Meet and greet Father Christmas at Garsons Tickets on sale now LOOK OUT FOR DISCOUNTS/OFFERS WHAT TO DO AND WHERE TO GO P4 raring2go.co.uk WINTER 2023/24 MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD ESHER AND WEYBRIDGE FESTIVE FAMILY FUN / SANTA P14
Creative Courage For Life® Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Unlock your child’s potential Performing Arts Schools CHERTSEY 0772 517 6102 stagecoach.co.uk/chertsey LEATHERHEAD & BOOKHAM 0772 517 6102 stagecoach.co.uk/leatherhead WALTON-ON-THAMES 01932 506806 stagecoach.co.uk/walton WEYBRIDGE 07939 208234 stagecoach.co.uk/weybridge COBHAM 07484 208274 stagecoach.co.uk/cobham HINCHLEY WOOD AND ESHER 01372 238238 stagecoach.co.uk/hinchleywood Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year-olds CHILDCARE VOUCHERS ACCEPTED
Welcome to the Winter edition! Raring2go! Welcome to the Winter Edition! Whether you wish it could be Christmas every day or are feeling a bit bah humbug, I hope we’ve included everything you need to keep everyone entertained this Winter. Santa and his elves are already making final preparations for his busy travels on Christmas Eve. In this edition, you’ll find out where to meet Santa, together with lots of ideas for family days out. Make sure you remember to use any discounts offered. We are very lucky to have such fabulous local attractions on our doorstep, so please make sure you mention that you’ve seen them in Raring2go! when visiting. The Raring2go! magazine is also supported with our website, so have a look! It’s full of family-friendly resources and information, including recipes, activities for inside and out, places to go, and more. And if you sign up as a member, not only can you enter our local and national competitions and access our Raring2go! discounts and vouchers, you can subscribe to receive our monthly newsletter to hear the latest news. Make sure you follow us through our social media channels too. Wishing you all a very wonderful winter! Kirsten Hackman xx Get in Touch: 07858 751776 esherandweybridge@raring2go.co.uk
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7 Raring2go! What to Do and Where to Go Meet and greet Father Christmas at Garsons from 25th November to 24th December 2023 Tickets on sale now. Scan or visit garsons.co.uk Garsons,Winterdown Road, Esher, Surrey KT10 8LS Join us for a ;V^gniVaZ 8]g^hibVh Vi EdaZhYZc AVXZn '* Cdk '%'( id , ?Vc '%') =ZVY dkZg id i]Z EdaZhYZc AVXZn lZWh^iZ [dg bdgZ ^c[dgbVi^dc VcY [^cY dji ]dl id Wdd` i]Z [Zhi^kZ VXi^k^i^Zh ^c hidgZ! ^cXajY^c\ ;Vi]Zg 8]g^hibVh! V [V^gniVaZ igV^a VcY V k^ciV\Z XVgdjhZa# cVi^dcVaigjhi#dg\#j`$edaZhYZcaVXZn
Raring2make! FUN IDEAS FOR MAKING THINGS TOGETHER ‘Cakes are healthy too, you just eat a small slice’ Mary Berry www.raring2go.co.uk Christmas Pudding Recipe Ingredients •225g/8oz golden caster sugar •225g/8oz vegetarian suet • 120g/4oz plain flour •340g/12oz sultanas • 340g/12oz raisins •225g/8oz currants • 60g/2oz flaked almonds •120g/4oz chopped candied peel •120g/4oz fresh white breadcrumbs •Zest of 1 lemon • 1 level tsp ground cinnamon •5 eggs beaten • 1 level tsp mixed spice •1 level tsp freshly grated nutmeg •Pinch of salt • 150ml/5fl oz brandy or rum Method Mix together all the dry ingredients. Stir in the eggs and brandy and mix well. Turn the mix into 4x1 pint or 2x2 pint lightly-greased pudding basins. Put a circle of baking parchment and foil over the top of each basin and tie securely with string. Make a string handle from one side of the basin to the other so it's easier to pick the basin out of the pan after cooking. Put the basins in a large steamer of boiling