Families Surrey East Nov/Dec 2015

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November December 2015

familiessurreyeast.co.uk

®

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Packed full of Christmas Events, Festive Days Out, Gift Ideas and Parties

What’s on for 0-12 year olds in November and December Covering Reigate, Redhill, Dorking, Leatherhead, Caterham, Godstone, Warlingham, Tadworth, Horley, Oxted and Lingfield

Enrolling now! Call your local school for details

Coulsdon Dorking & Reigate Leatherhead Redhill

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Age 4 18

Fun, confidence building, educational classes in acting, singing and dance.

QUALITY TRAINING

ESTABLISHED 1988

600 SCHOOLS NATIONWIDE

ISSUE 49 NOv-DEC 2015

IN THIS ISSUE

Page

Welcome to the Christmas issue of Families Surrey East. We enjoyed a trip to Tilgate Park last weekend, and it was such a gorgeous day. The autumnal colours were blazing, the sun was shining and there was a bit of a nip in the air – and I started to feel very festive. I’m looking forward to warm fires, fireworks and the exciting run-up to Christmas. Hope this issue makes you feel that way too! The following 24 pages are packed full of festive inspiration and ideas for a wonderful family Christmas - you’ll find the best places to visit Santa (p.8), great markets to kick off your Christmas shopping (p.9), unusual gift ideas (p.10), best Pantos (p.19) and a useful review of the best kids apps (to put on those new tablets – p.7). There’s also a 4-page Parties Directory for those planning ahead for birthdays in 2016. The What’s On is bursting with great days out, including winter walks, craft sessions and ideas for travelling further afield to see Santa. Finally – we’re running four fantastic competitions on the back page, with some superb family prizes. Do enter - you’ve got to be in it to win it! I wish you all a very Happy Christmas, and look forward to our first issue of 2016 in January. Hannah Grogan, Editor

editor@familiessurreyeast.co.uk

Town & Community Noticeboard Supporting the National Childbirth Trust The National Childbirth Trust runs antenatal and postnatal classes, post-natal coffee groups, first-aid courses and other social groups, as well as Nearly New Sales. It also offers breastfeeding support and hires baby slings. If you are a new mum you can contact your local NCT using the telephone and email contacts below.

NCT Nearly New Sales & Events

For children’s and maternity clothing, toys, equipment, books and anything child related.

REIGATE, REDHILL & HORLEY

Check the website for the next sale date St Joseph’s Church, Ladbroke Rd, Redhill RH1 1LF. www.nct.org.uk/branches/redhillreigate-horley. To volunteer contact Charlotte: coordinator.413@nct.org.uk www.nct.org.uk/branches/redhillreigate-horley Main branch contact: Tel: 0300 330 0700. Email: Coordinator. RedhillReigateAnd Horley@nct.org.uk DORKING Next sale: Saturday, 14 November, 10am-12pm. £1 entry. Coffee and cakes! North Holmwood Village Hall, Spook Hill RH5 4JP. Bumps, babies and beyond at Dorking Halls, 1st & 3rd Fridays of the month, 2-4pm. www.nct.org.uk/branches/dorking Main branch contact: Tel: 0300 330 0700 or 01306 776222. Email: dorking@nct.org.uk

2 News 6 Babies and Toddlers 7 Apps Review 8 Santa and Christmas Markets 10 Gift Reviews 12 Parties Directory 16 Education pages 18 Theatre listings 20 Nature Notes 21 What’s On listings 24 Competitions

Web mag: www.Familiessurreyeast. co.uk Families Surrey East is part of the national network of Families magazines. See www. familiesonline.co.uk for more features and competitions. NEXT ISSUE – January-February 2016, out 5th January. Send your news and upcoming events by 3rd December 2015 for FREE INCLUSION. PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS and reach families throughout East Surrey with DISPLAY ADS or ask about our CLASSIFIED LISTINGS – perfect for small businesses and web sales. AD BOOKING AND COPY DEADLINE FOR JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2016 is 3rd December 2015. Please send ad artwork by 10th December 2015. For advertising and editorial enquiries, call the Editor on 07769 222347 or email: editor@ familiessurreyeast.co.uk

22,500 copies of FAMILIES SURREY EAST are distributed free of charge to schools, nurseries, playgroups, clubs & classes, NCT groups, baby clinics, good children’s shops, libraries, theatres & sports centres. Distributed to venues in Leatherhead and Dorking, Reigate and Redhill, Godstone, Oxted and Lingfield, Warlingham and Caterham and down to Horley and the Surrey/Sussex border in the south. To obtain copies for your venue call 07769 222347 or email editor@familiessurreyeast. co.uk. Families Surrey East, 37 Springcopse Road, Reigate, Surrey RH2 7HH Tel: 07769 222347 Web: familiessurreyeast.co.uk Design: Andrews Design & Marketing, The Studio, 29A Bell St, Reigate, Surrey RH2 7AD Tel: 01737 224340 Email: phil.andrews1@btinternet.com Print: Warwick Printing Company Limited, Leamington Spa, Warks CV31 1QD Tel: 01926 883355 Families® Surrey East is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor any consequence.

If you have a small local event that you’d like to see listed here, please send details to editor@familiessurreyeast.co.uk

CATERHAM & OXTED No sales until 2016. www.nct.org.uk/branches/caterham-oxted Main branch contact: Tel: 0300 330 0700. Email: nns@caterhamandoxtednct.org.uk LEATHERHEAD No sales until 2016. Bumps and Babies at East Horsley Village Hall, 1st & 3rd Tuesdays of the month, 2.15-3.15pm. To volunteer contact Clare McGuinness, South East Regional Coordinator. Email: regionsoutheast@nct.org.uk www.nct.org.uk/branches/leatherhead Main branch contact: Tel: 0300 330 0700. Email: leatherhead@nct.org.uk OTHER NEARLY NEW SALES Bumps2Babies Nearly New Sales, Redhill

& Caterham. New and preloved maternity, baby and children’s clothes, toys and equipment all under one roof. Caterham: Saturday 21st November, 10am-12pm, United Reformed Church, Harestone Hill CR3 6SX. Contact Lisa: 07539 218988 or bumps2babiessales@gmail.com www.bumps2babiessales.com Mum2mum Market Sales Reigate, Banstead & Crawley. Nearly new baby’s and children’s clothes, toys and equipment. Banstead United Church of St Mark, Gt Tattenhams KT18 5RD Saturday 14th November, 2-4pm. Contact Lynn: epsom@mum2mummarket.co.uk The Charis Centre, West Green Drive, Crawley RH11 7EL – Saturday 14th November & Saturday 12th December, 2-4pm. Contact Eva: crawley@ mum2mummarket.co.uk www.mum2mummarket.co.uk

2 Families Surrey East November-December 2015

The Bat That Lasts a Lifetime! The Ezeebat is a fun racket sport development tool for the whole family aged 2-99! Created and developed by EzeeSport’s co-founder Peter Crossman, there isn’t another product that safely and effectively aids foundational racket skills on the market. It’s great for getting the whole family active and a gift that will certainly last beyond Christmas day. Only £15 for 2 EzeeBats and a Ball at www.ezeesport.com/ezeebat

Walk for Health Mole Valley District Council is encouraging residents to get involved in their Walk for Health programme. With the benefits of becoming more active and exploring our beautiful district, the walks are open to all ages and offer a good opportunity to explore the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on our doorstep. The routes vary from 30-minute strolls, to longer 60-90 minute walks. To view the new walking timetable, including seasonal and festive walks, please visit www.molevalley.gov.uk/walkforhealth

News Hatley store launch You can’t fail to love Hatley’s gorgeous kids clothes, so it’s great news that they’ve just launched their first UK store in London’s Chiswick High Road. The Canadian company uses some super prints and patterns in their

Elf on the Shelf

kids designs, as well as producing great accessories for the outdoors. If you can’t hot-foot it over to Chiswick before Christmas, no fear, you can order online at www.hatley.com/en_uk

Odd Socks and Other Silly Songs

It’s that time of year again when you might be bringing out your Elf on the Shelf to motivate the kids to be good for Christmas! Carshalton-based company Pop’s Art are producing a lovely set of elves Tom and Fred that come with a personalised letter and a set of rules (for grown-ups!). Allow 10 days notice for orders to be delivered, with a deadline of Dec 12th for Christmas delivery.

CBeebies favourite presenter Andy Day has released his first children’s music album Who Invited this Lot? Packed full of original and hilarious tunes for kids (big and small), favourites in our house include Groovy Hoover and Odd Socks. Each song is a mini-story featuring funny characters and great sound effects, with contributions from fellow CBeebies presenters and children from Hotwells School in Bristol.

Check out www.popsartpainting.com for more info.

Crikey Bikey! Sisters Kia and Sky Ballantyne, aged 14 and 12, have become the youngest entrepreneurs to ever pitch to the formidable Dragons’ Den panel and gain support from entrepreneur Touker Suleyman. Their clever product, Crikey Bikey, a harness for children who are learning to ride their bike, started as school homework and has grown into a business. They are now selling their Crikey Bikey harness in national retailers such as Evans Cycles and Mountain Warehouse.

Get your copy now, it’s a great stocking filler. £7.99 on iTunes or Andy’s website www.andyday.tv.

Aimed at children 3-7 years old, the harnesses can also be bought from their own website www.crikeybikey.com

Dear Santa… The NSPCC is running its Letter From Santa campaign again this year, allowing children to receive a personalised letter from Santa (or Father Christmas, you get to choose), for a £5 donation to the charity. For the first time, those requesting a Letter from Santa will be able to write a personal P.S. message and will receive a complimentary pack including games, recipes and activities. Santa has even written a special poem to celebrate Baby’s First Christmas – a lovely keepsake for years to come. Request your Letter from Santa until 22nd December at www.nspcc.org.uk/santa

Meet Father Christmas Select days from the th

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5 – 24 December 2015

Pre-book your tickets online today!

www.godstonefarm.co.uk

Families Surrey East November-December 2015 3

News With the current refugee crisis in Europe dominating the news this Christmas, it’s a good time to focus on other good causes locally. These local charities need your support all year round, not just for Christmas!

Unique xmas card

Unique This Oxted-based charity for

rare chronosome disorders is a brilliant support network for families affected by the severely life limiting, and sometimes life threatening, challenges caused by the condition. 1 in 200 babies are born with a chromosome disorder, and Unique support 230 members in Surrey alone. They’re holding lots of fundraising events this Christmas including selling charity cards (available from Oxted Church), the Big Blue Bake event and promoting their tote shoppers (perfect for when the 5p bag charge comes in!). www.rarechromo.org.

Stripey Stork is a Reigate-based charity assisting families in need in

the area. They hold regular donation stations to collect much-needed equipment, but will be holding their Santa Stork campaign again this year, collecting toys for local children. Last year’s response was fantastic, providing 146 children with new Xmas toys. Visit www.stripeystork.org.uk for details on how to help.

St Catherine’s Hospice in Crawley provides much needed support and end of life care for patients and is fundraising to build a new facility in Pease Pottage. They are holding four Santa Runs in November – East Grinstead & Horsham on Nov 15th and Caterham & Crawley on Nov 22nd. To get ‘elfy and take part visit www.stch.org.uk/santarun

The Children’s Trust, based in Tadworth supports and rehabilitates children with brain injuries. They hold family-focussed fundraising events throughout the year, and are encouraging people to get involved with Festive Friday on 11th December. Anybody can join in by wearing a Xmas accessory (sweater, hat, scarf) and donate to this worthy cause www.thechildrenstrust.org.uk/festivefriday

Last Minute Bonfire Listings Haven’t decided what to do on Guy Fawkes night yet? There’s still time to catch a few local firework displays.

Thursday 5th November Chipstead Bonfire & Fireworks, The Mead, High Road, Chipstead. Small fairground, stalls and refreshments. Fire lighting at 7.30pm, fireworks at 8pm.

