WHAT’S ON THIS WEEK IN SURREY?
With the big day just a whisker away, there’s still plenty going on in and around Surrey. Soak up the season with a Christmas show, or look forward to a local Boxing Day derby footie clash, find out what’s on with our weekly guide to going out. Have a happy one!
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
CHRISTMAS IN EXETER STREET / DECEMBER 23 – 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
ALDERSHOT TOWN V WOKING / DECEMBER 26 / THE EBB STADIUM, ALDERSHOT
It’s the Boxing Day clash we’ve all been waiting for. Woking head to local rivals Aldershot for a very festive Vanarama National League knockout contest. With both teams mixing in and around the lower end of mid-table, 3 points for either team will be just the Christmas Pudding everyone needs – except those on the end of the losing team.
For more information, visit wokingfc.co.uk
BIG COUNTRY / DECEMBER 27 / THE BOILEROOM, GUILDFORD
From humble beginnings in Fife, Scotland to opening for the likes of the Rolling Stones and Jimmy Page, Big Country’s new-wave, folk-tinged rock left a distinct mark on Britain’s ’80s scene. Catch them live at the intimate environs of The Boileroom in Guildford this December.
For more information, visit theboileroom.net
SWAN LAKE / DECEMBER 27 – 29 / G LIVE, GUILDFORD
The grace and elegance of Swan Lake is a joy to behold and the dramatic tale of love and betrayal ensuring it remains one of the world’s most popular ballets. Tchaikovsky’s soaring score, performed by a live orchestra, adds the finishing touch to a spectacular treat for one and all this Christmas. Get your Swan on and book tickets quick.
For more information, visit trafalgartickets.com/g-live-guildford
BIG GAME 16: HARLEQUINS V LEICESTER TIGERS DOUBLE HEADER / DECEMBER 28 / ALLIANZ STADIUM, TWICKENHAM
Harlequins return to Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, this Christmas for the 16th edition of Big Game. Fans can expect a blockbuster double header with both the men’s and women’s teams taking on Leicester Tigers, as well as world-class entertainment, another breath-taking light show, and an all-round fun-filled afternoon for the whole family. Snap up some tickets quick!
For more information, visit allianzstadiumtwickenham.com
THE 8TH 1ST ANNUAL HEADTORCHRUNS MARATHON / DECEMBER 28 / MICKLEHAM VILLAGE HALL
Now in its eighth year, the 1st Annual Headtorch Marathon takes place on the 28th December from Mickleham Village Hall. Starting at 8pm – this is a social Marathon with a difference. This guided event is the ideal way to work off some of those Christmas calories we all tend to pile on over the festive period. And don’t forget your head torch!
For more information, visit canarytrailevents.com
INTRODUCTION TO COLD WATER SWIMMING AND IMMERSION / DECEMBER 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
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