water and cover with a lid. Boil for 5-6 hours, topping the boiling water up from time to time if necessary. If you don't have a steamer, put the basins in a large pan on inverted saucers on the base. Pour in boiling water to come a third of the way up the sides of the pudding bowls. Cover and steam as before. Cool. Change the baking parchment and foil covers for fresh ones and tie up as before. Store in a cool cupboard until Christmas Day. To serve the pudding on Christmas Day, steam for 2 hours and serve with brandy butter, rum sauce, cream or home-made custard. For more great recipe ideas please visit our website: www.raring2go.co.uk 8 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! Christmas Pudding Recipe
10 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! What to Do and Where to Go for ages 3+ The Gruffalo’s Child © Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler 2004 – Macmillan Children’s Books Fri 1 Dec 2023 – Sun 7 Jan 2024 THE PERFECT FESTIVE TREAT BOOK NOW 0330 333 4811 | Garrick Theatre, Charing Cross Road, West End BOOK HERE Tickets from £10 ADAPTED FROM JULIA DONALDSON AND AXEL SCHEFFLER’S AWARD-WINNING PICTURE BOOK H H H H H ‘Everything good children’s theatre should be’ The List H H H H H ‘Warm, witty and beautifully made’ LondonTheatre1
11 Visit the Surrey Resort on selected dates between Saturday November 25 to Sunday December 31, for the festive event of the season. Winter’s Tail is back at Chessington World of Adventures Resort, with Father Christmas in his grotto, select theme park rides and animals to meet in the zoo all included in the ticket price - plus much more festive family fun to enjoy with your nearest and deer-est including NEW attraction, Enchanted Hollow at Christmas. Enchanted Hollow at Christmas NEW for 2023, help the whimsical and charming animal residents of Enchanted Hollow count down to the BIG day and wish them all a “Merry Christmas” as you wander through the delightful underground town bedecked in all its festive finery. Meet Father Christmas Join friendly Elves and adventure through a snowy woodland to meet the main man himself in his grotto, Father Christmas. Children can then head to his top-secret toy workshop to receive an early Christmas present. Festive entertainment plus much more! Oh no it isn’t… oh yes it is! Chessington’s WILD Christmas panto also makes a return, while traditional carollers fill the Resort with song. For the purrr-fect Christmas, meet some of Chessington’s 1,000 animals, including resident reindeer. Plus, as a festive treat, take a wintery ride on NEW for 2023, Mandrill Mayhem, the World’s ONLY rollercoaster based on the Jumanji film franchise. Tickets for Winter’s Tail are available NOW at Chessington.com from £35pp. Looking for a WILD day out in the NEW YEAR? Head on a family trip to Chessington’s Zootastic Weekends… With daily feeds and talks from the Zookeepers, learn more about the array of animals at the Resort - from Amur tigers to Rothschild’s giraffe and Humboldt penguins to Asian short-clawed otters. WINTER’S TAIL RETURNS THIS CHRISTMAS TO CHESSINGTON WORLD OF ADVENTURES RESORT Father Christmas’ Grotto and Toy Workshop are not available post-Christmas between Wednesday December 27 and Sunday December, 31 2023. You can find out more information and book your next WILD adventure or short break by visiting chessington.com.
12 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! What to Do and Where to Go My Christmas Orchestral Adventure Sun 10 Dec, 12:30pm and 4:30pm Embark on a magical journey through classical music with Albert’s Orchestra Calling Santa's little helpers!
