Families Surrey West Nov Dec 2022 Print

Tuckwell’s Christmas Lights Tour

Local charity Phyllis Tuckwell is on the ho-ho-hunt for houses to join its spectacular Christmas lights tour this festive season!

Are you fanatical about your festive display? Does your house dazzle passers-by with fairy lights, blow up Santas or maybe even an outside grotto? If so, Tuckwell’s Christmas Lights Tour is right up your sparkly street this Christmas!

Phyllis Tuckwell would like to invite anyone with an impressive light display to spread some joy this Christmas and decorate their house for Hospice Care. Your house will be featured on a map, along with all the other displays across West Surrey and North East Hampshire, inviting people to come along and see the very best Christmas lights in the area, and show their appreciation by making a donation to support Phyllis Tuckwell. If you would like to join the tour visit pth.org.uk/TuckwellsChristmasLightsTour or email fundraising@pth.org.uk or call 01252 729446 to find out more!

Baby and Children’s Market

The run up to Christmas is a great time for a clear out of toys and clothes your little ones have out grown, so why not grab a stall at one of the Baby & Children’s Markets in December - you’ll keep 100% of the profit as well! The next Guildford market is on Sunday 4th December - a change from their usual Saturday date, and the next New Haw date is Saturday 3rd December. Guildford markets are from 10am-12pm at Normandy Village Hall, Guildford, GU3 2DT and New Haw are from 10am-12pm at New Haw Community Centre, Addlestone, KT15 3ND. There will be lots of stalls bursting with top quality like new baby and children’s items from birth to 8 years. £2 entry, kids are free - come and grab a bargain! If you miss these dates, there is another Guildford sale on Saturday 4th February 2023. For more information visit www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk or for Guildford please email ellie@babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk and for New Haw email alex@babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk.

Win an iPad in the The Toyota Dream Car 2023 Contest

The Toyota Dream Car 2023 Contest is open for entries. Children are challenged to design wild and wonderful ideas for future transport that can also help protect the environment.

Last year’s winning entries in the UK national round of the competition included a car that protects endangered animals in Africa, and a vehicle powered by toxic waste and sewage water. The contest has three age categories: under eight-year-olds, eight to 11 and 12 to 15-year-olds. Entries may be hand-drawn or digital designs including a colourful background and explanation of how the vehicle works and what makes it special.

The winning entries in each age category will receive an Apple iPad, and second and third-placed entries will win a Samsung Galaxy tablet. Entry forms and details can be found at www.toyota.co.uk/dreamcar-2023. The closing date is 23 December 2022.

Resolving playground conflict

Playground

conflicts can shape a child’s experience at school. When we show children how to manage them, they are learning vital life lessons about getting on with other people.

Conflict vs bullying

Conflicts in the playground can flare up and be forgotten from one day to the next.

As parents, we can’t swoop in and save our children from uncomfortable or even painful situations while they are at school. However, we can equip them with their own skills to use when teachers are not immediately available to intervene. Using well-chosen words can change the course of a conflict and help equip children to deal with future ones.

Of course, it’s important to understand where conflict ends and bullying begins: bullying involves a repeated, intentional act to hurt someone; it can take many forms. All schools must have an anti-bullying policy should bullying occur.

Take action

When conflict occurs, explain that ‘hotting up’ a conflict makes a disagreement worse and ‘cooling down’ makes it better; we can help children realise they have the power to influence and resolve situations.

Start by listing which behaviours can hot up a conflict, such as shouting, name-calling, invading personal space, accusing, lying and being physical.

Then list the behaviours that can cool down a conflict: admitting to what you did wrong, saying sorry, saying what you would like to happen, using a calm voice and avoiding words such as ‘always’ and ‘never’ which can immediately make someone feel defensive.

Active listening is a fundamental skill in resolving conflicts. Help your children practise by asking them to listen and repeat instructions back and paraphrase what you have said. Encourage them to ask questions so they learn how to develop healthy dialogues.

Of course, older children may have more complex conflicts involving social media. These require a slightly different approach. Organisations such as Childline (www.childline. org.uk) and UNICEF (www.unicef.org.uk) offer solid support and advice for those who are experiencing issues online. As much as we never want our children to experience difficult situations, dealing with conflict provides an opportunity for growth, emotionally, socially and intellectually. By continuing to observe and give children

By Zuzu Jordan

a safe space to talk about any conflicts they have, we are providing useful safeguards against potential bullying scenarios.

What is bullying?

Bullying is defined as a repeated, intentional act to harm someone. It is further defined as an act that can be both emotional and physical, targeted at individuals or groups of people and/or based on a particular identity.

All schools must have a policy that both addresses reported bullying and has preventative measures. If bullying occurs outside of school, headteachers do hold some power to make sure pupils behave off the school grounds.

Most organisations advise parents and pupils to report ongoing bullying to the school.

If a crime has been committed then the police should be informed.

Keep evidence and a timeline of events if possible. Be alert to changes in your child’s demeanour and discuss the next steps with them.

Work through the ‘bullying temperature check’ on the AntiBullying Alliance website (www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk).

Anti-Bullying Week takes place from 14 to 18 November. The Anti-Bullying alliance website has a free parent pack offering advice and tools to support families.

Zuzu Jordan is a Mastery for Maths specialist who has taught primary aged children for sixteen years and is interested in early years and home learning. For free homework and home learning resources, find the Instagram page edumate_uk.

HAVE FUN WHILST GETTING YOUR CHRISTMAS TREE!

