There’s no shortage of fun to be had during the holidays as we find out
The Play’s the Thing
Now in its 20th year, the award-winning Guildford Shakespeare Company are proud to offer a wide range of drama classes for young people aged 7-18. Their popular Saturdays drama club is a weekly two hour class, which develops acting techniques, builds confidence and offers young people opportunities to perform in iconic Guildford locations. Throughout the year, students will receive workshops from industry specialists, study Shakespearean texts and rehearse their own production of a Shakespeare play. The sessions are fun and collaborative, and offer a great opportunity for children to make new friends in a creative environment. Learn more at
guildford-shakespeare-company.co.uk/saturday-drama
Dig In
Diggerland is the UK’s ultimate construction-themed adventure park, offering unforgettable summer days out for families and thrill-seekers alike. With four exciting locations across Kent, Devon, Durham and Yorkshire, children and adults can ride, drive and operate real diggers, dumpers and construction machinery. Packed with family-friendly rides, outdoor attractions and hands-on experiences, Diggerland is a must-visit destination for a unique and action-filled day out this summer. diggerland.com
Ride & Seek
Epsom Riding School offers indoor and outdoor opportunities for classic riding lessons, jumping or riding in the park (it’s surrounded by scenic trails in Horton Park and Epsom Common). They also host pony parties!
epsomridingschool.co.uk
Time Warp
Discover inspiring, hands-on learning at the Rural Life Living Museum in Tilford. Step into the past with immersive Victorian or Wartime Britain days, complete with real washday chores, historic lessons, and an opportunity to ride on the Old Kiln Light Railway. Uniformed groups can enjoy exclusive Twilight visits after hours, perfect for badgework and team adventures. Teachers and leaders consistently praise their friendly volunteers, engaging activities, and rich learning experiences. As one Year 6 teacher shared, “So much to look at… volunteers were so knowledgeable and friendly.” To find out more email schools@rural-life.org.uk or visit rural-life.org.uk
Farm Charm
Step into a world of outdoor excitement at Quex Adventure Farm Park, where playtime comes to life for visitors of all ages! There’s endless fun to be had across the action-packed adventure zones. Meet the friendly farmyard animals, including cheeky goats, pigs, sheep, Shetlands, bunnies and more. Little explorers will love the dedicated toddler play areas, while families can relax knowing every corner of the park is designed for safe, imaginative, and memorable play.
quexadventurefarmpark.com
Going Swimmingly
You’ll find fun, high-quality swimming lessons for all ages and abilities at Surrey Swim School. From Parent and Child classes, children’s small group lessons to personalised 1:1 tuition for adults and children, plus fitness lanes, they have something for everyone. Their supportive lessons build confidence, develop essential aquatic skills, and improve water safety with experienced, DBS-cleared teachers. During term time, lessons run at Banstead Prep School, (SM7 3RA, and St John’s School, Leatherhead, KT22 7JD). This summer, join a 5-Week Summer Term or Intensive 5-Day 1:1 in Epsom Downs. For more information or to book,
call 01737 211 160 or visit surreyswimschool.co.uk
Take Flight
Alongside their wonderful tropical flight area hosting hundreds of brilliant butterflies, at The Sussex Butterfly Gardens you’ll also find the bug hut marquee, where during school holidays and at weekends they offer a range of insect-themed activities (included in your entrance ticket). There are all sorts of arts and crafts plus mini-beast handling sessions! The team of bug experts are on hand to share their knowledge of these amazing creatures. Find more details on their website.
sussexbutterflygardens.co.uk
In The Country
For wholesome days in the countryside for young people, all year round, look up Surrey Hills and Rivers. Having run summer residential camps since 2021 for children age 8-13, their team is passionate about the quality of childhoods, the wellbeing of young people, and showing them the joys of the countryside. Children can stay from 1 to 5 nights in bell tent accommodation, and enjoy an activity programme including things like canoeing and kayaking, straw bale den building, mountain biking, farm walks and workshops, camp fires, woodland play, outdoor swimming, rounders, volleyball, board games, barbecues, pizza making…the list goes on and on! Camps start on the 12th, 19th, or 26th July, or 23 August. Email Ben at surreyhillsandrivers@gmail.com or call/message 07878 105016 or find them online at surreyhillsandrivers.co.uk
Farm Fun
Make the most of the summer holidays with a visit to the fantastic Rare Breeds Centre. There is always something fun going on, not to mention all the lovely animals you can meet in the Children’s Barn. There’s adventure play, pig racing, the butterfly tunnel and trailer rides just for a start. Find out more at canterburyoasttrust.org.uk/rare-breeds-centre
First-Class Fitness
Discover junior holiday sessions at St George’s Hill Lawn Tennis Club where fun and skill-building come together in a beautiful 16-acre lakeside setting. Open to junior members and their guests of all abilities, our sessions are led by experienced professionals who create a safe, energetic environment. With tennis, swimming, squash and fitness activities available, plus first-class facilities, it’s the perfect place to stay active, learn new skills and make lasting memories. The Club is proud to have established a place where the whole family can enjoy the moments in life that matter. Juniors must join alongside an adult member. Adult memberships begin at £140 per month. Find out more at stghltc.co.uk
Paint & Play
Slap ‘n Dash is primarily a paint your own pottery studio but they also offer so much more! Whether you are 1 or 100, all ages and abilities are welcome to join in for some creative fun. The friendly staff will give you some guidance and a lot of encouragement! Whether you are looking for a unique gift for a loved one, somewhere to host a birthday party or baby shower or simply just a place to de-stress for a couple of hours, the relaxing and peaceful studio is a lovely spot to get the creative juices flowing. See more at slapndash.com
Hever Fever
This summer the Knights of Royal England will be entertaining visitors to Hever Castle with exhilarating displays of action, stunts, falls and fights in an authentic arena complete with a Royal Box.
Find out all about it at hevercastle.co.uk
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