14 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! Festive Family Fun / Where’s Santa? November Festive Family Fun / Where’s Santa? Saturday 11th Nov – Sunday 21st Jan Polka Theatre The Snow Queen Gerda is on the magical quest of a lifetime. Her best friend Kai has disappeared with the mysterious Snow Queen, and if Gerda doesn’t rescue him soon, he’ll be trapped in an endless winter forever. Hans Christian Andersen’s classic tale is brought to life with songs, spectacular storytelling and a flurry of mythical magic. Enter a wintry wonderland of imagination for the whole family at Polka this Christmas. polkatheatre.com Thursday 16th Nov - Tuesday 2nd Jan Festive Fun in Kingston upon Thames A range of family activities and festive entertainment, including Christmas lights, Christmas Market, and a ski-themed Alpine Village, with four curling lanes perfect for competing with friends and family over a festive drink. Younger children will adore the train ride in Memorial Square and the vintage carousel – it’s the ideal festive day out for the whole family. For more information and to book curling and festive events, visit kingstonuponthames.info/christmas. Thursday 16th Nov - Tuesday 2nd Jan Windsor Great Park Illuminated Ready, Set, Dazzle! Enjoy a magical evening as this very special light trail returns to light up the festive season, more dazzling than ever with a generous sprinkling of new installations and the return of some firm favourites. windsorilluminated.com/ Friday 17th November – Sunday 7th Jan Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink Spectacular skating in Henry VIII’s historic home. Bundle up in warm layers and immerse yourself in the magnificent views of this beautiful Tudor palace while gracefully gliding around our stunning outdoor rink. hamptoncourtpalaceicerink.co.uk Saturday 18th Nov – Sunday 24th Dec Chessington Garden Centre Santa’s Christmas Wonderland To begin the festive experience, you will start by watching a short, animated film to get you into the Christmas spirit, and from here your journey will begin. Each room features a different theme to take you through an adventure of magic and wonder. You’ll be lucky enough to privately visit Father Christmas in his own cosy cabin, where himself and his very own group of elves will be checking your name twice on the gift list. www.chessingtongardencentre.co.uk/ Saturday 18th Nov – Saturday 30th Dec Peacock Theatre The Snowman The winter family favourite is the timeless tale of a boy and a snowman who comes to life. Back for it’s 26th year, The Snowman is a magical stage adaptation of the much-loved picture book by Raymond Briggs and the film directed by Dianne Jackson. peacocktheatre.com/ Saturday 18th Nov – Monday 1st Jan Hever Castle and Gardens Christmas at Hever Immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit at Hever and enjoy a seasonal experience to remember. Wrap up warm and enjoy a walk under the stars at the Magical Christmas Lights experience. Witness the enchantment of the Castle, gardens and lake festooned with fabulous colours and twinkling lights, capturing the spirit of Christmas. hevercastle.co.uk Saturday 18th Nov – Sunday 7th January Painshill Alice in Wonderland Trail Help the white rabbit find Alice at Painshill’s Alice in Wonderland Trail this winter. Follow the trail around the landscape and meet some familiar characters along the way. painshill.co.uk
Raring2go! Festive Family Fun / Where’s Santa? 15 December Sat 25th Nov – Sunday 31st December Chessington World of Adventures Winter’s Tail Make magical memories this Christmas at Winter’s Tail, enjoying festive family fun with your nearest and DEERest at Chessington. With the help of our jolly elves and reindeer, meet Father Christmas in his log fire grotto and revel in all the Christmas cheer that a traditional panto and carollers offer. Plus, NEW for 2023, visit the charming residents of Enchanted Hollow as they prepare for a magical Christmas. www.chessington.com/ Sat 25th Nov - Tuesday 2nd January Claremont Landscape Garden The Snow Queen family trail This winter at Claremont, we’ve brought to life, Hans Christian Anderson’s fairy-tale, The Snow Queen. In this classic story of good versus evil, Kai has been kidnapped by the Snow Queen and Gerda, his friend embarks on an adventure to save him. Come and join Gerda on this extra special trail around the lake at Claremont on her quest to rescue Kai from the Snow Queen’s palace. The garden will be transformed into the magical outdoor world with installations reflecting key scenes from the story with activities to try along the way. nationaltrust.org.uk/claremont Saturday 25th Nov - Sunday 7th January Polesen Lacey A Fairytale Christmas Festive activities include a Christmas a trail, that takes you through many familiar fairy tales, a traditional gallopers carousel, and for the first time ever, Father Christmas is setting up