Discover Top Surrey Events: Festivals, Outdoor Adventures & Cultural Activities All Year Round

Surrey, with its picturesque landscapes and vibrant communities, offers a plethora of events that cater to all interests and ages. Whether we’re culture enthusiasts, foodies, or outdoor adventurers, there’s always something happening in this charming county. From bustling farmers’ markets to serene garden tours, Surrey’s event calendar is packed with activities that promise to entertain and inspire.

As we explore Surrey’s diverse events, we’ll uncover hidden gems and popular favourites that make this region so special. So, let’s dive into the heart of Surrey and discover the exciting happenings that await us throughout the year.

Key Takeaways

• Diverse Event Calendar: Surrey hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, including food festivals, cultural performances, and outdoor activities, catering to varied interests and age groups.
• Annual Highlights: Notable annual events like the Farnham Food Festival, Guildford Book Festival, and Epsom Derby Festival draw large crowds and celebrate Surrey’s rich culture and heritage.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Families can enjoy numerous events such as interactive farm experiences at Bocketts Farm Park and scenic walks in Surrey Hills, offering entertainment for all ages.
• Cultural Enrichment: Surrey’s cultural scene thrives with venues like the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, Cranleigh Arts Centre, and Watts Gallery, which regularly host exhibitions, plays, and performances.
• Outdoor Enthusiasts’ Paradise: Surrey’s stunning natural landscapes provide ideal settings for outdoor events, including marathons like the Surrey Hills Challenge and activities like canoeing on the River Wey.
• Community Engagement: Local festivals and community gatherings, such as the Shere Village Fair and Surrey Vaisakhi Festival, foster community spirit and celebrate local traditions.

Overview Of Surrey Events

Surrey hosts a wide variety of events catering to all interests and demographics. From food festivals and farmers’ markets to music concerts and theatre productions, there’s always something to explore. Local events like the Surrey Hills Food Festival, Guildford Shakespeare Theatre, and the Woking Jazz Festival draw visitors from across the region.

Annual Festivals

Surrey boasts several notable annual festivals. The Farnham Food Festival, held every September, features over 100 stalls with gourmet food, local produce, and international cuisines. The internationally acclaimed Guildford Book Festival attracts renowned authors in October. Woking’s Party in the Park, an annual summer event, offers live music, family-friendly activities, and a fireworks display.

Cultural Events

Surrey’s cultural scene thrives with diverse offerings. The Yvonne Arnaud Theatre in Guildford showcases a mix of classic, contemporary, and musical performances. The Cranleigh Arts Centre provides a platform for local artists, musicians, and filmmakers. The Watts Gallery in Compton holds regular exhibitions and events celebrating British art.

Outdoor Activities

Outdoor events in Surrey take advantage of its stunning landscapes. The Surrey Hills Challenge is a popular marathon running through the county’s picturesque trails. Cyclists participate in the Prudential RideLondon, a challenging 100-mile route. The annual RHS Garden Wisley Flower Show displays horticultural excellence, drawing garden enthusiasts.

Family-Friendly Events

Family events abound in Surrey. The Bocketts Farm Park hosts seasonal events, including lambing weekends and pumpkin picking. Brooklands Museum offers interactive exhibits and themed events tailored for children. The LEGO Brick Show held at Sandown Park in Esher provides creative fun for all ages.

Community Gatherings

Community gatherings strengthen the social fabric of Surrey. Local village fairs, such as the Shere Village Fair, bring together residents with stalls, entertainment, and competitions. Faith groups organise events like the Surrey Vaisakhi Festival, celebrating culture and community spirit. Charity events, including the Epsom Mental Health and Well-being Festival, highlight local causes and promote awareness.

Annual Surrey Events

Surrey boasts a rich annual events calendar that draws visitors from around the region. These events celebrate Surrey’s culture, history, and vibrant community spirit.

Surrey County Show

The Surrey County Show is a staple event that showcases the county’s agricultural heritage. Held annually on the last Bank Holiday in May, it features livestock displays, horse shows, and a wide range of local food stalls. Attendees can enjoy family-friendly activities like funfair rides and craft exhibits. It also offers shopping opportunities with various local vendors showcasing their products.

Epsom Derby Festival

The Epsom Derby Festival is one of the most prestigious horse racing events in the UK. It takes place over the first weekend in June at Epsom Downs Racecourse. The festival includes the Epsom Oaks on Friday and the world-famous Epsom Derby on Saturday. The event attracts thousands of spectators who come to witness top-tier horseracing, fashion parades, and entertainment.

Guildford Fringe Festival

The Guildford Fringe Festival is an exciting celebration of the arts held annually in July. This month-long event features a diverse range of performances, including theatre, comedy, music, and visual arts. Local artists and international acts alike participate, offering something for every taste. Venues across Guildford, including the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre and local pubs, host shows, ensuring widespread community engagement.

