Families London Surrey Borders November/December 21

FREE

Take Me Ho m

e

Beauty and The Beast Sat 11 Dec-Mon 3 Jan 2022 Box Office 01372 742555 www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk

IN THIS ISSUE Seasonal Celebrations!

Pantos and Christmas shows; Where’s Santa and more.

Issue 101 November/December 2021 Familiesonline.co.uk

Families London Surrey Borders familiesonline.co.uk

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The new Godstone Farm Day Nursery & Pre-School is now open.

Offering lots of stimulating play in a natural environment.

We make use of our plentiful 45 acres to create enriching experiences for children in their formative early years.

For details about our Open Events visit the website

Godstone Farm Day Nursery & Pre School

To join us at our next open day, please visit www.godstonefardaynursery.co.uk or call 01883 770 300

We can’t wait to welcome you back!

Epsom Square, 6-7 Derby Square, Epsom KT19 8AG 2

Families London Surrey Borders

Familiesonline.co.uk

CONTENTS

CONTACT US: EDITOR:

Tamar Pearson T: 075 3714 1998 E: editor@families-lsb.co.uk Readership of over 65,000 local parents, carers and teachers every issue. Published six times a year. For families from birth to twelve.

Welcome This Christmas I have some exceptionally exiting news to share.

I have been running Families LSB and Surrey East alongside each other for a few years, and this November they will be merging as Families London Surrey Borders, providing 65 000 local families with informative articles and comprehensive listings of activities, events, and family fun. Now that is something to celebrate.

Christmas is my favourite time of year, and there are lots of festive events and activities to make it special! It seems that booking a last-minute day out is a luxury of our past, so don’t miss out and book your festive days out early!

Where is Wiglet?

To kick off the festive fun, Godstone Farm has a game for your little ones. Search through the pages of this issue to see how many Wiglets can you find.

Wishing you and your families a fabulous festive season filled with all the happiness your hearts can hold.

Tamar xx

IN THIS ISSUE: 4 Christmas News 4 Local News 8 Clubs & Classes Directory 10 Where is Santa?

11 Local Festive Fun 12 What’s On for the Family 14 What’s On: Panto’s & Shows

An independent school and nursery for girls and boys aged 2-11, where there’s more to a good education.

Banstead Prep School is a diverse and inclusive community dedicated to equipping children with skills for life and helping each individual grow in character and be the best they can be.

With senior school standard facilities, Banstead Prep can offer the broadest range of opportunities as part of a an engaging, innovative, and exciting curriculum, helping to achieve the highest possible ambition for every child.

Take a virtual tour at bansteadprep.com/admissions

Cover image:

Beauty & The Beast at Epsom Playhouse

Families London Surrey Borders Magazine is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of this magazine are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Print Ltd. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine but Families Print Ltd, its distributors, franchisees and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequences thereof.

Familiesonline.co.uk

Sutton Lane I Banstead admissions@bansteadprep.com I 01737 363600 www.bansteadprep.com Families London Surrey Borders

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CHRISTMAS

Festive News Bring joy to a vulnerable child this Christmas Christmas won’t be magical for every child. It can be a difficult time of year for children in care who may be spending their first festive season away from their family.

And for households facing economic hardship, buying presents will once again put additional pressure on families.

Reading brings children profound and wide-ranging benefits that can have a lifelong positive impact on their lives, affecting their health, wellbeing, and their academic and social development. Just one book can brighten a vulnerable child’s Christmas.

This Christmas, BookTrust is aiming to give sixteen thousand books to children who need them the most – giving them access to a world of imagination, creativity, and possibilities. A £10 donation to BookTrust will help fund a surprise book gift for a vulnerable child and support BookTrust’s work during the year.

Find out more and donate at www.booktrust.org.uk/xmas

Personalised Footstools designed and upholstered for you!

What household would not be more colourful with one of these delightful, personalised footstools?

The creative genius of Melanie Brooks, a local Mum living in Godstone, makes these absolutely delicious, personalised footstools are a fantastic and unique Christmas present for anyone aged 1–100.

Our Festive Favourite

She supplies the kit; you decorate and return.

All kits returned by 13 December and will be ready for collection at her home in Godstone, or workroom in Brasted by Christmas.

If you have upholstery needs, contact Melanie on 07970 426448, or find her on Facebook www.facebook. com/mel.brooks.5055

This Christmas, try and have a zero-waste season Circular fashion has become a big part of the teaching at Stitches Academy, who are passionate to pass this onto other areas of their crafting.

One of their favourite zero waste ideas is to gift presents inside re-usable drawstring bags. You can recycle old materials, or either make them out of Christmas fabric for a super festive feel or go for a fun print for a more universal appeal.

Another idea is to use up scraps of fabric to make lovely machine embroidered Christmas cards. These ones were sewn onto parcel packing paper, so they are truly zero waste! Once you have created your design, cut around it and glue onto some folded white card.

For this and other great Christmas crafting and gift ideas, find Stitches Academy on Facebook and Instagram @stitchesacademy.

Details of their courses and sewing kits can be found on the website: www.stitchesacademy.co.uk. Courses start at beginner level for adults and children and take place in Cheam.

A letter from Santa All children love to receive a letter addressed to them in the post. And what could be more special than a letter from Santa?

Here are two ways of making this happen.

Royal Mail Letter to Santa For children to receive a FREE letter from Santa via the Royal Mail children must post their letter to Santa by 10 December.

Envelopes must have either a first or second class stamp and be addressed to Santa/Father Christmas, Santa’s Grotto, Reindeerland, XM4 5HQ. The letter must include your child’s full name and address.

More info at www.royalmail.com/christmas/letters-to-santa NSPCC Santa Letter Children can also receive a personalised reply from Santa via his elves at the NSPCC in exchange for a donation to the charity. The letter is ordered online and must be placed by 9 December.

More info at https://letterfromsanta.nspcc. org.uk

Maternal Instincts Bespoke antenatal education with hypnobirthing Birth and Postnatal Doula University Qualified Breastfeeding Support Traumatic Birth Recovery Parent First Aid Courses

Contact Helen 07485 477805 www.maternal-instincts.co.uk 4

Families London Surrey Borders

Would you like to learn to sew?