Friday 6th November Coldharbour Village Bonfire and Fireworks, Leith Hill Tower. As part of the 250th celebrations, the bonfire this year will be held at Leith Hill Tower. Starts 6pm. Tel: 01306 712580 Horley Fireworks, Horley Cricket Club, Horley Row, Horley. Annual fireworks display and fireworks. Gates at 6pm. Tel: 01293 784097

Saturday 7th November Brockham Bonfire, Brockham Village Green nr Dorking. Huge bonfire on the village green with spectacular fireworks display and refreshment stalls. Stewarded parking in nearby fields. Time tbc. www.brockhambonfire.co.uk Holmbury St Mary Bonfire, Holmbury Village Green. Starts at 6.30pm Reigate Parish School, Blackborough Road, Reigate. Perfect display for young families. Hot dogs, mulled wine, refreshments, music- as well as a quiet room for more sensitive ears. Gates 5.30pm, fireworks 6.30pm.

Fun at Five

South Nutfield Cricket Club, Mid Street, South Nutfield. Best Guy competition. Gates 6pm.

A new survey from Soreen has discovered that parents have most fun with their children at 5 years old. The study is to launch the Active Families, Happy Families initiative, encouraging parents to spend more time doing physical activity with their kids. The main reasons parents gave for enjoying time with 5 year olds was because their child had ‘started communicating with them properly’, had ‘started to display a good sense of humour’ and because they ‘can now properly enjoy playing sports and activities’. The study, in conjunction with charity Youth Sport Trust also found that the preteen years of 10-12 were the least enjoyable! Visit www.soreensquidgyfun.com for activity ideas.

Lingfield Park Racecourse, Racecourse Road, Lingfield. Spectacular fireworks display, including funfair rides, sideshows & food stalls. Gates 5.30pm.

NORTHPARKFARM.CO.UK

activity toys for all your outdoor fun

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Climbing Frames • Swings • Slides • Trampolines Table Tennis • Playhouses • Ride-on Cars Tractors • Go-Karts • Sandpits Paddling Pools • Sledges • Goals Basketball • Netball

Try before you buy • Nationwide delivery • Assembly service www.northparkfarm.co.uk Tel: 01273 833643 North Park Farm, Church Lane, Albourne, West Sussex BN6 9BY

4 Families Surrey East November-December 2015

Give them a Wild Gift! Adopt an otter and inspire children to love the nature on their doorstep! To adopt for just £20 or find out more about gift membership and Christmas events, visit:

surreywildlifetrust.org

Otter, Elliott Neep

Good Causes at Christmas

News

walk this way Join one of our free and friendly short walks today!

The Big Bake Christmas cookie tree decorations Wallace & Gromit’s Children’s Charity is holding a Big Bake from Dec 7th-13th, to raise dough for sick children in hospitals and hospices around the UK. Why not spread some festive cheer and raise money making these Christmas cookie tree decorations? This is such a simple recipe, with only three ingredients and it is quick and easy to make and shortbread is always a favourite.

Time needed: About half an hour, including baking time. Ingredients: Plain flour, 200g; Cool butter, 100g; Caster sugar, 50g; Writing icing, white, green, red (great for drawing lines and shapes); Decorations in silver, red, green, gold or white.

You will need: Large bowl; Sieve; Flat baking trays; Star cookie

T: 01306 885 001 E: estelle.holmes@molevalley.gov.uk w: www.molevalley.gov.uk/walkforhealth

cutters (or other festive shapes); Clean pencil; Silver, gold, white, green or red ribbon.

Method: • With your child, measure the flour and then let your little one spoon the flour into the sieve, held above the bowl. Sift the flour. • Add the sugar. • Add the butter, cut into cubes. • With clean hands, show your child how to rub the butter into the flour. Keep rubbing then kneading and it should come together into a ball. • Without over-working the dough, roll it out on a flat surface, dusted with flour. •

Using the cookie cutters, help your child stamp out star shapes and place them on the baking tray. Use the blunt end of the clean pencil to make a hole at the top of one of the points for the ribbon.

• Bake at 320F/160C/Gas 6 for 12-15 minutes until golden. When cool, decorate with writing icing and any other decorations you like, such as sugar balls. Hang on the tree!

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Children in Need 2015 The annual fundraising extravaganza returns on Friday 13th November, and this year’s theme is ‘Be a Hero’, encouraging people to dress as their childhood heros. Whether you aspired to be a cowboy or Wonderwoman, get your togs on and order your fundraising pack at www.bbcchildreninneed.co.uk

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

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Families Surrey East November-December 2015 5

Babies & Toddlers Get Busy Building

Bottoms up!

Bizzy Bitz, the construction toy system, is donating 100's of boxes of building blocks to Toy Libraries around the country. If you are a mum who borrows toys from a Toy Library and would like your child to try out Bizzy Bitz, please ask them to contact info@bizzy-bitz.com and they’d be happy to send them a box. Each box contains 350 pieces of building fun, with new clear instruction sheets. Welcare runs a Toy Library on Tuesday and Friday mornings at Merstham Library, and on Friday afternoons at Welcare House in Redhill. If you’re based near Dorking, there is also one on Wednesdays at 11am, at St John's CE Community School.

The UK’s leading cloth nappy brand, TotsBots, has launched a Christmas nappy! The cute festive design, featuring Rudolph, gingerbread men and robins on sleighs, is available in EasyFit design, TeenyFit for newborns and the new flexible fit PeeNut design.

Battery Danger With the festive season upon us, there will be lots of new battery operated toys and Christmas cards around – many of which contain button batteries. These small shiny batteries are attractive to little people and are easily swallowed, often causing life changing injury or even fatalities. Aged just 14 months, Eva McCafferty was admitted to hospital with life-threatening symptoms, with a battery having eroded her oesophagus. She required emergency

Prices from £16.99; visit totsbots.com to order.

surgery to remove the battery, and spent a prolonged time in intensive care. Her mother Kathleen says “We want to highlight the dangers to other families, as we were not aware of how devastating the effects of swallowing one of these batteries could be. We don’t want any other children to have to go through what Eva did.” The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents has launched a campaign to make people aware of the dangers of button batteries, and are urging parents to be extra careful this Christmas. For more info visit rospa.com

Natural Baby Shower Opens

Natural Baby Shower, the ethical and eco-friendly online retailer has just opened its first bricks and mortar store in Bagshot. Founded 8-years ago by Surrey mum Victoria Hampson, after experiencing her first pregnancy in New Zealand, the store is set over two floors and contains everything you need for your new arrival. Stocking a range of trusted brands such as Aden + Anais, Storksak, Frugi and EGG, the store features clothing, accessories, sleep and travel systems and furniture. For more info visit naturalbabyshower.co.uk

Monty’s OFSTED News

Monty’s Daycare in Edenbridge recently received a visit from OFSTED, receiving a ‘Good’ rating. This is excellent news for the small day nursery, and has allowed them to expand to 72 children. Monty’s is the sister company to Manic Monsters, the kid’s soft play centre nearby and is a purpose-built facility surrounded by fields and woodland, encouraging children to learn about nature and the natural world. For inquiries call 01732 864629 or visit montysdaycare.co.uk

Sure Starts Saved

We are very pleased to confirm that Surrey CC has had a change of heart and will now not be closing the children’s centres in Earlswood or Hurst Green, as previously reported in the Sept issue of Families. The council received more than 800 signatures in support of the centres and are now looking at other ways of coping with the £23m cut in government funding.

Apps Review Have a ‘Appy Christmas Will you be buying your children a tablet this Christmas? No longer the domain of the ‘grown-ups’, kids are now so adept at using tablets and mobile phones at home and in the classroom, that we thought we’d give you a roundup of the best apps (as recommended by local parents). Whether it’s for pre-schoolers or older children, for fun or education – here’s our pick of the most popular:

Angry Birds

– with dozens of incarnations available, Angry Birds isn’t the no.1 app of all time for no good reason! This is demolition gameplay at its most fun: loads of levels, greedy green pigs and Mighty Eagles. Sounds addictive to us. £2.29 on App store.

Catapult King – 3D fantasy adventure using cannonballs to destroy enemy hideouts and rescue the princess in distress. 100 challenging levels to complete. Loads of fun for 79p.

For pre-schoolers Toca Boca apps – Toca Boca is

renown for designing a range of great apps for kids, including the Hair Salon, Monsters and Fairy Tales, but check out their new Christmas Salon, where you can wash and style Santa’s hair and beard! Best bit is it’s free! Pet Doctor – also by Toca Boca, the Pet Doctor app encourage your little one to care for, feed and treat their virtual pets for various ailments. Great training game if you’re thinking of getting a real life animal for Christmas! £2.49 on App store.

CBeebies – most parents will know (and love) the CBeebies app. Featuring games and activities from all the favourite BBC kids shows such as Alphablocks, Octonauts and Andy’s Dinosaur Adventure, the regular updates keep it fresh and there’s loads to do, so they’ll never get bored. Free! Peppa’s Paintbox – perfect for budding artists and kids who enjoy creative activities. This drawing application features traditional tools, as well as some piggy surprises, and is also free!

And if you’re looking for something more educational, please see a round-up of the 10 Best Educational Apps for Primary School Children on our website: www.familiesonline.co.uk/locations/national/ education-childcare/education-and-schools/

Web Safety for Young People Writer and broadcaster Emma Clarke was so concerned about web safety when her 12-year old daughter asked if she could have a Twitter account, that she decided to write a book to help her. Virtually Me is a manifesto for using the web wisely. Asking pertinent questions about safety, security, digital footprint and social awareness, it is a brilliant workbook to help youngsters decide what they should (and shouldn’t) consider when using social media. Virtually Me: Your Manifesto for Online Life is available from Amazon for £9.99.

Tatsfield Martial Arts

Tractor Ted Farm Fun – for

machine-mad kids, this app features jigsaws, a book, stickers and lots of film to give them a good introduction to farmyard life. Free!

For older kids Lego – as with their toy range, Lego apps include a range of subbrands such as Juniors, Ninjago, Star Wars and City. We especially like the Scooby-Doo app, where you can play as various characters to uncover the villains and solve the mystery. Problem solving, puzzles and mystery galore (and free)! Room on a Broom

– this app is aimed at ages 6-8, but can be enjoyed by young and old alike. 8 games to help children with their creativity and learning (including spelling games). So good it was BAFTA nominated! £2.99

Snow White – for the little fashonista. Dress-up game allowing players to accessorise the fairy tale princess before playing with her forest friends. Free!

Aged 9+ Star Wars – with episode VII of the saga due for release in December,

expect Star Wars mania to hit anytime soon. There are a range of related apps available, most aimed at age 9+, but try Star Wars Commander from Disney for a strategic game of defence. Will you side with the Rebels or the Empire? Free.

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Santa

Unusual places to see Santa this Christmas There are literally dozens of places to visit Father Christmas this winter in East Surrey and surrounding areas – from National Trust properties, to garden centres, children’s farms to shopping centres (see lots more listings on page 21-23), but here are some of the more unusual places you might spot him…

On a Farm

Award-winning Bocketts Farm Park in Leatherhead is a special place to visit this Christmas. Children can hop on board the Santa Express to the magical hay barn workshop where they will meet Father Christmas and receive a gift. No booking ahead or big queues, just book your slot on the day and enjoy the farm while you wait. In December the farm also has 25 gorgeous new lambs due, a children’s craft area and Christmas trail. 26th Nov to 24th Dec. Tickets cost an extra £8 (in addition to farm entry). Visit bockettsfarm.co.uk for more info.

On a Boat

Enjoy your visit to Santa on water this year, with a Christmas trip along the Wey and Arun Canal. Join in the festive singing, enjoy some mulled wine and receive an early Christmas present. Trips run on various days from 6th Dec to 23rd Dec, setting sail at 11am, 12pm and 2pm. £9 per person, booking essential. Visit weyandarun.co.uk for more info.

In a Forest Discover how the

wildlife in Nower Wood Leatherhead, survives the winter and enjoy a walk to Santa’s special woodland grotto. Children will receive a gift from Father Christmas, with the opportunity to take part in a range of outdoor activities - so wrap up warm! Finish the experience with a hot chocolate and make a Christmas decoration using natural materials. Sunday 13th December, 10am & 1pm. Adults £3, children £13. Call Karen Coleman on 01372 379509 to book.

