GUILDFORD AND SURROUNDING AREAS What’s On & Where to Go: p2-26 THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD MAGAZINE & WEBSITE raring2go.co.uk WINTER 2023 Education p32-37 Clubs, Classes & Camps p38-46
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3 HELLO! Raring2go! raring2go.co.uk My favourite time of year is just around the corner and I’m very excited about everything that is going on locally over the next couple of months, we really are spoilt for choice! In this issue as well as our usual What’s on Guide you’ll find round ups of the local Christmas markets, panto’s and also where you can find the big man himself this Christmas. And of course, we haven’t forgotten about the grown ups, there are a few ideas for us to get into the festive mood too. We also look ahead to the New Year too with the new school term starting and a new term for after school and weekend clubs and classes. Maybe it’s a good time for your little one to start a new hobby or try a new sport? The Winter issue is also our last issue of the year, but we don’t just put our feet up for the next few months, we continue to keep you up to date with all that is going on locally through our website raring2go.co.uk and our Instagram @raring2go. guildford_surreyhth. Remember when you visit our website to localise to your postcode to make sure you only see things from the local area. All that is left to say is have a wonderful Christmas! I hope you are all truly spoilt and enjoy every second of the festive celebrations! PS – Check out our competitions on page 47, a little Christmas treat from us to you! See you soon! Hello! Copyright © 2023 Mojo Publishing Ltd. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, mechanical or electronic, including photocopying and recording, or by any information storage & retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. Requests for permission or further information should be addressed to the publishers. All information in this magazine is published in good faith and cannot be reproduced without prior written permission.The publisher makes every effort to ensure that the businesses which are featured in this magazine are of the highest quality, we do not guarantee the services and products from any businesses featured. Printed by Gemini Print Group. Website Member E-newsletter emailed monthly with latest offers and events Download vouchers and save £££’s Access all our online competitions with great prizes to be won Become a Join today by visiting www.raring2go.co.uk Gemma x THE TEAM Editor & Publisher: Gemma Campbell Editorial: Jane Yeo & Gemma Campbell Design: Neil Fawcett, Whiteleaf Design GET IN TOUCH 07841 156 821 gemma.campbell@raring2go.co.uk
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON 4 Monday 20th November – Sunday 24th December Santa Fir Christmas Tree Farm in Shamley Green Hans Christmas Andersen at Santa Fir is located in the Surrey Hills which is easily accessible from all areas of Surrey, West Sussex and North Hampshire. Visit the farm and choose from beautiful trees in the standing forest, visit Father Christmas and say hello to the Reindeer! Don’t forget to visit Hans’ wonderful reindeer who have been born on the farm and are very much part of the Santa Fir family. And of course Father Christmas joins Santa Fir Christmas Tree Farm at certain weekends from 9am to 12pm and 1pm to 4pm. Friday 24th November – Sunday 24th December (Various dates / times) Christmas at Godstone Farm Get ready to unwrap the spirit of Christmas with a magical visit to Father Christmas at Godstone Farm! New for 2023 we’re proud to present ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, a live theatrical experience by the Unusual Theatre! This fantastically festive family show is included in your daytime Father Christmas visit ticket. Based on the much loved and well know poem ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas. Daytime Father Christmas visits will delight everyone, you’ll create unforgettable memories with your family as you’re immersed in a unique experience, meet friendly elves and take a magical journey to see Father Christmas himself. After your special encounter, explore the special Christmas Toy Shop and choose your own gift to treasure, as well as decorating your own festive treat! Friday 24th November - Tuesday 2nd January Glow at RHS Wisley Bring all the family for a magical evening at RHS Garden Wisley. At Glow 2023, see the garden in breathtaking beauty as amazing illuminations light your way on a wonder-filled journey. Tickets must be booked in advance. Saturday 25th November – 31st December A Winters Tail – Chessington World of Adventures 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 WINTER WHAT’S ON AND WHERE TO GO! Saturday 18th November Collectively Camberley Christmas Cracker! This is a FREE family fun day to open the festive season in Camberley! Come and meet some real reindeer, check out the Christmas lights! There will be some incredible strolling entertainment acts throughout the day, wowing the crowds with magic or creating festive fun! There will be FREE face painting and balloon modelling as well as a jammed packed Christmas Market on High Street and FREE mini rides, including the tea cups and carousel. Enjoy live music and dance from our local community acts and groups and of course look out for Father Christmas! Saturday 18th November Tunsgate Christmas Spectacular – Guildford Join us at Tunsgate Quarter as we switch on our Christmas tree lights and kickstart the festive season in style! Expect plenty of exciting festive activities and entertainment, free for all the family. We’ll be raising money throughout the day for our sponsored charity, The Fountain Centre. There will be live music from The Decades as well as performances from Guildford & Godalming Jazz Choir. There will be face painting and biscuit decorating for the kids and of course a special visit from Santa. Saturday 18th November – 24th December Santa’s Christmas Wonderland – Chessington Garden Centre We invite you to take a fascinating walk through our fun filled and adventurous 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.