Classes for children, teens and adults info@ stitchesacademy.co.uk www.stitchesacademy.co.uk 16 upper Mulgrave Road, Cheam, Sutton, SM2 7AZ

Familiesonline.co.uk

CHRISTMAS

St Raphael’s Pudding Day, 4 December

the festive mood.

St Raphael’s Hospice pudding family are excited to invite you to take part in their first ever Pudding Day on 4 December! It is a fun way to support your local Hospice with family and friends whilst getting in

Taking part is super easy and Christmas cheer is guaranteed. Sign up at straphaels.org.uk/puddingday to receive your activity box, and complete games and challenges on Saturday, December 4th.

Help our patients and their families make memories this Christmas!

For more information, visit: www.straphaels.org.uk/puddingday

Festive fun at Epsom Square Epsom Square has so many exciting fun things happening for all ages during the festive season.

The fabulous restaurants, street food cabins and cafés are bursting with festive food, drink, and cheer.

Our fantastic library, Rascals Soft Play, Snippetydodahs children’s Hairdressers, Ambition Dance Studio and Anytime Fitness 24-hour gym are hosting Christmas activities and offers, and we have a few surprises in store for you too. Keep your eyes on our social media channels for more info! Instagram @epsomsquare_ and Facebook @epsomsquareNEW www.epsomsquare.co.uk

I U G Q I N Z X X F P J Y O U L N B T A X Q N L M B F C Q L X I C E F I S H I N G E D I V H N E A N Q S J B I J A W N A S U W S N O W F L A K E T G Z N N S T N D U Y F I A D F G X O V U K Z O E R F A L D B E C W E Z E Y O W H E G N W Z I Z

Shop local with the Swan Shopping Centre Shop local this Christmas, visit The Swan Centre, Leatherhead. Buy wonderful gifts at the craft market, meet friends for a coffee and pre-order your Christmas food.

On Saturday 4, 11 and 18 December meet Santa in his magical toy shop. Write him a letter and take part in some festive crafts.

The Swan Centre is excited to welcome its new store Violet London. Keep a close eye on the website for amazing opening offers including 50% off purchases for the first 50 customers!

Don’t forget there is free parking every Saturday and Sunday in December. More info at www.theswancentre.co.uk

Christmas at The Belfry Shopping Centre Prize Elf Hunt! For the chance to win £50 of Belfry shopping vouchers, join in the elf hunt to find Santa’s elves hidden around shops in the Centre until Christmas Eve. Late night Christmas shopping is until 6pm from Saturday 13 November–Saturday 18 December, and until 7pm from Monday 20–Thursday 23 December. Parking is just £1 for the first hour and £1 all day on Sunday.

The Centre continues to follow the latest government COVID guidelines. Find out more about Christmas at the The Belfry Shopping Centre at www.redhillbelfry.co.uk

Festive Fun Word search There are lots of fun and exciting things to see and do on a trip to Santa’s Lapland, can you help us find them all in this word search?

Santa, Reindeer, Snowflake, Elves, Husky, Snowmobile, Ice Fishing, Sleigh, Snow Hockey

H M S M G Z G M E I Z S Z M B O N L S A N T A O Q N K T B G C K E K T G C P M B K D A H R K T I Y E L V E S P I Y E L W E X G O Q U M Y A X Z L X E Z Y S H A K S A E F U S J E I R R O E H I H O C P B C K J H G

Familiesonline.co.uk

Imagine seeing all these in person in snowy Lapland, to find out more visit SantasLapland.com

Families London Surrey Borders

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LOCAL NEWS

Local news

Maternal Journal you way through pregnancy and into Motherhood Maternal Journal provides a positive outlet for some of the new feelings and challenges new and expectant mums might experience, both physically and emotionally in pregnancy and parenthood.

Through an 8-week group of creative workshops for expectant or new mums with babies under 1, who live in the London Borough of Sutton, we will explore the history and practice of journaling to promote positive mental health and well-being.

Maternal Journal Sutton is a partnership between Home-Start Sutton and Pia Jaime, an Artist, Educator and Maternal Journal Founding Mother.

Firebird Academy of Ballet students perform in English Youth Ballet’s 2021 Nutcracker season Students from the ballet school Firebird Academy of Ballet in Coulsdon successfully auditioned for an opportunity to perform in the English Youth Ballet’s 2021 Nutcracker Season. Dancers Abi, Elise and Abigail will get their first experience dancing in a professional production this Winter in the parts of Snowflakes and Sweets.

Families LSB Star Pupils

The next group will be in late January/February 2022 at Riverside Centre, Carshalton on Thursdays from 12.30-2pm. For more information and to sign up, email judith@homestartsutton. org.uk, call 07708134969. visit www.homestartsutton.org.uk or www.maternaljournal.org.uk

The number one club for new and expectant parents Try a class for FREE!

They will also be performing in the Firebird Academy of Ballet’s Christmas Showcase in December. FAB’s holiday performances spotlight their students’ high level of confidence and graceful movement as well as mastery of the RAD and ISTD syllabi. Firebird students are always enthusiastically looking forward to moving up through the levels.

Join a wonderful community of like-minded mums in Reigate for support, fitness and wellbeing along your pregnancy and postnatal journey. Enjoy a variety of professional and covid-compliant fitness and wellbeing classes for you and your baby! We offer mums a unique combination of baby, pregnancy, and Mummy & Me fitness classes.

This season’s performance on Sunday, 12 December at 4:30 pm at Woodcote High School will help to give them the experience they need to move forward. You can enjoy watching all FAB’s levels of students perform dances created especially for the season wearing lovely festive costumes.

With no child-care required Busylizzy is a great way of having fun and getting fit with your little ones. Our local membership in Reigate offers fantastic flexibility to suit your schedule and preferences. Members can enjoy local outdoor and indoor classes. As well as virtual classes and expert talks through Busy Lizzy Live!

To learn more about them, visit www.firebirdballet.com and check out their Facebook page to keep up-to-date with exciting upcoming events.

East Surrey Dance Ballet, Modern & Tap classes for children of all ages

Visit www.busylizzy.co.uk/reigate or email: reigateandhorley@busylizzy.co.uk for more information.