Elm Nursery

Elm Nursery have a huge selection of British grown Christmas trees on sale from the end of November plus wreaths and a Christmas gift shop. The Farm Shop is stocked with cheeses, local honey, their farm fresh eggs, sauces and chutneys. The shop sells a fantastic selection of products from ‘The Garlic Farm’, ‘Hill Farm Oils’ and ‘The Isle of Wight Tomato Stall’. Perfect for ‘foodie’ gifts this year! Plus you can visit the children’s farm and see the ‘magic of Christmas’ scenes, Father Christmas’s sleigh and complete the Reindeer Hunt for a prize. Open 7 days a week, 10am-3:30pm (last entry 3pm), there is an admission charge for the farm, free parking and café serving homemade cakes and lunches. Open until 3pm on 23rd December. Check Facebook (@elmnurseryfarm) for last minute information. Sutton Green Rd, Sutton Green, Guildford GU4 7QD.

AirHop gifts

Give the gift of jumping joy with an AirHop Gift Card or Goody Bag (which includes a free 60-minutes bounce pass in an AirHop drawstring bag with camo ball, reflective wristband, pen, stickers / tattoos, a bag of Haribo, and a pair of AirHop grip socks). AirHop Guildford has 50 interconnected trampolines, a tumble lane, an obstacle course, extreme dodgeball with Dodge Attack and AR trampolines with fun augmented reality screens. Other favourites include the Wipeout and AirHOPBag to jump into! Gift Cards and Goody Bags can be purchased from www.airhop-guildford.com/ vouchers-gifts/

Alice Holt Forest

Buy your real Christmas tree from Alice Holt Forest, near Farnham this year for a wonderful experience and the highest quality, sustainably-grown British Christmas trees. Available from 26 November, 9am5pm 7 days a week. Christmas tree experts will help you choose the right tree for your home and the money raised from your Christmas tree helps to maintain the forests for wildlife, for you, and for future generations. Choose from hundreds of potted and cut firs and spruce in the fresh, wintery air of the beautiful forest. Why not make a day of it and treat yourself to a hot takeaway drink or food from the cafe, enjoy the Superworm trail, or take a peaceful wintery walk around the forest. Contactless payments are encouraged along with bringing your own blanket or sheet for a more sustainable Christmas purchase. For more information please visit www.forestryengland.uk/real-christmas-trees

CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS

Perfect for animal lovers

Merrist Wood College in Guildford, offers a variety of animal encounters activities and you can buy gift vouchers for their popular events: Junior Animal Keeper Experience, Animal Encounter Tours and Meet the Meerkat Experiences. These vouchers can be purchased via merristwoodevents. co.uk/animal-encounter-gift-vouchers. The perfect gift for all animal lovers! There will also be Christmas themed Junior Animal Keeper Days running on Sat 17th Dec (6-10 years) & Sun 18th Dec (11-14 years) - more details on page 18, and a Festive Fun Day on Sat 26 Nov (more info on page 14).

Ceramic gifts and keepsakes

Popolo Ceramico will be capturing baby and children (or all family) prints on ceramics, in clay, plaster and 3D, and stylish silver sterling jewellery to make beautiful Christmas gifts and keepsakes. They will be at Wanborough Village Hall on Sat 12 Nov from 9.30-11.30am. Please book by contacting guildford@popoloceramico. co.uk or 07795295728. Popolo Ceramico also offer pottery painting boxes for painting at home or for mini get togethers and Christmas parties. They will also be at The Warren in Knaphill on 25th Nov 7.30pm-9.30pm for an adults evening of pampering, crafts and prizes. Tickets are £12 and need to be booked in advance. For more details please email guildford@popoloceramico.co.uk.

Christmas Church Services

Most Churches offer services aimed at children over Christmas - often they include lots of fun participation. They are a great way for children to understand the meaning of Christmas. Unfortunately we don’t have the space to list all the Christmas services, but to find your nearest church please visit: www.findachurch.co.uk.

Personalised Letter from Santa

Did you know that you can order a personalised letter from Santa via his helpers at Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice? Santa suggests a £5 donation to the charity. You can order from 1st November and the letter will land on your doorstep between 1st - 16th December in a festive envelope with a stamp from the North Pole. For more details please visit www.pth.org.uk/letter-from-santa/

KatieBen

Spot the difference and win an AirHop Guildford family pass!

How many differences can you spot between these two pictures of AirHop Guildford?

To be in with a chance of winning a £60 AirHop family pass, ask your parent or carer to email the number of differences between the two pictures (and a name and contact number) to editor@FamiliesSurreyWest.co.uk with AirHop Competition in the title. A family pass gives 4 people (which must include 1 adult) 90 minutes of bouncing fun in any open jump session! You can enjoy 30,000 sq ft of ultimate bouncing fun with loads of attractions to keep the whole gang happy!

Competition closes 5pm 10th December 2022. For full Ts&Cs see bit.ly/AirHopRulesNov22.

Independent School Open Days

Please contact schools to find out if you need to book

School Open Day Date

Barrow Hills School, Witley 01428 683639

Mixed 2-13 years.

Belmont School Holmbury St Mary 01306 730852

Mixed 3-16 years.

Cranmore School. Boys 2-16 years and girls 2-7 years.

Ripley Court School 01483 225 217

Mixed 3-11 years.

The Royal School, Hindhead Mixed 6 weeks-18 years.

Rydes Hill Preparatory School & Nursery, Guildford 01483 544973 Girls 3-11 years, Boys 3-7 years.

St Andrews School, Horsell 01483 760943

Mixed 3-13 years.

St Catherine’s School, Bramley 01483 899665

Girls 4-18 years.

St Edmund’s School, Hindhead Mixed 2-16 years.

St Hilary’s School, Godalming 01483 416551 Mixed 2-11 years.

St Ives School, Haslemere Mixed 2-11 years.

Fri 24 Feb 2023 9.30am.

For Early Years/Prep: Tues 22 Nov 10am.

For Senior School: Fri 25 Nov 9.30am.

Fri 12 May 2023.

