GARDEN CENTRE • RESTAURANT FARM SHOP • BEVAN’S BUTCHERS Winterdown Road, Esher, Surrey KT10 8LS LOOK OUT FOR DISCOUNTS/OFFERS FESTIVE FAMILY FUN / SANTA P4 raring2go.co.uk WINTER 2025/26 MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD ESHER AND WEYBRIDGE WHAT TO DO AND WHERE TO GO P6
BOOK NOW Fri 21 Nov – Sun 4 Jan Don’t miss the magic. RHS Glow. Your brightest Christmas tradition RHS Registered Charity No: 222879/SC038262
Welcome to the Winter edition! Raring2go! Welcome to the Winter Edition! “Believing in Santa Claus isn’t about believing in a person, it’s about believing in the magic of giving and love.” Anonymous Whether you wish it could be Christmas every day or you’re a bit bah humbug over the festive season, there is so much to do in the local area to ensure everyone has a wonderful holiday season and winter period. Although Santa and his elves are busy making their final preparations for Christmas Eve, there are lots of places where you can meet him before he flies off on his travels; you might even be able to meet some of his reindeer. Our website holds a host of information, including events, places to go, recipes, clubs, activities, and more. Sign up as a member, and not only can you enter our local and national competitions and access all our Raring2go! discounts and vouchers, you can subscribe to our monthly newsletter for all the latest news. Although the winter edition is the last printed issue of the year, we don’t get to put our feet up! We will still be updating our website and digital channels, so please follow us online for the latest news and events. Wishing you all a very wonderful Christmas! Kirsten Hackman xx Get in Touch: 07858 751776 esherandweybridge@raring2go.co.uk
November Festive Family Fun / Where’s Santa? Raring2go! Festive Family Fun / Where’s Santa? 4 raring2go.co.uk Saturday 15th Nov – Wed 24th Dec Garsons Esher Meet & Greet Father Christmas Where Christmas wishes come to life... Trusted elves will warmly greet you before you step into a traditional, cosy cabin filled with twinkling lights and enchantment. With his warm smile, Father Christmas will meet the children, listen to their special Christmas wishes, and may share his cherished, timeless tales of the North Pole. bookfatherchristmas.co.uk/GarsonsEsher Saturday 15th Nov - Sunday 18th January Polka Theatre The Firework-Maker’s Daughter Based on the much-loved, award-winning book by Philip Pullman, join Lila on the quest of a lifetime as she faces friend and foe on her illuminating journey of self-discovery. polkatheatre.com/ Friday 21st November - Friday 2nd Jan Hever Castle and Gardens Christmas at Hever Christmas in the Land of Oz. Follow the yellow brick road and be swept into the colourful Land of Oz through charming displays. A visit to Father Christmas is available as an optional extra for little ones. As darkness falls from 4pm, the grounds are magically transformed as the Castle, gardens, and lake are bathed in festive lights, capturing the heart of the Christmas season. www.hevercastle.co.uk Friday 21st Nov - Sunday 4th January Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink Festive Magic on Ice Experience a regal day out with us where elegance and history meet the electricity of ice skating. Immerse yourself skating in the magical scenes where King Henry VIII once walked, surrounded by beautiful greenery, captivating fairy lights, and a warm, festive experience. hamptoncourtpalaceicerink.co.uk/ Thursday 13th Nov - Sunday 28th Dec Festive Fun in Kingston Upon Thames Meet Santa’s real-life reindeer – Dasher and Prancer - on 13th and 21st December, and revel in the bespoke festive lights - unique to Kingston - as you experience the traditional Christmas Market. Discover handcrafted gifts, delicious food, and mulled wine - perfect for warming up after a day of festive fun. Download the new InKingston app, for exclusive offers, discounts, exciting events, hidden gems, and more! kingstonuponthames.info/Christmas Friday 14th Nov - Saturday 3rd January Windsor Great Park Illuminated Discover a new forest trail full of music and light where woodland creatures come to life and a whole host of festive moments will get you and your friends and family in the spirit. Take a moment to enjoy a delicious dish, mulled wine and hot chocolate or toast a marshmallow around the fire pit at one of our cosy rest stops. windsorilluminated.com/ Saturday 15th Nov – Wed 24th Dec Chessington Garden Centre The Magic of Christmas All aboard the Magic Santa Express! Step into a world of wonder as you and your family embark on a magical train journey to the North Pole - where Father Christmas himself awaits your arrival. Along the way, discover brand new scenes that bring the spirit of Christmas to life. From 29th November, warm up in our all-new Santa’s Yard, where you can meet Ant and Dec, Santa’s friendly and treasured reindeer, and purchase hot chocolate or mulled wine to sip by a crackling fire and stroll beneath twinkling lights. It’s a place full of festive cheer and joyful moments. chessingtongardencentre.co.uk