5 raring2go.co.uk Hollow as they prepare for a magical Christmas. Help them countdown to the BIG day and wish them all a ‘Merry Christmas’ as you and your family wander through the delightful underground town of Enchanted Hollow decked out in all its festive finery. Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th November Creative Christmas at Dapdune Wharf – Guildford Young visitors can join us for a day creating Christmas cards, crackers, tree decorations and more! Pen your letter to Santa to send from home and explore the bookshop then tuck into hot chocolate with marshmallows and cream from the tearoom. Saturday 25th November – Friday 30th December The Christmas Illuminated Garden Adventure - West Green House, Hook The mile long trail around the lake lit by thousands of lights tells the story of Alice in Wonderland, told in spectacular illuminated installations designed by our guest designers. New and fabulous Christmas Tree decorations from the Garden shops are a memento of a glorious evening. A menu of new and old favourite warming drinks and hot ‘food to go’ can be found in the cabins along the sparkling trail and it’s the beautifully decorated Tea Room for Christmas spiced wine, hot chocolate, coffee and delicious hot food to meet your friends. Saturday 25th November – Sunday 7th January A Fairytale Christmas at Polesden Lacey The house will be sumptuously dressed for Christmas including a 20ft Christmas tree, enhancing the elegant interior of Polesden Lacey with some immersive fairytale scenes inspired by Mrs Greville’s classic fairytale books illustrated by Edmund Dulac. Cinderella must go to the ball so, spread some Christmas cheer to transform her pumpkin into a carriage to meet Prince Charming, see Peter and Wendy setting off to Neverland before the snow storm arrives, and tip toe past Sleeping Beauty. Follow the immersive Christmas displays through the house on your way to find Father Christmas. When the clock strikes midnight Father Christmas will be coming down the house chimney, waiting for you to come and visit him, as he warms up next to the fireplace after his sleigh ride from the North Pole. Saturday 25th November – Tuesday 2nd January The Snow Queen at Claremont – Claremont Landscape Garden Claremont is the perfect picturesque landscape to get you into the festive spirit. Meet up with family and friends in this historic royal garden. Come and explore our fairy tale family trail, The Snow Queen, while taking in beautiful winter vistas and sparkling lights making Claremont a very special place to visit at this time of year. The free trail runs from 25 November until 2 January, 10am-2.30pm. Weekends in December Christmas at the Museum – Rural Life Living Museum, Farnham Ride on our steam hauled train to visit Santa in his grotto, explore the Museum decorated for Christmas and find those last minute gifts in our Christmas and Vintage market. At your booked time, your train will depart from Reeds Road Station, near the Museum main entrance gates, running around the museum up to North Pole Station, from where the elves workshop and Santa’s grotto are a short walk away through the trees. Once in the grotto family groups will be called in to meet Santa, whilst you are waiting for your turn, children may take part in craft activities with the elves in the elves workshop. Children aged from 0-12 years visiting Santa will receive a gift from Santa and a ‘I’ve seen Santa’ sticker. Visitors with Santa’s Grotto tickets may explore the whole museum, decorated for Christmas with period decorations in our historic buildings and take part in seasonal family activities before and / or after visiting Santa in his grotto. Our Christmas and Vintage market is also open 10 – 4pm. WHAT’S ON Raring2go!
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON 6 Friday 1st – 31st December Narnia in the house at Hatchlands Take a magical, festive journey through the house following in the footsteps of the fictional evacuees who visited Narnia, before arriving at the wardrobe. When you step through it, you’ll be transported into a Narnian wonderland created by award-winning visual artist Imogen Cloët. Saturday 2nd December Christmas Carol Concert – Princes Mead Shopping Centre Farnborough Immerse yourself in the true spirit of the season and mark your calendars for a heartwarming Carol Concert at Princes Mead on Saturday 2nd December. Let the melodic harmonies of traditional carols and festive tunes fill your soul with the purest joy and a sense of unity. Gather with friends and family, and experience the magic of the holiday season through the power of music. Saturday 2nd December – Saturday 18th December Meet Father Christmas at West Horsley Place This year, for the first time, Father Christmas is coming to West Horsley Place. Soak up the atmosphere of the historic house, enjoy festive crafts and meet the man himself! Selected Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays in December. Adults £5, Children £10 Friday 8th December – Sunday 7th January Kingdom of Winter - ExCeL London This December, the Kingdom of Winter will open at ExCeL London, promising a one-ofa-kind festive experience perfect for families, groups, seasonal get-togethers and anyone looking for an exciting day out this winter. Captivating the magical atmosphere of the festive season, Kingdom of Winter will be the capital’s biggest indoor winter experience at 21,332 sqm, complete with an ice rink, traditional fairground rides, an Instagrammable ‘Ice Expedition’, circus, alpine stalls and two food and drink villages – it’s guaranteed to warm hearts even on the coldest of days. Saturday 9th December Christmas Crafts – Princes Mead Shopping Centre Farnborough We invite you to be a part of our Christmas Kids Craft Workshop at Princes Mead on Saturday 9th December between 11am-3:30pm. It’s a fantastic opportunity for children to explore their creativity and get into the holiday spirit. Join us for a day of crafting fun, where kids can let their imaginations run wild, making holiday-themed crafts to take home or gift to loved ones. It’s a chance for young minds to unleash their artistic talents and share in the joy of the festive season. Wednesday 13th – Sunday 24th December The Christmas Lobster – Farnham Maltings Meet The Society for Christmas Creatures. They are the world’s only expert team of festive detectives, and they know a thing or two about Christmas. Armed with a taste for adventure (and a pair of knitting needles), they’ve trekked far and wide searching for Christmas creatures of every shape and size. Now they’re here in Farnham for their toughest mission yet: to find the elusive Christmas Lobster and maybe (just maybe) discover the true meaning of Christmas. A hilarious festive show for all the family, The Christmas Lobster is packed with great songs, laugh-out-loud gags, and buckets of Christmas cheer. Thursday 14th - Saturday 16th December The Hundred and One Dalmatians by Dodie Smith adapted by Glyn Robbins - BUZZ Studio Theatre, Woking The Man In The Moon is delighted to bring this magical adaptation of the classic story to the BUZZ Studio Theatre in Woking, with a talented cast of young people aged 6 to 18 years old. Showing daily at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Adult tickets are £15 and concessions (under 18s, fulltime students, registered disabled, unemployed and senior citizens 65+) £12. Tickets available from themaninthemoon.co.uk. Friday 15th December FREE Craft Café - G Live Guildford Come and join in the monthly Craft Café at The Café at G Live. Completely free and suitable for all ages and abilities, get creative and learn some new skills along the way, whilst having the option of some tasty treats at The Café at G Live. From origami flowers and frogs to festive Christmas crafting, whatever you come along for, spend the morning and enjoy these free craft-based activities with the local community. Saturday 16th – 3rd January Winkworth Winter Welly Wander Visit Winkworth this Winter for fun-filled welly wander around the arboretum. Join in and play a range of welly based games that’s fun for all the family. Don’t forget to bring your wellies!