‘We’re going on a Bear Hunt’ Reception taster morning on Tues 8 Nov and ‘Harry Potter Taster Day’ for Year 3 on Fri 18 Nov.

Prep School: Wed 3 Nov 9.30am.

Please contact the school for a personal tour with the headmistress.

Fri 10 March 2023 9am-11am.

Thurs 17 Nov and Fri 3 Feb 2023

Sat 4 Feb 2023.

Please contact the school.

Fri 18 Nov 9.30-11am.

Where to See Santa

Chobham Adventure Farm

Experience the magic of Christmas with a visit to meet Santa and his elves at Chobham Adventure Farm! Wander through the snow trail as you make your way to a family one-to-one experience with Father Christmas, before heading into his Toy Workshop to choose a gift! You will also be able to see Santa’s reindeer in the Reindeer Lodge and make reindeer food to take home. There’s also the option to book a spin on the brand new ice rink and round off your day with a delicious hot chocolate or a hot dog from the Christmas Café afterwards. Find out more and book at www.chobhamadventurefarm.co.uk/christmas

Magical Christmas Experience with the Unicorns

This Christmassy Winter Woodland Experience runs from 3-21 December in Ash Green. Enter the forest of dreams and follow the twinkling path until you spot the little Unicorns and Christmas Ponies. Once you have had a cuddle and made a fuss of them, make your way into the forest where Festive Fairies have left you some surprises to find! Follow the glistening fairy trail and new for this year, you will meet the Magnificent Alicorn - a flying Unicorn! You can then make a reindeer treat, visit the gift shop and warm up with a hot cocoa or cookie before visiting Santa in his grotto. Book at mylittleunicorn.co.uk.

Santa Fir Christmas Tree Farm

Meet Santa and the real reindeer on 26/27 Nov, 3/4 Dec and 10/11 Dec. No booking needed. £5 (includes a gift), all profits to charity. See www.hanschristmasandersen.co.uk for timings. The Warren Knaphill You will be welcomed to the craft workshop by the happy elf before being joined by Santa as he tells you all about the story of Christmas. For more details and dates please email santa@thewarrenuk.com.

GymJams Soft Play Normandy, Guildford For ages 3 and under. Father Christmas will be at sessions on Sun 11 Dec, Wed 14 Dec, Fri 16 Dec and Sat 17 Dec. Book at www.gym-jams.co.uk.

Swingbridge Santa Cruise Guildford On 3, 4, 10, 11, 17-21 Dec. Meet Santa and enjoy a 45 minute cruise from Millmead Island. Book at electric.theatre/shows/swingbridgesanta-special-cruises-along-river-wey/ Woking Town Centre There will be a grotto from 21 Nov - 24 Dec in Central Square, Woking – no booking required.

Bocketts Farm Leatherhead Hop on board the Santa Express trailer to meet Santa. 24 Nov - 24 Dec.

Denbies Wine Estate Dorking Santa’s Express train rides and Hamper with Santa. Weekends from Sat 19 Nov and daily from Fri 16 - Sat 24 Dec (23 Dec for Hamper with Santa).

Mizens Railway Santa Specials on Sun 4, Sun 11 and Sun 18 Dec. Book at www.mizens-bookings.org.uk.

Miller’s Ark Animals Hook Visit Santa in his grotto on Sat 26 Nov, Sun 27 Nov, Sat 3 Dec or Sun 4 Dec. Farm entry £10, Santa’s grotto £7. Book at www.millersark.co.uk.

Crockford Bridge Farm Addlestone Meet Santa in this log cabin in Wonder Wood. www.crockfordbridgefarm.co.uk. Birdworld, Farnham Santa will be coming to Birdworld. Bourne Valley Garden Centre Addlestone Tea with Santa on 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 21-24 Dec. Book at www.bournevalleygardencentre.co.uk.

Santa brings his Magical Grotto to Squire’s Come and meet Santa at his Magical Grotto at Squire’s, this festive season! The popular family-owned garden centres will be hosting Santa at four locations; Badshot Lea, Milford, Shepperton and West Horsley. Families will be welcomed by a jolly elf, before meeting Santa himself! Young visitors can ask Santa what they’ve always wanted to know and, if they have been very good this year, will receive an early wrapped Christmas present and a special ‘Santa’s Little Helper’ badge! Santa’s Grotto will be open from 26th November to 24th December (times vary). Tickets are £7 per child (first two adults go free, with £1 per additional adult), and can be bought at Squire’s and are valid for use on the same day. For full details, visit the What’s On section of Squire’s website www.squiresgardencentres.co.uk/

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, especially when Father Christmas makes a visit to Godstone Farm! Little eyes will be wide with delight as they take a festive wander through Candy Cane Lane and help the elves with the all-important job of finding a special secret recipe! With a toy from the toyshop, plus a sweet treat to takeaway and all the usual farm fun, this offers a great value day out this December. Book online at www.godstonefarm.co.uk

Santa’s Lapland

Santa’s Lapland offers the kind of Christmas that comes but once in a lifetime. Whisking families away to magical Lapland for a 2 or 3-night adventure from late November to Christmas to meet Santa and his cheeky elves. Check out SantasLapland.com for details.

Haslemere Educational Museum

Visit Santa in his Victorian Parlour and receive a gift on Sat 17, Wed 21, Thurs 22, Fri 23 and Sat 24 Dec. Mon 19 Dec is for families with a child who has additional needs. Book online. You can also see Santa on Sun 4 Dec 11am-3pm as part of the Christmas Market, no booking needed for this.

MATT SPARKES

TOM CAPPER NATALIE TURNER

ZANE

RACHEL LEA-GRAY

SHINE

The Night Before Christmas Wed 7 Dec, 11.30am & 1.30pm.