The Lotus Practice Now offering ü Cranio-sacral therapy ü Baby Massage Courses ü Baby Yoga Courses ü Osteopathy

Weekly Dance Classes in Bletchingley and Woldingham Royal Academy of Dance Ballet Modern & Tap Pre-School BalletSwans and Cygnets Toddler Dance RAD Examinations Stage Shows Presentations Community Events Holiday Schools 01737 764668 Hannah@eastsurreydance.co.uk

@eastsurreydance www.eastsurreydance.co.uk

Principal: Hannah Robinson BA (Hons) LRAD RTS

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Families London Surrey Borders

CranioSacral therapy is a gentle, non-invasive handon technique that supports body’s innate ability to balance, restore and heal itself. It is suitable for everyone from new-born to elderly.

) 07956442223 : thelotus@hotmail.co.uk 8 www.thelotuspractice.com Familiesonline.co.uk

LOCAL NEWS

Furnistore, a little charity with a big heart Furnistore is a small charity based in Redhill that rely on donations of quality furniture and household goods for resale to the public.

Those on means tested benefits receive a 50% discount.

If families are needy, Furnistore will give furniture and household goods away free of charge and have fully furnished very many homes for free. They offer a delivery and collections service, which go a long way to easing the issues of landfill. Furnistore relies on volunteers to make all of this happen and take great care to ensure that all volunteers feel valued.

If you have any furniture or household items that are no longer needed or have a few hours a week to help volunteer come along to their warehouse at 34, Holmethorpe Avenue, Redhill, RH1 2NL Monday–Saturday, 10am–4pm, or call 01737 773 133.

Sarah Wiseglass, a local mumpreneur and Mum of two, is delighted to be welcoming all her Tumble Tots Epsom pupils again.

TumbleTots offer local families a progressive play programme that is designed to develop children’s physical skills. Using bespoke colourful equipment TumbleTots focus on agility, balance, climbing and co-ordination, which enhances brain development and builds confidence.

Every session is supervised by amazing specially trained staff, getting the best out of each child. Grown-ups participate in all classes up until 3, so that parents, carers and even grandparents can spend time with little ones as they develop.

Classes are held in Rayners Park. Ewell, Sutton, Epsom and Cheam and begin for babies from 6 months old who can sit up unaided all the way up to age 7.

Visit www.furnistore.co.uk for more information.

Little Downsend shortlisted for ISA award for Excellence and Innovation in Early Years The award, titled ‘Excellence and Innovation in Early Years’ specifically focused on Little Downsend’s work with FIRST LEGO League Discover and the Institution of Engineering and Technology.

Children worked through the process of designing an obstacle course for a local outdoor space that could be used by lots of different people to keep them healthy. Using a LEGO Education kits they explored, designed, tested and built their obstacle course. They had time to free build, to learn through play, to record their notes and engage in plenty of collaborative discussion.

Built around the Early Learning Goals, specifically aiming to support the development of language and communication, problem-solving and collaboration skills, Little Downsend were able to demonstrate that children’s academic outcomes had been impacted positively by the initiative.

More info: www.downsend.co.uk

Fun play for little ones from 6 months to 7 years

Contact Sarah on 0753 9468 002, or email epsom@tumbletots. com for more information. www.tumbletots.com/epsom

Imagine the future of mobility in the Toyota Dream Car Art Contest Designed to inspire creativity and interest in how the freedom of mobility can help make the world a better place, Toyota’s Dream Car Art Contest encourages children to let their imagination run wild to come up with innovative forms of transport that can move people from place to place whilst protecting the environment.

Children’s dream car designs need to be presented against a colourful background and to include an explanation of how the car works and what makes it special. They can use pens, pencils, crayons or paint, or computer art tools if they want to present their work in a digital format. Original works can be scanned and submitted as digital files, if preferred.

There are three age group categories: under eights, 8-11 years and 11-15 years. Visit www.toyota.co.uk/ dreamcar-2022 for more information and entry forms.

The closing date for entries is 21 December 2021.

Epsom-Advert-6cmH-x-4.5cmW-21.06.21.pdf 1 21/06/2021 15:36:05 Aberdour Layout 1 8/10/2021 12:54 Page 1

THE UK’S NO.1 CLUB FOR NEW AND EXPECTANT PARENTS

PREGNANCY FITNESS

Independent day school for boys and girls aged 2-11 years

C

BABY CLASSES

Wishing all of our Aberdour families and the local community a bright and joyful festive season

M

Y

CM

POSTNATAL FITNESS

MY

CY

COME FOR A

FREE TRIAL

busylizzy.co.uk/reigate Familiesonline.co.uk

CMY

Centres in Epsom, Ewell, Sutton, North Cheam & Raynes Park

K

Sarah Wiseglass • 07539 468 002 epsom@tumbletots.com www.tumbletots.com/epsom

Finding the brilliance in every child 01737 354119 / registrar@aberdourschool.co.uk Brighton Road, Burgh Heath, Surrey KT20 6AJ

www.aberdourschool.co.uk

Families London Surrey Borders

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CLUBS & CLASSES

CLUBS & CLASSES DIRECTORY Preschool and Toddler

Performing Arts

Aquatots Various locations Swim programme for children from 10 wks-8 yrs. www.aquatots.com

Ambition Dance Epsom Dance classes for children 18 months to adult classes from beginner level. www.ambitiondance.co.uk

Busylizzy Various locations Pregnancy & postnatal fitness sessions, baby & toddler classes, talks and family events. https://busylizzy.co.uk Mini Athletics Reigate, Dorking, Sutton, Croydon Structures structured and fun athletics programme for children 2–7 yrs. www.miniathletics.com

C&C Dance School Nutfield /Reigate classes Fun and friendly classes held in Nutfield & Reigate, including Adult classes.

For more information, please visit www.candcdanceschool.co.uk Dance Studio 84 Sanderstead Royal Academy of Dance ballet school. Suitable for children aged 3+yrs. www.dancestudio84.org DTAA - Dynamic Theatre Arts Academy Sanderstead, South Croydon Inspiring students to achieve, whilst having fun and building confidence.

