIAL HALL
Live rurally? For instance in the achingly beautiful Wonersh, or any of the surrounding, equally beautiful rural villages in that neck of the woods? Get ready to roar with laughter as Rural Roars comedy night comes to Wonersh Memorial Hall for some festive funny. Your lineup on the night includes; Alasdair Beckett-King, Caroline Kennedy, Steve McLean, Paul F Taylor, and Mark Silcox.
For more information, visit ticketsource.co.uk/rural-roars
SEW YOUR OWN COURSES / ENROLMENT OPENS DECEMBER 11
Enrolment for many of Surrey Adult Learning’s courses open this month, including Sew your Own. Learn basic sewing techniques, to make your own items, starting with a bag or cushion cover, and through this help you improve your sense of wellbeing. Win.
For more information, visit surreycc.gov.uk
THE ROSE CHRISTMAS CRACKER / DECEMBER 12 / ROSE THEATRE, KINGSTON
The best Christmas celebration this side of the Thames is back! This evening full of festive cheer features performances from; the lederhosen wearing, Oomparty Band, slamming B2B choral jams, from Singing It Back Choirs, the sweet Korean birdsong of the Humming Birds Choir, as well as a cappella vocal group, KT6 Vocal Group. Get tickets for an extraordinary night of festive song and feel good vibes.
For more information, visit rosetheatre.org
THE NATIVITY JOURNEY / DECEMBER 12 – 16 / WINTERSHALL, BRAMLEY
The story of Christmas is brought to life in this unique retelling of the Nativity. Take the time to reflect on how this festive furore came to be with the birth of baby Jesus -complete with on-looking animals and a terrific cast of characters.
For more information, visit wintershall.org.uk
HERSH DAGMARR: I LOVE THE NIGHTLIFE / DECEMBER 12 / THE ELECTRIC THEATRE, GUILDFORD
“I Love the Nightlife” is the new show by Hersh Dagmarr with Karen Newby on piano. Join them for a nocturnal themed celebration of the American Songbook with classics by Cole Porter, Gershwin, Rodgers and Hart, Kurt Weill, Stephen Sondheim and a few surprises. Expect a starry night of jazz age tales, elegant exhilaration and Art-deco thrills! Glitz, sequins and sparkling dress encouraged!
For more information, visit electric.theatre
MAKING SIMPLE BOOKS / DECEMBER 12 / WEST HORSLEY PLACE
Love books? Fancy learning how to make them? In this one-day course you will explore a range of simple book formats and hand binding techniques, including a pamphlet book, a concertina book and the double concertina, a structure that your tutor, Tracey Bush, has utilised in her award-winning bindings, and has developed into unique structures.
For more information, visit westhorsleyplace.org
CHRISTMAS IN EXETER STREET / DECEMBER 13 – 24 / FARNHAM MUSEUM
37 characters, 7 animals and 10 instruments – all under one roof! Christmas in Exeter Street is the perfect festive treat. Maggie Mistletoe is hosting Christmas. She’s expecting all the usual family members, but come Christmas Eve the doorbell won’t stop ringing as guest after unexpected guest arrives Adapted from Diana Hendry and John Lawrence’s classic children’s book, Farnham Maltings’ production of Christmas in Exeter Street promises brand new songs, plenty of humour and a sprinkle of festive magic.
For more information, visit farnhammaltings.com
ALADDIN ON ICE / DECEMBER 13 – 15 / SPECTRUM LEISURE COMPLEX, GUILDFORD
Get ready to be whisked away on a thrilling adventure this festive season as Spectrum Ice presents Aladdin on Ice! From Friday 13th to Sunday 15th December, prepare to be dazzled by rising skating stars. Join the courageous Aladdin as he embarks on a whirlwind adventure filled with wishes, genies, and a touch of festive magic. Witness the beauty and wonder of Agrabah come to life on ice at Guildford Spectrum.
For more information, visit guildfordspectrum.co.uk
HAMPTON COURT PALACE FESTIVE FAYRE / DECEMBER 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
COMIC BOOKS AUCTION / DECEMBER 13 / EWBANKS AUCTION HOUSE, SEND
Comic book enthusiast? If you want to get your paws on some rare and vintage collectible comics then this is the one for you. Esteemed auctioneers, Ewbank’s, just off the A3 near Send, regularly have some great entertainment and memorabilia auctions, so whether your thinking of buying something special for yourself, or perhaps for one of your nearest and dearest this Christmas, check out Ewbank’s online or in person.
For more information, visit ewbanksauctions.co.uk
MOCK TUDOR COMEDY / DECEMBER 13 / RIVERHOUSE BARN ARTS CENTRE, WALTON ON THAMES
For your fill of the silly stuff this month, make your way to Walton’s Riverhouse Barn Arts Centre and get ready for a giggle or two at the monthly Mock Tudor Comedy Club. Sit back and enjoy the quick wit of Jack Skipper on the stage and David Ward as MC, with more acts to be announced!
For more information, visit riverhousebarn.co.uk
ROCKEOKE / DECEMBER 13 / THE FIGHTING COCKS, KINGSTON
Like the idea of Karaoke but are just too darn punk rock to belt out some Kelly Clarkson? Well even if you are a punk rocker who loves to belt out some Kelly Clarkson, get a fix of the heavy stuff with Rockeoke over at The Fighting Cocks in Kingston.