Brought to life on stage with an

camberleytheatre.co.uk · Box O ce 01276 707600

Jack and the Beanstalk at Yvonne Arnaud Theatre

Sat 3 Dec - Sun 8 Jan. Another festive family pantomime is sprouting from the Yvonne Arnaud’s stage! Jack makes a mooving sacrifice and bids farewell to his beloved cow in return for a magical bean-tacular investment, which has giant consequences! Can he make an egg-cellent escape back down the beanstalk or has he really cooked his goose?! A tantalising adventure with all the sparkles, songs and side-splitting silliness you could ask for! Tickets from £20. Book by visiting www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk.

Cinderella at Princes Hall

Fri 9 Dec - Sat 31 Dec. Princes Hall put effort in all year around to make sure their panto is a truly magical production, with fabulous sets, stunning costumes, fantastic dancers, a great script and excellent songs and music. The wonderful cast, well-loved panto traditions and friendly atmosphere all go into making the Princes Hall pantomime an annual Christmas treat for all the family. Aldershot’s favourites Robert Hopkins and Donovan ChristianCary are back and lead a reunited and strong artistic team. Call the Box Office on 01252 329 155 or visit www.princeshall.com.

children aged 3-7 and their families. £12, family of 4 £40. Bring Your Own Baby Comedy Thurs 10 Nov, Thurs 8 Dec 11.30am. £12.

THE ELECTRIC THEATRE

Guildford Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Jr.

Fri 11 - Sat 12 Nov Presented by the British Theatre Academy.

Let’s All Dance: The Nutcracker Sun 18 Dec 11am, 2pm & 4pm. Suitable for all ages, especially children (inc. those with special needs).

Santa Saves Christmas Sat 24 Dec 10.30am. Most suitable for 2-7s - every child will get a gift from Santa.

DORKING HALLS

Santa’s Magical Gift

Fri 9 - Sun 11 Dec. For ages 3+. Includes a present for every child.

Cinderella Sat 17 Dec - Wed 28 Dec.

HASLEMERE HALL Burglar Bill Sat 17 Dec 11am. For 3+.

Dick Whittington Fri 13 - Sat 21 Jan. Performed by Haslemere Thespians.

RHODA MCGAW THEATRE

Woking

A Christmas Carol Mon 19 - Sat 31 Dec. For 8+.

The Christmassy Christmas

ANDREWTHOMASSMITH

Beauty and the Beast A multi sensory show for children with SEND/disabilities. All shows are Makaton signed. In Horsham on Sun 27 Nov, Shepperton on Sun 4 Dec and Crawley on Sun 11 Dec (please check online for more dates/ venues).

WINTERSHALL ESTATE Bramley www.wintershall.org.uk The Wintershall Nativity Journey Wed 14 - Sun 19 Dec. Actors in biblical costumes, alongside a cast of animals take the audience on foot from the open air into the rustic barn, as the story of Jesus’ birth unfolds.

THE LEATHERHEAD THEATRE

Snow White Sat 17-Fri 30 Dec. Captain Calamity Tues 20 Dec 2.30pm. Meet Father Christmas after the show. Festive FUNdraiser Wed 28 Dec 6.30-7.30pm. Music, dance and comedy raising money for charity. £5.

G LIVE, Guildford Father Christmas Needs A Wee Sat 17 - Sat 24 Dec.

GODALMING BOROUGH HALL Sleeping Beauty

Sat 10 - Mon 26 Dec.

NEW VICTORIA THEATRE Woking Cinderella

Fri 2 Dec - Sat 31 Dec.

YVONNE ARNAUD THEATRE

What’s on diary

FRI 4 NOVEMBER

Handa’s Surprise

Haslemere Educational Museum 10.30-11.30am. Story and craft for under 5s with an adult. Book online. Adult £1, child £2.

SAT 5 NOVEMBER

Finding Tutankhamen Haslemere Educational Museum 10.30am-12pm.

Ancient Egyptian activities for ages 5-11. Mem £5, non-mem £7. Book in advance.

15 Minutes of Fun Chertsey Museum

33 Windsor St, Chertsey KT16 8AT Free drop-in craft for all the family! This month’s minimake is a rocket on a stick. 1-30-3.30pm.

Eco Explorers, Union St Aldershot 10am-2pm. Free, no booking needed. Hands-on eco activities.

SUN 6 NOVEMBER

LEGO Exhibition & Build Denbies Wine Estate Dorking Purchase tickets to take part in: Brick building, Anagram trail activity, LEGO and LEGO DUPLO play areas and chill and build a LEGO mosaic. Adult/child 6yrs+ £3.75. Book online.

Eco Explorers, Queensmead Farnborough 10am-2pm. Free, no booking needed. Hands-on eco activities.

Frimley Lodge Miniature Railway, Frimley Lodge Park Miniature train rides from 11am-4pm.

MON 7 NOVEMBER

Little Twigs

Ripley Court School

9.30-11am. Woodland stay and play for children aged 18 months - 3 years accompanied by an adult. The sessions take place in Ripley Court’s Forest School which includes a bug hotel, mud kitchen and more. Enjoy a snack and hot chocolate at the end! £5 per child, please book online.

TUES 8 NOVEMBER

Toddler Time

Rydes Hill School

Guildford 10am-11am. A mixture of fun and engaging activities run by specialist staff. Whilst younger siblings in arms are welcome, the sessions are best suited to children aged 18 months - 3 years with an adult. Runs every Tuesday morning in term time. Free, but booking online is essential.

Mini Gallery Explorers The Lightbox Woking Discover the artwork and history with interactive stories, rhymes and crafts. First-come, first-served basis from 10.30am on the day, runs from 11-11.40am. For under 5s with an adult. Suggested donation £3.

SAT 12 NOVEMBER

Inclusive Train Play Woking Park Scout Hall

For autistic, ADHD and special needs children. 2-3.30pm. Book at www.allaboardclub.com.