Ballet Modern, Tap, Acro Musical, Theatre and Street Dance Classes for 2-8 yrs. www.dtaacademy.co.uk

The Lotus Practice - Baby Massage and Yoga Croydon Baby yoga is relaxing and enjoyable for both mum and babies and supports bonding.

Massage offers a unique way to raise the ‘feel-good’ hormone oxytocin in your and your baby. www.thelotuspractice.com TumbleTots Epsom Epsom, Ewell, Sutton, North Cheam A progressive play programme designed to develop children’s balance, climbing and co-ordination, which enhances brain development and builds confidence. From 6 months, and can sit up unaided. www.tumbletots.com/epsom Rugbytots Various locations Rugbytots is a fun and dynamic PreSchool play programme for boys and girls 2-7 yrs. www.rugbytots.co.uk

Vital Yoga Toddler Yoga Reigate Come move your body with your little one! Exploring positive movement, songs, laughter and joy! www.facebook.com/ vitalyogareigate

East Surrey Dance Bletchingley and Woldingham Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) Ballet, Modern and Tap classes in Bletchingley and Woldingham for children from 18 months up to 16 yrs. www.eastsurreydance.co.uk Ewell Dance Ewell, Epsom, Stoneleigh Ballet, modern,tap, contemporary, street dance, acro and musical theatre. 2+yrs. www.ewelldance.com

Firebird Academy of Ballet Coulsdon Ballet training inspiring creativity and artistry in the next generation of ballet dancers. 3+yrs. https://firebirdballet.com Stagecoach Performing Arts Various locations Boost confidence and creativity through dance, singing, and acting.

Ages 4-18 yrs. www.stagecoach.co.uk

Call Tamar on 075 3714 1998 for more information.

Families London Surrey Borders

Active Sports

Kidslingo Coulsdon, Tadworth, Banstead Fun French classes for all ages. www.kidslingo.co.uk Kingswood Surrey Music Tadworth Teaching Music education, Singing & Performance skills, Piano & Music Theory. Choir sessions starting September. www.kingswoodsurreymusic.co.uk

Future Gymnastics Carshalton and South Croydon From absolute beginner to Future Pro’s, Future Gymnastics offer recreational and squad classes for boys and girls age 3+ www.futuregymnastics.co.uk

Petite Ecole Reigate Reigate La Petite École de Reigate offers French classes every Saturday, for children from 4-16. www.petite-ecole-reigate.co.uk

Future Generation Cheerleading South Croydon Brand new recreational and competitive cheerleading team located in Croydon www.futuregymnastics.co.uk/ Great Waves Swimming Academy Various locations Lessons for swimmers of all ages and abilities. 1-2-1 and 2-2-1 lessons are available. www.greatwaves.co.uk MultiSports Sutton and Cheam Nonsuch High School for Girls MultiSports Schools offer children aged between 4-16 yrs, 18 different sports a year. www.multisportssutton.co.uk Skills UK Croydon, Sutton Awesome and exciting weekly football sessions. Ages 2-11 yrs. www.skillzuk.co.uk

Art K Various locations Art learning in the studio and at home, to suit every pupil who loves art! www.art-k.co.uk Craft My Day Worcester Park Crafts activities that range from papercraft, decoupage, painting, printing, powertex, sewing and much more! www.craftmyday.com

Calling all young Scientists!

Help us discover how babies & kids learn!

We’re recruiting infants from birth to school age to take part in fun studies at Birkbeck’s Babylab & ToddlerLab in central London. Our prime locations are easy to reach and we refund travel expenses. We also have online studies you can do from the comfort of home www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk/online-studies

020 7631 6258 babylab@bbk.ac.uk www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk

Dunottar Saturday Music Academy Reigate Music tuition for young musicians aged 5-18. All abilities welcome.

Piano, Singing, Woodwind, Strings, Brass and Music Theory. www.dunottarschool.com/ musicacademy

Axten 1-2-1 Private Football Coaching Across London & Surrey 1-2-1 football coaching with UEFA B License football coach for beginners to professionals. www.axtenfc.com

Art, Language and Music

Get your club or class seen by 1000’s of local parents for less than £20 per month.

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Hidden Gems Theatre School Coulsdon Performing arts Theatre School specialising in musical theatre, dance, singing & drama for kids ages 3-16. Youth MHFA, BAST singing teacher. Holiday workshops. www.hiddengemstheatreschool. co.uk

Stitches Academy of Sewing and Creative Arts Cheam Sewing and textiles classes for children and adults. Lessons take place daytimes, afterschool, evenings and at the weekends.

121 and home education groups available. www.stitchesacademy.co.uk

Academic Tuition First Class Learning Various locations Providing expert English and maths tuition for children of all ages and abilities. www.firstclasslearning.co.uk Maths Masters Epsom, Tadworth & Redhill Professional, affordable maths tuition clubs for children at Key Stages 1-2.

Fun and friendly, small groups 1-3 ratio. www.maths-masters.co.uk Mock Test Masters Sutton, Croydon, Wallington Specialist providers of 11+ mock tests in the UK. www.mocktestmasters.co.uk

Firebird Academy of

Ballet

RAD Ballet Classes for ages 3 to Adult Book a FREE trial Class!

www.firebirdballet.com firebirdballet@gmail.com 07307 189 949

Familiesonline.co.uk

Familiesonline.co.uk

Families London Surrey Borders

9

CHILDREN’S What’s On THEATRE

What's On

Where is Santa?

SURREY & SURROUNDS

office! Book your special time to meet Santa in his magical grotto 4–5 and 11–24 December.

27 & 28 Nov and every Sat & Sun before Christmas in Dec Denbies Santa Express www.denbies.co.uk Join us for an extra special ride on Santa’s Express train.

A ride through the vineyard on the Santa Express with Santa himself! A gift from Santa’s elves at the end of your ride 4, 11 & 18 Dec Santa’s Magical Toy Shop The Swan Centre, Leatherhead www.swancentreyardley.co.uk Meet Santa in his magical toy shop. Write him a letter and take part in some festive crafts.

4, 5, 11, 12, 18–22 Dec Santa Cruises Loxwood RH14 0RD www.weyarun.org.uk Children under 12 years can meet Santa and his helpers and receive an early Christmas present.

