We have been very fortunate (or unfortunate if you dislike the heat!) with the weather so far this Summer. With two heatwaves down, a third on the way, and 24 degrees becoming our new norm, it’s about time we published our annual summer activities in and around Surrey for 2026. This year, each member of our team has chosen a few activities that caught their eye; there’s fun for families and adults alike. Enjoy!
Sue’s picks
Reigate Caves
You may have been living in Reigate for years but not yet discovered the secrets sitting underneath the high street. Reigate Caves, with the entrance situated halfway down the tunnel, offers open days with guided tours throughout the Summer to dig deeper into the history of these underground tunnels. It’s a great place to visit in the heat of the Summer, as the temperature in the caves rarely rises above 13C, so you can keep extra cool in the heatwave. They are currently taking bookings for the next open day on Saturday 8th August via the website.
Image source: Reigate Caves
Big Church Festival
Just 50 minutes’ drive from Reigate, located in the grounds of the beautiful Wiston Estate, Big Church Festival takes place over the weekend of 28th-30th August. With plenty of food & drink, a makers market and an activities-packed fun fair on site, there is plenty to keep the whole family entertained. There is also a great music line-up this year, including international female artist Lauren Daigle. A 30% Summer Offer on ticket sales ends on 31st July via the website.
Image source: Big Church Festival
Beccy’s picks
Denbies Wine Estate
There’s a full calendar of activities for all ages at Denbies this summer, including:
- Various dates: Denbies Secret Vineyard Trail – a walking trail through 265 acres of vineyard.
- Wednesday, 5th August: Animal Explorer Workshop with Zoolab – get up close with snakes, spiders and giant snails!
- Sunday, 16th August: Summer Market – a much-loved seasonal market celebrating independent businesses and creativity.
- Wednesday, 26th August: Surrey Hills National Landscape Sheep Parade – featuring 12 life-sized sheep sculptures each uniquely decorated by a Surrey artist.
Image source: Denbies Wine Estate
Yogashala Floating Sound Bath at Burford Bridge Hotel Pool, Dorking
6th August 7:15pm (waitlist) / 3rd September 7:15pm
After a busy summer entertaining the kids, why not treat yourself to a centuries-old practice and deeply immersive experience with Gong Master Katerina Lafite and host Natasha Jarrams, Yogashala. Take a moment for yourself to relax and experience pure meditation, set at the foot of Box Hill with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Image source: Yogashala Club
Lingfield Park, Summer Sounds
Enjoy a evening of horse racing followed by live music. This family-friendly series looks fun for all ages. Children under 17 go free to the races when accompanied by an adult. There is also a Best Dressed Competition for those fully embracing the theme of the evening! Check the website for times of gate opening, first & last race & music.
Saturday, 25th July: Absolute Country
Saturday, 1st August: ABBA The Party
Saturday, 8th August: Rum & Reggae
Image source: Lingfield Park
Reigate & Banstead Summer Holiday Fun
Reigate & Banstead have collated an amazing array of fun activities to suit a range of ages and interests, including:
10th-12th August: Show in 3 Days – Aladdin
Children will rehearse, perform and shine in their very own musical production.
25th August: Film School ‘The Impossible’ 8-16 years old
Budding filmmakers will get hands-on with professional film-making equipment and work alongside industry professionals to create their own short film.
Jam Coding Camps
Learn new skills, build games and explore technology.
FREE Bug Hunt
Reserve your space on a FREE Bug Hunt. With nets, trays, magnifying glasses and identification sheets provided, it’s the perfect way to enjoy the outdoors and learn about local wildlife.
There’s lots more on offer, including:
Skateboard & Scooter Coaching; Circus skills; Tennis, Pickleball and Squash; Gymnastics and Trampolining; Athletix Kidz; Origami; SEND Craft & Sensory Play Sessions; Jingle Bugs.
Families in receipt of means-tested benefits, those with a looked-after child, or young carers may be eligible for a 50% discount. Email [email protected] with proof of eligibility and address details.
Spaces are limited and popular activities fill up quickly. Book via their website.
Steph’s picks
The Great British Food Festival, West Horsley, Leatherhead
If you’re a foodie, The Great British Food Festival is one not to miss! With a wide selection of street food, creative crafts and gift stalls, children’s activities, live music and live chef demos – this is a great family-friendly day out for everyone to enjoy. From 22-23 August, enjoy the festival fun from 10am – 5pm. Tickets are limited; purchase yours online here.
Image source: The Great British Food Festival
Life’s a Rodeo presents: A Nashville Country Music Experience at the Ivory Lounge Reigate
Is country music more your style? The Ivory Lounge Reigate will be home to Life’s a Rodeo for a Nashville Country Music Experience on Saturday 22nd August from 7-10 pm. The evening will consist of a live country performance featuring the music of stars from Dolly Parton and Luke Combs to Shania Twain and Taylor Swift. Where Nashville meets Reigate, get your tickets here.
Image source: Life’s a Rodeo
Joel’s picks
Caterham Valley History Trail, 18th July – 31st August
Caterham Valley is hosting a unique History Trail throughout the summer holidays, perfect for enquiring minds of all ages. Pick up your free trail sheet and hunt for fascinating local artefacts hidden amongst 20 Caterham Valley businesses. Learn about the history of the area while answering questions and submit your trail sheet for the chance to win special prizes. Visit Caterham Valley this summer for some educational fun!