In a Cave

For a truly magical experience visit Father Christmas in the Crystal Grotto at Painshill Landscape Garden. Follow the festive route to Grotto Island where you will enter the Christmas Wishing Tent and children will receive an activity pack. Elves will then guide you into the amazing Crystal Grotto with dazzling stalactites, to meet Father Christmas. Thousands of crystals will sparkle all around you as you share your wish and receive a gift. 5th-24th December. Adults £7.70; child £9. Book online: www.painshill.co.uk

In a Cellar

Well, not just any old cellar – a wine cellar! Enjoy a warm welcome from Santa`s elves, and an outdoor train ride followed by a visit to see Father Christmas in his Cellar Grotto at Denbies Wine Estate Dorking. Tell him your wishes and get a gift and sticker book. Every weekend from 28th Nov to 24th Dec and every day from 21st to 24th December. £7.25 per child and £2 per adult (includes the train ride & mince pies in the cellar!). www.denbies.co.uk.

On a Train

Enjoying a magical steam train ride through the beautiful Kent countryside on the

The Kent & East Sussex Railway, meeting Santa Claus on

Magical winter walks and seeing Santa with the kids Christmas inspired by RHS Garden Wisley

Image: © RHS/Lee Beel

5-20 Dec (weekends) and 23-24 Dec rhs.org.uk/wisley RHS Registered Charity Number: 222879 / SC038262

board. Visitors arriving at Tenderden station will be greeted by the sound of the Victorian carousel offering unlimited rides, and can visit the new festive hedge maze. Elves will be making an appearance during the journey, with their sacks of gifts and every child under 12 will receive a present (those aged from 13 to 15 will receive some festive choccies). Trip takes 1hr 10 mins, and runs at weekends and selected days from 5th Dec to 24th Dec. Book at kesr.org.uk

Reigate on Ice

This is the third year that Reigate on Ice returns to Priory Park with the only ‘real’ ice rink for 25 miles around. Last year the rink played host to around 30,000 skaters from a 50-mile radius, and entertained spectators with live music and plenty of mulled wine and hot chocolate! The indoor rink is bigger this year and is open from Thursday 3rd December. Tickets are now on sale for the 45-minute skating sessions and children as young as 3 can skate (or attempt to!), with the help of the skate aid Penguins, for hire at £3. The smallest skate is a junior size 8, so wear thick socks if you’re on the smaller side! It’s also a great venue for work parties and school groups. This year, Reigate on Ice has teamed up with Reigate Manor Hotel and Pistachio’s in the Park to present a fireworks display in Priory Park on Sat 5th December – the finale to the Reigate Christmas Fair. Fireworks will start at 6.30pm, with local celeb Shane Richie due to hit the button (subject to filming commitments). Get your skates on and don’t miss it! Tickets start from £9 for children, with more info and booking available from reigateonice.co.uk

8 Families Surrey East November-December 2015

Christmas Lights & Fayres

Festive Lights and Christmas Fayres Get the Christmas glow, and visit your local light switch-on: Dorking, Friday 20th November. Cast of Dorking Halls

Redhill Sunday 29th November. Girl band Misstasia will be helping Santa to open the Belfry’s Christmas Grotto and Arabian Nights themed Christmas celebrations. Stars from this year’s Harlequin Theatre panto, Aladdin, will also be present. From 11am-4pm shoppers can enjoy magic carpet rides, circus skills and belly dancer workshops, cookie decorating, face painting – all for free! Santa arrives at 12pm. Expect Christmas lights to be switched on too, but details tbc.

pantomime celebrate switching on Dorking’s Christmas lights from 4pm, St Martin’s Walk Shopping Centre.

Westerham Green, Thursday 26th November 6pm-9pm. Former JLS

star JB Gill is this year’s celeb guest at lights switch-on and late night shopping evening. Roasted chestnuts, stalls and singing.

Caterham, Saturday 28th November. Christmas market in

Croydon and Soper Road, and Santa switches on the lights in Church Walk.

Tadworth, Saturday 28th November. Local community get-together for the switch-on the Christmas Tree Lights. 5pm, Tattenham Corner.

RHS Wisley, Wednesday 2nd Dec, 5pm. RHS Ambassador Mary Berry switches on the Wisley Christmas lights, before a late-night Christmas shopping evening until 8.30pm. St Martin’s Walk, Dorking

Christmas Fayres

Reigate, Saturday 5th December. Day starts with Santa

landing in Priory Park, before the Reigate Christmas Fair in the afternoon. Christmas lights switch-on and fireworks in the evening.

Markets & Fayres

Whether it’s a craft fair, a shopping evening or good old PTA school fete, there’s lost going on locally – here’s our round up:

Chartwell Christmas Market

27th to 29th November, 10am to 4pm. Visit Churchill’s family home to kick off your Xmas shopping.

Schools

Children’s Trust Christmas Fayre

Reigate Parish School shopping evening, 12th November, 8-10pm Farlington School Christmas gift fair, 14th November, 10.30am Nutfield Church Primary shopping evening, 17th November, 7.30pm Reigate St Mary’s School Christmas market, 21st November, 12-4.30pm Reigate Priory School craft fair, 21st November, 10.30am-3pm Warwick School shopping evening, Redhill, 26th November, 5-7pm Dawnay School, Christmas gift fair, 27th November, 5.30-7.30pm Holmesdale Primary School Christmas fair, Reigate, 28th November St Mary’s CofE School Christmas fair, Oxted, 28th November, 12-3pm Burstow Primary, Smallfield, Christmas fair, 1st December, 5-8pm Salfords Primary School Christmas fair, 5th December, 12-2pm Horley Infants School Christmas fair, 5th December, 11am-2pm Reigate Parish School Christmas fair, 12th December, 12-3pm

Tadworth, 28th November, 12pm to 4pm. Features skating rink, Santa’s Grotto, market, fairground rides, arts and crafts and donkey rides. Peppa Pig will be joining in the afternoon fun, alongside Surrey Police Band. Children, free; adults £3.

Chiddingstone Castle Christmas Fair

Edenbridge, 28th November, 12pm to 4pm. Festive gifts and mulled wine. Stalls include home accessories, vintage wares, jewellery and locally-produced food and drink. Entry £4.

Sissinghurst Castle Festive Fair

Cranbrook 28th to 29th November, 10am to 3pm. Local food, drink, crafts. Live music from the East Grinstead concert band on Sunday. Free entry.

Traditional Christmas markets also running in Kingston and Sutton throughout December.

Bocketts Farm Park 26th Nov - 24th Dec 2015

A MAGICAL CHRISTMAS

Surrey charity Unique supports families affected by chromosome disorders

FATHER CHRISTMAS IS HERE! Hop on board the Santa Express to his magical haybarn workshop to receive a gift

1 in 200 babies born each year are affected, some severely disabled.

Voted top 6 in the UK by ‘The Guardian’

This Christmas please support the work Unique does in helping families by texting UNIQ33 £3 to 70070.

£10

on a family visit!

OFF PEAK ONLY £6.50 WINTER WEEKDAY RATES per person Monday - Friday, 2nd Nov - 11th Dec 2015

If you are a local business looking to support a local charity please do get in touch, caroline@rarechromo.org, we’d love to hear from you.

PLUS: Heated indoor play, newborn lambs, xmas shopping & Christmas Trail & Christmas Craft Corner

www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

www.rarechromo.org Unique, the Rare Chromosome Disorder Support Group is a charity registered in England & Wales (1110661). Company number 5460413. Address: G1 The Stables, Station Road West, Oxted, Surrey, RH8 9EE

Save

up to

Situated in Leatherhead, Surrey. 5 minutes from J9 M25.

#

SPECIAL

OFFER

D AR AW WI NN ING !

£2 OFF full price farm entry per person*

Valid any Saturday or Sunday in November 2015. Only with this voucher (*maximum 5 people).

FM

Families Surrey East November-December 2015 9

Christmas Gifts

you dr l i t p o op! Sh We’re lucky in East Surrey to have such a great range of high streets and shopping centres, retail parks and small independents. Whether you prefer supporting your local market town or shopping online, Christmas is a spending frenzy and there’s so much on offer that it’s sometimes hard to know where to start! Here is our round up of pressie ideas for even the fussiest of recipients.

Elf Door Can’t find the fairy doors in Priory Park? No fear, you can have your very own, in your bedroom! These sweet doors can be put at the bottom of a wall or even on a tree in the garden. £20.

The Super Hero Comic Kit by Jason Ford

This fantastic book allows kids to create their own 8-page comic books from scratch. There are 10 in the book to draw and colour, with activity sheets for tips on creating villains and plotting your storyline. Paperback, £12.95. cassart.co.uk

Doodlemoo Prints

themagicdoorstore.com

Birds on a Wire Dress This lovely corduroy dress from vintage-inspired label Powell Craft is cosy for winter, with pretty floral collar and hem. Sizes 1-7yrs, £28.50,

Powellcraftboutique.com

Xmas Leggings How cute will your baby look crawling around on Christmas Day in these seasonal striped leggings with their cheeky Christmas pudding on the tush? You can add matching socks, a bandana bib and a hat. £11.

Personalised prints for little people, available to order from Reigate-based Doodlemoo. Popular designs include T-Rex and alphabet prints. Orders need to be placed 4 weeks before Christmas to allow for the design and delivery. Framed delivery available locally; please contact doodlemoo.com

Personalised Christmas Sack For when a stocking just won’t do, these quality hessian sacks can be personalized with your child’s name and left under the tree on Christmas Eve. £22, HarrowandGreen.com

BladeandRose.co.uk

Joey JCB Wellies Digger fans will love these character wellies – perfect for slashing in those muddy winter puddles. £9, George @ ASDA

Shopping List Game Perennial favourite for primary aged children, this great memory game has been relaunched for 2015. You can now by Extras – Clothes and Fruit & Veg that can be added to your existing game. £7.50. orchardtoys.com

Constructive Eating Cutlery Set Fussy eater? You’ll soon find your child likes to eat when you encourage them to play with their food! £14. TheGreatGiftCompany.co.uk

10 Families Surrey East November-December 2015

Christmas Gifts Squiggle, Dot & Squeeze Surrey based mum Flori Maisonneuve has launched a range of kids craft boxes in time for Christmas. The 6 themed boxes, including British Tea Party, Moons & Monsters and Nature’s Garden, include at least four activities encouraging different learning experiences. Personalised to your child and delivered to your door from

Christmas

at the Belfry

squiggledotandsqueeze.co.uk

Black Friday (8am - 7pm)

A weekend of deals and fun! 27th - 29th November

Free Grotto!

Grand opening at 12 noon Sunday 29th November

Happy Capture Photography Course

Christmas Shopping

Open until 6pm every day in December and until 7pm the week before Christmas.

Always wanted to be able to capture those special family moments, but disappointed by the result? Why not book a Happy Capture photography course – a full day natural light photography workshop by two local professional photographers. They’ll take you through the basics of photography whilst teaching you methods of storytelling so you can create better images. Run by Abigail Fahey and Suzi Bowles, local photographers who are keen to show others how to get the most out of those fancy cameras. Workshops take place in Ashtead and Leatherhead and include lunch and refreshments. Photographing Children & Families, 20th May 2016, £120. More courses at ahappycaptureworkshops.co.uk

Coffee Subscription For just £7.95 per month, your coffee lover can receive a little shot of caffeine kindness to your door. Sourcing only from small-scale farmers and including a tasting booklet, this is an education in coffee. £7.95 per month. Kopi.co.uk

Limited Edition Brooches

Fun competitions and activities in-centre and online www.redhillbelfry.co.uk

These Limited Edition brooches from Brain Tumour

Research’s are designed by celebrated Milliners Rachel Trevor Morgan and Vivien Sheriff to raise funds for their annual ‘Wear A Hat Day’. Suggested donation £10. braintumourresearch.org

The Belfry at the heart of Redhill & proud to support:

Shopmobility

- REDHILL

redhillbelfry.co.uk

Families Surrey East November-December 2015 11

Clubs & Classes P ar ti e s D i r e c t o r y With all the Christmas festivities underway, it seems like an excellent time to present our latest Parties Directory. Over the next few pages I hope you’ll find everything you need to plan your perfect day – from venues and entertainers, to cakes and costumes. I have added a few new activities for older children (check out Segway Unleashed on page 14), but there is also a comprehensive list of soft play and party ideas for younger children too. Here goes…!

PARTY SUPPLIES Monkey Business online and at

Lesbourne Rd, Reigate. All party essentials incl balloons, party ware, dressing-up costumes, fireworks. Tel: 01737 221081. monkeybusinessreigate.co.uk

Butterflies & Bows Lingfield.