camp in Polesden Lacey House. For details and to book, please visit nationaltrust.org.uk/polesden-lacey/ Friday 1st – Sunday 24th December Battersea Arts Centre Solstice Solstice is a brand-new immersive trail through the seasons, with magical creatures and festive fun for all the family. Under the light of the moon, you will move through a winter wonderland where animals are hibernating and people are tucked away in their cosy houses. This enchanting new light-trail marks the first collaboration between BAC and Wild Rumpus, an award-winning immersive events company that focus on nature connectedness, collective wonder and the power of play. bac.org.uk/whats-on/solstice/ Saturday 18th Nov – Sunday 14th Jan Polka Theatre The Night Before Christmas Amber is six and loves reindeer! It’s Christmas Eve but Grandad is feeling tired and Amber’s favourite snow-globe gets broken. Then her world is turned topsy turvy by a surprise visitor and Amber begins an adventure she will never forget. All performances before December 24 are now sold out. Tickets are still available for performances from Wednesday 27 December - Sunday 14 January. polkatheatre.com Friday 24th Nov – Tuesday 2nd January Glow at RHS Garden Wisley Let it Glow! Enjoy an unmissable after-dark spectacle of lights this festive season. See the garden in breathtaking beauty as amazing illuminations light your way on a wonder-filled journey. rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley Sat 25th Nov – Sunday 24th December Hobbledown Heath /Hobbledown Epsom Santa’s Grotto A Christmas encounter to remember! Step into Santa’s magical grotto - he’s heard so much about you, and has been waiting all year to meet you... Santa’s Secret Village includes treat trails, twinkling lights, reindeer, and more... www.hobbledown.com Sat 25th Nov – Sunday 24th December Garsons Esher Meet Father Christmas Look who’s coming to town! Father Christmas and his trusty elves are visiting! Enter a magical grotto where you’ll meet Father Christmas, who is taking time out of his busy schedule to greet our special younger customers and hand out presents. There will also be an opportunity for additional family photo gifts. Book online: bookfatherchristmas.co.uk/GarsonsEsher Sat 25th Nov – Sunday 24th December Godstone Farm Christmas on the Farm Meet Father Christmas and his elves and experience the wonder of winter on the farm! A Father Christmas visit includes the choice of a brilliant toy from his charming toy shop, an interactive activity plus entry to the farm all day including our indoor playbarn. godstonefarm.co.uk
16 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! Festive Family Fun / Where’s Santa? Friday 1st December – Sun 7th January Garrick Theatre The Gruffalo’s Child One wild and windy night the Gruffalo’s Child ignores her father’s warnings about the Big Bad Mouse and tiptoes out into the deep dark wood. She follows snowy tracks and encounters mysterious creatures – but the Big Bad Mouse doesn’t really exist… does he? Let your imagination run wild with songs, laughs and scary fun for everyone aged 3 to 103 in this enchanting adaptation by Tall Stories of the much-loved picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. thegarricktheatre.co.uk/ Saturday 2nd – Sunday 24th December Royal Albert Hall Christmas at the Royal Albert Hall The Royal Albert Hall has been the home of Christmas in London for 150 years. This year’s programme is full of heart-warming live events to be enjoyed with your loved ones. There’s something for everyone, from our Christmas carols to traditional concerts, drag, jazz, gospel and so much more... www.royalalberthall.com Friday 8th – Sunday 10th December Guildford Spectrum Alice in Wonderland on Ice Follow Alice down the rabbit hole and join her on an enchanted adventure with the unique characters of Wonderland. guildfordspectrum.co.uk Friday 8th December – Sunday 7th Jan New Wimbledon Theatre Cinderella You shall go to the ball with the spectacular family pantomime Cinderella. Join Cinders as she goes from rags to riches, outwits her very wicked sisters and meets her Prince Charming. The clock is ticking, so book your tickets today! Joining the fab-u-lous Wicked Stepmother Craig Revel Horwood will be Wimbledon fan-favourite, comedian and magician extraordinaire Pete Firman as Buttons, returning for his third Wimbledon panto… www.atgtickets.com/ shows/cinderella/new-wimbledon-theatre/ Friday 8th December – Sunday 7th Jan Shakespeare’s Globe Hansel and Gretel A beautifully epic new version of The Brothers Grimm’s fairy tale, Hansel and Gretel, by Poet Laureate Simon Armitage, transforms the Globe Theatre this winter. The perfect winter treat for everyone aged 5+ www.shakespearesglobe.com/ Sat 9th December – Sunday 7th January Richmond Theatre Dick Whittington Join Dick Whittington as he seeks fame, fortune, and happiness journeying to become Lord Mayor. Can he