WHAT’S ON THIS WEEK IN SURREY?

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

THE RICK WAKEMAN YULETIDE CHRISTMAS SHOW / December 16 / G LIVE, GUILDFORD

After a year off, Rick Wakeman’s traditional Christmas tour returns in November and December 2024 with an all-new show! In a change from his usual solo Christmas concerts, Rick will be joined by two very special guests: his son and fellow keyboard player Adam Wakeman and Mollie Marriott, daughter of the late Steve Marriott. Expect hilarious banter from Wakemans Senior and Junior, as Adam tries to control his father’s gentle ‘unwokeness’, outstanding soaring vocals from Mollie and virtuosic performances from two of the most talented keyboard players in the business.

For more information, visit trafalgartickets.com/g-live-guildford

 

THE NATIVITY JOURNEY / DECEMBER 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

 

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

 

FELTING WORKSHOP – ROBINS / DECEMBER 17 / THE HORTON, EPSOM

Led by Roseanne Myhill, this workshop will show you the techniques needed to turn loose fluffy wool into a cheery festive robin. Spend a seasonal morning making, at The Horton in Epsom this December.

For more information, visit thehortonepsom.org

SHORT STORIES, TALL TALES: THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS / DECEMBER 17 / MILL STUDIO, YVONNE ARNAUD, GUILDFORD

A wonderfully high-spirited spin on an old favourite that will inspire even the most ‘bah humbug’ curmudgeons. You and your little one will love this. Head for Yvonne Arnaud’s Mill Studio for Hannah Summer’s adaptation of the 19th Century tale by Clement Clarke Moore.

For more information, visit yvonne-arnaud.co.uk

SANTA’S WISH / DECEMBER 18 – 24 / G LIVE, GUILDFORD

Create festive family memories to last a lifetime at Santa’s Wish, a brand-new musical for young and old alike that’s packed with catchy original songs that will have you singing throughout the Christmas season. This heart-warming adventure is full of colour and fun, immersive storytelling and a sprinkling of circus magic that is guaranteed to leave everyone bursting with festive joy and happiness. Believe, the magic will come true!

For more information, visit trafalgartickets.com/g-live-guildford

ADAM KAY: TWAS THE NIGHTSHIFT BEFORE CHRISTMAS / DECEMBER 18 – 19 / ROSE THEATRE, KINGSTON

The nation’s twelfth-favourite doctor shares entries from his festive diaries alongside brand-new stand-up and Christmas songs, fresh from a record-breaking run at the Edinburgh Fringe and a sell-out season in the West End. Adam Kay comes to Rose Theatre with his love letter to all those who spend the most wonderful time of the year on the NHS front line, removing babies, chocolate wrappers, remote controls, and fairy lights from the various places they get stuck.

For more information, visit rosetheatre.org

 

A CHRISTMAS CAROL / DECEMBER 19 – 20 / MILL STUDIO, YVONNE ARNAUD, GUILDFORD

Following a sell-out run last Christmas, the award-winning Dyad Productions, (A Room of One’s Own, I, Elizabeth, Lady Susan, Female Gothic) are bringing Dickens’ classic and perennially relevant ghost story back to the Mill Studio! It’s Christmas Eve, and the miserly misanthrope, Ebenezer Scrooge, is about to have a ghostly night he’ll never forget.  Dickens’ festive, immortal tale of redemption and compassion is brought to life in Dyad’s inimitable solo style.

For more information, visit yvonne-arnaud.co.uk

 

SANTA’S CHRISTMAS CRACKER / DECEMBER 20 / THE ELECTRIC THEATRE, GUILDFORD

Join Father Christmas and friends for a fun, festive, musical adventure to discover the wonder of Christmas – you may even get to pull a cracker with Dotty the Elf! Santa’s Christmas Cracker is a 45 minute, interactive family show, particularly suitable for 2-8 year olds. Afterwards the adventure continues as each child gets to meet Father Christmas and receive a specially wrapped present from him – it’s the most Christmassy Christmas show ever, HO-HO-HO!