7 raring2go.co.uk Saturday 16th – 23rd December Cosmic Christmas – Winchester Science Centre Santa’s back in the Planetarium this festive season! Between Saturday 16th and Saturday 23rd December families are invited to blast into Cosmic Christmas, a live-action immersive space adventure where live science, magical effects and an out-of-this-world journey through space will bring a brand new original Christmas tale to life. Then, the anticipation will build as children get to meet Santa himself and receive a special Christmas gift. Families will be sure to make memories this Christmas that will propel them to the stars and back! Saturday 16th December Rudolph Rave – G Live Guildford A fabulously festive DJ, glow sticks, glitter and giant balloons, our family-friendly Christmas event brings everyone together for a fun-filled party afternoon, complete with a spectacular light display. Santa & Rudolph will be there and the bar will be open for the big kids! All ages welcome, but Rudolph Rave is aimed at families with 0-8-year-olds. Saturday 16th December The Snowman – Guildford Cathedral Make it a Christmas to remember, with a special screening of family-favourite The Snowman, accompanied by a live orchestra. Alongside The Snowman film, a whistle-stop Christmas guide to the orchestra and a visit from the Snowman himself, join everyone’s favourite cheese-loving inventor, Wallace and his trusty companion, Gromit in Aardman’s multi award-winning film, The Wrong Trousers Sunday 17th - Sunday 24th December Santa’s Magical Gift - Rhoda McGaw Theatre, Woking Holly, Santa’s newest elf and Trixie the experienced elf are busy decorating Santa’s workshop in the lead up to Christmas, cutting out beautiful snowflakes from white paper. Holly reveals Lapland’s biggest secret, that once a year Santa sends a magical gift to one person who deserves it the most. Holly writes her Christmas wish on a snowflake and places it on the window ledge before going to bed. That night a gust of wind takes the snowflake, and in the morning a large golden gift appears in its place. Is it really Santa’s Magical Gift? Find out in this heart-warming festive story that includes exciting audience participation, energetic comedy routines and a present for every child in the audience from Santa. WHAT’S ON Raring2go! Tuesday 19th December Pop Princesses – G Live Guildford A magical show where beautiful princesses become pop stars! This is the children’s pop concert with a big difference. A musical spectacular starring four fabulous fairytale princesses who just love to sing! It’s the perfect mix. Featuring a soundtrack of top pop hits from artists such as Little Mix, Ariana Grande, Taylor Swift. Meghan Trainor and Miley Cyrus, plus all the best songs from all your favourite films and musicals. Come and join the fun! Tuesday 19th December Short Stories, Tall Tales: The Night Before Christmas – Mill Studio, Guildford A wonderfully high-spirited spin on an old favourite that will inspire even the most ‘bah humbug’ curmudgeons. You and your little one will love this. With live performance, projected original illustrations, fully interactive role-play and creative drama this is an exciting adventure into stories and exploration through the senses and play. Wednesday 20th – Saturday 23rd December Alice’s Adventures With The Dormouse - West Green House, Hook Again we have commissioned a new pantomime designed to delight all the family, especially the littlest. With an original script and music, our sweet pantomime is designed to keep a small persons attention and for you to enjoy performers who you have seen at an Opera or on a West End stage, letting their hair down for they love returning again for us to West Green. “There was a table set out under a tree and the March Hare and the Mad Hatter were having Tea. A dormouse was sitting between them fast asleep. ”Well”, said Alice, “ What can we do to wake her up?, now we can have some fun!” Saturday 23rd December Howden Christmas Racing Weekend - Ascot Gather family and friends to enjoy the most valuable meeting of Ascot’s Jumps season, as the Christmas holidays begin in earnest. A topquality card features the Grade 1 Howden Long Walk Hurdle, one of Britain’s most prestigious long-distance hurdle races. Off the track, there’s an abundance of seasonal fun for all with a range of festive entertainment set to delight racegoers of all ages. The candle-lit carol singing with the Ascot Brass Band remain firmly part of the entertainment, and Father Christmas will be in attendance.