5 Raring2go! Festive Family Fun / Where’s Santa? Friday 21st November - Sunday 4th Jan Chiswick House & Gardens The Twelfth Night of Christmas Experience a fantastical festive journey inspired by the beloved 1780 carol ‘Twelve Days of Christmas’ and the era in which it was written. For younger visitors, from November 29th, Father Christmas awaits in his charming 18th-century grotto, ready to share a festive story and a gift. chiswickhouseandgardens.org.uk/ Friday 21st November - Sunday 4th Jan Glow at RHS Garden Wisley Experience the sparkle of the season and see much-loved garden areas awash with colour against the dark sky night! As twilight falls, RHS Garden Wisley is transformed into a world of magical winter wonders. With a trail that’s more magical than ever before, see plants and landscapes come to life to reveal hidden wonders, where every path leads to a new discovery and nothing is what it seems. rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley/whats-on/wisley-glow Saturday 22nd Nov – Wed 24th Dec A Magical Christmas at Godstone Farm Jingle all the way for a festive farmyard day out! Celebrate the season with a magical visit to Father Christmas in his cozy grotto, and choose a gift from his Toy Shop. Enjoy entry to the Christmas Show – an interactive performance to add sparkle to your visit. godstonefarm.co.uk Saturday 22nd Nov – Wed 24th Dec Squires Garden Centre Meet Santa in his Magical Grotto Be welcomed by one of Santa’s jolly elves before meeting the man himself – it’s the perfect moment to ask those all-important questions! Running on selected dates and centres. squiresgardencentres.co.uk Saturday 22nd Nov – Wed 31st Dec Chessington World of Adventures Winter’s Tail A magical Christmas adventure awaits you and your family in the Christmas Village (running until 24th December). Jingle away to a festive Silent Disco before you journey into a snowy woodland guided by an Elf to visit Santa’s Grotto. Greeted by twinkling lights and the scent of a woodfire, join Father Christmas who is ready to hear your Christmas wishes. After Christmas, dust off those Christmas blues and join us with your nearest and DEERest for some post-Christmas fun. www.chessington.com/explore/events/christmas/ Saturday 22nd Nov – Sunday 4th Jan Polesden Lacey Christmas in Wonderland Family Trail Join Grizwald the Griffin as he meets the White Rabbit and explores the delights of Wonderland in a festive children’s trail around the grounds of Polesden Lacey. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/surrey/polesden-lacey/ Saturday 22nd Nov – Sunday 4th Jan Peacock Theatre The Snowman Soar to the North Pole just in time for our Christmas party where snow-folk from around the world meet penguins, princesses, the fiendish Jack Frost, and of course Father Christmas. It might even snow… This is a magical stage adaptation of the much-loved book by Raymond Briggs and the film directed by Dianne Jackson, all accompanied by a live orchestra. sadlerswells.com/whats-on/the-snowman-2025/ Saturday 22nd Nov – Sunday 4th Jan Wimbledon Quarter Ice Skating at the Quarter Set within Wimbledon Quarter’s winter wonderland, glide across the ice surrounded by twinkling lights, sparkling Christmas trees and seasonal cheer. And because it’s indoors, the fun is guaranteed whatever the weather. Plus, from Friday 29th November until Christmas Eve, children will be welcomed into Santa’s cosy festive hideaway where they can share their Christmas wishes, soak up the sparkle of the season, and take home a magical memory. wimbledonquarter.com/event/ice-skating-atwimbledon-quarter-2025/ Saturday 22nd Nov – Sunday 4th Jan Claremont Landscape Garden A Very Penguin Christmas Join Captain Iceberg, Professor Snowflake and friends as they explore the Garden with fun games and activities in this delightful family trail. Learn how to be a little more penguin, with activities like waddle walking, snowball hurling and writing letters to Father Christmas. Wrap up warm, bring your family huddle, and help the penguins feel right at home on their Claremont Christmas holiday. After your walk, warm up with a delicious range of hot snacks and beverages available from the Gardener’s Bothy Café. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/surrey/ claremont-landscape-garden/events
Raring2go! What To Do and Where To Go 7 Winterdown Road, Esher, Surrey KT10 8LS GARDEN CENTRE • RESTAURANT FARM SHOP • BEVAN’S BUTCHERS BOOK Father Christmas at Garsons! Where Christmas wishes come to life… Book a magical visit to see Father Christmas at Garsons this festive season. An unforgettable experience that the whole family can enjoy, leaving hearts full of joy and wonder. Trusted elves will warmly greet you before you step into a traditional, cosy cabin filled with twinkling lights and enchantment. With his warm smile, Father Christmas will meet the children, listen to their special Christmas wishes, and may share his cherished, timeless tales of the North Pole. There will be a Christmas gift and a magic wish for each child booked. Father Christmas will be at Garsons Esher from 15th November until Christmas Eve. Tickets are on sale now. We recommend you book in advance to avoid disappointment. Tickets are not available to purchase in-store. The cost per child is £15.50, £1.50 booking fee applies. Visit Garsons What’s On website page for bookings, as well as other children’s Christmas activities such as colouring competitions and Father Christmas letters. garsons.co.uk/activities the at the of the 6-22 FEBRUARY 2026 ROSETHEATRE.ORG 020 8174 0090 CAN’T WAIT! SEE IT HERE! A Children’s Theatre Partnership and Rose Theatre production ‘A COMPASSIONATE CHILDREN’S PLAY FOR TODAY’ ‘HOPEFUL AND HEARTWARMING’ Daily Mail The Guardian don’t miss it! WINNER WINNER Blue Peter Book Award 2019 Waterstone’s Children’s Book Prize 2019 Based on the novel by Onjali Q. Raúf Adapted by Nick Ahad Directed by Monique Touko
