Christmas in Surrey | Things To Do 2026
*This article is in the process of being updated – many attractions haven’t announced their activities for this year yet so I’ve kept last year’s events on for some attractions until I can update them.
Prices correct at the time of writing. Click through to each venue for up to date pricing and information.
This post may contain affiliate links and I may receive commission if you visit a link and buy something. Purchasing via an affiliate link doesn’t cost you any extra, and I only recommend products and services I trust.
Christmas is just around the corner and there are so many festive activities and magical Christmas events coming up that I thought I’d share them with you. They’re great for inspiration if you have a free weekend, a few hours spare after school or are looking for ways to fill up the Christmas holidays.
So here are some ideas of things to do over the festive season taking place across Surrey:
Meeting Father Christmas in Surrey
I know one of the main things people want to know at this time of year is where to see Father Christmas so I’ve put together a post that tells you just that. Santa events and activities are also listed on this page but if you’re specifically looking for Father Christmas, this post might be helpful.
Days Out in Surrey
If you’re just looking for a day out to enjoy over the festive period then we have a lot of inspiration for you and these posts should be helpful:
Christmas Afternoon Tea
If you fancy going for afternoon tea as a festive treat there are plenty of places to choose from and these guides may help you find somewhere perfect!
- 14 Options for Christmas Afternoon Tea in Surrey
- The Best Places to Have Afternoon Tea in Surrey
- 12 Options for Children’s Afternoon Tea in Surrey
There are also a few really lovely Christmas themed afternoon tea options around:
Foxhills Country Club Festive Afternoon Tea – Throughout December 2025 – Member: £29.75 adult / £14.75 child, Visitor: £35 adult / £17.50 child
Warm up and relax throughout December with the quintessential British tradition of afternoon tea with a themed festive twist.
Gorse Hill Festive Afternoon Tea – 17th November 2025 to 3rd January 2026 excluding Christmas Day and Boxing Day – From £38 per person
Embrace the spirit of the season with a festive twist on the beloved Afternoon Tea tradition. Indulge in classic favourites like buttery scones, a selection of pastries, tempting cakes, and delicate finger sandwiches, all infused with a seasonal flair.
Festive Afternoon Tea at Chessington Garden Centre – various dates – From £23.95 per person
Enjoy a Christmas Afternoon Tea at Chessington Garden Centre’s Sedum Restaurant with a fine selection of homemade savoury and sweet treats alongside a hot beverage of your choice.
Christmas Tree Farm Surrey
A great festive activity is going to choose a Christmas tree and it’s lovely being able to go and pick one freshly cut from a Christmas tree farm.
Hans Christmas Andersen Santa Fir Christmas Tree Farm
Where: Guildford Road, Shamley Green, Guildford, Surrey GU5 0SQ
Visit Santa Fir Christmas Tree Farm for a fun-filled Christmas experience for all the family! Meet Father Christmas, say hello to his reindeer, go on a horse and carriage ride and browse the local produce market.
Various times/dates from 22nd November to 24th December 2025. Find out more and book here.
There are other Christmas tree farms in Surrey but Santa Fir Christmas Trees is a real festive event that has had such great reviews. Other options include:
- Crockford Bridge Farm – From 22nd November 2025 with the ability to cut your own tree on selected dates
- Maurice Mandry – From 27th November 2025
- Oxenford Farm – From 22nd November 2025
You can read about more places to get Christmas trees in Surrey here.
Christmas Events in Surrey
Wherever you are in Surrey, there are so many festive events to keep the whole family entertained. Here are a few ideas from across the county suitable for all ages.
Here are a couple of specific posts that you might find useful:
Chessington Garden Centre
Where: Leatherhead Road, Chessington, Surrey KT9 2NG
The Magic of Christmas – 21st November to 24th December 2026 – from £24.50 per child, £8.50 per adult. Family tickets available.
Take a magical walk through the Christmas Wonderland. It includes a short, animated film followed by rooms with different themes to take you through a journey of magic and wonder. You then have your own private visit with Father Christmas – visiting him in his cosy cabin.
Virtual Reality Magical Christmas Sleigh Ride – 21st November to 24th December 2026 – £5 per person
This festive VR ride promises to be a magical way to get your family ready for Christmas in an exciting and magical experience. Let us take you on a journey as you glide through the magical Christmas scenes.