Balloons, tableware, themed decorations, flowers, fairy light backdrops. Tel: 01342 892392. butterfliesandbows.co.uk

The Little Things Vintage party bags, party favours and table decorations. Tel: 01892 871 149. lovethelittlethings.co.uk

Katie Bakes Personalised Cookie Mix Party Bags. Bespoke labels. Tel: 02392 583 553. katiebakes.co.uk

Choc Chicos from CHOCChick Chocolate

Octopus Parties Imaginative themed

CELEBRATION CAKES & CAKE MAKING PARTIES

CREATIVE & ARTY

Making Kits for Kids. 8+ yrs. Tel: 0800 280 08 88. chocchick.com

Coughlans Bakeries Banstead,

Caterham, Cousldon, Oxted & Reigate Toddler Sense Independent family-run chain of local bakers, offering character celebration cakes. cupcake towers and novelty cakes. Visit cakesandplatters.com or visit your nearest store.

Bake-Me-A-Cake Horley. Bespoke

cakes for all occasions. All local areas. Tel: 07751 379 404. bake-me-a-cake.co.uk

Elizabeth George Cakes Caterham. Speciality and free-from cakes available. Cupcake parties for ages 6-16yrs. Tel: 07885 166283. elizabethgeorgecakes.com Cupcake Tea Party Horley. Cakes & cupcakes – and cupcake decorating parties! Tel: 01293 401156. cupcaketeaparty.co.uk Pat a Cake Coulsdon. Bakers and cake

decorating specialists. Tel: 0208 668 1276. patacakesurrey.co.uk

INFLATABLES & PARTY TOYS/GAMES Party Play Time Party ride-on toys and games for hire, incl Roller Coasters. 2-5yr olds. Tel: Sam 01372 454291. partyplaytime.co.uk Giggles & Wriggles Soft play hire,

Thomas the Tank ride, giant lego, bubble machine and more. Tel: 07784 062359. giggleandwriggles.co.uk

Chuckle Party Toy & Party Hire

Soft play hire Ideal for birthdays, weddings and christenings. Cater for up to 40 kids. Offers face painting and glitter tattoos. Tel: 07702 808989. chuckleparty.com

Bounce 2 Bounce Reigate. Bouncy castle hire including Pricess Castle, Pirate and superhero themed. Tel: 020 8680 2121. bounce2bounce.co.uk

adventures incl Frozen, Minions, Dinosaurs & The Gruffalo. 1-2 hrs, from £130. 3-10yrs. Max 30 children. Tel: 07807 055858. Octopusparties.com

Dinky Doodlers Art & crafts parties

designed round a favourite character or theme. Aprons and all materials supplied. Painting, collage, beading, decoration. 1-10yrs. £135 for up to 12 children; £6 per additional child. Tel Laura on 07984 757613. dinkydoodlers.co.uk

Creation Station Arty parties for

creative kids. Activities incl. decorating your own party bag & party gift (treasure boxes, canvases) and creating a keyring or piece of jewellery. Also music, dancing and games. Hassle-free for parents, with invitations and party bags included. Ages 1-11yrs. Tel Lisa: 01737 731 169. thecreationstation.co.uk

Paint Splatter & Pixel Parties Redhill. Flick, pour, drip and splash to create a Jackson Pollock style painting, 4+yrs. Pixel Parties inspired by Minecraft, aged 7+. Tel: 01737 668565. epochartgallery.co.uk

Dish Ceramics Studio Reigate. Pottery painting parties. 5+yrs. £16 pp (min 10). Tel: 01737 241567. dishreigate.com Butterhill Studios Mobile themed parties: Graffiti, Chocolate & Bear Making. From £20 pp. 5+yrs. Tel: 07810 800181. butterhillstudios.co.uk Cookies Kitchen Kids cook at home or at your chosen venue. Ingredients, equipment and aprons provided. Optional party bags. 5+yrs. £195 for up to 10 children. Tel: 07786 271227. cookieskitchen.co.uk Tan House Farm Newdigate. This family-run farm shop offers kids baking parties in their lovely café. Call for prices and details. Tel: 01306 631891. tanhousefarmshop.co.uk

NATURE AND FARM

ENTERTAINERS Froggle Parties Children’s entertainers, magicians, discos. Also science parties, drama parties, baby and toddler parties. From £155. Tel: 0208 617 9070. froggleparties.com Zeberdee Entertainer Fun magic,

balloon modelling, plate spinning, puppets, games. 3-6 yrs. Tel: Zelanie 07782 388495. zeberdee.com

Mr Marvel’s Marvellous Parties Magic show parties for 3-7yrs; Marvellous game show disco for ages 8+. Tel: 0845 5190146. mrmarvel.co.uk

Cheeky Monkey Parties Games, dancing, glitter tattoos, bubbles, themes. 1-10yrs. Tel: 07771 598867. cheekymonkeyparties.com

12 Families Surrey East November-December 2015

Bocketts Farm Park Leatherhead. Enjoy a fun filled, stress-free birthday party with farm park entry, a choice of menus for lunch or tea in a decorated party room and private animal handling included. Plus a balloon and animal mask for each child and option of tractor rides. £14.50 per child; £4.95 for adults (1 free adult per 2 children). Tel: 01372 363764 to check availability. Bockettsfarm.co.uk

& Classes P ar ti e s D i r e c t o rClubs y Godstone Farm Godstone. Packages

include the Farmyard Pic'n'mix Party, Dino Party and the all-inclusive option, the VIP Party 1-9yrs. All day entry, all attractions, party barn plus helium balloon. From £9.50 pp. Indoor private playbarn hire available for up to 100 people, £275. Plus catering choices, birthday cake and goody bag options. Tel: 01883 742546. godstonefarm.co.uk

Denbies Wine Estate Dorking. Train ride around the vineyard, lunch in private room. March-October. 2+yrs. Tel: 01306 876616. denbies.co.uk Fishers Adventure Farm Park

Wisborough Green, W Sussex. Admission to Park and all rides.
Invitations & party feast. Min 8 children. Princess, Pirate and Farmyard-themed rooms and accessories. From £12 pp. Party bags option. Tel: 01403 700063. fishersfarmpark.co.uk

Hobbledown Adventure Park and Children’s Farm, Epsom. Includes entry to Farm and playbarn, invitations, feast and party bags. Options from £14.90 to £18.80pp (High Ropes Course). Min 10 people. Tots to teens. Tel: 0843 289 4979. hobbledown.com

SCIENCE

The Detective Project Crime Scene Investigation parties. 7+yrs. £175 for up to 15 investigators. Incl fingerprinting, white suits and party bags. MI Spy parties for age 9+. Tel: 0117 244 0053. thedetectiveproject.co.uk Science Wizards Hands-on fun

science parties and goody bags. From £200. 5-12yrs. Tel: Beth 0845 652 1215. sciencewizards.co.uk

Mad Science Sciened themed parties, including creating super-stretchy Mad Science putty, slime, or a high-bouncing polymer ball! From age 3-12yrs. From £195. Tel: 08454 757507. southeast. madscience.org

ANIMALS Crocodile Encounters Reptile fun

with snakes, lizards and a real crocodile in your own front room. 3+yrs. Tel: 0845 020 4364. Crocodileencounters.co.uk

Reptoparty UK Reptile handling experience for parties. Bearded dragons and snakes galore! Tel: 07508179243. facebook.com/reptopartyuk Orchard Cottage Riding Stables Lower Kingswood. Children’s birthday gymkhana parties on Saturdays. £30 per child. Log Cabin for tea, £30/hr. 5+yrs. 7-12 children. Tel: 01737 241311. ocrs.co.uk

Pony Magic Surrey. Shetland pony

rides for up to 20 kids. 2-8yrs. Fully insured. From £210. Tel: 07762 64 07 03. ponymagic.co.uk

Sandra’s Riding School Horley. Pony Parties for able bodied & special needs, incl carriage riding. Tel: 07831 833404. sandrasridingschool.co.uk

ENTERTAINMENT FOR UNDER 5s Tiny Talk signing & singing. Baby sign

language & singing for 0-3yrs. 30-45mins. £65 for max 20 guests + adults. Leatherhead, Dorking & Horley. Tel: 07599 551882. tinytalk.co.uk/katherinep

Jo Jingles East Surrey. Fun-filled

pre-schooler Music and Movement parties. Songs, dances, musical instruments and bubbles! 1-5yrs. Tel: 07472 697082 for East Surrey and 07751 438943 for Leatherhead.

jojingles.com

MAD Academy Dorking, Reigate & Redhill. Fun-filled music & dance parties, singing, party games, instruments & parachutes! 3 mths-5yrs. Tel: 01293 200707. madacademy.com Babyballet East Surrey. Magical Parties

2-4yrs and Disco Parties for 4-7yrs. For boys and girls. Tel: 07834 452095. babyballet.co.uk

Busy Lizzy Themed parties from Busy

Lizzy’s range of classes incl Twinkle Ballet, Music, Mini Dancers, Baby Picasso’s Art and Disco Dudes & Divas. Tel: 01737 887227. busylizzyreigate.co.uk

Jingle Bugs Reigate & Dorking. Games, songs, props, toys, instruments and stories for kids aged 3m to 5yrs. Can incorporate themes like cowboys, Frozen, fairies etc. Tel: 07956 256721. jinglebugsmusic.co.uk Toddler Sense Themed parties including adventure tunnels, bouncy castles and parachutes and games. Magical, multisensory experience. 2-5yrs. Tel: 07752 285399. babysensory.com/en/

ToddlerClassDetails/reigate-region

Baby Sensory Reigate, Dorking, Caterham & Oxted. 0-15months. Venue of your choice. Multi-sensory experience, can be themed. Tel: Reigate 07980 191420 / Dorking 07590 848118 / Caterham & Oxted 07762 716 579. babysensory.com

PAMPER PARTIES & FACEPAINTING

First Class Faces Professional face painting and body art. 3+ yrs. Tel: 01372 378637. firstclassfacepainting.co.uk

ADVENTURE & SOFT PLAY CENTRES

Manic Monsters Edenbridge. Activity and Lazer Zones. Massive play

frame, go karts, football and Lazer Zone play frame. Also ‘Build a Bear’ parties. 3mths to 12 yrs.
Four party packages available from Mini to Mammoth, from £10.95 pp (min 10) includes party food. Party bags available. Whole venue also available for private hire. Tel: 01732 866115. Manicmonsters.co.uk

Adventureland at Donyngs

Redhill. Designed for children under 6yrs, featuring plenty of slides, tubes, swing Juniors Hair Salon Merstham. areas and other physical play. Pamper Parties for 5-11yrs. From £15pp Tel: 01737 764 732. incl invitations, party bags and food.55x70_laura_Layout Min better.org.uk/leisure/donyngs-leisure9 27/05/2015 10:03 Page 1 10 guests. Games, crafts, make up, nail centre painting & glam hair do. Tel: 01737 644464. juniorshair.com

Angels n Divas Pamper Parties Angel Fun, 4-6yrs;

Girls Scene, 7+yrs; Spa-licious, 8+yrs; Dreamy Treats, 11+yrs. 2hr parties £160; or one-hour mini parties. Tel: 07771 964626. angelsndivas.co.uk

Zoe’s Faces Fairy arrives and entertains! Face Painting, Fairy and “Frozen” Parties. 3+yrs. Tel: 07914 652150. zoesfaces.co.uk

For classes of pure MADness, join MAD Academy Babies from 3 months action songs and sensory stimulation Walkers to 2 years music, movement and motor development 2 to 4 years dance, musicality and beat competency Birthday Classes in Dorking Reigate Parties & Redhill Too! Call Laura on 01293 200707 or email: laura.wandrag@madacademy.com

madacademy.com Music And Dance and a whole lot of fun!

BOOK YOUR CHILD’S BIRTHDAY PARTY AT ADVENTURELAND

Redhill & Reigate Artistic Roller Skating Club SKATING PARTIES / FUN SESSIONS Sundays 11.30am-1.25pm at Reigate College Sports Hall, Rushworth Road

DONYNGS LEISURE CENTRE For more information visit www.better.org.uk/donyngs

LAST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH:

ROLLER DISCOS 6-8pm for all ages

at Hawthorns School, Bletchingley For more details please call Barry on

Better is a registered trademark of GLL (Greenwich Leisure Limited), a charitable social enterprise. Registered address: Middlegate House, The Royal Arsenal, London SE18 6SX IPS Registered No. 27793R Inland Revenue Charity No. XR43398.