8 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! Festive Family Fun / Where’s Santa? Saturday 29th Nov - Wed 24th Dec Battersea Arts Centre A Merry Misrule Across Europe, mischievous Yuletide traditions have run riot and it’s up to YOU to save Winter from chaos. Guided by the rousing ‘Revolutionary Rabbit’, wander through enchanted lands and meet characters intent on causing disruption to the most wonderful time of the year. Can you join the mission to bring harmony back to the holidays? bac.org.uk/whats-on/a-merry-misrule/ Saturday 29th Nov – Wed 24th Dec Hobbledown Epsom/Hobbledown Heath Santa’s Secret Village This Christmas, discover a fully immersive festive experience that’s sure to create magical family memories. Embark on a spellbinding journey through Santa’s Secret Village at Hobbledown – where hidden stories unfold, and enchanting surprises await you at every turn. www.hobbledown.com Saturday 29th Nov – Sunday 4th Jan Stars of Wonder at Ham House Get into the festive spirit with a visit to Ham House, sumptuously decorated with stars. Take in twinkling candlelight and fairy lights, Christmas trees and aromatic greenery as you discover the stunning Stuart interiors. nationaltrust.org.uk/ham-house-and-garden Thursday 4th - Wednesday 31st Dec Esher Theatre Sleeping Beauty Written by panto royalty Bobby Davro and packed with slapstick adventure, festive magic, enchanting music, and a ferocious, fire-breathing, LED dragon, Sleeping Beauty is the perfect pantomime for all the family this festive season. eshertheatre.com/ Friday 5th Dec - Sunday 4th Jan New Victoria Theatre, Woking Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Mirror, Mirror, on the wall, don’t miss the fairest pantomime of them all! Enjoy comedy, sensational song and dance numbers, fabulous costumes and stunning scenery. Throw in the magnificent seven and plenty of audience participation, and you have the perfect recipe to outwit the Wicked Queen and let love prevail in this glittering festive treat for all ages. atgtickets.com/venues/new-victoria-theatre/ Wednesday 26th Nov - Sunday 4th Jan Rose Theatre Cinderella Don’t just go to the theatre this Christmas, come to the ball! A new adventure bursting with music, laughter, and festive wonder - you’ll have a ball! This funny, fantastical retelling of the classic fairytale highlights the importance of family, wherever we may find it. Join us for this mischievous new adventure about being careful what you wish for. rosetheatre.org Wednesday 26th Nov - Sunday 4th Jan Sadlers Wells East Ebony Scrooge Meet Ebony, the formidable mastermind behind a renowned fashion empire. Everyone’s nightmare boss, she’s cancelled Christmas for her landmark fashion show. Surrounded by wealth, style and success, she’s about to embark on a transformative journey accompanied by three mystical visitors. As she rediscovers her Caribbean roots, will Ebony discover the true meaning of happiness? Blending hip hop, comedy and physical theatre, this is the perfect Christmas treat for the entire family. sadlerswells.com Thursday 27th Nov – Sunday 4th Jan London Transport Museum Next Stop, Christmas Explore our galleries with a fun festive trail. Meet costumed characters from our galleries and find out about how London’s transport network have played a part in people’s Christmas celebrations. All festive family activities are free with your Museum tickets - kids go free! www.ltmuseum.co.uk/ Saturday 29th Nov – Wed 24th Dec Wimbledon Quarter Santa’s Grotto Children will be welcomed into Santa’s cosy festive hideaway where they can share their Christmas wishes and soak up the sparkle of the season. Nestled alongside Wimbledon Quarter’s real-ice rink and surrounded by twinkling lights and Christmas trees, Santa’s Grotto is the perfect place to make cherished family memories. After visiting Santa, why not enjoy more festive fun? The ice rink runs from 22nd November - 4th January 2026. wimbledonquarter.com/santa