MON 14 NOVEMBER

Little Twigs, Ripley Court School See listing on 7 Nov.

THURS 17 NOV – 8 JAN

Glow, RHS Wisley Woking A magical spectacle of lights. 4-9pm. Book online.

FRI 18 NOVEMBER

As Quiet As A Mouse Haslemere Educational Museum 1.30pm-2.30pm. Fun action story and mouse finger puppet activity. For under 5s with an adult. Adult £1, child £2. Book online.

SAT 19 NOVEMBER

Cranleigh’s Christmas Lights Switch-on Event Fun fair from 12pm, lego on a bus 12-4pm, Father Christmas arrives in Fountain Square at 1.30pm and will be in his Grotto in Cromwell’s Courtyard from 2.305.30pm. Lights switch on in Fountain Square at 6pm.

Aldershot Christmas Cracker, Town Centre 1-6pm. Father Christmas will be in his grotto, there is a petting farm, free children’s crafts and face painting and stage entertainment. Short firework display, giant snow machine and Christmas lights switch on.

Camberley Christmas Light Switch-on Christmas Market on the High Street, entertainment including free face painting and balloon modelling from 10am-4pm and live acts on the Park Street stage from 1-7pm. Father Christmas comes on stage to switch on the lights at approx. 4.45pm.

Mixed Media Collage Cranleigh Arts Centre 9.30-10.30am for ages 3-5 and 10.30-11.30am for ages 6+. Book online. £8.

Scan the QR code or visit linktr.ee/FamiliesSurreyW for

Farnham Christmas Lights Switch-on Gostrey Meadows 1-6pm. Live entertainment, fairground rides, live nativity scene, face-painting and a craft table. Father Christmas will be in his grotto where each child will receive a gift.

SAT 19 NOV – 8 JAN

Festive Heroes Trail Painshill Park KT11 1JE Cobham 10am-4pm. Booking recommended. Spot super heroes on this statue trail. Included in entry. Activity book available to buy.

SUN 20 NOVEMBER

Inclusive Train Play The Lightbox Woking For autistic, ADHD and special needs children. 11am-12.30pm. Book at www.allaboardclub.com.

MON 21 NOVEMBER

Little Twigs, Ripley Court School See listing on 7 Nov.

FRI 25 NOVEMBER

Mini Painters, The Lightbox Woking Painting fun for under 5s with an adult. 11-11.40am. Advance booking required.

Devonshire Photographic @ Imagination Children’s Role Play Camberley Why not combine a play and have some Christmas photos taken at the same time?! To book please visit www. imagination-roleplay.co.uk

SAT 26 NOVEMBER

Make a Pom Pom Wreath Farnham Maltings 11am-1.30pm. For ages 10+. £44. Book in advance.

Festive Fun Day Merrist Wood Guildford GU3 3PE 12-4pm. Meet the festive animals, enjoy Storytime with Santa, have fun with festive crafts, face painting, festive stalls and the Containment Puzzle zone. There’ll be warming refreshments and more… Tickets must be pre-booked online, there will be no tickets on the gate.

fireworks listing

Festive Fun Day

Christmas Lights Switch-on Fun Day Princes Mead Shopping Farnborough 11am-3.30pm. There will be free face painting, Father Christmas arrives and will be on a walkabout in the centre along with their very own Snow Queen. Great photo opportunities!

Godalming Christmas Festival & Lights Switch-on 10am-5.30pm. Stalls in the town centre. Entertainment includes a carousel plus Peppa Pig will be making appearances. Father Christmas will be at Godalming Museum (10am4pm) and the lights will be switched on at 5pm.

Fantasia 2022, Ash Centre GU12 5DP 12-4pm. Christmas Fayre and family fun.

Farnborough Frost Fair Town Centre 10am-3.30pm. Christmas market, live music, donkeys, free family craft activities, circus skills, face painting, a small fun fair and lots more.

MON 28 NOVEMBER

Little Twigs, Ripley Court School See listing on 7 Nov.

THURS 1 – SUN 31 DEC

Find Camberley’s Christmas Reindeer Find all of the reindeer around the town and write down the letter on it’s collar. Work out the festive word and post in the boxes in The Square & The Atrium!

FRIDAY 2 DECEMBER

We’re Going On A Bear Hunt, Haslemere Educational Museum 10.30am-11.30am Go on an expedition to find a bear and act out the popular story. For under 5s with an adult. Adult £1, child £2. Book online.

SAT 3 DECEMBER

Brilliant Bricks ClubChristmas Crisis

Camelsdale Church Hall 2.30-4.30pm. Themed Lego for ages 5+. Book at www.brilliantbricks.co.uk.

@ Merrist Wood

Snow Queen, Princes Mead Shopping

Tuckwell’s Christmas Lights Tour

SAT 3 DECEMBER CONT Nativity Scenes

Haslemere Educational Museum 10.30am-12pm. Craft fun for ages 5-11. Mem £5, non-mem £7. Book online.

Children’s Xmas Party

The Mytchett Centre 3-6pm. Disco, games, food and Father Christmas. Adult £2, child £4, under 2s free. See www.themytchettcentre. co.uk for booking details.

light displays across West Surrey & North East Hampshire. It’s free to download the map and you can make a donation to support local hospice care this Christmas. The map will be available from Friday 25th November and you can visit the houses on the tour from 3rd-31st December. Download the map at pth.org.uk/TuckwellsChristmasLightsTour or

Crazy Christmas Shoppers Princes Mead Shopping Farnborough 11am-3.30pm approx. These extraordinary puppets will be roaming the centre and entertaining everyone with their hilarious attempts at Christmas shopping and carol singing.

Open Afternoon, Guildford Model Engineering Society Stoke Park, GU1 1TU 11am5pm. Miniature train rides.

