Got kids? Michele Theil has compiled a mighty list of fun things to do in and around Surrey when you've got a couple of eager children to entertain
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Thorpe Park
Put the words ‘kids’ and ‘Surrey’ together and you get Thorpe Park. There are 25 rides on offer, promising exhilaration for everyone, plus a wide range of cafes and restaurants for regular snack breaks. What better way to entertain your kids for a few hours? Head over for a splash of fun!
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Alice Holt Forest
Bucks Horn Oak, Farnham, GU10 4LSThe Alice Holt Forest isn’t just one for the kids - parents are sure to enjoy themselves too! Bring a picnic with you and have a walk through the woods before sending your kids up into the canopy with outdoor adventure company Go Ape, where they can monkey around to their heart’s delight! There are also giant play sculptures, a 3D maze and play areas if the woods aren’t to your child’s fancy, not to mention a cafe for some snacks after all that activity.
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Hampton Court Palace
This is the place to go if your children recite the ‘Divorced, Beheaded, Died’ rhyme without prompting and will only sing Horrible Histories songs in the house. It was previously owned by Henry VIII and is a sight to behold. This is the perfect place for a fun but cultured family day out. Tudor history is waiting for you here, with the chance to explore the palace, the gardens, Henry VIII’s kitchens and a baffling but spectacular maze to wow kids and adults alike.
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Daytona Motorsport
More Ln, Esher, KT10 8ANAre your kids eager to be behind the wheel? If they can’t wait until 17, Daytona Motorsport has got the answer. With a variety of circuits and engine sizes for children ranging from 5 - 15 and teenagers and adults that are 16+, Sandown Park is the perfect place for some good-natured competition between family.
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Gravity Force Camberley
Units 6/7 Admiralty Way Admiralty Park, Camberley, GU15 3DTGravity Force Camberley is where your kids can live out their dream of jumping on the bed without hurting themselves or your furniture seriously. 50 interconnected trampolines are what await you here, plus a foam pit, trampoline dodgeball courts, basketball hoops and tumble tracks. You and your kids can end up bouncing off the walls here - literally!
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Battersea Cats and Dogs Home
Priest Hill, Old Windsor, SL4 2JNIf your children have been bugging you for a pet, this is the perfect chance to see if they really mean it. Take them on a trip to the Battersea Dogs and Cats Home in Old Windsor to meet some cuddly friends and experience what a pet is really like. If your family is already set on getting a pet, then you should definitely go to Battersea to adopt one of the many adorable animals that are housed there.
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Guildford Lido
Stoke Rd, Guildford, GU1 1HBGuildford Lido is one of the most popular places to bring children. You can swim in their 50m outdoor pool all day and under the stars too. There is a paddling pool for the little ones, some interactive toys to play with and a whopping four slides too!
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Skaterham
The Chapel Guards Avenue, Caterham, CR3 5XLHaven’t you ever wanted to practice an ollie and a slappie (or some other vague skater term I had to google) in an old chapel? Well, here’s your chance. Every time your son or daughter threatens to leave scuff marks on your hardwood floors, take them to Skaterham instead and let them loose. Skaterham is open to BMX bikes, skateboards, scooters and inline skates too.
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London Bus Museum
Brooklands Rd, Weybridge, KT13 0QSThe wheels on the bus go round all the way to this nifty museum, where the last 150 years of London buses are organised into a wonderful exhibition for both kids and adults to enjoy. You can walk through the historical timeline of London buses and be taken back to the bygone era of transport in the capital. If you and your children have an affinity for both transport and history, this is the perfect place to spend a day.
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Laser Tag Whyteleafe
4 Salmons Lane, Whyteleafe, CR3 0HBUsually, laser tag is set indoors in some post-apocalyptic style basement with flashing lights and a steady drum & bass backing track. At Whyteleafe, laser tag is played in a forest and all the children are equipped with camo wear, laser guns the likes of Call of Duty and enough fun memories to last a lifetime (or until the next time they’re bored on a Thursday). Kids can take part from 6+ and adults can play too, ensuring family fun for all.
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Outdoor Cinema
Okay, yes, going to a cinema may seem like a boring suggestion. But, what about an outdoor one? It’ll be a throwback to drive-in movies that lettered the romantic-comedies of the 20th century. There are many on offer but your best bet of finding a good film in a nearby location is taking a look at Aldershot Lido, Guildford Lido and Hampton Court Palace - all known to frequently screen movies outdoor.