4, 5, 11 & 12 Dec Santa Specials Rural Life Centre GU10 2DL www.rural-life.org.uk Enjoy a train ride around the Museum site before meeting Santa in his enchanted grotto where the children will receive a gift from the man in red himself.

25 Nov-24 Dec Bocketts Farm www.bockettsfarm.co.uk Hope on board the Santa Express trailer and head to Santa’s workshop. Meet the big man in his grotto and receive a special golden coin to spend in his toy shop! Professional photos and souvenirs available.

From 4 Dec London Transport Museum www.ltmuseum.co.uk Meet Santa and help him fix his sleigh to keep delivering his presents!

27 Nov-3 Jan Legoland www.legoland.co.uk Enjoy your holiday with a bit of LEGO magic including lights, snow-dusted pine trees and seasonal festivities! Meet Father Christmas in his log cabin and receive a special LEGO gift. Don’t miss his parade around the park!

17-24 Dec Santa’s Sitting Room Leatherhead Institute KT22 8AH www.thelittleboxoffice.com/ santasittingroom Santa’s Sitting Room is a unique grotto/theatrical experience recommended for children aged 12 months+, for children to embrace the true and magical atmosphere of Christmas past, spending time with Santa.

LONDON 17 Nov-9 Jan Christmas at Kew www.kew.org Enjoy Kew’s magical trail of lights complete with tunnels of light, colourful trees, and waterside

Winter Woodland Grotto at the Belfry Shopping Centre!

Santa opens his magical Winter Woodland Grotto at the Belfry, Redhill on Saturday 13 November.

Enjoy a day of free festive family entertainment, exciting giveaways and traditional Christmas food carts, with celebrity stars from this year’s Aladdin panto at The Harlequin Theatre joining in the fun!

Santa’s Grotto will be open at weekends and then every day from Saturday 11 December to Friday 24 December for children to safely meet Santa and his friendly elves, and receive a wrapped gift, with the option to purchase souvenir photographs.

All tickets must be pre-booked online at www.redhillbelfry. co.uk/grotto-booking-2021# 10

Families London Surrey Borders

reflections before saying hello to Father Christmas along the way!

From 19 Nov Hyde Park Winter Wonderland www.hydeparkwinterwonderland. com Enjoy some rides, games, shows and festive food before taking a meeting with Santa himself. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for his parade which will make its way through the park area 27 Nov-24 Dec Winter’s Tail Chessington World of Adventures www.chessington.com Meet Santa in his grotto and then head on over to his very own toy workshop where children can choose a gift to take home.

Every ticket to allows entry to the grotto.

27 Nov-3 Jan ZSL London Zoo www.zsl.org Find out what the zoo animals want for Christmas by taking the fun, family trail and then mail off their lists at Mrs. Claus’ post

4, 5, 18, and 19 Dec Chelsea Physic Garden www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk Gather around as Father Christmas tells his tale of life in the North Pole as well as his love for trees, plants, and our planet.

Photo opportunity and a gift follow.

2–21 Dec Story Time with Father Christmas The Royal Albert Hall www.royalalberthall.com In this very special festive experience, magic awaits your little ones as beautiful porch at The Royal Albert Hall is transformed into an enchanting winter grotto.Families are invited to step inside a whimsical world where they will be greeted by Father Christmas and his merry head elf Crumpet as they take you on a joyful journey in this charming Christmas Storytime session, ending with each child taking home their very own gift!

Father Christmas visits Godstone Farm this festive season The wonder of Christmas returns to Godstone Farm, with their ever-popular visits to see Father Christmas and his friendly Elves in his cosy grotto.

Catch the magic in an enchanted woodland walkthrough and let the wondrous story captivate little minds. Father Christmas visits include the choice of a brilliant toy from the farm’s charming Christmas themed toy shop, as well as a session to decorate (and eat!) a sweet treat.

Tickets include entry to the farm for the whole day, a chance to visit hundreds of resident animals, extensive outdoor play areas and a session in the indoor softplay barn. www.godstonefarm.co.uk

Familiesonline.co.uk

What’s On

If you do one thing this festive season.....

Enjoy Christmas at Polesden Lacey and Hatchlands Park Polesden Lacey www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ PolesdenChristmas Polesden Lacey has been enchanted this Christmas, with the house and garden transformed by the evergreen beauty of the festive season.

Visit from 27 November - 26 December to enjoy this magical experience of Christmas.

Hatchlands Park ww.nationaltrust.org.uk/ hatchlands-park/whats-on The house at Hatchlands will be open for the first time this Christmas from 1-23 Dec, Tue-Fri and Sundays, 12-3pm. It will be dressed for a traditional country Christmas (included in admission).

Check venue for new dates.

Visit Father Christmas at Hatchlands Park Father Christmas is visiting Hatchlands again this year. You can come along and meet him in his cosy festive sitting room in the courtyard, have a quick chat and receive a small present.

Admission + £5 per child.

Booking is essential.

© Nick Butterworth 2021

Sat 27 & Sun 28 Nov, 11am-3pm Meet Rudolf’s reindeer cousins at Polesden Lacey Come and meet Snowflake and Cracker and learn about how special they are from Ms Claus and Santa’s chief reindeer herder.

They will be very hungry after their journey, so perhaps you might like to feed them some of

Wreath making workshop at Polesden Lacey Make your own Christmas wreath by joining our workshops using foliage gathered from the Polesden Estate.

Take part in Percy the Park Keeper’s winter wander trail Percy the Park Keeper’s winter wander trail will be running from Sat 4 Dec - Mon 3 Jan. Follow a trail around the beautiful parkland paths. You and your family can become Percy’s helper for the day, stepping into his wellies while he’s busy elsewhere on site. You might find that you get some helpers of your own in the form of Percy’s animal friends. There will be winter tasks, activities, games, clues and a note from Percy to help you along the way. Everyone’s welcome but it is most suited to ages 2-8.

Admission + £2 per trail.