01293 776266 bbridger@lineone.net

Families Surrey East November-December 2015 13

Clubs & Classes P ar ti e s D i r e c t o r y ADVENTURE & SOFT PLAY CENTRES Continued Leatherhead Leisure Centre

Large soft play facility with ball pools, crash mats, obstacle courses and car track. From 8m to 8yrs. Non-exclusive hire from £7pp (min 10). Also offer bouncy castle parties. Tel: 01372 377674. fusion-lifestyle.com/centres/ Leatherhead_Leisure_Centre

Mini Mayhem Crawley. Slides,

kart track and 3 play areas. Various packages available incl. After School, Mini Toddler and Mighty VIP. 1-10yrs, prices from £8.50pp. Tel: 01293 538377. minimayhem.co.uk

Treasure Chest Soft Play

Crawley.Soft play, Disco and Laser parties. 0-12yrs. From £9.99 pp. Tel: 01293 549009. treasurechestsoftplay.co.uk

Gymnastics and Trampoline Clubs anti-gravity

Caterham and Coulsdon www.ag-tc.co.uk james@ag-tc.co.uk

01883 692091

Trampolining, Adult Trampolining, Pre School, Funfit and Special Needs

Redhill, Horley, Crawley and East Grinstead www.springfit.org 0203 478 0203 info@springfit.org Gymnastics, Trampolining, Adult Trampolining and Gymnastics, Pre School, Funfit and Freestyle Gymnastics

07737 306 316

Caterham and Warlingham www.pointersclub.co.uk pointersclub@googlemail.com

Gymnastics,Trampolining, Pre School, Funfit and Youth Gym

JOIN US FOR FUN AND FOR FITNESS

Once Upon a Time Epsom. Packages

include exclusive hire & Afternoon Tea, starting at £250 for up to 20 children. Tel: 07933 292464. oneuponatimesoftplay.co.uk

Antics Parties Warlingham. Soft play

1-6yrs. 10 children £150. Disco 6-12yrs £260. Tel: 07940 583 756. anticsplay.co.uk

The Arc Caterham. Soft Play and party buffet. £12 pp includes food. Minimum 10. Optional party bags. Tel: 01883 330380. the-arc-caterham.co.uk Henry’s Play Café Caterham. 0-5yrs;

parties by arrangement. Tel: 01883 344577. facebook.com/henrysplaycafe

The Scallywag Club Brockham. Soft play for under 5’s. Parties on Wed-Fri afternoons, £8pp + hall hire. thescallywagclub.co.uk

YMCA Parties Redhill & Reigate. Soft Play for under 4s and Sensory Play for those with disabilities. 2hrs, from £125. Weekends only. Tel: 01737 222859. ymcaeastsurrey.org

DANCE & DRAMA Inspire Academy of Dance Parties Dance, musical theatre or cheerleading, plus party games. 3-12yrs. Your venue. £80 for an hour party. Call: Jo 07783 138348. inspireacademyofdance.co.uk

Perform Parties Drama, dance and

singing parties for 4-7yrs & 8-12yrs. Range of themes incl Mermaids, Fairytales & Superheros. Party leaders arrive in costume. Theatre professionals. Tel: 0845 400 4000. performparties.org.uk

Star Steppers Dance Parties

£10 off first month’s membership fee

email: reigate@busylizzy.co.uk or call 01737 887227 and quote “busylizzyfamilies” to claim your £10 off! T&C’s apply

busylizzyreigate.co.uk

Funky themed dance routines, competitions and games. Boys and girls, all ages. From £120. Tel: 07810 808228. star-steppers.com/dance-parties

Children’s Themed Parties

Character Entertainers and costumes for the children. Tailored to requirements. 3-10 yrs. From £60 for appearance, to £250 for hosted parties. Tel: 01252 682500. ctpparty.co.uk

Segway Unleashed Godstone. Segway Unleashed offers the ideal fun-packed experience for groups, parties, clubs & associations. Segway riding is the perfect platform for group fun, as you learn how to ride Segways in different arenas and terrains, in a relaxed, exciting environment. Amazing off-road Segway experiences, run by friendly and experienced instructors, will leave you smiling from ear to ear! Riders must be 10yrs old (min), 4ft 7” min height, 5.5 stone min weight. Private parties start from £165. Seasonal business operating March-November (weather permitting). Tel: 08001 707074 or visit segwayunleashed.com Gatton Park Parties Reigate From Fairies and Wizards to Pirate Challenge. 3-10yrs. Max 15. 2 hrs. £150. Tel: 01737 649066. gattonpark.com Ride the Hill Mountainboarding Nutfield. All Terrain Boarding - any weather. Covered picnic/BBQ area. 8+yrs. Tel: 01737 822458. ridethehill.com

Blackland Farm Activity Parties

East Grinstead. Climbing wall, abseiling tower, archery, zip wire, maze, tunnels. Picnic/bbq, in 120 acres. Tel: 01342 810493. blacklandfarm.org.uk

Be Climbing Indoor and Outdoor rock climbing parties. Games and challenges! Call: Belinda 07846 08 99 22. beclimbing.co.uk

Performance and Art parties. 2-11yrs. From £180 for 2 hour event. Tel: 07956 182488. actoneadventures.co.uk

The Adventure Zone Outdoor adventure activities: Climbing, canoeing, high ropes and more in Dorking, Guildford & Richmond . Age 8+. Tel: 01372 378901. surreycc.gov.uk/theadventurezone

Twizzle Parties Amazing performers

Bowles Rocks Trust (Outdoors

Act One Adventures Adventure, Disco,

and party planning for toddler to teens. From traditional themes to mini farms, Batman in his Batmobile and more. Tel: 020 8392 0860 twizzle-parties.com

The Cat’s Grin Theatre Company Party games, theatre show & post-show workshops. 4-11yrs. 2-3hrs. Your venue. Tel: 07803 01336. catsgrin.co.uk

ACTIVE Start Off-Road Landrover Experience Loseley Park. Off-road driving

experience to 11-17 year olds in a dual control, automatic Range Rover! £255 for a party of six, incl two cars and instructors, and the chance to drive for 30 minutes each. Tel: 0844 846 0605. startoff-road.com

14 Families Surrey East November-December 2015

Centre), Tunbridge Wells. Sledging, Skiing, Snowboarding, Bushcraft, Archery and pool. 6+yrs. Max 12 children. From £90, depending on activity. Tel: 01892 665665. bowles.ac

Jurassic Encounter Golf Parties New Malden. Golf with dinosaurs, plus party room. 6-12yrs. From £14pp. Tel: 0208 949 9200. worldofgolf.co.uk

Daytona Junior Karting Parties

Sandown Park, Esher. Driving packages for 5-15yrs. Tel: 0845 644 5502. daytona.co.uk

Go Ape Crawley & Alice Holt. Treetop adventure for kids min. 1m in height. Under 10’s £18pp. Optional party extras available. Kids 10-15yrs £25. Tel: 0333 331 7692. goape.co.uk

& Classes P arti e s Di r e c t o rClubs y Air-Hop Guildford. Trampolining parties

at Surrey’s premier trampolining park! Jumping, dodgeball and pizza. 10 guests from £160. airhop-guildford.com

Go Zorbing Whyteleafe. Zorbing (min age 11yrs) and HydroZorbing (min age 7yrs). Min of 2 people per zorb; party packages available. Tel: 0208 935 5638. zorbing.co.uk Kidspace Croydon. Go-Karts, Laser Tag,

climbing wall, Make a Bear, play zones. Buffet and party pods. 1-12yrs. Min 8, from £14.95pp. Tel: 01708 385096 kidspaceadventures.com

Laser Tag ‘Nerf’ Mobile Combat Parties Dart Tag fun! Tel: 07775 696790. mobilecombatevents.co.uk

Hollywood Bowl Crawley. A-List and Allstar bowling party packages available. For 5-10yrs, from £8.45 pp. Tel: 0844 826 4282. hollywoodbowl.co.uk

SPORT Springfit Gymnastics and Trampoline Parties Redhill, Horley,

Crawley & East Grinstead. Professional coaching. 4+yrs. Call Adam on 0203 478 0203. springfit.org

Saturn V Trampolining Caterham. Trampoline parties, fun and games. Qualified coach. 3yrs to adult. Call: Shirley 01342 870543. saturnv.co.uk

Redhill & Reigate Artistic Roller Skating Parties Reigate,

Bletchingley & Oxted. 2hr skating party, games & music. 7+yrs. Call Barry 01293 776266 eves. rrarsc.co.uk

Mini Musketeers Fun Fencing Parties

1 hr. Cost: £125. 12-24 children. 7+ yrs. Tel: 07950 011581. minimusketeers.co.uk

RocknRoller DiscoParties

Leatherhead. Mini Rollers (under 11’s) £9.50pp; Main Event £11.50pp. Tel: 0208 656 0513. rocknrollerdisco.com

leisure centres

All local leisure centres have a range of party packages available, from soft play to swimming, football to facepainting. Please visit their websites for full listings and prices. Here is a selection of what’s on offer:

Tandridge Trust at de Stafford School Caterham and Tandridge Leisure Centre, Oxted. 2-16yrs. Tandridge parties: Bouncy Castle (2-5yrs), Bizzie Lizzie’s Glitter Tattoos (2yrs+) & face painting (3yrs+), Angels n Divas Pamper (4-16yrs). Also Little Beans (under 3s) – not at deStafford. Tel: 01883 716717. De Stafford parties: as above, with the extras of Tumble Tots (6mths-7yrs); Little Kickers (2-7yrs), pool parties (8+yrs), Trampolining (6+yrs). Tel: 01883 344355. Includes party food and host. Optional party bags. tandridgetrust.co.uk

jo@inspireacademyofdance.co.uk

Oakwood Sports Centre Horley

Range of party packages from 3-12yrs, including bouncy castle, rope swing and Gladiator themes. Tel: 01293 822238. oakwoodsportcentre.com

Tadworth Leisure and Community Centre Tadworth. Brand new facility including pool, dance studios and 5-a-side pitches. Party packages tbc, call 01737 361933 for more info or visit better.org.uk/leisure/ tadworth-leisure-and-community-centre

Donyngs Leisure Centre Redhill Adventureland parties for 1-6yr olds. Tel: 01737 764732. better.org.uk/donyngs Leatherhead Leisure Centre

Leatherhead. Multi-sports (6+yrs), soft play and bouncy castle (8mths-8yrs) and inflatable pool parties (8+yrs). £70-£150. Tel: 01372 377674. leatherheadleiusrecentre.com

Dorking Sports Centre Dorking.Pool

(8+yrs), Dance, Sports, Games or Bouncy Castle. From £75 for min 10 kids. Tel: 01306 870180. placesforpeopleleisure.org

Rugbytots Rugby-themed team party

Quote FAMILIES for 10% Off

Little Kickers Football-based fun. Dorking, 3-6yrs. Tel: Helen 020 8286 6038. Reigate, Redhill, Oxted & Banstead 2-7yrs. Tel: Yvonne 01737 300 624. littlekickers.co.uk

07783138348

Pool parties, football, basketball and trampolining, also Toddlers’soft play parties. 1-12yrs. Tel: 01293 784075. better.org.uk/horley

®

games. 2-7yrs. Max 15 children. Incl invitations. Tel: 0845 313 3242. rugbytots.co.uk

FREE TRIAL CLASS

Horley Leisure Centre Anderson Way, Horley.

Sports Focus UK Football and multisports parties, including for the under 5’s. Packages include trophies, medals and stickers. Under 5’s parties, max 12 kids, £100. Older children, max 15 kids, £150. Tel: 0844 318 1700. sportsfocusuk.com

Reigate Dorking Horsham Copthorne Horley East Grinstead

08450 504 509

Mega Parties at Hawthorns

School, Bletchingley. Indoor and outdoor activities in school grounds. £13 pp. Min 10. 4-12yrs. Tel: 01883 743377 opt 2. hawthorns.com/sports-centre

Families Surrey East November-December 2015 15

Education

DON’T FORGET! The deadline for applying

for Primary, Infant and Junior schools in Surrey is coming up soon. Applications need to be submitted by January 15th 2016. You can apply online or by post. For more info visit surreycc.gov.uk/schoolsand-learning/schools/school-admissions.