9 Raring2go! Festive Family Fun / Where’s Santa? Friday 5th December – Sunday 4th Jan Princes Hall, Aldershot Jack and the Beanstalk When Jack sells the beloved family cow, for magic beans, he soon discovers they open up an unexpected world of a mysterious land way up in the clouds! Join Jack and his dotty mum Dame Trott as they scale the Beanstalk, outwit the Giant and are reunited with Jack’s true love. www.princeshall.com Saturday 6th Dec - Sunday 4th Jan New Wimbledon Theatre Robin Hood Get ready for an adventure like no other as street dance sensations Ashley Banjo and Diversity take over Sherwood Forest this Christmas. Expect a spectacle to remember, with stunning sets and costumes, riproaring comedy and incredible special effects. Robin Hood will have you merrily riding off into the night. atgtickets.com/venues/new-wimbledon-theatre/ Sunday 7th December Royal Albert Hall My Christmas Orchestral Adventure Calling Santa’s little helpers! My Christmas Orchestral Adventure returns this December for more family festivities! www.royalalberthall.com/ Thursday 11th Dec - Sunday 11th January London Coliseum Nutcracker This festive season, step into a world where anything is possible. Join Clara on a fantastical adventure as English National Ballet’s Nutcracker bursts to life with over 100 dancers and musicians. https://www.ballet.org.uk/production/nutcracker/ Friday 12th - Sunday 14th December Guildford Spectrum Snow White on Ice Magic mirror on the wall... Find out who’s the fairest of them all, with Snow White on ice this Christmas! Follow the beloved story of Snow White, as she finds friendship in unexpected places and discovers the true magic of kindness and courage, with a touch of festive magic. guildfordspectrum.co.uk Friday 19th – Tuesday 30th December Dorking Halls Peter Pan Let your dreams take flight at Dorking Halls… Join the boy who never grows up Peter Pan and take part in his adventures with Wendy as they fly off to Neverland and meet some fantastical characters along the way; Tinker Bell, the Lost Children, Tiger Lily, Nana the dog, Pirates, Mr Smee and the wicked Captain Hook. dorkinghalls.co.uk/ Saturday 20th Dec: 1.30pm and 4.30pm Mozart Symphony Orchestra The Snowman (at Cadogan Hall) The Mozart Symphony Orchestra returns to Cadogan Hall for its annual performance of the timeless classic, The Snowman, for which the film is shown on the big screen with live symphony orchestra providing the soundtrack. 16-year-old Alice Mackenzie sings the aria made so famous by Aled Jones: ‘Walking in the Air’. Plus, The Gruffalo (composed for orchestra and narrator by Philip Mackenzie) returns alongside its sequel, The Gruffalo’s Child with each character represented by a different instrument of the orchestra… what will the Gruffalo be? This concert is the perfect antidote to panto and a wonderful Christmas treat for all the family. cadoganhall.com/ Monday 29th – Wed 31st December Royal Albert Hall The Nutcracker It’s not Christmas without The Nutcracker! Created exclusively for the Royal Albert Hall, with gorgeous period costumes and dazzling projections, this Christmas classic is brought to life by Birmingham Royal Ballet’s world-class ballet dancers and orchestra, the Royal Ballet Sinfonia. Experience the true magic of Christmas, as Clara’s toys come to life at the stroke of midnight. Journey through a fantastical winter wonderland of dancing snowflakes to the kingdom of the Sugar Plum Fairy. royalalberthall.com
10 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! What to Do and Where to Go Winter recipe Gingerbread Man Method 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with baking paper. 2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt. Set this dry ingredient mixture aside. 3. In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer or by hand, cream together the softened butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. 4. Add the golden syrup, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until well combined. 5. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, mixing just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix. 6. Divide the dough in half and wrap each portion in plastic wrap. Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour or until it’s firm. 7. Roll out one portion of the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use gingerbread man-shaped cookie cutters to cut out the cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Repeat with the other half of the dough. 8. Bake the gingerbread men for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to brown. 9. Remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. 10. Once the cookies have cooled, you can decorate them with icing, sweets, or any other decorations you like. Enjoy your homemade gingerbread men! These are perfect treat for kids and adults alike. Ingredients 225g Plain flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon salt 75g unsalted butter, softened 100g soft brown sugar 100g Golden Syrup 1 large egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract A classic that can be made and enjoyed all year round… It’s quick and easy and definitely one for the kids to join in with preparing! Raring2make! Recipes to make as a family for the family Method 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with baking paper. 2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt. Set this dry ingredient mixture aside. 3. In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer or by hand, cream together the softened butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. 