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The Ghost Tour of Guildford
Holy Trinity Church High Street, Surrey, GU1 3RREvery great place has a ghost or horror tour of some sort, and Guildford is no different. The Ghost Tour runs every Friday night between April and November, covering 20 haunted sites in the town. Every spooky legend and creepy story you’ve ever heard comes to life with this terrific tour. Make it a fun outing for the family so you can all hold hands and keep the ghosts away.
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Mercedes-Benz World
At Mercedes Benz World, you are, quite literally, transported to the fast-paced world of Formula One. Young or old, you can try your luck on the track or at their top of the line indoor simulation, where you get the chance to win a AMG for yourself. There’s also a 3D Golf simulation and a cinema that shows you highlights of Formula One and the history of Mercedes Benz - what’s stopping you?
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New Victoria Theatre
New Victoria Theatre Peacocks Centre, Victoria Way, Woking, GU21 6GQCatch a show at the New Victoria Theatre in Woking, a pit-stop for many production tours around the country. With the likes of Jersey Boys, Legally Blonde, War Horse, Ghost The Musical and Dirty Dancing, this is where to go when a West End show has been and gone and you haven’t had the chance to see it yet. Other great theatre venues in Surrey include the Epsom Playhouse and Rose Theatre Kingston. This is a perfect thing to do with the family and could spark a tradition of seeing great shows with your children for years to come. Don’t forget to get a programme!
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Quays Wake and Ski
The Quays Coleford Bridge Road, Mytchett, GU16 6DSA bit of a trek but definitely worth it for some fun and unique activities. You’ve got standard paddle boarding, yoga paddle boarding, wakeboarding, wake surfing, water skiing and more. It’s a great chance to try some new water sports this summer without spending a fortune on a fancy holiday to Hawaii or Bali to do it. The kids will love it and parents can either sit by or join in the fun!
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The Living Planet Centre
This is the heart of esteemed charity, World Wildlife Fund, and an educational visit for anyone even vaguely interested in conservation and sustainable development. There are a variety of zones that go into different aspects of WWF’s conservation as well as fun activities that will entice kids to learn more about how to save the planet, one step at a time. It’ll teach you and your kids about conservation and wildlife and may even spur you to action in your homes - head on over now!
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Thorpe Lakes Aqua Park
Have you ever watched an episode of Total Wipeout and thought that you could do better? Well, here’s your chance. At the Thorpe Lakes Aquapark, you can run around on an elaborate floating obstacle course and try to make it all the way around. They have sessions open to children only, with guardians allowed to accompany them. Enter as a family, make a splash, and leave victorious.
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Surrey Hills Llamas
The Merry Harriers, Hambledon, GU8 4DRHappy llama, sad llama, every llama can be found here in the hills of Surrey. Grab a llama and trek through the beautiful countryside. It will be unforgettable to have a llama along for the ride - and, if you ask nicely, they may even carry your picnic up to the top, where you’ll be greeted with a magnificent view of Surrey.
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WWT London Wetland Centre
Otters, ducks and birds, oh my! There are over 100-acres filled with wildlife at the London Wetland Centre, promising us an urban oasis. It’s a great chance for children to learn about animals up-close-and-personal at this fun-filled place.
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Legoland Windsor
The building blocks of Surrey are literally at your fingertips at Legoland, the theme park built especially for kids from ages 2 to 12. They’ll especially enjoy the many rides and attractions around the park that are built with and around lego, making a childhood favourite larger than life. Make sure you visit the Lego Driving School, where your children can get their very own driver’s license - not sure if the DVLA will accept it though.
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Twickenham Stadium
Whitton Rd, Twickenham, TW2 7BAWatching the rugby together can be a great bonding experience for parent and child. Grab some tickets and the necessary snacks for the next game and make a day of it. Twickenham Stadium also plays host to the World Rugby Museum, giving you the chance to learn more about the sport you know and love. It’s the Home of England Rugby for a reason.
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G Live
G Live is the the Edinburgh Fringe of Surrey. It’s on every August and plays host to a variety of comedy shows, musicals, plays and interactive exhibitions. If you’re looking for something to do with your children in those summer months when there’s no school, this is the perfect thing.
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Campaign Paintball & Laser Park
Campaign’s website says that “the adventure starts here” and they’re not wrong. With both paintball and laser tag on offer combined with stunning displays of the wild west, a jungle zone, zombies and war trenches, this is designed for a transformative afternoon of fun for the whole family. Situated in the heart of Hookwood Forest, the fun doesn’t stop until you want it to!