How to Choose the Right School By Jill Lance

Finding the right school for your child, whether it is in the state or private sector, takes time and consideration. As a parent it is one of the most important decisions you make. Give yourself time to understand the process. Start a file, visit the schools you are considering and gather information so that when it is time to fill in application forms you can do so with confidence. Here are some points to consider. • You are looking for the ‘best fit’ school for your child. This might not always be the ‘best’ school. • Start looking at different schools in good time so you have visited all schools on your list before application forms are filled in. • Your local education authority [LEA], or the school secretary will inform you of a catchment area and the distance your home is from a school. www.goodschoolsguide.co.uk is a parent friendly, interactive school directory that has comprehensive catchment maps for state schools. • There is no substitute for actually visiting a school on an open day when choosing the right school for your child. An open morning gives parents the opportunity to chat to staff and look around and see the school community at work. • Ask where each school will lead to eg. to which junior or secondary school do the majority of pupils go to? • Read the Ofsted [Office for Standards in Education] or ISI [Independent Schools Inspection] report. These can be found on the school’s website. • Take your time to fill in application forms, giving as much information as you can. • Contact the school and/or local authority with any specific questions. They will be only too happy to chat to a prospective parent. Jill Lance runs allaboutparenting.co.uk Tel: 07713097790

Independent School Open Mornings Autumn Term 2015 & Spring Term 2016 Some open events require advance booking, so please call the school to check.

Aberdour School Burgh Heath KT20 6AJ Boys & girls, 2-13 yrs. Tel: 01737 354119 aberdourschool.co.uk March 2016 dates tbc

The Hawthorns School Bletchingley RH1 4QJ Boys & girls, 2-13 yrs. Tel: 01883 743048 hawthorns.com 13th November 9am

Belmont School Holmbury St Mary RH5 6LQ Boys & girls, 2-13 yrs. Tel: 01306 730852 belmontschool.org 6th November, 10.15am

Hazelwood School Limpsfield, Oxted RH8 OQH Boys and girls, 4-13 yrs. Tel: 01883 712194 hazelwoodschool.co.uk 5th February 2016, 9.30am

Bramley School Walton on the Hill KT20 7ST Girls, 3-11 yrs. Tel: 01737 812004 bramleyschool. co.uk 14th November, 10am

Lingfield Notre Dame School Lingfield RH7 6PH. Co-educational Inter-denominational, 2½ -18 years. Tel: 01342 838153 (Admissions) lingfieldnd.co.uk Call for details

City of London Freemen’s School Ashtead, KT21 1ET Tel: 01372 822423 Co-ed, day & boarding, 7-18 yrs. clfs.surrey.sch.uk 7th November, 9.45am Manor House School & Nursery Bookham KT23 4EN Girls 2-16 yrs. Call Mrs Copthorne Prep School Copthorne, Fowell on 01372 457077 manorhouseschool. W. Sussex RH10 3HR Tel: 01342 712311 org Call for details copthorneprep.co.uk Co-ed, day & boarding (from Y3), 2.5-13yrs 6th February 2016, 10am Moon Hall College & Bury’s Court Leigh, Reigate RH2 8RE Boys & girls, 2.5-16 yrs. Call Cranmore School Epsom Rd, W. Horsley KT24 01306 611372 or visit buryscourtschool.co.uk & 6AT Co-ed 2.5 -7yrs, Boys 7-13yrs. Tel: 01483 moonhallcollege.co.uk 5th November, 9.15am 280340 cranmoreprep.co.uk 4th & 5th March 2016, 9.30am Pennthorpe School Rudgwick
, W. Sussex
 Downsend School Pre-Preps Leatherhead, RH12 3HJ Co-ed, 2-13 yrs. Tel: Fiona Long: 01403 822391 pennthorpe.com Ashtead & Epsom. Boys and girls, 2-6 yrs. 5th & 8th March 2016, 9.30am Tel: 01372 372311 downsend.co.uk 12th November & 6th February 2016, 9.30am Priory Prep School Banstead SM7 2AJ Boys 2-13 yrs. Tel: 01737 366942 prioryprep.co.uk Downsend Prep School Leatherhead KT22 Prep School: 20th November & 5th March 8TJ Boys and girls, 6-13 yrs. Tel: 01372 372311 2016, 10am downsend.co.uk 13th November & 6th February 2016, 9.30am Redehall Preparatory School Smallfield, Horley RH6 9QA Boys and girls, 3-11 Dunottar School Reigate, RH2 7EL yrs. Tel: 01342 842987 redehall.surrey.sch.uk Boyis and girls, 11-18yrs. Call: 01737 761945 16th April 2016, 10am-12pm dunottarschool.com 25th November & 9th Febraury 2016, 9.15am Reigate St Mary’s Chart Lane, Reigate RH2 7RN Girls and boys, 3-11 yrs. Tel: 01737 244880 Essendene Lodge School Caterham CR3 reigatestmarys.org 5PB Girls & boys, 2.5-11 yrs. Tel: 01883 348349 18th November, 10.30am. essendenelodge.co.uk 26th November & 28th January 2016 Royal Alexandra & Albert School Farlington School Strood Park, Horsham, W Reigate RH2 0TD Boys & girls, 7-18 yrs. Tel: Sussex RH12 3PN Girls 3-18yrs.Day & boarding. Tel: 01737 649000 raa-school.co.uk 12th March 2016, 9.30am 01403 254967 farlingtonschool.net Prep: 5th November & 26th January 2016, St Teresa’s Nursery & Prep School 9.15am, Pre-prep: 24th February, 9.15am Effingham RH5 6ST. Girls, 2-18 yrs. Call Annabel Charles on 01372 750 204 st-teresas.com Greenacre School Banstead SM7 3RA Girls, 6th May 2016, 10am 3-18 yrs. Call Lesley Armstrong on 01737 352114 greenacre.surrey.sch.uk 13th November & 18th March 2016, 9.15am

16 Families Surrey East November-December 2015

Education NEWS

Bramley Girls Senior School Success Bramley School in Walton-onthe-Hill has a 100% success rate in securing senior school places for its pupils - to their chosen school. This has been a consistent achievement for many years and reflects the school’s focus on developing its pupils academic abilities to give them the best possible start in life. Head Paula Burgess says ‘“We strongly believe that there is a ‘right’ school for each girl. The smaller size of Bramley means we are able to give each pupil the personal support they need to prepare them for the next stage of their education”.

‘LOVE GOD, LOVE THY NEIGHBOUR’

An outstanding independent school for girls & boys aged 2-13 years in Bletchingley, Surrey

Stay and Play at Redehall

Redehall Prep School in Smallfield has launched new Stay & Play sessions for 0-4yr olds. Starting after the October half term, the Redehall Robins sessions are a community initiative and cost just £2 to attend, including tea, coffee, play and a song and story to finish. First session starts on Tuesday 3rd November, 9.30am to 11.30am. Please call 01342 842987 to book.

Stamp Out Bullying

It’s a sad fact that 45% of UK pupils report being bullied at school every day. In response to this, First News’ Anti Bullying Campaign is encouraging pupils all over the country to stamp their feet for 20 seconds at 11am on Nov 20th to highlight this issue. Celebrity Vlogger Joe Sugg (ThatcherJoe) will be backing this year’s campaign, which involved 50,000 pupils in 2014. For more info visit firstnews.co.uk/go/stampoutbullying

Providing every child with an abundance of opportunities to flourish and shine Do come and visit to find out what it means to ‘Become a Hawthornian’

Admissions 01883 743048

www.hawthorns.com

Educating for Confidence from Nursery to Sixth Form

Coulsdon School Shortage Coulsdon residents have been lobbying local councillor Chris Philp for his support in persuading Surrey CC that the area desperately needs a new primary school. With a huge amount of building work planned in the area over the next 5 years – including over 700 homes on the old Cane Hill hospital site, parents are concerned about the lack of infrastructure in place to cope with the demand for school places. Three local primary schools – Smitham, Chipstead Valley and Woodcote – have been asked to permanently expand by one class each, but this still leaves a projected shortfall of places in the coming years. A petition, signed by almost 1000 people, was handed to Mr Philp (who is in support) on October 16th, and the council’s consultation on school expansion was due to finish on Oct 19th. Result is unknown at time of press, but check for updates at www.change.org/p/ chris-philp-mp-builda-new-primaryschool-in-coulsdon

Registered Charity number: 307048

At Farlington we educate for confidence; our girls are happy, successful individuals. To arrange a personal visit at a mutually convenient time, please contact our Registrar on 01403 282 573.

www.farlingtonschool.net Independent day and boarding school for girls aged 3 to 18 with a co-educational Nursery

Farlington School | Horsham | West Sussex | RH12 3PN

Families Surrey East November-December 2015 17

Theatres Pool Schools

Theatres Shows for families and children. Please check ticket prices and times with the theatre. Many theatres also have a family film schedule as well.

The Harlequin Theatre Redhill, RH1 1NN Tel: 01737 276500

harlequintheatre.co.uk

Aladdin 11th December -3rd January 2016

Leatherhead Theatre Leatherhead KT22 8DN Tel: 01372 365141 theleatherheadtheatre.org I Believe in Unicorns, 10th November 1.30 & 4.30pm. Intimate show bringing Michael Morpurgo children’s favourite to life. Dick Whittington, 16th-24th December. Plenty of audience participation required – prepare to boo and hiss at King Rat and marvel at Dame Sarah’s wardrobe! Prices from £13.50. Dorking Halls

Lee Latchford Evans stars as Aladdin, battling the evil Abanazar, with the help of the Genie of the Lamp and Princess Jasmine. Prices from £16.50. Aladdin

Dorking, RH4 1SG Tel: 01306 881717 dorkinghalls.co.uk

Saturday Morning Cinema Club screens latest kids films for £2, and weekday

gets a bit desperate after overindulging in Christmas treats! Adaptation of Nicholas Allan’s much-loved book.

morning Baby Club show latest adult films for parents with babies up to 18m. Check website for details.

The Hawth Theatre Crawley, RH10 6YZ Tel: 01293 553 636 hawth.co.uk Town Mouse and Country Mouse, 5th December 1pm &

3pm. Pied Piper theatre presents a retelling of Aesop’s Fable. For children aged 3-7yrs. Dear Santa, 18th-19th December 11.15am & 1.30pm Festive tale from Rod Campbell, the creator of kid’s favourite, Dear Zoo. Perfect intro to the theatre for youngsters aged 2-7yrs.

Jack and the Beanstalk, 11th December-3rd January 2016 Eastenders baddies Steve McFadden and CBeebies star

Rececca Keatley star in the Hawth’s Xmas panto. Prices from £15.

Father Christmas Needs a Wee, 6th December 2.30pm.Santa

Father Christmas Needs a Wee

Cinderella, 19th-28th December Buck Fizz’s Jay Aston and Wolfblood’s Gabrielle Green (plays Katrina) star in this festive fairytale. Tickets from £15.

Fairfield Halls Croydon, CR9 1DG Tel: 020 8688 9291 fairfield.co.uk

What the Ladybird Heard, 19th-21st November 1.30pm. A tale

of two crafty robbers, one clever ladybird and a farm full of cunning animals. Based on Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks’ book. Cinderella, 4th December-3rd January 2016. Panto starring tv’s Stephen Mulhern as Buttons.

The Barn Theatre Oxted, RH8 0AA Tel: 01959 561811 barntheatreoxted.co.uk Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor® Dreamcoat, 2nd4th December The Biblical saga of Joseph and his coat of many

colours comes to life in delightful musical parable, performed by the young actors of Glow Theatre Group. Set to an array of musical styles, from country-western and calypso to bubble-gum pop and rock ‘n’ roll. Tel: 07813 916105

Winter Wonderland at the Barn Theatre, Saturday 12th December 7.30pm. Family variety show, with performers from St.

Mary’s and Downs Way schools, Starmakerz and friends of the theatre.

Rose Theatre Kingston, KT1 1HL Tel: 020 8174 0090 rosetheatrekingston.org A Christmas Carol, 1st December-3rd January Traditional retelling of Dicken’s tale of Christmases past, present and future.