Eco Explorers, Queensmead Farnborough 10am-2pm. Free activities no booking needed.

MON 5 DECEMBER

Lodge, where Santa’s real reindeer will be staying while they get ready for the big day! The much-loved Elves and The Reindeer Keeper can tell you how they look after the reindeer and polish up their flying skills. You’ll also get to make your very own magical reindeer food! This is all included in your entry ticket, so you can enjoy the softplay and outdoor adventures then head into the Reindeer Lodge. Optional extras include seeing Father Christmas or ice skating on the custom built rink - penguin skating aids are available for younger visitors. Book at www.chobhamadventurefarm.co.uk.

can explore the park in a safe and fun environment during dedicated MiniHopper Takeovers. These sessions include extra toys, ride-ons, a visit of a special guest and the ever-so popular bubble time. On Friday and Saturday 6-8pm you can experience the park in a cool club atmosphere during a 2-hour bargain After Dark session at airhop-guildford.com and #jumpintohappy.

Christmas at Hever Castle

Explore the captivating handcrafted bespoke displays on the Christmas Trail and meet characters from the ‘Festive Forest’ as you wander through the beautiful grounds. In the Castle you will be met with beautiful traditionally decorated rooms, welcoming log fires and twinkling Christmas trees. In front of the Castle, ride the gallopers then head to the big wheel and have a go at hook a duck (additional charges apply). Meet the huskies in the Husky Hideout and see some of the owls from Willow’s Birds of

The magical Christmas Lights experience starts from 4pm. See Hever Castle’s gardens lit up with glorious colour washes, spectacular illuminations and music. See www.hevercastle.co.uk for details and dates.

Crazy Christmas Shoppers

Eco Explorers, Union St Aldershot 10am-2pm. Free, no booking needed. Handson eco activities.

15 Minutes of Fun Chertsey Museum 33 Windsor St, Chertsey KT16 8AT Free drop-in to make a pom-pom advent calendar. 1-30-3.30pm.

Community Drum Circle Cranleigh Arts Centre 2pm. Family friendly event, no experience needed. Book online. £5, family of 4 £15.

SAT 3 - 31 DECEMBER Christmas at Guildford Museum Castle Arch, GU1 3SX Open Wed - Sat 12-4.30pm (last entry 4pm). Suitable for ages 4+, no booking needed. Free. See the Victorian dolls’ house dressed for Christmas and take part in a festive trail around the museum.

SUN 4 DECEMBER

The Kelly’s Santa Run and Christmas Market Stoke Park Guildford In aid of local charity Challengers. 2k or 5k route around the park. Receive a Santa hat to wear and a tree decoration when you finish! Non-runners are welcome to attend the market (10am-2pm). Free entry to the Christmas market which will have festive food and drinks, activities and gifts plus a Santa’s grotto. Register for the run online.

Little Twigs Ripley Court School 9.30-11am. Woodland stay and play for children aged 18 months - 3 years accompanied by an adult. A special Christmas celebration with a visit from Santa and a gift for each child. £5 per child, please book online.

Elve’s Workshop Themed Messy Play Christmas Special, Peekaboo Play Cafe Compton, Guildford 9.3010.30am. For ages 6 months5 years. Includes a Christmas keepsake canvas painting station. Book online.

TUES 6 DECEMBER

Mini Gallery Explorers The Lightbox See listing on Tues 8 Nov.

Toddler TuesdayThe Ugly Duckling Surrey Heath Museum 33 Obelisk Way, Camberley GU15 3SG 11am-12.30pm. Aimed at ages 1-5. £1.50. Themed craft, stories and play.

WED 7 DECEMBER

Cathedral Tots Guildford Cathedral 10am for toddlers and preschoolers with an adult. Faith-themed or Bible story, a prayer, songs, and craft. Free.

THURS 8 DECEMBER

Elve’s Workshop Themed Messy Play Christmas Special, Peekaboo Play Cafe Compton, Guildford 1.302.30pm. Festive messy play fun for ages 6 months - 5 yrs. Please book online.

FRIDAY 9 DECEMBER

Christmas Party Special Peekaboo Play Cafe Compton, Guildford For ages 6 months - 5 years. Includes Christmas craft, a visit from an elf and fun Christmasrelated activities. 10.30am1pm. Please book online.

This

Christmas

SantasLapland.com

Magical 4D Virtual Reality Sleigh Ride

Sit back and enjoy this immersive show as the sleigh moves, the wind blows and you experience the magic. Once you’re on the ride and in Santa’s sleigh you will be given a freshly cleaned and fully adjustable VR head set. If this is too much for younger children, the same content plays simultaneously on a big-screen TV at the front of the ride. Tickets are £5 per person and you can book from two to five people per ride. You can also treat them to an early Christmas present for just £5 per child. The sleigh ride is at Longacres Bagshot Garden Centre from 17 Nov-24 Dec. Book at www.longacres.co.uk or scan the QR code.

National Trust

Christmas at Hatchlands Park East Clandon, GU4 7RT See the house dressed for the festive season and soak up the atmosphere of a traditional country house Christmas. Outside, enjoy the magic of Christmas with the cobbled courtyard decorated for the season, and handcrafted willow reindeer standing majestically on the lawn. Take a crisp stroll through the parkland – children will love spotting the musical animals hiding along the way. Then treat yourself to a warming Christmas treat in the café. The house is open daily (except closed on Saturdays) from 1-23 Dec 12-3pm. Parkland and café are open daily 10am-4pm (closed 24-25 Dec).

Christmas at Claremont Landscape Garden Esher KT10 9JG With a fun filled family trail, winter warmers from the café and stunning views on walks, Claremont is the perfect picturesque landscape to get you into the seasonal spirit. 26 Nov – 2 Jan (closed 24-25 Dec) 10am–4pm.