For more information, visit the-fighting-cocks.co.uk
DAVID GEDGE / DECEMBER 13 / PRYZM, KINGSTON
The David Gedge Duo visit Kingston to play a Seated show at Pryzm. It’s a rare opportunity to see David Gedge playing Wedding Present songs, this 60-minute set will feature David on acoustic guitar and Wedding Present guitarist Rachael Wood on electric. Expect a special night listening to Wedding Present Songs the way you’ve never heard them before.
For more information, visit banquetrecords.com
GENERAL LEVY / DECEMBER 13 / THIRTY3HZ, GUILDFORD
The one and only, the Don-mega Ragga DJ, Drum and Bass boss man, who knows no bounds, one General Levy arrives at Guildford’s boutique-bass-place, Thirty3Hz. Get a ticket, quick sharp and expect pure vibes.
For more information, visit thirty3hz.com
SURREY 89ERS V MANCHESTER GIANTS / DECEMBER 13 / SURREY SPORTS PARK, GUILDFORD
It’s been an autumn to forget about for the Niners. After starting the season with grit, it’s all got a bit dusty on the court as of late. But with a crushing win against Caledonia Gladiators earlier in November, can Gooden and the gang in green, find their form and humble the mighty Manchester Giants? Find out at Surrey Sports Park in Guildford.
For more information, visit surrey89ers.basketball
INTRODUCTION TO COLD WATER SWIMMING AND IMMERSION / DECEMBER 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
FESTIVE BARBECUE / DECEMBER 14 / THE ABINGER COOKERY SCHOOL, ABINGER HAMMER
Do you love your barbecue? So much so that you’d like to cook yourself and your family a Christmas dinner using one? Thought so. Get in the know and learn how to cook a festive feast utilising the power of the barbecue at this excellent workshop by Weber Grill Academy at Abinger Cookery School.
For more information, visit abingercookeryschool.com
THE SNOWMAN FILM WITH LIVE ORCHESTRA / DECEMBER 14 / GUILDFORD CATHEDRAL
Make it a Christmas to remember with a special performance of Raymond Brigg’s classic, The Snowman, with a live orchestra at Guildford Cathedral this November.
For more information, visit carrotproductions.com
JACK & THE BEANSTALK / DECEMBER 14 – 28 / BOROUGH HALL, GODALMING
Godalming’s Family Pantomime returns with a larger life rendition of Jack and The Beanstalk. Featuring spectacular song and dance, colourful costumes and lots of fun and laughs for the whole family, get some tickets pronto for some festive panto.
For more information, visit godalmingpanto.com
SOUND OF THE SIRENS / DECEMBER 14 / FARNHAM MALTINGS
Abbe Martin and Hannah Wood are the Sound of the Sirens. Without being pigeonholed into any stereotypical genre, the instrumentation of the band is vast, and varied while, the pairs’ musical and vocal dexterity dovetail beautifully on the co-written songs, which range from emotive ballads, to up-beat, foot stomping, hands in the air, sing-along anthems.
For more information, visit farnhammaltings.com
HUNDRED WATT CLUB – A FESTIVE EVENING OF BURLESQUE / DECEMBER 14 / THE ELECTRIC THEATRE, GUILDFORD
Hundred Watt Club will unwrap their Christmas presents for you at this very special festive evening of burlesque and vaudeville. Full of naughty but nice treats for your eyes and ears to devour, expect a night of teasing and tinsel and Guildford’s Electric Theatre.
For more information, visit electric.theatre
DORNEY LAKE DUATHLON / DECEMBER 15 / DORNEY LAKE, WINDSOR
Take on a Sprint or Standard distance and take the opportunity to race around this unique and inspiring Olympic venue! The flat and scenic grounds lend themselves to a totally flat bike and run course, the ideal venue for a chip timed personal best.
For more information, visit runthrough.co.uk
THE SNOWMAN AND CHRISTMAS FAVOURITES / DECEMBER 15 / RIVERHOUSE BARN ARTS CENTRE, WALTON ON THAMES
Who doesn’t love The Snowman? After the sold-out ‘Paddington Bear’s First Concert’ in the Summer, Harmony’s Music Club bring us ‘The Snowman with Christmas Favourites’. The live classical music concert will feature a piano trio arrangement with violin and cello, a sololist and a narrator, bringing all of the original Snowman magic and festive joy. Expect lots of interaction, singalong and joining in too. A fabulous way to kick start Christmas for ages 3-103+!
For more information, visit riverhousebarn.co.uk
PERFECT PAIRINGS FOR CHRISTMAS / DECEMBER 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
SWINGBRIDGE SANTA CRUISE / NOW UNTIL – 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
SNOW WHITE / NOW UNTIL DECEMBER 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
ROBIN HOOD / NOW UNTIL DECEMBER 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
ROBIN HOOD / NOW UNTIL 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
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST / NOW UNTIL 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
SLEEPING BEAUTY / NOW UNTIL 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
ROBIN HOOD & THE CHRISTMAS HEIST / NOW UNTIL 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
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