For the full details, visit the Caterham Valley website.
Image source: Caterham Valley
Walkies at Wisley
Various dates throughout July & August
This summer, RHS Garden Wisley is opening its doors to your four-legged friends. Enjoy a special visit with your canine companion for a relaxing stroll around the garden on select evenings. Unlike during ordinary opening hours, you can experience these world-famous gardens with up to two dogs per person. It’s the perfect spot for a summer’s evening dog walk.
For the list of dates and entry times, visit their website.
Image source: RHS Wisley
Laura T’s picks
Aqua Sports
If the kids are looking for a place to cool off – Aqua Sports at Mercers Lake in Redhill has a wide range of courses to choose from throughout the summer holidays.
From Paddle UK accredited windsurfing, sailing and SUP courses, to week-long training camps designed to take your child from no experience through to their level 1 and 2 qualifications.
For kids yet to experience water sports, or for those who can’t quite decide their favourite, Aqua Sports also offers a multi-activity day holiday camp – a full day of fun on the water where kids get to try at least four different sports.
Split into two age categories: one for juniors aged 8-13 and another for teenagers aged 14-17, there are lots of options for active kids of every age. Plus, there’s The Deck where spectating parents and hungry kids can enjoy breakfast and lunch.
To find out more and to book your place, visit Aqua Sports.
Hive Design Studio
For creative types or those who want to book a fun group activity for the whole family to enjoy, Hive in Sanderstead offers a fantastic choice of hands-on workshops, running throughout the summer holidays.
From family ‘paint-alongs’, to teen and children’s workshops in sewing, manga, upcycling and crochet, Hive is a great destination for those looking for something a little different to do. And potentially a new hobby to discover.
Check out the website for more info.
Image source: HIVE Design Studio
Box Hill Natural Play Trail
This family-friendly trail is a two-mile level walk offering a great opportunity to enjoy the cool woodland shade at the top of Boxhill. With activities built along the walk route, including balance beams, den-building and tree climbing, it’s a good option for those with furry friends who also need a walk.
Once complete, treat yourself to a picnic on the main field, lunch or ice cream at the National Trust cafe. Finish off with a trip to the neighbouring secondhand bookshop and pick up a book at a bargain price, then visit the viewpoint for stunning views of Surrey Hills.
Find out about parking and directions here.
Image source: National Trust
Priory Farm
Set amongst 40 acres of beautiful countryside, Priory Farm Discovery Trail offers a healthy outdoor option for family and friends of all ages to enjoy.
Pay for your trail ticket and pick up some fish food for the Trout in the lake (you’ll be amazed at how hungry they are), jump through the Fairy portal and shrink for a magical fairy-sized adventure or your own.
Run away from the junk dragon lurking among the tyres and rubble and enjoy the views from the castle turrets, with musical instruments a plenty!
Lunch and picnic options are plentiful making this half or whole day out option. Find out more here.
Image source: Priory Farm
Miguel’s picks
Sausage and Cider Festival
Set in the open parkland of Stoke Park in the heart of Guildford, the Sausage and Cider Festival is a full day out for friends and family looking to make the most of the summer.
Grab a pint from over 30 ciders on offer and work your way through more than 20 different sausages, from classic bangers to something a bit more adventurous. Settle in for a day of live music as the UK’s best tribute acts take to the stage, with Boyzlife headlining the party into the evening.
Let the little ones loose in the children’s tent, test your nerve at the axe throwing, dance it out at the silent disco or browse the huge festival market for a bargain. Running from 12 pm until 10 pm on Saturday 22nd August 2026, there is plenty to fill a whole day. Find out more here.
Image source: Sausage and Cider Festival
Ibiza Orchestra Experience
Set in the open parkland of Stoke Park in the heart of Guildford, the Ibiza Orchestra Experience brings the sound of the white isle to Surrey for one big summer night.
A 26-piece live orchestra takes to the stage alongside DJs, vocalists and live performers, playing some of the biggest Ibiza dance anthems ever made, with tracks from the likes of Daft Punk, Fatboy Slim, Tiësto and The Prodigy. The line-up features Artful Dodger, Phats & Small, Ultrabeat and a Kevin & Perry Go Large set, all under an open sky. Beyond the music there are festival bars, street food, a silent disco and a brand new 90’s dance tent, plus glitter artists, lasers, pyrotechnics and fire breathers. This is an 18+ event running from 6 pm until 11 pm on Friday 21st August 2026. Find out more here.
Image source: Ibiza Orchestra Experience
Katie’s picks
National Trust Summer of Play
The National Trust are running their annual Summer of Play events at properties across the Southeast, but this year they are collaborating with Pokémon, adding an extra appeal for trainers both young and old. Winkworth Arboretum is hosting a Mega Evolutions trail, with other local properties offering a sticker book to complete and other Pokémon-themed activities, such as mini-games. Check their website for more details about what’s on near you.
Image source: National Trust
Friday Lates, Horsham
Every Friday throughout July and August, Horsham Town Centre is hosting its Friday Lates event, with live music at the Carfax bandstand surrounded by a street food market. The event runs from 6:00-8:30 pm. For more information and to check the line-up for each week, visit the Horsham District Council website or socials.
Image source: Horsham District Council
So there you have it, fun for all of the family. From special walks with four-legged friends to festivals for families and 18+ only – there is something for everyone in and around Surrey. We wish you a relaxing, warm summer, making memories with your loved ones.