Ashtead Park Garden Centre
Where: Pleasure Pit Road, Ashtead, Surrey KT21 1HU
Festive Family Fun Days – 6th, 7th and 13th December 2025
See the beautiful Nativity Animals – donkeys, goats, sheep and more and visit Surrey Magic Ponies for a short pony ride. There will be Christmas crafts, a polar bear hunt and face painting plus a local choir will be spreading some Christmas cheer.
You can also meet Santa in his snowy igloo – more info here.
Fenwick at Bentall Centre Kingston
Where: Wood Street, Kingston Upon Thames, Surrey KT1 1TP
Afternoon Tea with Santa – Every Saturday and Sunday, from 29th November to 21th December 2025 – From £32.50 per person
The most important meal of the day, sprinkled with a dusting of Christmas joy. Join Santa and his elves for a festive feast at Fenwick Kingston.
Kids Gingerbread Decorating & Adults Sparkling Cream Tea – Thursdays from 27th November to 18th December 2025 – £16 per child and £18 per adult
Celebrate the Christmas build up the Fenwick way. This Gingerbread Workshop and Sparkling Cream Tea Events keep the little ones entertained while you relax into the festive spirit.
Santa’s Grotto at Mizens Railway
Where: Barrs Lane, Knaphill, Woking, Surrey GU21 2JW
Santa Specials – Sundays, 7th to 21st December 2025
Winter Lights Trains – 29th November 2025
Gatton Park
Where: Reigate, Surrey RH2 0TW
Stick Man Christmas Trail – Sunday 7th December 2025 – £6 adult, £3 children
Enjoy a Stick Man themed Christmas trail around Gatton Park’s rock garden before returning to Gatton Hall for toasted marshmallows and Christmas crafts. Perfect for small children.
Trails and Tales: Just Right for Christmas – Friday 12th December 2025 – £7.50 per child
Listen to the story of “Just Right for Christmas” by Birdie Black with a craft activity, then explore a trail around the garden. Another final craft can be completed in the cabin or taken away. Ideal for children aged 2 – 4 years. Booking essential. There are other Trails and Tales sessions on different days, full details here.
Trails and Tales: The Gift of Christmas – Friday 19th December 2025 – £7.50 per child
Listen to the story of “The Gift of Christmas” by Christine Leeson with a craft activity, then explore a trail around the garden. Another final craft can be completed in the cabin or taken away. Ideal for children aged 2 – 4 years. Booking essential, full details here.
Gym Jams Soft Play
Where: Normandy Village Hall, Glaziers Lane, Normandy, Nr Guildford, Surrey GU3 2DT
Christmas at Gym Jams – Saturday 12 December, Monday 14 December, Wednesday 16th December, Friday 18th December 2026
Join in with the Gym Jams’ Christmas celebrations that include a soft play session and a visit to Santa’s Grotto! All children get a small gift plus there’s unlimited squash and a cookie too. Adults receive a drink plus a mince pie or chocolate biscuit.
Denbies Wine Estate
Where: Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking Surrey RH5 6AA
Denbies Santa Express – Selected dates through November and December 2025 – £18.95 per child, £12.95 per adult
Visit Denbies for an extra special ride on Santa’s Express train with a special passport from Santa, a ride through the vineyard on the Santa Express with Santa himself and a gift from Santa’s elves at the end of the ride.
Days Out with Christmas Activities in Surrey
Hampton Court Palace
Where: East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU
Winter Palace – 28th November 2026 – 3rd January 2027 – Included with the cost of admission.
This Christmas, you are invited into an enchanted world. Step inside The Winter Palace in the glowing halls of Hampton Court Palace – where mythical beasts join the most magical ball of the year. The spell is cast. And throughout the palace, extraordinary creatures are gathering to welcome you to a celebration like no other.
Festive Fayre – 4th to 6th and 11th to 13th December 2026 – Included with the cost of admission.
Hampton Court Palace courtyards will be transformed into a food-lover’s Christmas wonderland for a delicious festive weekend, set in the magnificent palace courtyards and grounds. There will be delicious artisan food and drink, as well as gifts to pick up for loved ones.
Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink – 20th November 2026 – 3rd January 2027
Wrap up warm, get together with your friends or family and take in the magnificent views of the beautiful Tudor palace as you glide around on the stunning outdoor ice rink. Skate under the stars with your loved one or make magical memories on a day out with the kids at Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink.
Chobham Adventure Farm
Where: Bagshot Road, Chobham, Woking, Surrey GU24 8DB
Christmas Adventure – Selected dates from 30th November to 24th December 2025 – SEN dates are also available.
This year the animal barn will be magically transformed into The Reindeer Lodge, where all of Santa’s real reindeer will be staying while they get ready for the big day!