4. Add the golden syrup, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until well combined. 5. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, mixing just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to over mix. 6. Divide the dough in half and wrap each portion in plastic wrap. Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour or until it’s firm. 7. Roll out one portion of the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use gingerbread man-shaped cookie cutters to cut out the cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Repeat with the other half of the dough. 8. Bake the gingerbread men for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to brown. 9. Remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. 10. Once the cookies have cooled, you can decorate them with icing, sweets, or any other decorations you like. Enjoy! These are perfect treat for kids and adults alike. Ingredients • 225g Plain flour • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda • 1/4 teaspoon salt • 75g unsalted butter, softened • 100g soft brown sugar • 100g Golden Syrup • 1 large egg • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
DISCOVER THE FESTIVE MAGIC. From high-speed thrills on track to off-road adventures, there’s fun for everyone this festive season at Mercedes-Benz World. Explore our all-new Simulator Zone, Little Learners, FastTrax and The Grid, then make even more memories when you purchase a Driving Experience gift voucher for all your friends and family. Search Mercedes-Benz World to find out more. Mercedes-Benz World, Brooklands Drive, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 0SL. Tel 0370 400 4000.
12 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! What to Do and Where to Go PENGUIN CHRISTMAS A VERY Sat 22 Nov - Sun 4 Jan At Claremont Landscape Garden Come for a waddle around Claremont and join the penguins on their Christmas adventure in search of Father Christmas. Fun and games Family friendly Café treats Free trail
13 Raring2go! What to Do and Where to Go This Christmas, Kingston comes together with joy, laughter, and community spirit. From 13th November to 28th December, the town centre becomes a vibrant place where families, friends, and neighbours come together to celebrate the most magical time of the year. Make your way to All Saints Church, and meet Santa’s real-life reindeer - Dasher and Prancer - on 13th and 21st December, from 11am to 2pm. Snap a family photo, and marvel at the giant light installations that turn the churchyard into a storybook scene of festive wonder - a free experience the whole family will love. Revel in the bespoke festive lights - unique to Kingston - as you experience the traditional Christmas Market. Discover handcrafted gifts, delicious food, and mulled wine - perfect for warming up after a day of festive fun. Sing along to your favourite songs at the live music stage, and create cherished memories with your loved ones in the warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes Kingston so special. With over 250 shops - from big-name favourites to unique independents - Kingston is the perfect place to tick off your Christmas shopping list. And when it’s time to take a break, head to the town’s entertainment hotspots, cosy cafés, or riverside restaurants for a festive treat. DOWNLOAD THE APP GET MORE TOGETHER FOLLOW: @inkingstonUK kingstonuponthames.info/Christmas Unlock exclusive offers and discounts, exciting events, and discover hidden gems that make Christmas in Kingston truly special. Download now on iOS and Android. Because Christmas isn’t just something you celebrate - it’s something you share, together in Kingston. Visit kingstonuponthames.info/Christmas for more information. Download the InKingston app - your essential Christmas companion - to make the most of your festive visit in Kingston.
14 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! What To Do and Where To Go Make this Christmas extra special with a visit to Chessington Garden Centre, where festive magic fills every corner. Our giftware is packed with thoughtful ideas to bring smiles to everyone from little surprises to grand gestures. Festive Gift Ideas for the Whole Family at Chessington Garden Centre For the green-fingered members of the family, our gardening gifts are sure to inspire. From beautiful pots and handy tools to bulbs ready for planting, there’s something for every garden lover, no matter their experience. And when it’s time to gather together, explore our BBQs, firepits, and pizza ovens, perfect for creating delicious family memories all year round. Whether roasting marshmallows on a crisp December evening or firing up the grill next summer, these are gifts that bring people together. So, bring the family along, explore the magic, and find the perfect gifts for everyone at Chessington Garden Centre, where Christmas starts with a smile. Browse our shelves of festive goodies, sparkling decorations, and charming homeware to make any home feel merry and bright. Treat someone special to cosy self-care gifts like luxurious bath bombs, pampering sets, and fragrances that make winter nights feel warm and relaxing.