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Reigate Caves
Tunnel Road, Surrey, RH2 9AYIf you’ve heard of Reigate, surely you’ve heard of the infamous caves that lie beneath their town centre. These caves are actually old sand mines but that doesn’t mean they’re any less interesting to explore. Going through the caves will take around three hours, giving you a leisurely experience of Reigate’s rich history.
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Mayfield Lavender
While lavender is meant to put you to sleep, Mayfield’s 25 acres will keep you going for at least an afternoon! The entirety of Mayfield Lavender Farm is open to the public where you can stroll through the beautiful and fragrant flowers before taking a break at their on-site cafe and shop, where a delicious lavender cream tea will await you. Once you’re full and can’t fathom walking anymore, there are tractor rides available which will be sure to delight and amaze you and your children.
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Farnham Leisure Centre
Send your kids off to Farnham to try their hand at roller hockey. Here, you can combine the skills you learnt playing hockey at school with those brand new roller skates, guaranteeing excitement! After they’ve got the hang of it, you can become that cheering parent from the sidelines that you’ve always wanted to be. The kids won’t be embarrassed - they’ll be too busy having fun.
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Strawberry Hill House
268 Waldegrave Road, Twickenham, TW1 4STA collection of paintings, furniture, sculptures and more is housed right here in our backyard, at the beautiful Strawberry Hill House & Garden. Inject a little bit of culture into your family’s lives and roam around these stunning items with a guided tour. Stop by Walpole’s Tea Rooms for a cup of tea or a snack to send you off - it’s a great experience all round!
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Alpine Snowsports Aldershot
Gallwey Road, Aldershot, GU11 2DDWhether you’re a complete beginner or can carve the slopes like the best of them, the Alpine Snowsports Centre can accommodate. There’s skiing, snowboarding, donutting and more! If it’s more than just one day out you’re after, there are opportunities to race and take your snow skills to the next level. This is a great place to bring your kids if you’re considering that all-inclusive ski holiday this Christmas - baby steps.
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Pirate Golf Woking
Hoebridge Golf Centre Old Woking Rd, Woking, GU22 8JHAhoy matey! Get yourself over to Mr Mulligan’s Pirate Golf in Woking, a spectacular place that combines mini-golf with a rip-roaring adventure. Hunt your bounty along the different holes and emulate your inner Jack Sparrow. It’s a great day out for families to have some friendly competition.
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The Musical Museum
399 High Street,, Brentford, TW8 0DUWhether your child is a musical protege or merely enjoys tinkering on the piano, they’ll enjoy a visit to the Musical Museum in Brentford. Not only are there a variety of instruments across time but also a collection of self-playing instruments that are sure to delight and amaze. Younger kids are also able to embark on a detective trail through the museum, allowing them to learn on the go.
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The Lightbox
With The Lightbox, you get three galleries in one, all of which exhibit beautiful and interesting work that changes regularly so no two visits are alike. You can learn more about Woking’s rich history, view some modern art or explore a range of photography while your children are occupied with fun, educational activities and interactive displays.
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Birdworld
Is it a bird? At Birdworld, that answer is a resounding yes! Birdworld is home is over 2000 birds and a range of other beautiful animals. There is also an aquarium, allowing this delightful park to entice you across air, land and sea! You can find out more about the animals and show your children a wide variety of species they otherwise may not be exposed to!
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Kew Royal Botanic Gardens
At the edge of Surrey lies a beautiful area that houses thousands of different plants, all requiring different environments and climates. And, yet, Kew Gardens has managed to keep them all there, enabling visitors to explore the most diverse collection of plants in the world. It’s a beautiful place and will be sure to delight the green-thumbed among you. There are several cafes and restaurants on offer at Kew Gardens, offering beautiful views as you enjoy your family meal.
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Virginia Water
If you don’t mind walking for your supper, this is place to go. There are stunning views in this park, with wildlife everywhere, making the walk to any picnic destination worth it. Bring some lunchables and head on over. There are statues, an environmental centre, a Totem Pole by the lake and a waterfall - all of which are sure to keep your kids entertained after they shout “I’m bored” for the third time.
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Ride The Hill
Priory Farm Sandy Lane, NutfieldWe don’t get a lot of snow here in England so snowboarding is out. That’s where Mountain Boarding comes in: it’s the same skills used in snowboarding but using a skateboard-like board instead. You can take your kids to Redhill to learn this fun and unique skill - adults can join in too!
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Dapdune Wharf
Wharf Road, Guildford, GU1 4RRDapdune Wharf tells the long history of the Wharf and The Godalming Navigation, giving visitors the opportunity to discover the secrets of the river Wey, one of first rivers in England to be made navigable. There are boat trips available for visitors to discover how the navigation of the river works, with a skipper talking about the history, the people and the industry that flowed through these river banks. Informative and fun!