Percy the Park Keeper’s winter wander trail will be taking place at Hatchlands Park and Polesden Lacey. Look online for more details. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/percy Familiesonline.co.uk

© National Trust 2021. Registered charity no. 205846. ©National Trust Images/John Millar

Fri, Sat, Sun from 27 Nov–19 Dec Daily from 20 Dec–23 Dec. Finding Father Christmas at Polesden Lacey Outside in the woods, two elves need help in finding Father Christmas and his lost presents.

Join on a magical adventure through the enchanted woods and you might meet the great man himself.

their favourite food: Norwegian reindeer moss.

Christmas

at Polesden Lacey and Hatchlands Park

Hatchlands Park Explore the parkland with Percy the Park Keeper’s winter wander trail. Enjoy festive treats from the café and see the house dressed for a traditional country Christmas.

Parkland trail: daily from 4 Dec. House: Tue-Fri & Sun, 12‑3pm, 1‑23 Dec. Polesden Lacey The house and garden have been transformed by the evergreen beauty of the festive season. Join us for a magical Christmas experience inside and out.

Open daily from 27 Nov-26 Dec. For further details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lists/christmas-in-surrey Normal admission and some events carry an extra charge.

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WHAT’S ON

What's On

events for all the family

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the information displayed here is accurate, always check with the venue before attending. Expect social distancing and pre-booking to still be in place.

Every Sat, 10am - 4pm Purley Market 50 High Street, CR8 2AA www.purleybid.co.uk An amazing selection of traders and street food available every Saturday.

Mon term time Park Explorers Morden Hall Park SM4 5JD www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mordenhall-park For children ages 2-5 years and their parents where they learn about the natural world around us, with a different outdoor theme each week.

Every Sat Local craft market Swan Shopping Centre, Leatherhead www.theswancentre.co.uk Buy wonderful gifts at the craft market, meet friends for a coffee and pre-order Christmas food.

9–13 Nov 5 Day Gift Market Bourne Hall KT17 1UF www.epsom-ewell.gov.uk/ A varied assortment of stalls and always something different and unusual. The ideal place to get your Christmas gifts.

Every second Sat of the month Wallington Farmers Market Old Town Hall www.ecolocal.org.uk Quality local produce direct from the producer.

10–14 Nov Craft & Design Fair RHS Wisley GU23 6QB www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley The Craft & Design Fair offers a large variety of unusual and original designs to suit all tastes.

Every Sat & Thu Epsom Town Market Epsom Marketplace www.epsom-ewell.gov.uk/ Epsom is a market town and has a traditional market in the heart of the town.

13 Nov A Vintage Christmas Rural Life Centre GU10 2DL www.rural-life.org.uk This vintage and retro market offers something special for lovers of mid-century style, with antiques, vintage and retro items on sale.

Every Fri, bank holidays Taste of The World Market Epsom Marketplace https://bit.ly/3iPpwYZ A great selection of fresh food and take away stalls from around the world.

13 Nov Museum Kids Club Bourne Hall KT17 1UF www.epsom-ewell.gov.uk/ The Unknown Warrior and the Khaki Detectives of WW1.This is the story of that work carried out recovering and identifying British soldiers who died in battle.

First Sun of the month Epsom Farmers Market Epsom Marketplace www.surreymarkets.co.uk Farmer’s market selling fresh local meat and produce.

Every Fri Trails and Tales Gatton Park RH2 0TW www.gattonpark.co.uk Listen to your favourite children’s story and then explore a trail around the garden.

13 Nov-9 Jan Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink www.hrp.org.uk Skate at one of the country’s most scenic skating settings – Henry Vlll’s historic Thames-side Tudor palace.

16–27 Nov Nonsuch Craft Fair Bourne Hall KT17 1UF www.epsom-ewell.gov.uk/ A wide selection of locally handcrafted items will be on sale.

19 Nov–4 Jan Glow RHS Wisley GU23 6QB www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley See the garden sparkle this festive season and follow dazzling displays lighting a magical trail.

From 20 Nov (Wed–Sun) Daily from 8-24 Dec & 27 Dec –3 Jan Discover the magic of Pinocchio Hever Castle TN8 7NG www.hevercastle.co.uk Take a magical journey along the immersive Christmas trail with captivating displays and meet characters from the Adventures of Pinocchio.

20 Nov Capel Christmas Fair Memorial & Parish Halls RH5 5LD www.capelchristmasfair.co.uk A new Charity Fairs Association fair in aid of two charities.

Many stalls lined up and lots of refreshments available all day!

20 Nov–9 Jan Snowsaurus Painshill KT11 1JE www.painshill.co.uk/ Dinosaur trail accompanied by fun activity book. Book online.

21 Nov Military Vehicles Day Brooklands Museum KT13 0SL www.brooklandsmuseum.com/ Visitors will be able to see the many of the lightweight vehicles put through their paces, as they tackle the punishing 4x4 course at Mercedes-Benz World.

25 Nov–23 Dec THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride Spa Valley Railway www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk Your adventure starts at Spa Valley Railway as you journey to the North Pole and back. You’ll meet your favourite icons from the beloved movie, and of course the magical Santa Claus himself.

27 Nov Carshalton Artists Christmas Art Fair www.facebook.com/ events/1088135522029141/ Buy original arts and crafts for Christmas at affordable prices.

27 Nov Christmas Comes to Caterham www.facebook.com/caterhamvalley Christmas Market, Community Stalls, Santa’s Grotto, DJ, Artisan Craft Fair, Food & Drinks Stalls, Festive Tea Room, Snow Globe, Children’s Rides and Live Music.

28 Nov The Dorking Christmas Festival www.dorkingtownpartnership. co.uk Fun filled day for all ages celebrating our wonderful town businesses including plenty of entertainment and Christmas Light Switch On. 30 Nov Family Wreath-Making Workshop Gatton Park RH2 0TW www.gattonpark.co.uk Make a willow wreath and decorate with natural fallage.6 +.

2 Dec Banstead Christmas Community Event www.reigate-banstead.gov.uk Free Christmas community event for all the family, street entertainment, special guests, kids treasure hunt, shopping offers.

R ALL!!!