outwit the evil rodent King Rat and free the city from his team of revolting rodents? Find out in the ultimate magical pantomime adventure! Writer, actor, comedian, radio and television presenter Paul Merton will be stepping out from behind the iconic Have I Got News For You desk as the Panto Dame’s role of Sarah the Cook! www.atgtickets.com/shows/ dick-whittington/richmond-theatre/ Wednesday 13th - Sunday 24th Dec Cecil Hepworth Playhouse Ellie & Starlight’s Christmas Adventure Ellie and her best Friend Starlight the Polar Bear are heading for the North Pole to find Father Christmas in this perfect family show to get you into the Christmas spirit. www.ellieandstarlight.co.uk Sunday 17th December: 2pm and 5pm Mozart Symphony Orchestra The Snowman (at Cadogan Hall) The Mozart Symphony Orchestra returns to Cadogan Hall, for which the film is shown on the big screen with a live symphony orchestra providing the soundtrack. 14-year-old Alice Mackenzie sings the aria made so famous by Aled Jones: ‘Walking in the Air’. Plus, The Gruffalo (for narrator and orchestra) returns, alongside its sequel, The Gruffalo’s Child, with each character represented by a different instrument of the orchestra. A perfect treat for all the family. cadoganhall.com/ Monday 18th – Sunday 24th December Hobbledown Heath /Hobbledown Epsom Breakfast with Santa Take a seat at the table for a very special breakfast... one with the Hobbledown Elves, and Santa Claus himself! www.hobbledown.com Monday 18th Dec – Sat 6th January Orange Tree Theatre Tiny Tim’s Christmas Carol When Bob Cratchit takes over the company from his old boss Ebenezer Scrooge, he discovers it’s tough at the top. In fact, he works so hard that this year he might cancel Christmas. So now it’s up to Tiny Tim to remind his father of the story of Scrooge and the true meaning of Christmas. Charles Dickens’ muchloved Christmas story is reinvented for families with children aged five to ten. orangetreetheatre.co.uk/
CLIMB ON BOARD AND TAKE A MAGICAL TRIP WITH SANTA AND HIS HELPERS ON A NOSTALGIC STEAM TRAIN ADVENTURE FROM LONDON VICTORIA DEPARTING FOUR TIMES A DAY ON THE 15TH, 18TH AND 21ST DECEMBER. To book please call 01483 209888 or on-line www.steamdreams.co.uk FARES FROM £65
18 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! What to Do and Where to Go Cadogan Hall, Chelsea, Sunday 17th December 2023 at 2.00 and 5.00 Tickets: £34, £32, £28, £18 from the Cadogan Hall Box Office Tel: 020 7730 4500 www.cadoganhall.com All orders subject to a transaction fee unless made in person © Snowman Enterprises Limited “The Snowman” by Raymond Briggs is published by Puffin. Image © Snowman Enterprises Ltd www.thesnowman.com “You would be hard pushed to find a more magical Christmas experience” The Times HOWARD BLAKE The Snowman Projected onto a large screen with a live orchestral accompaniment CONDUCTOR: PHILIP MACKENZIE SOPRANO: ALICE MACKENZIE pushed to find a more magical Christmas experience" The Times MOZART SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Book online today! Meet Santa in his magical grotto at Squire’s Shepperton, TW17 8SG From Sat 25 Nov – Sun 24 Dec* *Selected days £8 per child, includes wrapped gift. £1 from every child ticket will be donated to charity.
VISIT WEYBRIDGE, SURREY AN INCREDIBLE DAY OUT SCAN ME for moreinfo BOOK ONLINE TO SAVE VIA BROOKLANDSMUSEUM.COM FREE FOR MEMBERS
20 raring2go.co.uk Jump into happy at AirHop and Jump In trampoline and adventure parks! The perfect indoor leisure experience for the whole family, whatever the weather. With three parks in Surrey alone you are never too far from ultimate bouncing fun! Choose from a selection of fun packed activities at Guildford, Camberley, or Esher. Whether you are 4 or 54 we can guarantee that you’ll leave with a big smile on your face! Our Guildford and Camberley sites feature wall-to-wall trampolines, airbags to jump into, fast and furious dodgeball games, and much more! Scale to new heights at our Esher site, which includes all the above activities along with an indoor clip n climb centre with 25 exciting activities to complete. Can you make the Leap of Faith? Let your little ones bounce in a safe and fun environment in our Toddler Takeover sessions, suitable for ages 1-6 years. Ages 4 and above can bounce during Open Jump sessions or choose to experience their favourite trampoline park in a cool night club atmosphere during After Dark! Friday and Saturday evenings, 6-8pm – a bargain two hour session for only £18.50. Get UNLIMITED Open Jumps for the price of one hour with the Unlimited After School Jump offer. Available Mondays – Thursdays after 3pm during term time. AirHop parks are the perfect day out or party venue for larger groups as well. Choose one of our 100%-Fun-Zero-Stress party packages for an unforgettable and hassle-free birthday celebration. Each package includes a party host and party room or area, decorations and clean up are also included. Save 15% on term time parties, Monday – Thursday, using the discount code WEEKDAY15. Jump into happy this Winter School trips, youth group days out, and corporate team building can all be catered for with our group package options, starting at £10pp. Looking for something a little more specific? A bespoke session can also be created for your requirements, perfect for a Christmas party with a difference! Give the gift of jumping for joy this Christmas with one of our gift cards! Valid for one year from the day of purchase. For more information and to book visit gojumpin.com or call 0330 223 3333