Included in the normal entry ticket, you can enjoy soft play and outdoor adventures before heading into the Reindeer Lodge to meet new wintery friends including Dasher, Dancer, Prancer and of course Rudolph himself!
There will be Elves and The Reindeer Keeper to tell you all about how we look after the reindeer and you’ll also get to make your very own magical reindeer food to take home!
There’s also the option to upgrade your ticket to meet Father Christmas or go ice skating.
Godstone Farm
Where: Tilburstow Hill Road, Godstone, Surrey RH9 8LX
Visit Father Christmas at Godstone Farm – Selected dates in November and through to 24th December 2026
Enjoy a truly magical festive adventure at Godstone Farm this Christmas. Take a festive wander through Candy Cane Lane and embark on a journey to find a special secret recipe. You’ll also get the chance to discover the wonders and surprises inside Father Christmas’ office and explore the controls for the sleigh.
The experience includes your choice of a special gift from the wonderful Christmas Toy Shop and you’ll get the opportunity to decorate a tasty festive treat too.
Chessington World of Adventures
Where: Leatherhead Road, Chessington, Surrey KT9 2NE
Christmas at Chessington – 21st November to 24th December 2026 – Tickets from £32 per person
Celebrating the magic of Christmas with some festive family fun at Chessington this Christmas! Guided by jolly elves, you’ll make your way deep into a snowy wonderland before stepping foot into Father Christmas’ charming grotto where you’ll enjoy a private audience with Father Christmas.
Then, visit the Toy Workshop where you’ll explore where Father Christmas builds all his wonderful gifts for the big day and children will even receive an early Christmas gift too. There’s also the Wild Christmas Panto, Magical Cookie Kitchen and so much more festive fun to discover.
Read our review of the Winter’s Tail at Chessington World of Adventures here.
RHS Garden Wisley
Where: Woking, Surrey GU23 6QB
RHS Glow at Wisley – 20th November 2026 – 3rd January 2027
Let it Glow! Enjoy an unmissable after dark spectacle of lights at RHS Wisley Gardens this festive season. Bring all the family for a magical evening at RHS Garden Wisley and see the garden in breathtaking beauty as amazing illuminations light your way on a wonderful new route.
Read our RHS Glow at Wisley review here
Bocketts Farm Park
Where: Young Street, Fetcham, Leatherhead, Surrey KT22 9BS
A Magical Christmas at Bocketts Farm – 20th November to 24th December 2026
Enjoy a magical and festive family day out at Bocketts Farm including a visit to meet Father Christmas in his traditional workshop. Hop on board the Santa Express trailer. where the elves take you on a short journey to their traditional workshop. Next, you’ll be invited to meet Father Christmas in his magical grotto where each child will receive a special golden coin to spend in his amazing toy shop.
Plus, there’s a fun Elf Passport, the opportunity to make Reindeer Food, a Christmas Craft Corner plus so many animals to see, fantastic play areas and even a heated indoor soft play.
Royal Botanic Gardens Kew
Where: Kew, Richmond, Surrey TW9 3AE
Christmas at Kew – Selected dates, 13th November 2026 to 3rd January 2027
Visit Kew Gardens as the magical winter trail lights up the evening skies. Enjoy the annual after-dark festivities with family and friends, and discover sparkling tunnels of light, dancing lakeside reflections, and trees drenched in jewel-like colour.
Basingstoke Canal Centre
Where: Mytchett Place Road, Mytchett, Camberley, Surrey GU16 6DD
Santa Cruises – 2nd December to 23rd December 2025
Climb aboard the Rosebud boat and take a gentle cruise to the start of the tinsel trail in the woods. Little ones lead the way and follow the trail to find Father Christmas in his grotto and receive a special gift. You’ll then cruise back to the Centre and head into Santa’s Workshop for Christmas colouring activities, warm drinks and mince pies.
Santa Cruise on the River Wey
Where: Millmead Island, Guildford
Santa Cruise – 29th November to 22nd December 2025
Join Santa aboard the Swingbridge Tranquility broadbeam boat this Christmas for a gentle family cruise along the River Wey. The boat will depart from Millmead Island in search of Santa. Look for clues along the towpath as you pass by to find out where he’s hiding.
Enjoy mince pies and a glass of mulled wine as the hunt goes on. When Santa is found, he’ll hop on board with his sack of gifts, joining the Christmas cabin for the return journey. Tickets include mince pies and mulled wine or soft drinks, plus a present for the children. All proceeds go to The Surrey Care Trust.