Christmas at Polesden Lacey Great Bookham RH5 6BD 3 Dec–2 Jan (closed 24-25 Dec). The house is open daily 11am-3pm, the garden and café are open 10am-4pm. Visit Polesden Lacey’s sumptuous house, dressed at its Christmas best with glittering displays showing the 12 Days of Christmas. Peek inside the hidden inner courtyard, decorated with snow and a golden partridge in a pear tree and take part in an active outdoors trail with challenges for all the family. Normal admission + a small charge for the trail.

Walking with the Snowman™ at Winkworth Arboretum Godalming

GU8 4AD 26 Nov – 2 Jan (closed 24-25 Dec). Open daily 10am – 4pm (last entry 3pm). The Snowman™ is coming to Winkworth Arboretum this Christmas. Relive the magic of Raymond Briggs’ heartwarming picture book. Find twelve decorated snowman sculptures along a wintry woodland trail for all the family and enjoy carousel rides, games and warming hot chocolate. Book ahead (online) to make sure you don’t miss out. Normal admission + £3 per carousel ride.

Dapdune Wharf and River Wey Navigations

SAT 10 DECEMBER

Christmas Nutkins Princes Mead Shopping Farnborough Festive, fluffy, cosy squirrels, Mr & Mrs Nutkins, will be roaming the centre and delighting shoppers with their antics. 11am-3.30pm approx.

Bach to Baby Festive Family Concert St Andrew’s Church GU9 7PW 3pm. Family concert. Please book online.

Inclusive Train Play Woking Park Scout Hall See listing on 12 November.

SUN 11 DECEMBER

SAT 17 DECEMBER

Festive Junior Animal Keeper Experience

Merrist Wood Guildford For ages 6-10. Join the Animal Keepers for a day, working with a huge variety of animals including tortoises, rabbits, guinea pigs, reptiles, birds, meerkats and more. Activities include feeding and watering, maintaining the enclosures and learning how to safely handle some of the animals. £70. Booking essential, see merristwoodevents.co.uk for details.

Roller Skating Presents Princes Mead Shopping Farnborough Two illuminated roller skating presents will be whizzing around the centre dazzling shoppers with elegant speed! From approx 11am-3.30pm.

Guildford

GU1 4RR The tearoom bookshop, old gunpowder store and Dapdune island are open Fri, Sat & Sun from 11 Nov - 18 Dec and daily from Mon 19 - Fri 23 Dec 10am-4.30pm. Visit the cosy tearoom overlooking the Wey and enjoy morning coffee, light lunch and afternoon tea, as you delve into a fabulous selection of second-hand books. Families can enjoy free Christmas themed crafts in the Gunpowder store and keep a look out for winter wildlife on Dapdune island. Free entry.

Santa Fun Run for Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice Wavell School

Farnborough Every adult who registers receives a Santa Suit and each child gets a pair of reindeer antlers. The run consists of 2 laps of Queen’s Avenue Playing fields, approx 5k in length. You can run or walk - it is for fun, not a race - all welcome! Adult £15, child (14 and under) £7. You must register in advance at www.pth.org.uk/event/ santa-fun-run/ Festive Fun Run Woking Park Run, jog, skip or walk as many 1k laps of Woking Park as you like. Register at https://wsbhospices.co.uk. Plus there’s a Christmas Market from 10am-3pm.

FRI 16 DECEMBER

Christmas Decorations Haslemere Educational Museum 10.30am-11.30am. Listen to a festive story and make a Christmas decoration. For under 5s with an adult. Adult £1, child £2. Book online.

Story-time with Santa Stay and Play Special Peekaboo Play Cafe Compton, Guildford Festive themed stay and play with a visit from Santa and his elf helper! For under 5s, please book online.

Kids Craft: Textiles Play Cranleigh Arts Centre 9.30-10.30am for ages 3-5 and 10.30-11.30am for ages 6+. Create a beautiful Xmas decoration. Book online. £8.

SUN 18 DECEMBER

Festive Junior Animal Keeper Experience Merrist Wood Guildford For ages 11-14. £70. Booking essential, see merristwoodevents.co.uk.

Christmas Pony Party Tongham 12-1pm. £20. For detalis and boking see www. daisysponycarriages.com.

Inclusive Train Play The Lightbox See 20 Nov.

MON 19 - FRI 30 DEC

Xtreme Activate Holiday Camp, Guildford Spectrum OFSTED registered fun-filled holiday camp for ages 5-8 and 9-12. 8.30am-6pm. Closed on bank holidays. Call 01483 443322 to book.

WED 21 DECEMBER

Free Family Drop-in: Cork Reindeers, The Lightbox Woking Creative drop-in for all the family from 1.30-4pm. £3 suggested donation.

t he mag i c o f Ch r i s t ma s a t cres Bags hot Ga rden Cent re the QR code for tickets!

Santa Fun Run for Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice

Princes Mead Shopping

© Snowman Ent. 2022

WED 21

CONT.

Guildford Spectrum Synergy Dance events, £16.50 per workshop/party. Book at bit.ly/synergy-workshops

Disney Frozen Christmas Edition 2-3.30pm. For ages 3-8 (divided into groups). Act, sing and dance as you explore the scenes and songs from Frozen 1 & 2. Includes dance and drama games with parachutes, ribbons and snow disco!

Festive Christmas Dance Party 3.45-5.15pm. For ages 3-10 (split into age groups). Festive dance party including disco & freestyle, games, parachute and mini snow disco.

Christmas Crackers and Activity Trail, Aldershot Military Museum GU11 2LG 10.30am-12.30pm and 1.30pm-3pm. How would soldiers have celebrated

Christmas in Aldershot barracks? Find out and create your own Victorian Christmas cracker. You can also pick up a copy of the 12 Days of Christmas activity trail and discover Victorian festive traditions. For 5+, children must be accompanied. Included in admission.

