The mention of February brings romantic imagery to mind. It's a month for lovers, traditionally. But that doesn't mean that's all the county of Surrey or even SW London has to offer this month. Other than the obvious romantic getaways, dates and trips, there are other special events taking place this month, so make sure not to miss them...
1. Barnes Charity Ball
Andy Tyler Photography
St Mary’s, Barnes
Dates: Feb 8, 7 pm. £145pp incl. food & drink (book here)
It may be chilly February but for one night only St Mary’s Barnes will be transformed into a balmy Arabian night. Think flying carpets, Aladdin, Lawrence of Arabia… with plentiful food and drink, entertainment and proceeds going to a number of local and international charities. There will be a bottle of bubbly for the best-dressed man and woman and a silent auction, which includes a holiday for a family of four at the elegant Bella Mare Hotel in Corfu, courtesy of locally based specialist tour operator and supporter of the ball, Simpson Travel.
2. Clapham Chamber Concerts
St Paul’s Church, Clapham Common
Dates: Feb 1, 7.30pm (book here)
Chamber music is a diverse mix of music performed in an informal setting – originally someone’s living room – and this fantastic local group gives talented young musicians an opportunity to shine. How cool does that sound? So, for an evening of music and fun, pop down!
3. Magical children's trail
marco cinnirella
Claremont Landscape Garden, Esher
Dates: Feb 16-24, 10.30am-4pm (book here)
A trail specifically for children opens up over the half term week. Grab your wellies and bundle up as it is open whatever the weather, and is suitable for children of all ages. Dogs on leads are welcome.
4. Half Marathon
Anthony Bliss
Hampton Court, Molesey
Dates: Feb 17, 8.30 am (£34 book here)
Challenge yourself to complete the 21km course around the grounds of Hampton Court Palace. The closed road loop takes runners through Thames Ditton, Kingston, and along the Barge Walk beside the Thames, with great views of the Palace offered at intervals throughout.
5. Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
Rose Theatre, Kingston
Dates: Feb 10, 7.30pm (£18-£38 book here)
The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra brings an impressive evening of music to Kingston, with musical pieces by Schumann and Tchaikovsky included in the programme.
6. Wild Kids
Wild Wood Adventure, Lido Rd, Guildford GU1 1HB
Dates: From Feb 16 (£17.50 book here)
Wild Kids in Stoke Road, Guildford is aimed at youngsters from six to 12 years with courses hard enough to be fun, yet easy enough to be do-able! There are two big loops of obstacles where you teeter over bridges, balance on logs, swing on ropes and whizz back to earth on zip wires. Each session lasts an hour and there is usually time to go around twice.
7. Creative fun
The Lightbox Gallery, Woking
Dates: Feb 19-22; times vary (book here)
This February half term, The Lightbox gallery and museum in Woking is offering a full week of workshops. With a mixture of free drop-in and bookable paid workshops, there’s plenty of crafting to be done - with the chance to make Cardboard Cameras, Colour Spinners and Lollipop Frames, and well as Painting Light and Shadow in an exhibition-inspired workshop.
8. Getting hitched?
Olympia London, Hammersmith, London W14 8UX
Dates: Feb 15-17. Use the code SWLONDON and get two tickets for £25 at nationalweddingshow.co.uk
The UK’s biggest wedding show The National Wedding Show returns to Olympia this month, and it’s a one-stop-shop to try, buy, book and hire everything you need for your big day. Browse wedding dress designers, retailers and boutiques, venue specialists, photographers, stylish cars, entertainment acts and more. Don’t miss the catwalk event showcasing the latest trends in bridalwear, menswear, bridesmaid and mother-of-the-bride outfits.
9. Children’s Illustration Workshop
Gunnersbury, Popes Lane, W5 4NH
Dates: Feb 22, 10.30am, (£15 ages 7-13, book here)
If you were creating a world of your own, what would it look like? Would you build your house out of brick, or out of jelly? Would your shops sell envelopes and sweets, or shoes for superheroes?
Create your very own extraordinary world out of everyday objects.
10. Colombia comes to Kew
Kew Gardens, Richmond TW9 3AB
Dates: Feb 9-March 10 (book here)
This year, Kew’s annual orchid festival celebrates Colombia, the world’s most biodiverse country. Expect a carnival of floral animals featuring toucans, sloths, turtles and more, whilst the river Caño Cristales and Colombia›s incredible forests will be brought to life – complete with life-sized jaguar! During half term (Feb 18-24) you can also enjoy Kew’s very own ‘Batalla de Flores’ inspired by the Barranquilla Carnival. There will be a host of daily family workshops on flower-themed costume-making, drumming and dancing and the chance to take part in an hourly parade.
11. Chessington World of Adventures
Chessington World of Adventures, Leatherhead Rd, Chessington
Dates: Feb 16-24 (£15 book here)
Visit the park in half term week for numerous animal-themed events. Some rides will be open and visitors can learn interesting facts about zookeeping in How to be a Zookeeper LIVE! – an interactive show involving animals. Plus explore the Sea Life Centre.