For more information, visit electric.theatre

BEHIND YOU / DECEMBER 20 – 21 / RHODA MCGW THEATRE, WOKING

Panto at Misery-on-Sea has not gone well and tonight, of all nights, a big producer is coming to see the show. Backstage, tensions rise, tempers fray and tantrums rage. The happy, glitzy family image of panto gives way to a far less wholesome world – the dark underbelly of showbiz – a world inhabited by people going nowhere, and they know it. This dark unsettling comedy is both funny and moving, giving the perfect bitter-sweet taste for Christmas …. But DO NOT bring the children.

For more information, visit atgtickets.com/rhoda-mcgaw-theatre

 

MINDFUL WATERCOLOUR PAINTING: WINTER SOLSTICE / DECEMBER 21 / FARNHAM MALTINGS

Discover the power of mindfulness as you connect with your inner-self through each brushstroke. Learn to paint with intention, focusing on the present moment, and allowing your emotions to flow onto the paper. You will start with a 20 minutes guided meditation, followed by a 90 minutes watercolour painting session, and leave space at the end for sharing, reflection and for any questions that might come up.

For more information, visit farnhammaltings.com

 

BAKE IN 90: CHRISTMAS MACARONS / DECEMBER 21 / GORDON RAMSAY ACADEMY, WOKING

Master macarons in this fun festive baking class at the Gordon Ramsay Academy in Woking. Expect classic, gorgeous macarons with a Christmas twist that will make them the most impressive gift this year – if you feel like sharing that is! You’ll master all the skills you need for perfect macarons every time, ready to mix up your own flavours and combinations at home. Book your spot for tasty treats this Christmas.

For more information, visit gordonramsayacademy.com

 

COOK TOGETHER: CHRISTMAS / DECEMBER 21 / GORDON RAMSAY ACADEMY, WOKING

An adult and child ticket all-in-one! With the Christmas holidays approaching, it’s the perfect time to get your kids involved in the kitchen and enjoy making delicious festive treats together. Join the Gordon Ramsay Academy in Woking for this adult and child cooking class where their chefs will help you work together on some festive-inspired recipes that will become new family favourites.

For more information, visit gordonramsayacademy.com

 

JAMES TAYLOR QUARTET / DECEMBER 21 / THE BOILEROOM, GUILDFORD

Exuding an electrifying fusion of funk, soul, and jazz and led by Hammond organ maestro James Taylor, the James Taylor Quartet are renowned for their dynamic performances, seamlessly blending groove laden rhythms with soulful melodies. Get a ticket quick for an extraordinary night of live music at The Boileroom in Guildford.

For more information, visit theboileroom.net

 

TRUST 10K RUN  / DECEMBER 22 / POLESDEN LACEY, GREAT BOOKHAM

Are you a regular runner looking for a challenge? The National Trust’s monthly 10K trail runs held at Polesden Lacey are a great way to keep fit or train for upcoming challenges. Consisting of various terrains, runners enjoy the exceptional surroundings of Polesden Lacey before heading out onto Ranmore Common. Taking place on the fourth Sunday of every month, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned competitor, all are welcome.

For more information, visit nationaltrust.org.uk

 

GUILDFORD FLAMES V COVENTRY BLAZE / DECEMBER 22 / SPECTRUM LEISURE COMPLEX, GUILDFORD

With both teams fighting near the top of the Elite League standings, Flames will be hoping to quell Coventry Blaze and take all the points. Whatever the weather, expected a heated affair on the ice this Christmas.

For more information, visit guildfordflames.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

CHRISTMAS IN EXETER STREET / DECEMBER NOW UNTIL DECEMBER 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

 

JACK & THE BEANSTALK / NOW UNTIL DECEMBER 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

 

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 

 

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