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON 8 Saturday 23rd December The Snow Queen – Princes Mead Shopping Centre Farnborough Join us at Princes Mead on Saturday 23rd December from 11am to 3:30pm for an enchanting encounter with the Snow Queen. As she graces us with her presence, she brings with her a touch of winter’s magic. It’s a moment of wonder and delight that will add a special sparkle to your holiday season. So mark your calendars and come share in the enchantment of this festive season with us, as the Snow Queen casts her spell and creates a truly magical atmosphere. Friday 29th - Saturday 30th December Cirque Enchantment – G Live Guildford Escape to a mystical world of frozen beauty and magical adventure this Christmas with Cirque Enchantment! This magical production features superb choreography, breathtaking vocals and mesmerising circus performers. Cirque Enchantment sees a little girl with a big imagination enter a frozen circus wonderland and a mysterious path of good versus evil, meeting an array of weird, wonderful and talented characters along the way 11th - 13th January High School Musical ON STAGE! - Princes Hall, Aldershot RARE Productions presents High School Musical. Troy Bolton, the star athlete at a small-town high school, falls for nerdy beauty Gabriella Montez at a holiday karaoke party. When they return to campus, Troy and Gabriella audition for the upcoming school musical. Meanwhile, the jealous Sharpay Evans conspires to squelch their chances. The two must struggle to make it to auditions while also meeting their existing obligations to the basketball team and the academic decathlon. Wednesday 24th - Thursday 25th January Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out – G Live Guildford Peppa Pig is back in her oinktastic brand new live show, Fun Day Out! Join Peppa, along with her family and friends as they go to the zoo and also the beach for a special party- it’s going to be an exciting and fun packed day. Packed full of songs, dance and muddy puddles, Peppa’s Fun Day Out guarantees giggles and snorts for all Peppa fans, and a perfect introduction to theatre. Saturday 27th January Sing-a-Long-a Matilda - New Victoria Theatre, Woking Calling all revolting children and their parents – come and be a little a bit naughty at Sing-a-Long-a Matilda the Musical From the producers of Singalong Sound of Music and Singalong Frozen. Showing at 1pm and 5pm. Tickets from £18.25 Tuesday 13th & Wednesday 14th February Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book - Princes Hall, Aldershot Charlie loves reading. Especially books about pirates. But his sister hates it - it’s boring! Can Charlie convince her that reading is fun? Perhaps if she read a book about a pirate, who is reading a book about Goldilocks, who is reading a book about a knight… Come and delve into a range of books with Charlie Cook, brought to life with puppetry and enchanting songs, and perhaps you will be able to help his sister discover the wonderful world inside a book… Wednesday 14th February THE AMAZING BUBBLE MAN- Camberley Theatre Louis explores the breath-taking dynamics of bubbles, combining comedy and artistry with audience participation and enough spellbinding bubble tricks to keep everyone mesmerized. From square bubbles, bubbles inside bubbles, fog-filled bubbles, giant bubbles, bubble volcanoes, tornados and trampolines to people inside bubbles, the Amazing Bubble Man conjures shrieks of laughter and gasps of amazement from all ages. Thursday 15th February Dinosaur Adventure Live: Trouble on Volcano Island – The Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, Guildford Dinosaur Adventure Live is back and even more ROARSOME! Join our brave Rangers for another action packed Dinosaur Adventure in the all new and exciting show: Trouble on Volcano Island. When the island’s ancient volcano becomes active, it spells danger for everyone – including the Dinosaurs! It’s a race against time to help our Rangers and favourite Dinosaurs in this thrilling prehistoric expedition, to save Volcano Island from imminent disaster. Meet the incredible Triceratops, the cheeky Spinosaurus, our cute baby dinos and the gigantic T-Rex as we follow in their huge footprints and journey across the island. Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th February Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out - New Victoria Theatre, Woking Join Peppa, along with her family and friends as they go to the zoo and also the beach for a special party- it’s going to be an exciting and fun packed day. Packed full of songs, dance and muddy puddles, Peppa’s Fun Day Out guarantees giggles and snorts for all Peppa fans, and a perfect introduction to theatre.
9 Raring2go! raring2go.co.uk SATURDAY 16 - SUNDAY 24 DECEMBER G Live, Guildford 0343 310 0055 GLive.co.uk Guildford SOHS Raring to Go Magazine Ad.indd 1 23/10/2023 18:03
Opener Body Copy Call to action Sub title Title Raring2go! XX 10 Father Christmas is coming to Godstone Farm, 25th November - 24th December Get ready to unwrap the spirit of Christmas with a magical visit to Father Christmas at Godstone Farm! New for 2023 they’re also proud to present ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, a live theatrical experience by the Unusual Theatre! Day and dusk tickets available online now. Santa’s Grotto at Fisher’s Farm Park, 25th November-24th December Watch the magic unfold as you are welcomed by real elves through the enchanting Christmas grotto! Join in the fun with some gingerbread decorating, Reindeer Food creation-station, then on to ‘Elf Security’ to check you’re on the nice list! Wind your way through the twinkly winter scenes, until you reach a very special door, where the real Father Christmas will be delighted to see you! Father Christmas at Polesden Lacey, 25th November-23rd December For the first time ever, Father Christmas is setting up camp in Polesden Lacey House. Join them for a magical experience throughout the upstairs, where elves and dragons roam… Where will Santa be this CHRISTMAS? A magical Christmas adventure at Birdworld, 2nd December- 24th December Join Santa and the Polar Explorers at their ‘Adventure Stories from the North Pole’ show - it’s all included in your entry ticket price! Meet Horatio the Polar Bear, a warm and magical friend of Santa’s. He’s travelled all the way from the North Pole with the Polar Explorers to visit Birdworld. Koala Kids Parties - Elf home visits Your magical Elf will arrive at your chosen location playing Christmas tunes and behaving mischievously! She will then explain who she is, why she is there and that the big guy in the North Pole has sent her to meet you. She will take your little ones on a Mini Christmas Adventure Story where along the way she will answer questions and tell them all about the adventures she gets up to in the North Pole. Christmas Extravaganza at Museum of Farnham, 2nd December A day full of festive cheer for all the family! The magic of Christmas will be coming to the Museum of Farnham this December. There will be a range of activities to get you into the festive spirit, including: meeting Mrs Claus in their magical grotto as you help her make reindeer food for the big day. Each child will receive a gift, candy cane and a letter from Santa Claus! HERE COMES SANTA CLAUS! We can’t believe it’s that time of year again! Here is our pick of where to meet Santa this year. The question is… have you been naughty or nice?!