Polka Children’s Theatre

Wimbledon, SW19 1SB Tel: 020 8543 4888 polkatheatre.com

Beauty and the Beast

Beauty and the Beast 20th November - 7th February 2016

Enchanting children’s fairytale starring heroine Belle. Can her kiss set the Beast free?

18 Families Surrey East November-December 2015

®

Theatres

Panto Season

BBC Stars in Hawth Panto The Hawth theatre in Crawley is playing host to two of BBC’s big stars in this year’s Christmas panto Jack and the Beanstalk. Children 'will recognise Rebecca Keatley from CBeebies Steve show ‘Let’s Play’, as she McFadden steps into the role of the fairy and Steve McFadden takes up the role of the evil Fleshcreep, fresh from playing baddie Phil Mitchell in Eastenders. Rebecca’s day job requires her to role-play as various characters for the kids show, so she’s had some great training for the panto!

It’s that time of year again to shout, boo, hiss and generally have a good old sing-a-long at an entertaining family panto. There are loads running in the East Surrey area, covering all manner of fairytales and fables, so book your tickets soon to avoid disappointment. Here’s our A-Z of what’s on…

Aladdin – Harlequin Theatre Redhill, RH1 1NN Tel: 01737 276 500 harlequintheatre.co.uk 11th December-3rd January. Starring! Lee Latchford Evans (of Steps fame) as Aladdin.

Beauty and the Beast - Epsom Playhouse

Jack and the Beanstalk comes from the same team that produced the record-breaking Sleeping Beauty in 2014, which was a sell out success. This year’s show is packed with comedy, audience participation, super sets and breathtaking special effects. Tickets are already selling fast, so get ready to have some fi-fi-fo-fun and book yours quick! Call The Hawth Box Office on 01293 553636 or visit www.hawth.co.uk

Epsom, KT18 5AL Tel: 01372 742555 epsomplayhouse.co.uk 13th December-3rd January. Starring! TV presenter Rav Wilding.

Cinderella - Dorking Halls Dorking, RH4 1SG Tel:

Boom Xmas Workshops

01306 881717 dorkinghalls.co.uk 19-28th December. Gabrielle Green Starring! Buck’s Fizz’s Jay Aston and Wolfblood’s Gabrielle Green.

Boom Dance Academy – a new dance and theatre school opening in January in Kenley, is holding a one-day Dance & Theatre Workshop on 21st December to give potential pupils a taste of what’s to come. Led by industry professionals, the class runs from 9am-3.30pm, followed by a performance from the new recruits. The workshop costs £30 and is aimed at children from 5-16yrs. To book contact BoomArtsAcademy@hotmail.com.

Cinderella – Fairfield Halls Croydon, CR9 1DG Tel: 020 8688 9291fairfield.co.uk 4th December-3rd January. Starring! TV presenter Stephen Mulhurne as Buttons. Dick Whittington - Leatherhead Theatre Leatherhead KT22 8DN

theleatherheadtheatre.org Tel: 01372 365141 16-24th December.

Stephen Mulhurne

Jack and the Beanstalk – The Hawth Theatre

Crawley, RH10 6YZ Tel: 01293 553 636 hawth.co.uk 11th December-3rd January. Starring! Eastender Steve McFadden and CBeebies’ Rebecca Keatley.

Jack and the Beanstalk – Yvonne Arnaud Theatre

Guildford, GU1 3UX Tel: 01483 440000 yvonnearnaud.co.uk 4th December-3rd January. Starring! Dilly Keane as the Fairy.

Pinocchio Secombe Theatre

Sutton, SM1 2SS Tel: 020 3771 9055 suttontheatres.co.uk Rebecca 14th December-9th January. Keatley Starring! Ex-Eastender Melissa Suffield as the Blue Fairy.

Snow White - Chequer Mead Theatre East Grinstead, RH19 3BS Tel: 01342 302000 chequermead.org.uk 19-30th December.

Families Surrey East November-December 2015 19

Nature Notes Clubs & Classes

Out & About Pool Schools

Toddler Trails

Gatton Park is continuing its series of Toddler Trails this winter, with more great stories and outdoor & creative activities to bring them to life. Aimed at ages 2-4, sessions run on Fridays at 10am and 1.30pm, and booking is essential. I’m a regular visitor to Gatton with my two toddlers and they always enjoy the Toddler Trails, so I’d recommend! Forthcoming stories include: Each Peach Pear Plum (Nov 6th), Sugarlump and the Unicorn (Nov 13th), Little Bear (Nov 20th), The Owl and The Pussycat (Nov 27th), Mister Magnolia (Dec 4th), The Gift of Christmas (Dec 11th) and Stick Man by Julia Donaldson (Dec 18th). Priced at £5 per child. Please book at gattonpark.co.uk

Surrey Hills at Christmas The Surrey Hills Society holds fantastic events throughout the year, to highlight and preserve this area of outstanding natural beauty, whether it’s the Surrey Wood Fair, wine tasting on Denbies Hillside or discovery walks. On 13th December, they’re organising the annual Christmas Walk, with the chance to collect natural materials to make your own festive decorations en route. The event, which has been specially designed to appeal to children and adults, includes a short walk around the Wonersh area, visiting a private property on Chinthurst Hill to gather winter foliage to make into country Christmas decorations. Back at base, there’ll be mulled wine and Christmas treats to aid you in your craft making! Runs from 10.30am-1pm and booking is essential to this event, so please call 07530 949302. £8(SHS member); £10 (non-member). surreyhills.org/society

Have an Otter-ly brilliant Christmas! Don’t know what to buy that special someone this Christmas? Have they got more toys than they can possibly play with? Why not adopt them an Otter!

a bright twinkling tree Enjoy traditional festive charm at your favourite National Trust property this Christmas. Find Christmas events at Ham House, Hatchlands Park, Hindhead Commons, Leith Hill Place, Morden Hall Park and Polesden Lacey. Throughout December www.nationaltrust.org.uk/londonandsoutheast

Surrey Wildlife Trust is encouraging people to adopt an Otter this Christmas, and help pay a part in protecting this ‘near threatened’ species. The £20 adoption pack includes a personalised adoption certificate, species fact sheet, an adorable soft toy, plus newsletters, stickers and a photo of this charismatic creature. The Trust also offers Adopt a Goat gifts, to support the importance of grazing at Wisley Common and Betchworth Quarry. For more info visit surreywildlifetrust.org

British Wildlife Centre

Over 40 different native wild animal species Open weekends & state school holidays:

Christmas hol open Sat 19 Dec - Mon 4 Jan (excl. 24-26 Dec)

1 child FREE with this advert - save £8.00!

© National Trust Images/Yannick Lalardy. The National Trust is a registered charity, number 205846.

Valid to Monday 4 January 2016 with one full paying adult - No cash alternative ® One voucher per party - No photocopies - Not to be used with other offers (FSE 11-15)

20 Families Surrey East November-December 2015

We’re on the A22, Newchapel, nr Lingfield, Surrey RH7 6LF

01342 834658 www.britishwildlifecentre.co.uk

What's On Guide

What’s on? For highlights of where to visit Santa this year, see page 8. For Christmas fayres & fetes and the switching-on of Christmas lights see page 9.

Saturday 14th - Sunday 15th November Build a Birdbox at Gatton Park Reigate, RH2 0TW Family workshop to build a bird box and various kinds of Bird Feeders to take home. Saturday 14th Nov, 10am-12pm. £7, incl materials. Gattonpark.co.uk

Commando Series at Hever Castle

Edenbridge, TN8 7NG Experience the mud, sweat and pain of real, modern day, commando training, taking on 15 obstacles over a 6km “wild” terrain course. For kids aged 8+ and adult. Saturday 14th Nov, £75 for adults and £40 for children. Commandoseries.co.uk

Tea Cupboard Vintage Christmas Fayre 10.30-4pm, United

Reformed Church, Dorking, RH4 1BS. Vintage fayre featuring Christmas gifts, jewellery and nostalgic toys. Saturday 14th Nov, £1 entry.

Winter Stargazing at Sheffield Park Uckfield, TN22 3QX Enjoy a warming winter supper and learn to navigate the stars at this beautiful National Trust property. Saturday 14th & Saturday 21th Nov, 6.30-10pm. Adult £15; child £8.50. Nationaltrust.org.uk

Santa’s FROZEN Winter Wonderland Grotto at Chessington Garden Centre Chessington, KT9 2NG Start your trip with a short animated film, starring Rocket the Reindeer, before embarking on a magical trip to meet 1120HEV-87x130-Families-Magazine-Christmas-Ad-AW.indd Father Christmas in his ice grotto. Journey through a winter wonderland of fairy-tale inspired scenes & encounter the Queen of Hearts, Alice at the Mad Hatters tea party and Narnia's mighty. It is then into the Frozen inspired area, complete with ice arches, frozen lakes, igloo and ice-skating penguins, finishing with a personal meeting with Father Christmas. Chessington’s Winter Wonderland is becoming something of a ✦ Santa’s Cellar Grotto must-do at this time of year! Runs to 24th November. Children £12; Every Weekend from Saturday 28 November, Every day from adults £3.50

Christmas 1

11/09/2015 16:47

EvEnts

21-24 December See website for details.

Military Vehicles Day at Brooklands Museum

✦ Christmas Winter Fair

Weybridge, KT13 0QN Display of over 80 vehicles from across the decades, representing the field of conflict from around the world. Re-enactment and displays all day. Sunday 15th November, 10am-4pm. Adults £1; children £6. Brooklandsmuseum.com Have you seen your event listed here? If you’d like to advertise with Families and reach more than 40,000 readers in the local area, please contact

editor@families surreyeast.co.uk

Tuesday 1 December 5.30pm - 8.30pm Arts, crafts and Christmas gifts, live music. Free mulled wines and mince pies.

✦ Santa’s Charity Fun Run

✦ Vintage and

Sunday 13 December

Sunday 6 December

✦ Children’s Christmas Disco

✦ Late Night Christmas Market

and Children’s Craft Activities

Perfect for adults and children. For more information visit eventstolive.co.uk

The Wey & Arun Canal Trust

Saturday 19 December at 11am & 2pm

£7.25 per child / adults free of charge.

SANTA CRUISES

Meet Santa on the Wey & Arun Canal at Loxwood

Narrow boat departs from the Onslow Arms (on B2133) 6th, 13th, 20th, 21st, 22nd & 23rd Dec at 11.00am, 12.00 & 2.00pm Gifts for children under 12 years Festive refreshments for everyone Tickets £9 each (under 12 months free)

www.weyandarun.co.uk

office@weyandarun.co.uk

01403 752403

✦ Denbies of Dorking Gift Shop

Late Night Shopping Every Thursday until 8pm throughout December.

Collectables Fair

10am – 4pm, free entry.

Monday 14 December 5.30pm - 8.30pm Great Festive range of stalls perfect for gift ideas, seasonal food, arts, crafts and jewellery.

DENBIES WINE ESTATE LoNDoN RD DoRkING SuRREy RH5 6AA T: 01306 876616 RESERVATIoNS online at: www.denbies.co.uk

Families Surrey East November-December 2015 21

What's On Guide Saturday 21st - Sunday 22nd November Family Event: Remembrance at Dorking Museum

Dorking, RH4 1BS Poppy making in remembrance of WWI. Up to age 10. Saturday 21st Nov, 2-4pm. Adults £2; children £1. Dorkingmuseum. org.uk

Babes in the Wood! at Chinthurst Hill Meet: Chinthurst Hill car park, Wonersh Common Road, Wonersh, GU5 0PR. See how Surrey Wildlife Trust is waging war on bracken and bramble using pig power and collect some birch, holly and pine cones to craft your own Christmas decs. Saturday 21st Nov. Adults £3, children £1. Call Leo Jennings: 01483 795463 or visit surreywildlifetrust.org

Deepdene Trail Discovery Walk Meet:

Council Offices, Pippbrook, Dorking, RH4 1JS Chance to tour the rediscovered and restored Deepdene estate, including the Hope Mausoleum. Sunday 22nd Nov, 10am-12pm, Call 01306 879273 to book.