Big up the magic… See how much Surrey’s much-loved Grotto has grown. Book your ‘Magic Santa Express’ tickets now at: BigMagicXmas.com
A trip to the theatre holds a truly unique and invaluable appeal for children, offering an enriching experience that far surpasses the passive nature of watching television. The live, interactive nature of theatre provides a great number of educational, emotional and dare we say developmental advantages that TV often struggles to replicate or come close to. Firstly, theatre is a sensory feast that engages multiple senses simultaneously. Children see the vibrant costumes, hear the live music, soak up the dialogue and feel the excitement in the air. This multisensory experience not only captivates their attention but it also acts to enhance their overall understanding and appreciation of the performance. In contrast, television, though visually stimulating, lacks the immediacy and immersive quality of a live theatre production. Signifiicangtly, attending a live performance encourages great social skills and etiquette in children. The theatre setting requires them to be attentive, considerate of others and follow certain behavioral norms and each of these contribute to the development of patience and respect. Interacting with fellow audience members and responding to the performers in real-time enhances their ability to engage in a shared cultural experience. It teaches them the importance of live social interaction, a skill that never demands enough emphasis in a world today that is dominated by screens. Theatre also sparks children's imagination and creativity in a way that television cannot. Witnessing live actors, set changes, and the transformation of characters on stage further encourages a deeper level of imaginative thinking. Children are prompted to fill in the gaps with their own interpretations, creating critical thinking skills and a sense of creativity that goes far beyond passive consumption. Additionally, live theatre provides a sense of connection and community. Shared laughter, gasps of surprise and applause create a more collective experience that unites people and brings them together. This shared sense of enjoyment and emotional engagement is a powerful aspect of theatre, promoting a sense of belonging and shared culture. While television has its merits, a family trip to the theatre offers a far more dynamic, interactive, and multi-sensory experience that contributes significantly to a child's cognitive, emotional, and social development. The magic of live performances ‘the smell of the greasepaint and the roar of the crowd’ has the potential to ignite a lifelong love for the arts and a deeper understanding of the world around them. With screens already dominating our lives in so many ways, isn’t it a nice thought that we still have a place we can go where we can excape and watch real drama, real comedy and real tragedy unfold. The Thrill of The Theatre: The smell of the greasepaint, the roar of the crowd 18 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! What To Do and Where To Go
*When booking through the London Coliseum Box Office. T&Cs apply. Photo by Drew Forsyth Children go half-price!* Principal Building Partner of English National Ballet Nutcracker 11 Dec – 11 Jan ballet.org.uk The magical Christmas adventure Reg charity 21400 3 – 11 Apr ballet.org.uk Everyone’s invited to this new ballet for children aged 3+! My First Ballet Cinderella
Raring2go! What to Do and Where to Go 20 raring2go.co.uk Set Sail for Hoebridge’s Crazy Golf Course Lost your way through the Surrey Hills and looking for an adventure through lost pirate territory and broken seas? Oh, you have found the right place, explorer. Festooned with obstacles, Mr Mulligans’ Pirate Golf offers an exciting 18-hole adventure, perfect for those seeking a fun-filled outing. Using just a club, you will have to navigate your way around a huge pirate ship, lakes, waterfalls, rafts, cannons and even the resident crocodile! A great attraction for all ages, Mr Mulligans’ Pirate Golf is perfect for a day’s outing and ideal for children’s parties, team building exercises and corporate events. As you embark on this pirate-themed escapade, you’ll face challenges that will test your skills and creativity. Every corner reveals a new surprise, turning each moment into an exciting part of your pirate journey. With laughter, excitement, and a touch of pirate lore, Mr Mulligan’s Pirate Golf promises a memorable adventure for everyone. Gather your crew and set sail for a day of swashbuckling fun and unforgettable moments! Whether you’re a seasoned mini golfer or a first-time player, the imaginative course design and engaging atmosphere ensure a fantastic experience for all.