11 HERE COMES SANTA CLAUS! Raring2go! raring2go.co.uk Mizens Railway – Santa Specials, 3rd-17th December Head to Mizens Railway for a truly special festive experience! Whilst on the train you will stop at Santa’s Halt where Santa will come and talk with the Children and give them a present for their age group (no need to leave the train)- you will then return to the Station area. Visit Father Chirtsmas at Hatchlands Park, 2nd- 17th December Book your visit to meet Father Christmas in his cosy hideout in the old stables and receive an exclusive Hatchlands Park teddy bear! Please note: Normal admission applies. Christmas at the Rural Life Museum, Farnham, 2nd-17th December This Christmas, visit Santa in his Grotto as he returns to the Museum for a festive day out! Santa will be meeting and greeting his visitors as they depart the train and make their way to his magical North Pole base to say hello. Squires Garden Centres 25th November – 24th December Be welcomed by one of the jolly elves and chat with Santa himself - you can ask him what you’ve always wanted to know! Squire’s Centres hosting Santa are: Badshot Lea, Shepperton, West Horsley, Woking. West Horsley Place 2nd -18th December Father Christmas has filled his sleigh with presents, fed all the reindeer, made a list and checked it twice. He will land at West Horsley Place on selected Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays in December. Your festive experience will of course include meeting the big man himself, but so much more besides! Milestones Museum, 9th-23rd December This holiday season, create memories to cherish with loved ones as you meet Father Christmas in his magical Milestones grotto tucked within the heart of their charming, decorated indoor streets! Santa’s Victorian Parlour – Haslemere Museum, 16th-22nd December Come and visit Santa as he takes time out before Christmas to relax in his charming Victorian Parlour. Children receive a gift. Cosmic Christmas at Winchester Science Centre, 16th- 23rd December Santa is back in the Planetarium for Cosmic Christmas! Blast off on a live-action immersive festive space adventure for the whole family before meeting the man himself and getting a special Christmas gift. Seasons Farm Shop Windlesham - Breakfast with Santa, 18th-20th December It’s back! Happily, they are on the good list for another year and for the third winter, Santa Claus will be back at the Season Kitchen for Breakfast! Santa Claus will be there Monday 18th - Wednesday 20th December and tables are available between 9am and 11.15am. An adult ticket includes breakfast, a hot drink and a meet and greet with Santa. A child ticket includes breakfast, a drink, a chocolate gift from Santa, a meet and greet with Santa and a festive surprise on the day.
Opener Body Copy Call to action Sub title Title Raring2go! 12
13 WHAT’S ON Raring2go! raring2go.co.uk KIDS GO FREE HOWDEN CHRISTMAS FAMILY RACEDAY 23RD DECEMBER VISIT ASCOT.COM FOR TICKETS THERE’S WRITING FATHER WRITING FATHER CHRISTMAS A LIST, THEN THERE’S THEN THERE’S TELLING FATHER CHRISTMAS YOURSELF AR23_HCRW_S_Raring2Go_HP_W129mmH89mm.indd 1 23/10/2023 09:22
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON 14 Last chance to head out on the Zog activity trail! 9am - 5pm Pick your perfect Christmas tree with the help of a specialist tree team. Your Christmas begins at... Alice Holt Forest Tree sales from: 23rd November - 19th December forestryengland.uk/ real-christmas-trees Full details available at: 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
15 WHAT’S ON Raring2go! raring2go.co.uk 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! CHRISTMAS 2023 LOCALLY GROWN CHRISTMAS TREES AT VAN ARNHEM NURSERY, GODALMING, GU7 2RQ Open from 20th November For more details, see our website Hans Christmas Andersen also at Santa Fir, Shamley Green, GU5 0SQ www.hanschristmasandersen.co.uk Meet Santa in his magical grotto at Squire’s West Horsley & Woking 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.