Painshill Park
Where: Portsmouth Road, Cobham, Surrey KT11 1BE
12 Days of Christmas Trail – Not confirmed for 2025
Can you find all the Christmas gifts and complete the carol as you explore Painshill? A trail sheet will be available to pick up from the Visitor Centre.
Priory Farm Estate
Where: Sandy Lane, South Nutfield, Redhill, Surrey RH1 4EJ
Christmas Trail at Discovery Land – From 29th November 2025 to 5th January 2026
Come and visit Priory Farm on a frosty, festive family walk this Christmas. You’ll meet the Evergreen Elves as you help scavenge and find all the ingredients to make the festive fuel for Father Christmas’ sleigh. Be ready to help mix up some magic little nature adventurers!
Father Christmas Experience – Taking a break in 2025
Follow the magic and get ready to go on a very special adventure to meet Father Christmas and his friends. Your favourite fairy, Tinselbottom and the Evergreen Elves will be eagerly waiting to see you in the heart of the fairy forest. Through the wonders of storytelling and song, you will be transported into The Land of Christmas Wishes where you’ll meet Mary Christmas.
National Trust Days Out with Activities
Polesden Lacey
Where: Great Bookham, near Dorking, Surrey RH5 6BD
Christmas at Polesden Lacey – 22nd November 2025 to 4th January 2026
Tumble down the rabbit hole into a world of wonder and delight for an adventure like no other this festive season. Follow the White Rabbit inside the house to see ground floor rooms dressed for Christmas, inspired by the story of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Enjoy lavish displays based on scenes from the book, interspersed with Christmas decorations and twinkling trees. Outside, follow the children’s trail around the grounds to win a prize and enjoy a range of seasonal activities, amusements and treats.
Hatchlands Park
Where: East Clandon, Guildford, Surrey GU4 7RT
Christmas in the House at Hatchlands – Throughout December 2025 – Included with admission
Experience the magic of Christmas at Hatchlands this winter. See the house beautifully decorated for the festive season and soak up the atmosphere of a traditional country house Christmas.
The Snowdogs at Hatchlands Park – 15th November 2025 to 6th January 2026 – Included with admission
Inspired by the animated sequel to the late Raymond Briggs’ timeless picture book The Snowman, take a festive sculpture trail through the parkland to find Wild in Art’s ten uniquely decorated sculptures of The Snowdog and enjoy festive family activities along the way.
Read about our visit to the Snowdogs trail here
Dapdune Wharf National Trust
Where: Wharf Road, Guildford, Surrey GU1 4RR
Christmas Pompom Snowmen – Saturday 6th December 2025
Join local artist Sarah Rawlins to make your own pompom snowman. At this drop-in session, you can make some pompoms and then get creative with your design. From red snowflake scarves to pink glittery heart ones, little red buttons or cute bows, this snowman can add some festive cheer to your home.
Morden Hall Park National Trust
Where: Morden Hall Road, London, Morden, Surrey SM4 5JD
Great Reindeer Hunt Trail – 29th November 2025 to 4th January 2026
Something magical is happening at Morden Hall Park this Christmas – six of Father Christmas’s reindeer have gone missing, and they’re hiding in familiar corners of the park! Follow the festive trail, solve the clues, and match each reindeer to the colour of its nose. Along the way you’ll discover jokes, challenges, and facts.
Elf’s Cosy Christmas Storytime (3-7yrs) – 6th and 13th December 2025
Step into the Christmassy exhibition space, transformed into a festive reading room. The resident Head Elf will delight children and families with magical Christmas tales, celebrating both the joy of stories and the spirit of the season. Every child will receive a new wrapped Christmas book to take home, celebrating the joy of reading and honouring the much-loved secondhand bookshop at Morden Hall Park.
You can read about our visit to Morden Hall Park here
Adult Christmas Events in Surrey
Wreath Making
These are so many wreath making events across Surrey and you can see all the dates and up to date information here:
Gatton Park
Where: Reigate, Surrey RH2 0TW
Willow Christmas Angel Workshop – Sunday 30th November 2025 – £30 per person
Create a beautiful willow angel Christmas decoration. Materials and instruction provided. Suitable for beginners in willow work. Glass of Mulled wine and mince pie included.
Albury Vineyard
Where: Silent Pool, Shere Road, Albury, Surrey GU5 9BW
Willow and Wine – 26th November and 4th December 2025 – £61 each
Enjoy a Christmas experience learning how to weave a Willow Heart, Angel or traditional Swedish Star, creating perfect decorations made from natural materials to hang in your home over Christmas or outside all year round.