CLAS S ESIAFO L CL AS S FREE TR

Principals:

Miss C Walford CDE - AISTD (Dip)

Miss C Taylor (Dip Dance Performers Course) Accredited by Council for Dance Education & Training in UK

Ballet, Modern, Tap, Musical Theatre, Mini Movers, Drama, Jazz Hip Hop/Commercial Jazz, Tread the Boards & Adult Classes. www.facebook.com/candcdanceschool

t: 01737

12

763391

e: misswalford@aol.com w:

candcdanceschool.co.uk

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WHAT’S ON 3–5 Dec Festive Fayre at Hampton Court Palace www.hrp.org.uk Soak up the atmosphere and spirit of the season with sing-along festive classics indulge in delicious street food with warming festive drinks.

4, 5 & 11 Dec Harvest your own Christmas tree Witley Common GU8 5QJ www.nationaltrust.org.uk/witleyand-milford-commons Hunt for your own Scots pine tree to cut and take home for Christmas and help us with our important heathland conservation work.

4 Dec Bletchingley Christmas and Craft Fair www.tandridge.gov.uk A wide range of goods and crafts direct from crafters.

4 Dec–4 Jan Percy the Park Keeper’s winter wander trail National Trust Venues www.nationaltrust.org.uk/percy See page 11 for details.

4 Dec Festive musical cheer Belfry Shopping Centre, Redhill www.redhillbelfry.co.uk Enjoy beautiful Christmas music from the Rock Choir, Copthorne Prep Choir, St Matthews Choir, and the Renewed Hope Choir, whose volunteers will be at the Centre if you would like to make a monetary donation.

8 Dec–3 Jan Palace of Stardust Hampton Court Palace www.hrp.org.uk Visitors will lose track of time as they explore the historic cobbled courtyards and gardens, filled with magical illuminations inspired by the palace’s famous astronomical clock; the ticking Tudor heart of Hampton Court installed by command of King Henry VIII. 10 Dec Bach to Baby Christmas Family Concert St. Mildred’s, CR0 7EB www.bachtobaby.com/ Magical music, festive frolics, sparkles and spices. Grab your family and meet us at a Bach to Baby concert for the perfect prelude to the holiday season!

11 Dec The Rosehill Xmas Market Wrythe Lane, SM1 3 www.facebook.com/SHMACF Santa will be here, in an all new Grotto & there will be stalls and entertainment for you all!

11 Dec Museum Kids Club Bourne Hall KT17 1UF www.epsom-ewell.gov.uk The South African War (or Boer War). The largest and most costly war in which Britain engaged between the Napoleonic wars and The Frist World War. 12 Dec Your local Santa Dash in Nonsuch Park www.straphaels.org.uk Have great family fun and support

St Raphael’s Hospice. Adults, children and four-legged friends of all ages and abilities are welcome.

Santas can run, jog, skip or walk either of the routes. Radio Jackie will provide festive entertainment and there will be delicious refreshments available.

12 Dec Denbies Santa Run www.denbies.co.uk It’s never too early to start thinking about Christmas and slipping into that red and white suit for a little festive fun and exercise. Outfits provided.

18–19 Dec Christmas Make and Take Weekend Rural Life Centre GU10 2DL www.rural-life.org.uk A weekend of festive make and take activities.

4–5 Dec Christmas Mini-Market Ightham Mote TN15 0NT www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ ightham-mote Kick start your festive shopping with this mini market celebrating local producers.

12 Dec Winter Welly Walk Gatton Park RH2 0TW www.gattonpark.co.uk Make a willow star decoration, follow the Christmas trail around the lake and then whittle a stick to cook a marshmallow over the fire.

A Christmas Orchestral Adventure The Royal Albert Hall has been the home of Christmas in London for 150 years. See their website for this year’s programme, it is full of heartwarming live events to be enjoyed with your loved ones.

Sun 12 Dec My Christmas Orchestral Adventure Calling Santa’s little helpers!

Oh no! Father Christmas has lost his map on a practice run of his delivery route! Thankfully our trusty ensemble has found it, but they need your help to return it to him ahead of the big day! Zip around the world on an orchestral adventure to track him down. Will you help Albert’s Orchestra save Christmas?

SANTA DASH 12TH DECEMBER

Visit Father Christmas Selected dates in December

Registered Charity No 1182636

WALK, SKIP OR RUN AND HAVE GREAT FAMILY FUN!

Tickets on sale now! www.godstonefarm.co.uk Familiesonline.co.uk

Nonsuch Park or route of your choice 020 8254 2450 straphaels.org.uk/santadash21

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CHILDREN’S WHAT’S ON THEATRE What’s On

What's On Beauty and The Beast at Epsom Playhouse

Epsom Playhouse KT18 5AL www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk 9 Nov Neil Sands - Christmas Memories Join NeilSands for a dazzling sleigh ride of yuletide memories, filled with over 60 of your all-time favourite Christmas songs and Carols that will have you singing along from start to finish.

4-24 Dec Santa’s Best Ever Christmas (Myers Studio) It’s a family show most suitable for 2–7-year-olds, where every child will receive a specially wrapped present from Santa after the most Christmassy Christmas show ever.

11 Dec-Jan Beauty and The Beast This classic fairy tale has been transformed into a rip-roaring family pantomime for all children aged from 4 to 104. At the Great British Pantomime Awards 2020, The Epsom Playhouse pantomime ‘Peter Pan’ won the ‘Best Pantomime in the Country’ category and with this year’s fabulous professional cast of actors, singers, comics and dancers, this year’s pantomime show’s every promise to be perfect treat for the whole family at Christmas.

The Barn Theatre RH8 0AA www.barntheatreoxted.co.uk 2-4 Dec Matilda JR A gleefully witty ode to the anarchy of childhood and the power of imagination! This story of a girl who dreams of a better life and the children she inspires will have audiences rooted.

7–10 Dec Big Fish Big Fish is a heartfelt, powerful, and truly magical musical about fathers, sons, and the stories that we use to define our identities.

Big Fish is a magnificent “big fish”of a tale, itself - spectacular, fantastical, and overflowing with love.

14–22 Jan (excl 17 & 18) Beauty and the Beast www.barntheatreoxted.co.uk The Oxted Players invite you to join us for two hours of sidesplitting, toe-tapping musical fun!