Meet Santa in the Planetarium at Cosmic Christmas and enjoy the sights, sounds and science of Christmas past…way past…at Science Dino-mite. Santa’s back in the Planetarium this festive season! Between Saturday 16th and Saturday 23rd December families are invited to blast into Cosmic Christmas, a live-action immersive space adventure where live science, magical effects and an out-of-this-world journey through space will bring a brand new original Christmas tale to life. Then, the anticipation will build as children get to meet Santa himself and receive a special Christmas gift. Families will be sure to make memories this Christmas that will propel them to the stars and back! It’s going to be a Cosmic Christmas! Inside the Science Centre, our Dino Rangers have sprinkled prehistoric cheer for a Jurassic adventure at Science Dino-mite on weekends and school holidays between Saturday 1 December 2023 and Tuesday 2nd January 2024. Enjoy a roar-cus festive season filled with T-Riffic fun and dino-mite demos. Families can join the excavation team in Dino Dig, handle some real fossils in Dino Discovery, meet Trixie the baby Triceratops, find the hidden dinosaurs in the Dino Activity Trail and be wowed by live science in The Dino Show – all free with admission. And there’s not just prehistoric activities to get involved in, there’ll also be two live Planetarium shows, huge live science demos and awesome interactive exhibits to excite and inspire all ages. Raring2go! WHAT’S ON 16
17 WHAT’S ON Raring2go! raring2go.co.uk Christmas with the National Trust A Fairytale Christmas at Polesden Lacey Sat 25 Nov-Sun 7 Jan Enjoy a show-stopping fairytale Christmas experience, make some wonderful memories and get into the festive spirit together. Narnia at Hatchlands Park Fri 1 Dec-Sun 31 Dec, 10am-4pm Go on a magical journey through the house and a family trail in the parkland, inspired by the classic story, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis. Winkworth Winter Welly Wander Sat 16 Dec-Wed 3 Jan, 10am-3pm Have fun with a trail and welly-based games to get everyone rosy-cheeked and smiling. The Snow Queen at Claremont Landscape Garden Sat 25 Nov-Mon 1 Jan, 10am-3pm Explore the magical outdoor world of the Snow Queen with activities along the way. Creative Christmas at Dapdune Wharf Sat 25 & Sun 26 Nov, 11am-4pm Spend a festive family day creating Christmas cards, crackers and tree decorations. Frost Fair at Box Hill Sat 9 & Sun 10 Dec, 10am-3pm Browse the stalls for gifts at this Christmas market, enjoy family crafts and a winter trail. For prices and opening times, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/surrey Please note: properties are closed 24 & 25 Dec. Enjoy a festive family day out at a property near you this winter. Narnia® is a registered trademark of C.S. Lewis Pte Ltd, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis © C.S. Lewis Pte. Ltd. 1950. The illuminated night-time adventure that never grows old In the heart of Wellington Country Park, an illuminated kingdom awaits you with even more Neverland to discover. BOOK YOUR TICKETS TODAY neverlandilluminova.co.uk
If you are in need of some inspiration for Christmas gifts then look no further! here is our our selection of local Christmas Markets that are sure to get you in the Christmas spirit… Tunsgate Christmas Spectacular, 18th November Join us at Tunsgate Quarter as we switch on our Christmas tree lights and kickstart the festive season in style! Expect plenty of exciting festive activities and entertainment, free for all the family. There will be live music from The Decades as well as performances from Guildford & Godalming Jazz Choir. Surrey Hills Christmas Fair at West Horsley Place, 24th26th November The Christmas Fair will be a celebration of local crafts and creativity with a fantastic selection of local Surrey Hills artists and craftspeople. Godalming Christmas Festival, 25th November Spend the day in one of the prettiest towns in Surrey where you’ll find lots of stalls for all your Christmas present ideas in the High Street and Church Street as well as traditional Christmas Food. Buy a handcrafted gift, jewellery or decorations from a local producer and sample yummy foodie treats. There will be music and entertainment all day long at The Pepperpot and Godalming’s dazzling lights will be switched on by special guests at 5.00pm. Liphook Christmas Market, 25th November Handmade Cards, Cakes and preserves, Exclusive handmade soft furnishings, Local free-range eggs, Tea & Coffee and much more. The Market will be held in the Millennium Centre, GU30 7LD. Winter Craft Fair, The Lightbox Woking, 25th-26th November Last year they welcomed over 2,000 visitors and this year promises to be excellent too! Check online for details released nearer the time. All Saints Christmas Fair, Grayswood, 2nd December Their lively Christmas Fayres with stalls, produce, Christmas gift ideas and refreshments takes place in the Village hall from 11.30 am -1.30 pm. Please come and enjoy the opportunity of making friends with the lovely people in Grayswood. Frimley Green Christmas Fair, Camberley, 2nd December With stalls, crafts, music, food and plenty of mulled wine, this promises to be a great day out! Plus every child receives a gift from Father Christmas! Milestone Museum Christmas Market, 2nd- 3rd December Join them for the annual Milestones Christmas market! The perfect opportunity to do your Christmas shopping – and Feeling Festive? Head to a Christmas Market…. find that something a little bit different! Browse seasonal gifts and treats at independent stalls