Family-Friendly Events

Surrey offers numerous family-friendly events that promise fun and entertainment for all ages. From scenic walks to engaging farm experiences, there’s something for every family member.

Surrey Hills Family Walks

Surrey Hills boasts several walking trails perfect for families. It provides easy-to-moderate difficulty levels, ensuring suitability for young children. Popular routes include the Box Hill Circular Walk and the Leith Hill Loop. These trails feature stunning views and accessible paths.

Box Hill Circular Walk

The Box Hill Circular Walk offers a manageable route for families. It spans 3.5 miles and delivers breathtaking vistas of the North Downs. Key points along the trail include the Salomons Memorial viewpoint and the Stepping Stones. It’s ideal for nature observation and picnicking.

Leith Hill Loop

The Leith Hill Loop, at 2.5 miles, is shorter yet equally rewarding. We can explore the highest point in Southeast England and enjoy panoramic views from Leith Hill Tower. The loop includes wooded areas, perfect for wildlife spotting, making it a favourite for nature-loving families.

Bocketts Farm Park Events

Bocketts Farm Park, located in Leatherhead, hosts various events year-round. It offers both seasonal and regular activities, making it a popular family destination. Children can engage with farm animals, enjoy indoor play areas, and participate in themed events.

Seasonal Events

Seasonal events at Bocketts Farm include the Easter Eggstravaganza and the Halloween Spooktacular. During Easter, children can join egg hunts and meet the Easter Bunny. Halloween brings spooky trails and pumpkin carving sessions. These events enhance festive celebrations.

Regular Activities

Regular activities at Bocketts Farm involve daily animal encounters and pig races. Kids can feed lambs, cuddle rabbits, and watch exciting pig races. The farm also includes tractor rides and an adventure playground, ensuring continuous fun for all visitors.

These family-friendly events in Surrey offer diverse experiences that cater to different interests and age groups. From scenic nature walks to engaging farm activities, these events ensure memorable family outings.

Cultural Events

Surrey boasts a rich cultural scene with diverse events that appeal to all interests. Our cultural calendar offers exhibitions, performances, and more, enriching the community experience.

Watts Gallery Exhibitions

Watts Gallery in Compton showcases impressive art exhibitions throughout the year. Featuring works by Victorian artist G.F. Watts, the gallery also hosts contemporary art displays and themed collections. Seasonal exhibitions often explore historical and modern themes to engage diverse audiences. The annual “Art for All” event includes workshops, guided tours, and educational activities, making art accessible to visitors of all ages.

GLive Performances

GLive in Guildford offers an extensive lineup of performances, ranging from music concerts and comedy shows to theatre productions and dance. Renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities, GLive attracts both emerging talents and established artists. Notable past performances include concerts by classical musicians and touring plays from the West End. Regular events like family shows and community productions ensure there’s something for everyone, enhancing Surrey’s vibrant cultural landscape.

Outdoor Activities

Surrey’s natural landscapes offer numerous opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Box Hill hikes and River Wey canoeing stand out for their unique experiences and stunning scenery.

Box Hill Hikes

Box Hill provides scenic routes for hikers of all levels. The Box Hill Circular Walk, approximately 8 miles, showcases panoramic views of the Surrey Hills and the South Downs. For a shorter option, the Stepping Stones Walk, a 2-mile trail, crosses the River Mole and climbs to Box Hill’s summit. National Trust maintains these paths, ensuring well-marked trails and informative signposts. During spring, the area blooms with wildflowers, enhancing the hiking experience. Popular spots include Broadwood’s Tower and the Old Fort, offering historical insights along the journey.

River Wey Canoeing

River Wey presents excellent canoeing opportunities. Stretching 20 miles from Godalming to Weybridge, it flows through picturesque villages and serene countryside. The National Trust manages parts of the river, providing several launch points and rental services. Canoe trails can vary in length, allowing for flexible trip planning. Summer months offer the best conditions, with calm waters and vibrant shores. Noteworthy sights along the river include historic mills and wildlife such as kingfishers and herons. Guided tours are available, ideal for beginners seeking structured experiences.

Conclusion

Surrey truly stands out as a destination brimming with diverse and engaging events. From vibrant cultural festivals to thrilling outdoor adventures there’s always something to captivate every visitor. Whether you’re a local or just passing through the variety of experiences on offer ensures that Surrey remains a top choice for memorable outings.

We invite you to dive into Surrey’s rich event calendar and discover the unique charm and spirit of this beautiful county. With so much to see and do there’s no better time to explore and enjoy all that Surrey has to offer.