THURS 22 DECEMBER

LEGO® Display and Open Build Event, Cranleigh Arts Centre 10am, 12pm, 2pm or 4pm. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult. £5 per person Book online.

Christmas Chaos LEGO Building Workshop Heatherside Community Centre Camberley 10am-12pm. For ages 5-12. Book at brickies.club

Guildford Spectrum Synergy Dance workshops, £16.50 per workshop. Book at bit.ly/synergy-workshops

Disney Encanto Workshop

For ages 3-8. 2-3.30pm. Relive the characters, songs and life of The Madrigals family and the magical world of Encanto. Learn and create dances and make your own magic prop! Also includes parachutes, ribbons and snow disco.

Disney Movie Madness Workshop

For ages 3-10. 3.45-5.15pm. From Superheroes to Princesses - a party of fun activities! Includes parachute fun and mini-snow disco.

Merry Christmas Makes Haslemere Educational Museum 10.30am-12pm. For ages 5-11. Christmas crafts. Please book online.

Christmas Crackers and Activity Trail, Aldershot See listing on Wed 21 Dec.

WED 23 DECEMBER

Christmas Holiday Workshop, QE Park Centre Guildford GU2 9LX For ages 4-12 (divided into groups). 9am-4pm. Activities include dance routines, games, arts and crafts, giant parachute, mini snow disco, show and tell and more! £30. Book at bit.ly/synergy-workshops.

Christmas Holiday Workshop

QE Park Centre

SUNDAY 6 NOVEMBER

Combined Charities Christmas Fair at The Guildhall High St, Guildford 11am-4pm. Gifts, cards, games, tombolas, refreshments and more.

SATURDAY 12 NOVEMBER

Craft and Gift Fair

Bagshot Playing Fields Pavilion, GU19 5ET Free entry. 12.30pm-4pm. In aid of local charity Christopher’s Smile.

SUNDAY 13 NOVEMBER

Frimley Green Pre-school Christmas Craft Fayre Community Centre, Balmoral Drive, Frimley 10am2pm. Stalls, tea, coffee and cake!

FRI 18 - SAT 19 NOVEMBER

Guildford Cathedral Christmas Fair GU2 7UP 10am-4pm. £3 entry. A range of artists, crafters and makers. The Cathedral shop will also be open and the café/restaurant will be selling drinks, snacks and lunches.

SUNDAY 20 NOVEMBER

St Andrews C of E Infant School

Christmas Fair Farnham GU9 7PW Lots of Christmas fun from 11.45am2pm, everyone welcome!

SATURDAY 26 NOVEMBER

Christmas Fayre at RSPCA Millbrook Animal Centre C hobham GU24 8EH 11am-3pm. Stalls, face painting refreshments and more. Winter wonderland with Santa (£4).

Merrow C of E Infant School

Christmas Fair GU4 7EA 11am-2pm. Free entry. Children’s games, festive food, stalls and more. Meet Santa in his Grotto! Many stalls are cash only. Please enter via the entrance on Kingfisher Drive.

SATURDAY 26 NOVEMBER

Christmas Artisan Market and Grotto at The Museum of Farnham 38 West St, Farnham GU9 7DX

Free gift for first 50 visitors

Over 30 stalls

Handcrafted gifts

Pop up Artisan cafe

Christmas Fairs and Markets ���� ����

Christmas Grotto with handcrafted gift, £5 per child (tickets from anytimeartisan@gmail.com). 10am-4pm. LIVE LOCAL LOVE LOCAL Visit their virtual stalls at www.anytimeartisan.co.uk Facebook and Instagram - @anytimeartisan

SUNDAY 27 NOVEMBER

Christmas Fair at Rowhill Nature Reserve Aldershot, GU11 3BD 10am-1pm at the Field Centre.

The Grange Community Infant School Christmas Fair New Haw KT15 3RL 2-4pm. An afternoon of Christmas activities and festive cheer!

THURSDAY 1 DECEMBER

Christmas Market Night at Valley End C of E Infant School Chobham, GU24 8TB Enjoy a mulled wine and mince pie whilst supporting a range of local businesses. From jewellery and candles to wood work and beauty stalls, there’ll be a wide range of gifts. Wrap up warm for the authentic Christmas market experience in the playground from 7-9pm.

SUNDAY 4 DECEMBER

Haslemere Christmas Market 200 stalls in the town from 10am.

SATURDAY 10 DECEMBER

Winter Wonderland, Badshot Lea Village Infant School

Farnham GU9 9LE 12-3pm. Christmas grotto, magician, hampers, bottle tombolas, Christmas shopping stalls, Christmas crafts, festive games, delicious food and drinks and much more! Free entry, open to everyone.

Christmas Market, Camelsdale Primary School GU27 3RN The grounds of the school will be transformed into a Christmas Market from 3pm-6pm. Meet Father Christmas, start your Christmas shopping and enjoy a glass of mulled wine! Festive games, a bar, hot food, the opportunity to make reindeer food, stalls selling handmade goodies, raffle and much more. Entry is £2 per adult.

Christmas Fair at Heather Ridge Infant School Camberley, GU15 1AY Festive family fun event. Everyone is welcome. There’ll be mulled wine, festive food, wonderful stalls and great games for all the family. 1-4pm.

Ewhurst Infant School Christmas Fair The fair runs from 1-4pm at the school. The Ewhurst Festive Market is on the same day from 12-4pm in the village hall and on the village car park.

SUNDAY 11 DECEMBER

Christmas Market at Woking Leisure Centre 10am-3pm. In aid of Woking & Sam Beare Hospice and Wellbeing Care.

Farnham Christmas Market 10am. Over 150 stalls in Castle Street and The Borough.