Have a choice of morning, afternoon or full-day workshop. Each workshop includes a glass of delicious Albury Estate sparkling wine.
Theatre Shows
New Victoria Theatre – The Ambassadors, The Peacocks Centre, Woking GU21 6GQ
- Goldilocks and The Three Bears (Pantomime) – Fri 4 Dec 2026 to Sun 3 Jan 2027
Yvonne Arnaud Theatre – Millbrook, Guildford GU1 3UX
- Sleeping Beauty – Sat 5 Dec 2026 to Sun 10 Jan 2027
- Off The Kerb Productions Presents: Comedy Crackers – Fri 18 Dec 2026
- One Winter’s Night – Sat 16 Jan 2027
G Live – London Road, Guildford GU1 2AA
- Ghost Stories For Christmas – Mon 30 Nov 2026
- Live At Christmas With Nina Conti, Milton Jones, Lou Sanders & More – Wed 2 Dec 2026
- The Big Christmas Sing-A-Long with Aled Jones and Alexander Armstrong – Fri 4 Dec 2026
- James B Partridge – The Big Christmas Assembly 2026 – Wed 9 Dec 2026
- Christmas By Candlelight – Tue 15 Dec 2026
- The Overtones – Jivin’ Home For Christmas – Wed 16 Dec 2026
- ABBA-Merry Christmas – Fri 18 Dec 2026
- Step Into Christmas – Wed 23 Dec 2026
Epsom Playhouse – Ashley Avenue, Epsom, Surrey KT18 5AL
- Neil Sands Christmas Memories – Monday 9th November 2026
- A Christmas Carol – A Radio Play Live On Stage – Saturday 14th November 2026
- Santa’s Best Ever Christmas – Saturday 5th December to Thursday 24th December 2026
- Snow White – Friday 11th December 2026 to Sunday 3rd January 2027
The Leatherhead Theatre – 7 Church Street, Leatherhead KT22 8DN
- A Very West End Christmas – December 3 2026
- Beauty and the Beast 2026 – December 19 2026 to December 27 2026
Esher Theatre – Community Walk, High St, Esher KT10 9RA
- The Rat Pack – Christmas in Vegas! – 15 Nov 2026
- Christmas Cabaret – 15 Dec 2026
- Cinderella Panto 2026 – 3 Dec 2026 to 31 Dec 2026
Camberley Theatre – Knoll Rd, Camberley GU15 3SY
- Crown Ballet – The Nutcracker – 29 October 2026
- The Wizard of Oz – 10 to 31 December 2026
New Wimbledon Theatre – 93 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1QG
- A Christmas Carol – Wed 2 Dec – Sat 5 Dec 2026
- Here Comes Santa Claus! – Fri 11 Dec – Thu 24 Dec 2026
Polka Theatre – 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB
- Christmas Lights – Wed 11 Nov to Sun 22 Nov 2026
- Peter Pan – Sat 14 Nov to Sun 24 Jan 2026
- Antarctica – Fri 27 Nov to Sun 17 Jan 2026
Richmond Theatre – Little Green, Richmond TW9 1QJ
- Jack and the Beanstalk (Pantomime) – Sat 5 Dec 2026 to Sun 3 Jan 2027
Dorking Halls – Reigate Rd, Dorking RH4 1SG
- Christmas Pantomime 2026 – Robin Hood – Friday 18 December 2026 to Wednesday 30th December 2026
- Royal Ballet Encore Screening: The Nutcracker – Sunday 20 December 2026
Foxhills Country Club – Stonehill Rd, Ottershaw, Lyne, Chertsey KT16 0EL
- Peter Pan – Saturday 13th December 2025
Going to the theatre is a great activity that the whole family will enjoy and Surrey has a lot of great theatres to really make the most of. Here are the family shows on over the Christmas period:
I hope that’s given you some inspiration of things to do in Surrey over the festive season. I’ll add more Surrey Christmas events as I become aware of them and if I’ve missed your favourite event please do get in touch and let me know. I’m sure there will be more winter wonderlands announced nearer the time. I hope you have a lovely Christmas!
If you’re looking for other festive activities and inspiration, these posts may help:
- Christmas Ice Skating in Surrey
- Wreath Making in Surrey
- Christmas Theatre and Pantomimes in Surrey
- Christmas Light Trails in Surrey
- Christmas Lights In Surrey
- Where to buy Christmas Trees in Surrey
- Christmas Markets in Surrey