Raring2go! What to Do and Where to Go 21 All December A Magical Christmas at Godstone Farm! BOOK HERE! Jingle all the way to Godstone Farm for a festive farmyard day out! Celebrate the season with a magical visit to Father Christmas! Share Christmas wishes in his cozy grotto, choose a gift from Father Christmas’ Toy Shop, and enjoy a whimsical walkthrough with festive fun. Enjoy entry to our amazing Christmas Show, an interactive performance adding extra sparkle to your visit! So much included... A visit to our Christmas Grotto! A toy from Father Christmas’ Toy Shop! Entry to our interactive Christmas Show! Enjoy our Cookie Decorating Experience! PLUS all the usual fun on the farm! Sat 22 Nov – 24 Dec* Book online Magical Grotto & Breakfast with Santa Two experiences for you to enjoy *Selected dates. Visit squiresgardencentres.co.uk at Squire’s Shepperton TW2 5PA BE PART OF THE PARENTS’ GO-TO GUIDE! Now taking early bird bookings for the Spring and Summer 2026 editions. Book in to the magazine today, and we can get your details online straight away! esherandweybridge@raring2go.co.uk
New Swimmers are Welcome to Join Swim Acceleration Courses ⭐Parents & Baby Classes ⭐Parents & Toddler Classes ⭐Preschool Beginners (Small Groups 3:1) ⭐Stages 1-8 (Small Groups 4:1) ⭐ Special educational needs 1:1 ⭐Teenagers, Adults Private Lessons ⭐Home Pool Visits Swim Courses Register for Weekly Term Classes and Holiday Crash Course, Learn to Swim confidently and safely Boost water Confidence Improves health and wellbeing Achieve New Level Pool Location: Pavilion Club , Hurst Lane, East Molesey, KT8 9DX For more information and all bookings please email: info@swimacceleration.co.uk www.swimacceleration.co.uk
25 Raring2go! Clubs/Classes & Holiday Camps Looking for a local club or class, you’ll find it here in your go-to guide for you and your child raring2go.co.uk Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year-olds Giving children and young people the Creative Courage to stand up on stage for over 35 years. enrol now performing arts schools drEam big! Stagecoach Performing Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Performing Arts Limited. CHERTSEY 0772 517 6102 stagecoach.co.uk/chertsey LEATHERHEAD & BOOKHAM 07305 246265 stagecoach.co.uk/leatherhead HINCHLEY WOOD AND ESHER 01372 238238 stagecoach.co.uk/hinchleywood rugbytots.co.uk The world’s favourite rugby play programme MAKE YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT MORE FUN! TRY RUGBYTOTS Our dynamic weekly play sessions enable boys and girls aged 2–7 to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment. For more details, just call or email. jarad@rugbytots.co.uk 0345 313 3248
www.raring2go.co.uk/shop/ Sustainably made wooden toys designed for growing minds for 2 years + £54.99 Small Foot Toys High Quality Traditional Wooden Toys £32.99 Cuttable Fruit and Vegetables Set “fresh” £49.99 Wooden Rainbow Building Blocks XL Classic Wooden Doctor’s Bag £52.99 Pastel Baby Walker with Building Blocks
27 Raring2go! Children’s Reading Reading opens doors. From fairy tales to adventure stories, books spark imagination, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning. Yet across England, thousands of primary school children attend schools without a permanent library, limiting their access to the books and reading spaces that can make all the difference. Why Libraries Matter Studies show that children with regular access to books and a quiet space to read perform better academically and develop stronger language skills. Libraries encourage independent learning, foster creativity, and provide a safe, welcoming environment where children can explore new worlds at their own pace. Currently, over 1,700 primary schools in England lack a permanent library. The gap is especially pronounced in disadvantaged areas, where families may have limited access to books at home. Without access to a school library, many children miss out on early exposure to reading habits that can shape their education and future. A National Push for Change To address this, the government has pledged £10 million to ensure every primary school has a library. The initiative aims not only to provide shelves of books but also to create inviting spaces designed to inspire children to read and explore. Schools are being encouraged to involve pupils in choosing books and designing reading areas, making the library a space that truly reflects their interests and personalities. Libraries also support teachers, offering resources for lessons and helping to integrate reading into every subject. From literacy sessions to reading clubs, libraries can become hubs of learning, creativity, and collaboration within the school. Every Child Deserves a Library: Bringing Books to Every Primary School Parents Can Help Too Parents play a key role in fostering a love of reading at home. Reading aloud to children, visiting local libraries, and discussing stories together reinforce the skills and habits learned at school. Encouraging regular reading time - even just 15 minutes a day - can transform a child’s literacy journey. Why It Matters Ensuring that every primary school has a library is about more than books on shelves - it’s about opportunity. Every child deserves access to reading spaces, stories that spark their imagination, and the chance to develop essential literacy skills. A library in every school means every child has the tools to succeed, explore, and dream big. Top 5 Tips to Encourage Reading at Home • Set aside daily reading time – Even 10–15 minutes makes a difference. • Visit your local library – Let children choose books that interest them. • Read together – Take turns reading aloud to make it fun and interactive. • Create a cosy reading space – A quiet corner can make reading feel special. • Talk about stories – Ask questions about characters and plots to encourage comprehension.
Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Make your garden a Winter Wonderland Bird Feeding Extravaganza: Transform your garden into a winter haven for feathered friends. Let children create homemade bird feeders and hang them in key spots for easy birdwatching. Winter Planting Adventures: Engage kids in winter planting projects such as frost-resistant flowers like pansies and ever green shrubs. This will add a vivid burst of colour to the winter landscape. Festive Container Gardens: Encourage creativity and then design festive container gardens. Try to include winter flowering plants and seasonal decorations for an added touch of festive winter magic. Crafty Garden Markers: Continue the autumn tradition of crafting garden markers, using materials like wooden spoons or painted stones to label winter plants. Winter Veggie Patch: Grow cold-hardy vegetables like kale and spinach. Teach children the joys of winter gardening and the importance of seasonal produce. Winter Pruning Lessons: Teach the basic winter pruning techniques on dormant trees and shrubs. This will not only maintain plant health but also imparts valuable gardening skills to your eager students! Create Ice Decorations: Turn freezing temperatures into an artistic opportunity. Create ice decorations by filling moulds with water, adding berries or leaves, and freezing them to decorate the garden. Explore Winter Insects: Investigate winter insects. Lift rocks or logs to discover insects in their sneaky winter hideouts showcasing the great diversity of garden life in colder months. Winter Wildlife Tracking: Teach children about winter wildlife tracks. Identify footprints in the snow and discuss the animals that share the garden during this season. Fairy Tale Garden Storytelling: Spark imagination by weaving winter-themed stories that will encourage children to share tales about fairies, gnomes and magical creatures inhabiting the winter garden. Winter gardening with children transforms the garden into a veritable winter wonderland. By incorporating these engaging activities, you not only maintain the garden but also nurture a lifelong love for nature through gardening. Let the laughter of children touch the magic of winter in your garden, creating cherished memories that last well beyond the season. Raring2grow! Outdoor fun for budding green-fingers As winter arrives, family gardening fun takes on a magical quality. There are opportunities for children to engage in activities that help form strong connections with nature. Here are some delightful winter tasks to make the season even more enchanting for the whole family. 28 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! Winter Gardening
29 Raring2go! What To Do and Where To Go 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 Over 90 activities of hands-on science and discovery fun for children of all ages! BOOK ONLINE and enter RARING2025 at checkout for 10% off admission www.facebook.com/thelookoutdiscovery @thelookoutbracknell
1. Turn History into a Story • Share historical events as fascinating stories filled with heroes, villains, drama, and adventure. • Use books like "Horrible Histories" series to bring history to life. 2. Visit Historical Sites and Museums • Take field trips to local landmarks, museums, or historical re-enactments. Many places have hands-on exhibits designed for kids. • Virtual tours of sites like the Louvre or the Tower of London can also be exciting. 3. Use Movies and Documentaries • Watch kid-friendly historical movies like Night at the Museum. • Discuss the events and characters afterward to deepen their understanding. 4. Make It Interactive • Create a "time machine" activity where kids research and dress up as people from different eras. • Set up role-playing scenarios where they act as historical figures making decisions. 5. Incorporate Games • Use history-themed board games like Horrible Histories The Board Game. • Play trivia games or create scavenger hunts with historical clues and facts. 6. Bring History to the Kitchen • Cook historical recipes from different eras or cultures, such as medieval bread to taste history. 7. Connect History to Their Lives • Discuss how historical events shaped their local community or family. Research family history together and build a family tree. 8. Use Technology and Apps • Explore apps like Google Earth to bring artifacts and ancient sites into their hands. • Encourage exploration of interactive websites like Kids National Geographic History. 9. Engage with Historical Reading • Introduce them to books like See Inside the History of Britain or a Street through Time (available on Amazon) • Read aloud together and discuss the historical context. 10. Celebrate Historical Holidays and Events • Commemorate days like The Battle of Hastings or The Gunpowder Plot with activities, crafts, and themed projects. • Learn about global holidays and traditions, exploring the cultures behind them. By making history hands-on and personal, kids can develop a lifelong love for the past and its stories! Making history fun for kids Making history fun for kids is all about making it relatable, interactive, and engaging. Here are 10 tips to spark their interest in history: Raring2go! Making History Fun! 30 raring2go.co.uk
Whole Floor for Toddlers NO BOOKING REQUIRED Sunbury on Thames TW16 7EH 01932 500370 www.kidabulous.com Party Packages for every occasion Laser Tag & Exclusive Hire Little Groovy Movers Mondays 10:15am & 11:15am * Face Painting Saturdays 10am to 1pm * Huge Softplay Kids Arts & Craft Class Tuesdays at 10am * Little Groovy Movers, Arts & Crafts and Face Painting are FREE with admission, term time only (availability not guaranteed) Scan code for more details
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