Raring2go! What to Do and Where to Go 21 GIFT CARD #JumpIntoHappy
22 raring2go.co.uk Make a beanie hat with Red Ted Art Materials needed to finger knit your beanie: Super Chunky Wool (works best to make the beanie nice and chunky), Your fingers, and a pair of scissors Step 1 : How to finger knit Hold the wool comfortably with your thumb. Wrap the wool behind your index finger and in front of your middle finger, then behind your wedding finger and around your pinky. Then bring the wool in front of your wedding finger, behind your middle finger and around your index finger. You need to do it again. Wrap the wool in front of your middle finger, behind your index finger, and around your pinky. Continue bringing the wool in front of your wedding finger, behind your middle finger and then around your index finger, so that you will have two loops on each finger. Now you need to pull the bottom loop up and over the top loop. Do this with each finger in turn, so that you are left with one loop on each finger. Then start again, starting in front of your middle finger, making the loops, and pulling the wool over. Keep repeating these steps until you have a long enough piece that will fit around your head. Step 2 : How to connect strands of your beanie hat Now we are going to connect the two ends together. Run your thumb through the ridge on the back. The ridge is the back and the reverse side is the front. Face the ridged side in towards the centre, making sure you don’t twist it. Connect the two together by hooking your little finger first into the bottom loop, and then into the top loop of the end of the knitted piece. You will have three loops on your little finger. Then start knitting again as normal, wrapping the wool around your fingers. When you start to pull loops off your finger, just one thing... On your pinky finger, pull each loop up and over individually, starting from the bottom, leaving one loop on each finger again. Leaving one loop. Give it a tighten by pulling on the wool. Step 3 : How to add a row to your DIY finger knitted beanie hat This time we only need to hook into one loop on the knitted piece. Find your next loop and hook your little finger into it. Then knit another row. Once again, on the little finger pull each loop off individually. Pull to tighten. Find your next loop and hook into it. Knit another row across. Keep knitting until the hat covers your head. Remember to keep trying on the hat for measurements. Step 4 : How to decrease Next stage is to make the top of your hat. We need to start decreasing. This time you need to pick up two loops from the knitted piece, so you have three loops on your little finger. Then start to knit another row. Keep repeating these steps until the top of your hat is almost closed. Leaving a small gap. Step 5 : How to decrease and finish your beanie Start casting off your fingers. Pull the first loop off and onto your next finger. And pull the bottom loop up and over the top. Do this on all your fingers, until you have one left. Then pull the wool through the last loop. Get scissors and cut the loop. To close off the top, I laced through each loop across the top keeping it nice and tight, closing the top off completely. Make sure you keep pulling tight. You then just need to tie a knot in the wool to finish. If you’d like to see a video, here’s the full tutorial here: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=p4IoOa_SMUE Many thanks to RedTedArt for sharing this fabulous Beanie creative. If you’d like to see so much more on crafting, visit redtedart.com Raring2go! Finger Knit a Beanie Hat
Raring2go! What to Do and Where to Go 23 The Look Out Discovery Centre Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7QW Tel: 01344 354400 www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/be The Look Out Discovery Centre R2GAUTUMN2023 Over 90 activities of hands-on science and discovery fun for children of all ages! BOOK ONLINE and enter RARING2023 at checkout for 10% off admission www.facebook.com/thelookoutdiscovery @thelookoutbracknell BOOK ONLINE December 2023 The ma ic of Christmas comes to Godstone Farm this holiday season, meet Father Christmas and his elves and experience the wonder of winter on the farm! FATHER CHRISTMAS IS COMING TO GODSTONE FARM!