With an array of eccentric and magical characters.

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Christmas at the Harlequin RH1 1NN www.harlequintheatre.co.uk The Harlequin Theatre in the heart of Redhill has a brilliant festive season lined up to keep you entertained as the nights draw in.

There’s something for everyone – drama, live music, dance, comedy and family shows, along with a sprinkling of magic and, of course, panto!

10-13 Nov 9 to 5 The Musical East Surrey Performing Arts are back with a brilliant comedy musical, featuring music by Dolly Parton.

12-21 Nov Ron’s Gone Wrong A feel-good family film about a boy and his malfunctioning robot, from the creators of Arthur Christmas.

20 Nov The Snow Queen Join Ballet Theatre UK for their spectacular production of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairy tale ballet.

10 Dec–2 Jan Aladdin After a year away, the magical production of Aladdin will be bigger and better than ever, uniting family and friends with a long-awaited dose of fun, laughter and escapism. Genie-us!

The cosy Waller Studio is showing a cracking range of films and event screenings at great-value prices, and there’s freshly made food and barista coffee available in the café.

Fairfield Halls Park Lane CR9 1DG www.fairfield.co.uk 9 Dec The Magical Music of Harry Potter Original actors, magic, star soloists, a choir and symphonic orchestra will bring the magical music of Harry Potter to life!

10 Dec–2 Jan Beauty and the Beast Family Pantomime Featuring all the ingredients of a traditional pantomime including big song and dance numbers, side-splitting comedy, lots of audience participation and a huge

Panto & Family Shows Cinderella at The Hawth Theatre

sprinkling of pantomime magic this is a show that will delight young and old. Dick & Dom and Derek Griffiths will be starring in this year’s pantomime.

Guildford Spectrum GU1 1UP www.guildfordspectrum.co.uk 9–12 Dec Guildford Spectrum presents Jack and the Beanstalk on Ice Let Spectrum Ice transport you to a winter wonderland this Christmas, as the popular pantomime returns to the ice.

Polka Theatre SW19 1SB www.polkatheatre.com 12 Nov–30 Jan Cinderella: the AWESOME truth Think you know the story of Cinderella? Well, let us introduce Cindy and Ella: the REAL ugly sisters. Cindy wants to be rich and famous and is glued to her phone. Ella’s been practising her kickboxing and just wants to have fun. Ages 5+.

4 Dec–16 Jan The Night Before Christmas Join Amber on a festive journey like no other - after all, on the night before Christmas, surprises can happen. Ages 3–7.

The Leatherhead Theatre KT22 89 DN www.theleatherheadtheatre.com 5 Dec Dandelion Theatre Arts Presents the Nutcracker Join Dandelion Theatre Arts as they take the audience on journey through the land of toys, sweets and magic.

18-31 Dec Cinderella LP Creatives returns to The Leatherhead Theatre this year to bring another fantastic and hilarious Pantomime. The shoe must go on, with music fun and laughter in this classic family pantomime.

The Hawth Theatre www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk 16 Nov & 9 Dec Bring Your Own Baby Comedy The UK’s premier baby-friendly comedy club. The award-winning shows feature the funniest comedians in a totally babyfriendly environment.

The Snow Queen at The Harlequin

19 & 20 Nov English Youth Ballet – The Nutcracker English Youth ballet presents a dazzling, colourful and appealing interpretation of the famous Nutcracker ballet.

24 Nov Fairytale of New York Fairytale of New York is the ultimate feel-good Irish-inspired Christmas show. The show features an international cast of singers, musicians and dancers bringing you all of your favourite Christmas songs.

10 Dec-2 Jan Cinderella There’ll be comedy, singing, dancing, stunning sets, dazzling costumes, and a top-quality cast including TV star, Scarlett Moffatt (Gogglebox, I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here, Saturday Night Takeaway) as our very own Fairy Godmother alongside CBeebies’ favourite, Nigel Clarke (The Baby Club) as Dandini. Crawley favourites Michael J Batchelor and Richard Franks are back and this year they will be joined on stage

by George Akid.

The Dawnay, Great Bookham www.h2hsensorytheatre.com Sun 12 Dec Dick Whittington by Head2Head Sensory Theatre A panto for children and families with SEND/disabilities. The show is cram-packed full of multi-sensory and interactive moments, songs and silliness.

There are opportunities for young audience members to join the cast on stage as a costumed character. All shows are Makaton signed. Pantomime advance pack available (from mid Nov). £5 per person.

Sanderstead Dramatic Club CR2 9AB www.sdclub.org.uk 8–15 Jan Goldilocks and the Three Bears Coulsdon Community Centre CR5 3BE www.twcoulsdon.org.uk 11, 12, 16, 17, 18 & 19 Dec Jason and the Argonauts A comedy myth adventure for all the family brought to you by Theatre Workshop Coulsdon Familiesonline.co.uk

What’s On

Experience the Magic this Christmas 4th, 11th and 18th December FREE EVENT

Visit Santa in his Toy Shop and be one of his little helpers Write him a letter and make a special gift to take home Christmas Gift Market

Free Parking Leatherhead

theswancentre.co.uk/christmas

in association with

BEST UK PANTO 2020

After a year of Lockdown Epsom Playhouse is back with…

the truly magical family pantomime

Sat 11th December 2021 to Mon 3rd January 2022 BOOK ONLINE:

www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk

SUPPORTED BY:

BOX OFFICE:

(01372) 742555 742227

Familiesonline.co.uk

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TRAVEL

CALLING SANTA’S LITTLE HELPERS!

Experience a magical white Christmas in this festive journey through classical music Sunday 12 December 1pm and 4.30pm

royalalberthall.com/christmas #RAHChristmas

Shop local this Christmas at the Merry as!

Christm

Christmas starts here!

Saturday 13th November

Parking from just £1

Grotto opens at 11am Spectacular festive lights Entertainment and giveaways Harlequin Theatre’s panto cast

Throughout November and December Visit Santa in his Magical Woodland Grotto Elf hunt to win £50 voucher More time to shop and fantastic offers Beautiful lights and Christmas music

Local - Clean - Safe - Secure - Welcoming For more information go to our website www.redhillbelfry.co.uk 16

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