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Chessington Equestrian Centre
Chessington Equestrian Centre Clayton Rd, Chessington, KT9 1NNGiddy up! If your little one has been begging for a pony for years, the Chessington Equestrian Centre is where you can test their commitment to the “cute horseys”. Sign them up for an assessment lesson before committing to a block and let your children experience the joys of this age-old activity.
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Ceramics Cafe Kew
14 Mortlake Terrace, Kew Green, TW9 3DTHave you ever wanted to paint your own crockery? Well, here’s your chance. The Ceramics Cafe in Richmond is perfect for you and the family to paint some fun gifts for Father’s Day, Mother’s Day, birthdays and christmas. You can decorate mugs, baubles, plates, picture frames and more - a gift that’s truly from the heart!
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Windsor Castle
In the heart of Windsor lies 900 years of royal history. This castle is home to the royal family, with the Queen spending most of her weekends at the Castle. Having seen heartthrob Prince Harry and the gorgeous Meghan Markle get married at the castle, it’s more popular than ever and open to visitors every single day! Bring your family for a day out to Windsor, have a nice meal and walk among the royals!
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Watts Gallery - Artists' Village
Down Lane, Compton, Guildford, GU3 1DQThis is the only gallery in the UK that is dedicated to one artist. But, this artist is worth it. This little ‘artists’ village’ is home to the work of G F Watts, known locally as ‘England’s Michelangelo’ and his wife, Mary Watts. Their legacy of art continues here, with a large collection of intricate, interesting and beautiful pieces.
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Skywalk Adventure
Sandown Sports Club More Lane, KT10 8ANHere at Esher, there is an adventure like no other. Roam among the canopy and zip your way through the trees as you walk through the sky with friends and family. It’s exhilarating and jaw-dropping fun here at the Skywalk Adventure. Parents can either join in with their kids or leave them to it as you relax at the on-site cafe with a much-needed coffee.
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Thorpe Lakes Wake Ski Surf
Thorpe Lakes Thorpe Road, Chertsey, KT16 8PHHere is where you can learn to wakeboard, waterski and wakesurf like you’re on holiday in the Bahamas instead of in Surrey! It’s almost the same and you’ll have just as much fun for a lot less! Bring your kids here and spend a day learning, laughing and failing together!
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Guildford Castle
They say that every great township has a grand cathedral or a beautiful castle. Guildford is no exception, with an old but amazing castle that was conserved for visitors to trace the history of it through to today. Head up to the Tower, which offers spectacular panoramic views of Guildford.
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Guildford Museum
Castle Arch Quarry Street, Surrey, Gu1 3SXThey say that every great township has a grand cathedral or a beautiful castle. Guildford is no exception, with an old but amazing castle that was conserved for visitors to trace the history of it through to today. Head up to the Tower, which offers spectacular panoramic views of Guildford.
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Godstone Farm
From the fluffy rabbits and cuddly chinchillas to the colourful birds and grazing cows, Godstone has so many animals that you’ll need to spend an entire day here with your kids. Show them the cute, the funny, the large and teach them all about animals in a real-life setting rather than using pen and paper.
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Wacky Warehoouse
60 Brighton Rd, Horley, RH6 7HEThis is the indoor play area to beat all others. Set your children loose in this wonderful and wacky place, where they’ll be entertained for house by slides, crafts, rope climbing and a ball pit! You can sit back with a coffee and just watch your children have fun.
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AirHop
There’s basketball, dodgeball and fitness but with a twist - it’s all done on trampolines! The Airhop Trampoline Park is just a hop, skip and a jump away from the Guildford town centre, making it easy to get to and worth it once you do arrive.
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Aldershot Lido
When the sun’s beating down and your children are moaning about the heat, the best place to keep them cool and occupied is Aldershot Lido. With slides, inflatables and the lovely water, it’s sure to fun for all!
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Grayshott Pottery
At Grayshott, you can work on your pottery like you’re Demi Moore in Ghost (Patrick Swayze is not included in the package). Whether you’re making homeware for the next dinner party or preparing a quirky gift for grandma, the kids will love working with their hands and you’ll love helping them!
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Odeon
42-44 King Street, Windsor and Maidenhead, SL6 1DYWatching a film may seem like one of the more boring items on this list but don’t knock it until you try it! There are new films coming out every week and it can be a really fun family tradition to go to the cinema together and enjoy a convoluted plot.
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