SCATTERGORRIES
25 Raring2go! What to Do and Where to Go “A fun and festive show with endearing characters, as heart-warming as a hot toddy.” Gill Martin, Culture & Travel Writer. Ellie and her best Friend Starlight the Polar Bear are off on another adventure, only this time they are heading for the North Pole to find Father Christmas! From the creators of Ellie & Starlight the Musical, playwright Ken Mason and writer Sarah Watson bring you Ellie & Starlight’s Christmas Adventure. This heart-warming magical Christmas story is a tale of a little girl’s determination to find Father Christmas and tell him that all the boys and girls in her village have had to move to a new place. She must reach the North Pole before Christmas Eve or it will be too late and none of the children will get a Christmas present this year. Ellie and Starlight embark on a difficult journey across snowy mountains where they meet lots of different animals on their way to the North Pole. This atmospheric and festive production is the perfect family show to get you into the Christmas spirit. “We went to see Ellie and Starlight as a family, and all three generations thoroughly enjoyed it. The music, magical storyline and audience participation all worked together to give a very important message in a highly enjoyable way.” Rebecca Wright, Parent Ticket prices from £12.50. Group discounts for 10+ tickets. contact@stephen-leslie.com www.ellieandstarlight.co.uk Ellie & Starlight’s Christmas Adventure runs from Wednesday 13th - Sunday 24th December at the Cecil Hepworth Playhouse, Walton-on-Thames.
26 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! Path to Paris - Get Active!
27 Raring2go! Clubs/Classes & Holiday Camps Jenny Emery • 07548 377 790 jenny.emery@tumbletots.com www.tumbletots.com/addlestone Classes in Claygate, Cobham & West Byfleet Found Out More Fun, Physical Play Programme Starting at 6 Months to School Age
1. Voxblock boosts literacy skillsListening to stories helps develop a child's vocabulary, comprehension, and language skills. 2. Voxblock is ready-to-play as soon as it's unwrappedFree from Wifi and with no set-up - just press play! 3. Voxblock has hundreds of audiobooks Introduce children to a world of stories through a huge audiobook library. 4. Voxblock develops independence The player is easy-to-use and with no need for grown-ups, children can take control. 5. Voxblock is a gift that keeps giving Children enjoy Voxblock for years, not hours. This Christmas unwrap a Voxblock Starter Pack, it includes a Voxblock player, 3 audiobooks, and a protective bumper for £59.99. Buy at voxblock.co.uk reasons Voxblock makes the perfect Christmas gift Meet Voxblock: the easy-to-use screen-free audiobook player for children 3-12. Designed by parents, it empowers children to listen to audio stories independently. starter pack 99 £5 p £59. b aud the 00% connectivity free ong battery life build your child’s literacy as it's unwrapped ready-to-play as soon diobook player e screen-free voxblock.co.uk 1 lo a r 28 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! Voxblock
29 Raring2go! Helping Hands CONCERNED ABOUT THE COST OF ENERGY BILLS? COLD HOUSE IN WINTER? WORRIED ABOUT YOUR HOME’S ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT? Funding is available for low-income, hard-to-heat properties in Surrey to improve the energy efficiency of your home. Supported by: Energy Centre, 9 Poole Road, Woking, GU21 6DY www.actionsurrey.org 0800 783 2503 ČƥĿūŠ ¬ƭƑƑĚNj Ŀƙ î ¡îƑƥŠĚƑƙĺĿƎ ƙČĺĚŞĚ ŞîŠîijĚē ċNj ¹ĺîŞĚƙØĚNj ¬ƭƙƥîĿŠîċŕĚ ūŞŞƭŠĿƥĿĚƙ gƥē ȳî ČūŞƎîŠNj ūDžŠĚē ċNj ØūŒĿŠij ūƑūƭijĺ ūƭŠČĿŕȴȡ ¹ĺĚ ƑĚijĿƙƥĚƑĚē ūljǛČĚ ūlj ¹ĺîŞĚƙØĚNj Sustainable Communities Ltd is: The St Botolph Building, 138 Houndsditch, London, EC3A 7AR. Company No: 03835131. VAT No. 917 9263 93. Printed on FSC paper. Action Surrey is an impartial energy advice service working in partnership with local authorities and Surrey County Council. BE PART OF THE PARENTS’ GO-TO GUIDE! Now taking early bird bookings for the Spring and Summer 2024 editions. Book in to the magazine today, and we can get your details online straight away! esherandweybridge@raring2go.co.uk l 100s of ideas for family days out l Downloadable vouchers to save £££’s l Great competitions to enter l Monthly email newsletters with new offers and events l It’s FREE! Become a website member today: Join now Raring2go.co.uk/join raring2go.co.uk/sign-up