throughout the museum. At the Milestones Christmas Market, there’s fun for all the family to enjoy, including a chance to meet Father Christmas, too! This is a very popular event, prebooking essential. Haslemere Christmas Market, Sunday 3rd December 10am-4pm Haslemere Events is delighted to be organising the 22nd Christmas Market for Haslemere’s residents and visitors. As usual they will have a fantastic range of gifts, food and refreshments and we look forward to seeing Father Christmas arrive at the Haslemere Museum! With over 100 stalls booked for the day, West Street the High Street and the Haslemere Educational Museum will be full of ideas for your Christmas and fun for all the family. Ripley Christmas Fair, 3rd December They will have their normal eclectic mix of stalls and festive regulars along with the turning on of their Christmas lights. 12-4pm. Petersfield Christmas Festival, 9th-10th December From 7pm to 9pm on Saturday 9th December the centre of Petersfield will be alive with festive cheer. The mulled wine will be flowing whilst we all enjoy Christmas music live on stage in The Square. There will be be family fun and entertainment, including lit up tractors from the Petersfield Charity Tractor Run and even churros! On Sunday 10th the full day time market will be back featuring over 100 wonderful stalls for all your Christmas shopping needs. Family fun and entertainment will be throughout the streets featuring a live Nativity petting zoo and fun rides. Christmas Pop Up Event, Newlands Corner, 3rd December The Newlands Corner Christmas Pop-Up event returns for the third year. This successful outdoor event brings together local Surrey producers and is the ideal opportunity to stock up on Christmas gifts. Discover a variety of stalls from food and drink to local crafts, gifts and experiences. Wreath making workshops will run throughout the day along with other festive activities! Farnham Christmas Market, 10th December One of the busiest, one-day Christmas markets in the South East and set across five locations within the beautiful town centre of Farnham. The market stretches from Castle Street and The Borough through to the Bush Hotel and Ivy Lane Club. Raring2go! GET FESTIVE! 18
19 Raring2go! raring2go.co.uk Spectacular Christmas Saturday 18 November 10am - 6pm Join us at Tunsgate Quarter as we switch on our Christmas tree lights and kickstart the festive season in style @tunsgatequarter tunsgatequarter.com Free mince pies Mulled wine Etsy Christmas market Live band & choir Wreath making Prize draw Free face painting Family crafting
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21 WHAT’S ON Raring2go! raring2go.co.uk Sun 17 - Sun 24 Dec The Ambassadors, Peacocks Centre, Woking, Surrey GU21 6GQ *Fees apply. ATGTICKETS.COM/Woking*
Surrey’s renowned arts centre has teamed up with Bucket Club theatre company to produce The Christmas Lobster, a brand-new bonkers Christmas show that’s fun for the whole family. With original live music, puppetry, great songs and laugh-outloud gags and buckets of holiday cheer, this festive adventure is the perfect Christmas treat for the whole family to enjoy, with plenty of winter magic along the way. Join the oddballs and misfits that make up the Society for Christmas Creatures, an expert team of festive detectives, as they head off on a madcap adventure quest to discover the true meaning of Christmas. They’ve trekked far and wide searching for Christmas creatures of every shape and size to reveal their yuletide secrets. Now they’re in Farnham for their toughest mission yet: to find the elusive Christmas lobster. Will they reveal the true meaning of Christmas, or will its shell be too tough to crack? A festive alternative to traditional panto, The Christmas Lobster features a stellar cast, including Jamal Franklin, star of Ruby Speaking on ITVX; Patrick Bridgman, currently performing in Lord of the Rings at the This Christmas something claw-some is happening at Farnham Maltings… Watermill Theatre; Robin Harris, renowned for his work with The Handlebards, the hilarious travelling Shakespeare troupe; and Ellie Showering, star of Bucket Club shows Five Children and It and Catch That Beast! who has also composed original music for the production. Families and friends can plan a festive treat for everyone to enjoy with a seasonal offering in the Maltings’ Riverside Café for both children and adults through the month of December. Choose from lobster-inspired dishes or traditional turkey roast to open-faced Danish sandwiches and mac and cheese. Plus activity packs for little ones! A limited number of £10 tickets are available for every performance and groups of 10 or more can access an exclusive ticket discount. Schools bookings and access performances are also available. A relaxed performance is scheduled for the matinee on 18 December and a captioned performance will take place at the matinee on 21 December. Tickets can be booked via the Box Office on 01252 745444 or the website at farnhammaltings. com. The Christmas Lobster is the first festive offering produced in-house for Farnham Maltings , an arts and culture centre at the heart of the community in Surrey. The Maltings present an ambitious programme of theatre, film, comedy, live music, workshops, festivals, craft and more throughout the year for audiences of all ages. Raring2go! THE CHRISTMAS LOBSTER 22
23 WHAT’S ON Raring2go! raring2go.co.uk Wed 13 – Sun 24 December a claw-some festive show for all the family Tickets from £10 Book: farnhammaltings.com Packed with great songs, laugh-outloud gags and plenty of Christmas cheer!