Friday 27th - Sunday 29th November

Christmas Around the World at Hever Castle Edenbridge, TN8 7NG

How Wizard Wix Saved Christmas at Hatchlands East Clandon, GU4 7RT

Discover how different countries around the world celebrate Christmas and the history behind their traditions. Father Christmas, special trail through the grounds, craft workshops, nativity scene and husky hideout. Starts Saturday 28th November, runs to 24th December. Standard admission applies; Father Christmas £11.00. Hevercastle.co.uk

Solve the trail to help Wizard Wix save Christmas. Take part in festive crafts and book your slot to meet Father Christmas. Weekends from Saturday 5th December, 11am-4pm. Father Christmas £5. Booking essential: 01483 444334. Nationaltrust.org.uk

Santa’s Grotto at Gatton Park

Reigate, RH2 0TW Golf buggy ride to Santa’s grotto, explore the grounds following a trail of clues and return to Gatton Hall to make a Christmas decoration. Pre booking essential. Sunday 29th November, 1pm, £5 per child. Gattonpark.co.uk

Wednesday 2nd - Sunday 6th December Christmas Glow at Wisley RHS Garden

Wisley, GU23 6QB RHS Ambassador and author Mary Berry switches on the Wisley Christmas lights at 5.30pm on 2nd Dec. The Jigantics unique light installation, which blooms with magical giant illuminated flowers run to 3rd Jan. rhs. org.uk/wisley

Father Christmas at Godstone Farm

Priory Farm Food Fest & Father Christmas Arrival at Priory Farm

South Nutfield, RH1 4EJ 40 producers display their goodies over two days. Shop for splendid hampers & delicious gifts. In true Priory Farm tradition, Father Christmas will descend the hill at 4.30pm on Saturday 28th to greet the crowds and check his list. Prioryfarm.co.uk

Festive Family Fun Trail & Christmas Market at Chartwell

Westerham, TN16 1PS Explore the gardens with a Christmasthemed trail. Opens Friday 27th November, runs to Sun 3rd January, 11am-3pm. Christmas market is a great place to find those festive gifts; runs 27th-29th Nov, 10am-4pm. Standard entry applies. Nationaltrust.org.uk

Children’s Trust Christmas Fayre Tadworth, 28th November, 12pm to 4pm. See Page 9 for full details.

Godstone, RH9 8LX Book your trip to see Santa at Godstone Farm, weekends from Saturday 5th-13th, then daily from 17th until Xmas eve. Pre booked tickets from £15 for children aged 2+, for farm entry and Father Christmas. See website for full details and prices. godstonefarm.co.uk

Elf trail at Emmetts Garden

Sevenoaks, TN14 6BA Find out what the elves are up to this year. Discover new festive adventures as you wander the gardens. Saturday 5th December; runs to 3rd Jan, 10am-4pm. Nationaltrust.org.uk

Reigate Christmas Fair & Santa Landing, Priory Park and Reigate Town Centre Gather to watch Father Christmas arrive by helicopter in Priory Park midmorning (time tbc), followed by the annual Christmas fair, with stalls from local retailers and producers. New for 2015: fireworks in Priory Park at 6.30pm.

22 Families Surrey East November-December 2015

Notes of Christmas at Leeds Castle

Maidstone, Kent ME17 1PL See the beautiful illuminated handcrafted paper scenes depicting traditional Christmas carols, created by talented artist Helen Musselwhite. Saturday 5th December, 10.30am-4pm. Runs to 24th December. Adults: £24, Children £21 *Tickets are valid for 12 months from date of purchase, so you can visit again! Leeds-castle.com

Meet Father Christmas at Chartwell Father Christmas is coming to Chartwell. In true 1920s style he will be decked out in green. Gift included. Saturday 5th & Sunday 6th December, 10am-4pm. Child £7. To book call: 01732 861159. Nationaltrust.org.uk

Decorating Gingerbread & Storytelling with Santa
at Wisley RHS Garden

Wisley, Woking, GU23 6QB Each weekend of December, decorate festive gingerbread and listen to stories with Santa.
Suitable for aged 4+. £5 per child. To book call 0203 1765830. Rhs.org.uk/wisely

Harvest your own Christmas tree at Hindhead Commons

Car parking at GU26 6AB What could be more satisfying than cutting down your own Christmas tree? Bring along a saw and pair of gloves. Saturdays 5th, 12th & 19th December, 10am-2pm. Trees from £15. Nationaltrust.org.uk

Saturday 12th - Sunday 13th December Christmas Crafts at Gatton Park

Reigate, RH2 0TW Get the glitter out! Christmas decorations for younger children (aged 4-7yrs). Saturday 12th December, 10am-12pm & 1.30pm3.30pm. £6 per child. Gattonpark.co.uk

What's On Guide Saturday 12th - Sunday 13th December Wild Winter Craft Workshops at Sheffield Park Uckfield, TN22 3QX Seasonal children’s craft workshops. Sat 12th &19th & Sun 6th, 13th & 20th December, 11am-1pm, £2.50 per session. To book call 01825 790231. Nationaltrust.org.uk

Winter Wonders Trail at Winkworth Arboretum Godalming, GU8 4AD Follow the traditional Christmas children’s trail around the Arboretum and discover the spirit of the season in the boat house. Saturday 12th DecemberSunday 3rd January, 10am–3pm. 50p per trail. Nationaltrust.org.uk.

Wild Family Fun Time in the Woods

Meeting point: Newlands Corner, Shere Road, Guildford, GU4 8SE Surrey Wildlife Trust hosts a day full of activities, showing you new games, crafts and exciting activities for families, designed to engage your children with nature. Refreshments provided. Sunday 13th December, 10am – 12pm or 1pm-3pm. Family £50 (2 adults, 2 children), £5 per additional child. To book call 07968 832509 or outdoorlearning@surreywt.org.uk.

Saturday 19th December

Holiday Club News Holmesdale Holiday Club

Stuck for childcare this Christmas? Sports Focus UK are running Christmas clubs at Holmesdale School in Reigate on 22nd, 23rd, 29th & 30th of December. They offer various sports options for 4-11yr olds. Half day (9am-12pm) costs £15; full day (9am-3pm) is £20. Extended hours available. To book visit sportfocusuk.com

Outstanding YMCA

Winter Solstice Walk on the River Wey

YMCA's After School Club, Y-Kids, has been rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted. Y-Kids, which is in Redhill, provides affordable childcare for working parents every weekday during term-time. The club aims to encourage and support children’s physical, social and emotional development. The recent inspection praised the club, for its ‘inspirational and highly motivated’ staff and ‘excellent range of very good quality play resources’. For more info visit ymcaeastsurrey.org.uk

Walk from New Haw to Walsham Lock with bonfire, mince pies and mulled wine (and a minibus back). Saturday 19th December, 6pm. £5. To book call: 01483 561389.

Holiday Club Providers Family Event: Victorian Christmas at Dorking Museum

Dorking, RH4 1BS Make a Christmas card and discover Victorian objects in the museum’s collection. Sat 19th December, 2-4pm. Adults £2; children £1. Dorkingmuseum.org.uk

Boxing Day - New Year Polesdenopoly at Polesdon Lacey

Please call for Christmas opening times

Cranbrook Adventurers Coppingham Cottage, Horley, RH6 9EF. Tel: 01293 823163 cranbrooknursery.co.uk 8am6pm. Ages 4-11yrs. £38.25 per day.

Wild Learning Tel: 01483 424400 wild-learning.co.uk Day activities and camps at Alice Holt, Polesden Lacey, Claremont and Winkworth. 10.15am-4pm. Ages 5-12yrs. £38.50 per day. Supercamps Tel: 01235 467300 supercamps.co.uk Activities at venues in Sutton and South Croydon. Ages 4-14yrs. £45 per day or £180 per week. Mega Days at Hawthorns Hawthorns School, Blethingley, RH1 4QJ Tel: 01883 743377 hawthorns.com Ages 3-12yrs. 9am-4pm £31 per day.

Great Bookham RH5 6BD Get silly with your family and get rich quick playing the giant board game around the gardens. Saturday 26th December–3rd January. £5 per group of 5 players. Nationaltrust.org.uk

Action House St Paul’s School, Dorking, RH4 2HS.

Tel: 07984 405484 action-houseco.uk 5-11yrs. 9am-5pm £22.15. Half day £14.

YMCA ymcaeastsurrey.org.uk

New Year’s Day Garden and Belvedere Tower opening at Claremont

Esher, KT10 9JG Enjoy a winter stroll with the chance to see the stunning views from Belvedere Tower. Friday 1st January 2016, 10am-4pm. Tower open 11am-2pm. Nationaltrust.org.uk

Redhill: Y-Kids playschemes for 4-12yrs. 10am-4pm £18 / 8.30am-6pm £27. Tel: 01737 779979 Reigate: Yippee and Yip4Youth playschemes for children with needs and disabilities. 5-18 yrs. 10am-4pm £18. Tel: 01737 222859 Banstead: Y-Kids playschemes for 5-12yrs. 10am-4pm £18 / 8.30am-6pm £27. Tel: 01737 362058

Bowles Outdoor Centre Eridge, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 9LW. Tel: 01892 665665 bowles.ac. Outdoor activities including skiing and snowboarding. Ages 8-15yrs.

Juniper Hall Field Centre Mickleham, Dorking RH5 6DA Tel: 01306 734501 field-studies-council.org

Families Surrey East November-December 2015 23

CHRISTMAS COMPETITION BONANZA! We have got some super competition prizes up for grabs this issue (some of which you could even pass on as a cheeky Christmas pressie!). Go on, enter now – someone’s got to win!

Your chance to win a family ticket to The Supercar Event at Dunsfold Park on Saturday 25th June 2016. Family tickets are for 2 adults and 2 children under 16. We have two sets to give away, courtesy of The Children’s Trust. Winners will be drawn at random. Just answer the following question: WHICH FAMOUS BBC CAR SERIES IS FILMED AT DUNSFOLD PARK? Email your answer to editor@familiessurreyeast.co.uk with SUPERCARS COMPETITION in the subject line. Please include your name & address in the email. Closing Date: 18 December 2015.

Your chance to win a family ticket to see this year’s panto at The Hawth, Crawley. Starring Steve McFadden and Rebecca Keatley, Jack and the Beanstalk family tickets are for 2 adults and 2 children under 16. One winner will be drawn at random. Just answer the following question: WHAT DID JACK SELL AT MARKET TO GET HIS BEANS? Email your answer to editor@familiessurreyeast.co.uk with PANTO COMPETITION in the subject line. Please include your name & address in the email. Closing Date: 26 November 2015.

British Wildlife Centre Pip’s Sleepy Heads Competition

0 off

win BusyLizzy Fitness & Fun Classes for Mums & Little Ones

Fox

1st Prize: 3-month unlimited membership worth £195.

Three runner's-up: win a pay-as-you-go 8-class bundle (either Mummy Fitness or Active Tots) worth over £50 each. Everyone who enters receives a free class. Winners will be drawn at random. Just answer the following question: Busylizzy run baby art classes - are these called a) BABY PICASSOS or b) BABY VAN GOGHS? Email your answer to Reigate@busylizzy. co.uk with FAMILIES COMPETITION in the subject line. Please include your name and address in the email. T&C’s apply Closing Date: 18 December 2015.

membership fee

zy.co.uk or call 01737 887227 es” to claim your £10 off!

“Hibernation” Which one sleeps all through the winter?

Hedgehog

YOUR CHANCE TO WIN ANNUAL FAMILY MEMBERSHIP TO THE BRITISH WILDLIFE CENTRE, WORTH £130... plus Pip the squirrel & Friends DVD and book. One winner will be drawn at random. Just email your answer to: editor@familiessurreyeast.co.uk with BWC PIP COMPETITION in the subject line. Please include your name & address in the email. Closing Date: 4 December 2015. www.britishwildlifecentre.co.uk

reigate.co.uk Families Surrey East would like to wish

£10 off

all of our readers a super Christmas! first month’s membership fee

We look forward to seeingemail: you reigate@busylizzy.co.uk again next year! Coming up in our Jan/Feb issue: Nurseries focus, New Year or call 01737 887227 and quote “busylizzyfamilies ” to claim your £10 off! T&C’s apply like your business to be included in Health & Fitness and Family Winter Holiday Destinations. If you would Families, please contact me at editor@familiessurreyeast.co.uk

busylizzyreigate.co.uk

24 Families Surrey East November-December 2015