Avoiding Christmas Crises for your Pets CHRISTMASis a happy time, but some dangers may arise causing potential problems for your pets. Here are some safety tips to ensure you can all enjoy a stress free (ish) Christmas! • CHOCOLATE– Not a myth, and fortunately much more recognised these days, chocolate contains Theobromine, which at best can make your dog very sick, and at worst can unfortunately kill them. The higher the cocoa content or the smaller the dog, the higher the risk, and any dog that eats chocolate MUST be taken to a vet as soon as possible. • OTHER TOXIC ITEMS– Onions, garlic, grapes and raisins (and mistletoe and poinsettias) are all around at Christmas, and are toxic to pets; do not feed them to your pets, even in small quantities, and seek veterinary advice if they get hold of them. • TURKEY BONES – Take care when storing and disposing of turkey carcasses and other bones, as if eaten they can cause severe damage to teeth and gums, or even worse to the internal digestive tract. • TINSEL – Tinsel and other decorations can prove very interesting to inquisitive pets, especially cats and young kittens and puppies, and can cause choking or internal blockages. • ANTIFREEZE – Antifreeze tastes sweet and is tempting for cats to drink. It is TOXIC and will KILL a cat that has ingested it. Take care with storage and mop any spillages immediately. Call the vet immediately if you suspect your pet has drunk Antifreeze. • SALT/GRIT ON PAWS – It is a good idea to wash your dogs paws after walks in the winter, as the frozen ground and grit can cause soreness and irritation. • FOREIGN BODIES– Small toys and batteries are often left lying around and can be very dangerous if chewed or swallowed. They can cause obstructions, or in the case of batteries, chemical burns, so ensure everything is picked up off the floor. • DIARRHOEA – Remember when you are tempted to give your pet their ‘Christmas dinner’ or treats, they are not used to such rich food, so may have some vomiting or diarrhoea as a consequence. • STRESS – There are many potential causes of stress for your pets at Christmas, such as lack of routine, crowds and fireworks. They may may just want to hide away from it all so make them a den in a safe area where they can escape if need be. Hopefully these tips will help towards a happy Christmas for all. Anna Tilley RVN Raring2go! Keep Pets Calm this Christmas 30 raring2go.co.uk Keeping Pets Calm 10 Tips to Enjoy a Stress-Free Christmas 6. Gifts and Advent Calendars Advent calendars or presents under the tree make the house look festive, but also can be an open invitation to cheeky pets! Make sure they are out of reach. Not only do you not want your furry friend to open your gift, the contents of some may also be harmful to them. 7. Be careful about decorations Young cats and dogs are especially inquisitive and may try to eat tinsel and other decorations, which can cause choking or sickness. Steer clear from putting lights or tinsel around a hamster cage, as it’s easy to be nibbled by a nosy rodent. Whilst looking cute, a tinsel collar can irritate your pets’ skin, (and could be eaten too) so buy a specific Christmas collar instead. 8. Christmas Toys Ensure that small toys and batteries are not left lying around. In a similar way to children, these items can cause injury, that could require urgent hospitalisation. 9. New Year Fireworks Remember that there may be fireworks over the festive period, so keep pets inside, with a safe place to hide. 10. Salt / Grit After a winter walk it’s always a good idea to wash your dog’s paws. Frozen salt and grit can cause irritation to their paws and pads. With visitors, decorations, lack of routine and excitable families, Christmas can be stressful for your pets. Plan ahead to ensure everyone has a fun, festive family time. Here are some safety tips to ensure you can all enjoy a stress free (ish) Christmas! 1. Try to stick to your usual routines Walk, feed and toilet your pet as close to their usual times as possible, and try not to leave pets at home for longer periods than you usually do. 2. Give your pets space If you have visitors, let your pet meet them when they are ready, and ensure there are safe hiding places, with bedding, where they can retreat to. 3. Outdoor animals may need extra bedding Provide lots of bedding, and ensure it stays dry - anything wet will freeze, which can harm your pet. Check that their water bottles aren’t frozen too. 4. Christmas Food Human food, including chocolate and turkey bones, can be harmful, or even toxic, to pets. To avoid an upset tummy, it’s best to stick to your pet’s usual food, and it avoids weight gain too! If you think your pet has eaten something it shouldn’t, please seek urgent veterinary advice. 5. Flowers and Plants Pets, especially kittens and puppies, can be inquisitive. Whilst plants such as Holly, Mistletoe and Poinsettia’s are part of Christmas, they can also cause nausea and irritation to your pet’s mouth. Lillies are toxic to both cats and dogs. Seek urgent attention if you believe that your pet has ingested something they shouldn’t have.
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