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 wallto-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. Jump into happy this Winter… 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. 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 www.airhop.co.uk/ Or call 0330 223 3333 Raring2go! JUMP INTO HAPPY 24
25 Raring2go! raring2go.co.uk GIFT CARD #JumpIntoHappy
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON 26 Book online today! 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
27 Raring2go! raring2go.co.uk Part of the single fare capped scheme *Variations and exclusions apply. See website for details. ALL SINGLE BUS FARES £2 OR LESS* WHERE WILL YOUR BUS TAKE YOU? £2*
Raring2go! DON’T FORGET THE GROWN UP’S! 28 What’s on for adults? This Winter 25th November Vintage Fashion Fair at Farnham Maltings Spend a leisurely Saturday browsing and buying from the many stalls of beautiful vintage clothing, shoes, handbags, hats, jewellery and textiles. All authentically vintage and dating from 1900s to 1990s. The fair offers wearable vintage at affordable prices and a selection of designer labels. Something to suit all tastes and budgets. 25th November - 23rd December ‘A Taste of Christmas’ Sparkling Wine Tasting & Dinner at Denbies Enjoy a sparkling festive evening commencing with a sparkling wine tasting of Denbies award winning sparkling wines. Followed by a three course dinner, coffee and festive bites. 2nd December Kelly’s Santa Fun Run at Stoke Park Guildford A family friendly fun run raising money for a fantastic cause! Join them for a 2.5k or 5k charity run around Stoke Park, Guildford and help raise money for Challengers to support the amazing work they do with disabled young people. Every penny raised goes to charity! Whether you’re a keen runner or you’ve never run before, the Kelly’s Santa Fun Run will guarantee you a great morning out and help get you into the festive spirit. 2nd December Christmas Stand Up for Saturday Comedy Club, The Harlington Fleet Stand up for Saturday Comedy Club is a fantastic night of live comedy entertainment. With new guest stars each month the show is a massive hit and often sells out in advance - so be sure to purchase your tickets early! 2nd December Christmas Wreath Workshop at Albury Vineyard Using all locally grown willow, conifers, foliage and farm berries and seed heads, you’ll get a wonderful session of crafting in a fantastic location and atmosphere, and get to sample amazing locally produced sparkling wine with nibbles, while you make your wreath. Various dates between 7th-17th December Luxury Wreath Making Field Flowers Haslemere Come and start the festive season and join Filed Flowers for some festive cheer where you will make your very own Christmas wreath in their beautiful barn! You will be guided through the process to create a luxurious sustainable wreath with lots of gorgeous bits to adorn them with; British foliage, foraged materials , as well as lots of other dried and natural products. Your wreath will be seasonal, British and absolutely gorgeous! All materials will be provided, and there will be hot drinks and festive snacks too. 10th December Jingle Jog, Sturt Road, Camberley Jingle bells, Jingle bells, Jingle all the way. Oh what fun, it is to run, in the Jingle Jog 5K, hey! Get into the Christmas spirit as Jingle Jog welcomes you, to run their festive 5K around Frimley Green and Frimley Lodge Park, to the tune of a thousand jingle bells. Fancy dress is encouraged! This multi-terrain course of path, grass, towpath and track is predominantly flat and fast and starts at 9am. 15th December Tropicana Nights 80s at G Live If you are looking for a fun filled evening of pure 80s music and dancing for the over 25s, then look no further! Come and indulge yourselves in pure 80s heaven. 16th December That 80s ‘Christmas’ Rock Show! Haslemere Hall They’ll bring the party to YOU this Christmas, all the biggest 80s Anthems & Power Ballads, plus all those 80s Christmas hits you secretly love …… but won’t admit ! 19th December Christmas Workshop at The Nook, Camberley A FUN, Friendly Hands-On Christmas Workshop. Only £25 for everything you to Take Home a beautiful Christmas Table Arrangement made by YOU! Booking is easy -just call/text Kathryn on 07802 24 88 62. Make some time for yourself this Festive Season and recharge your batteries before the chaos of Christmas ensues!
29 FAMILY SERVICES Raring2go! raring2go.co.uk 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.
With Christmas just around the corner and the cost of everything rising, we thought we would put our minds to a simple, low-cost suggestion for your table decorations. We have used a basic tin can – yes, a baked bean/soup can. Washed out with the label removed they are the perfect container for an arrangement. Cut a piece of floral foam just taller than the can and place it inside so that the top of the foam shows above the rim of the can by about 2-3cm. If possible, ensure that the foam fits snugly so that it doesn’t wobble. If necessary, use small offcuts of foam to wedge down the sides to secure the main foam. Top up the can about half full of water. If you would like a candle, now is the time to add it. A simple taper candle can just be pushed into the foam but if you want a chunkier candle, use cocktail sticks, cut in half and taped around the base of the candle to create stakes that will secure your candle into the foam. Now the fun begins, you can start to add your foliage. Cut short pieces of greenery, approximately 10-15cm in length depending on how large you want your finished arrangement to be. Place these into the foam surrounding the candle and to form a ring around the top of the tin. We have used fir mixed with some eucalyptus & berried ivy but you can forage from the woods or use the offcuts from your Christmas tree – anything goes! Make sure that the foliage is kept away from the top of the candle, to avoid fires. Once you have a good covering of the foam, you can add other decorations. These can be natural like cones and cinnamon sticks but you can add colour with some berries, baubles or even a few flowers if you wish. If the majority of the arrangement is a mixture of hardy foliage with the colour and interest added with just a few berries etc. then the arrangement will be really long lasting and it will help to keep the cost down. Jingle Tins! Also, you will be able to make the centrepiece well in advance of Christmas day, which already is a busy time. Finish the design with a decorative ribbon around the tin to dress it up and tie in with the colourings of your other decorations. If you prefer gold rather than silver, then spray the tin gold before you start. You can even get the children involved as each tin is relatively small and takes only a little material to make. We have used a variety of different sized tins here which are effective when clustered together or used collectively down the centre of a table. We would love to see your creations, so get creative and please tag us on Instagram @ marleyflowershaslemere or Facebook @ marleyflowershaslemereflowershop – we will pick a winner who will receive a voucher for one of our workshops to use in 2024 Raring2go! GET FESTIVE! 30
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