Nested in the south-east of England, Surrey is a beautiful county that is easily accessible to and fro London, the capital city of the United Kingdom. This picturesque county has plenty to offer to travellers - from stories of its rich history and culture and iconic sights and sounds not to be missed! Explore the charming English villages, rolling countryside, and vibrant market towns that go buzzing during festive events all year round. If anything, Surrey is definitely a place that sure knows how to party and celebrate its cultural diversity. You can choose one of the luxury hotels as an ideal base to kickstart your exploration journey of all of England’s beauty and worth. There are cosy barns for rent as well should you prefer a homey vibe. In the meantime, continue reading to discover the top things to do in Surrey, United Kingdom.
1. Test your adrenaline at Thorpe Park Resort (from USD 42.96)
Testing your adrenaline at Thorpe Park Resort promises an exhilarating and action-packed experience in Surrey. This world-renowned theme park is a playground for thrill-seekers, offering a wide array of adrenaline-pumping rides and attractions.
Thorpe Park caters to all levels of thrill tolerance with heart-pounding roller coasters, gravity-defying rides, and thrilling water slides. From iconic coasters like “Stealth” and “Nemesis Inferno” to water-based adventures in “Tidal Wave” and “Storm Surge,” the park’s attractions are sure to get your heart racing. In addition to the rides, the resort also features live shows, immersive experiences, and themed areas for a complete day of fun and excitement.
THORPE PARK Resort: Entrance Ticket
Duration: 1.0 day
2. Reconnect with art and nature at the Hannah Peschar Sculpture Garden
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Reconnecting with art and nature at the Hannah Peschar Sculpture Garden in Surrey offers a serene and inspiring experience. This enchanting garden is a haven for sculpture lovers and nature enthusiasts alike, combining outdoor art’s beauty with lush landscapes’ tranquility.
As you wander through the garden’s winding paths, you’ll discover an impressive collection of contemporary sculptures carefully placed amid the trees, ponds, and flowerbeds. Each piece harmoniously interacts with its natural surroundings, creating a unique and immersive artistic journey. The garden’s diverse selection of sculptures, crafted by renowned artists worldwide, offers a range of styles and themes to captivate every visitor.
Hannah Peschar Sculpture Garden
Address: Black & White Cottage, Standon Ln, Dorking RH5 5QU, United Kingdom
Website: [Hannah Peschar Sculpture Garden (https://www.hannahpescharsculpture.com/)
3. Go boating at Claremont Landscape Garden
This historic beautiful 18th-century English landscape garden is one of the most beautiful places to see in Surrey for its timeless beauty. The Claremont Landscape Garden is indeed a garden for all seasons, with a long history dating back more than 300 years. Find out more about the history of this garden as you explore the many things to see and do in the garden itself. From boating on the lake to feeding the ducks to climbing a hill to having a picnic, or bringing your children out to a play area; it is perfect to spend a day outdoors at the gardens no matter what season it is. Watch the leaves change colour especially in autumn, as it sets a beautiful amber tone.
Claremont Landscape Garden
Address: Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG, England
Website: Claremont Landscape Garden
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
Price: Free
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4. Take a scenic walk around Winkworth Arboretum
Visit the tranquil hillside Winkworth Arboretum located between Godalming and Hascombe in south-west Surrey. This National Trust-owned masterpiece is a sight to behold - with a picturesque landscape that glows with vibrant colours through the seasons, a tree adventure perfect to keep your children entertained, and a scenic trail through the local countryside to a 16th-century cottage in a quaint village. Dogs are more than welcome to explore Winkworth, as long as they are kept on a leash. It is the perfect place to enjoy a day out with the family in Surrey.
Winkworth Arboretum
Address: Hascombe Rd, Godalming GU8 4AD, UK
Website: Winkworth Arboretum
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
Price: From 11 USD
5. Go on a guided tour at Loseley Park
Appreciate the full beauty of the beautiful historic Loseley Park with its fine Elizabethan architecture, lush greenery and lovely gardens and lawns on the exterior of the property, and fascinating artefacts, and magnificent works of art in the interior. The stunning historic house is popular amongst schools to educate their students on the history of this fine architectural building, as well as corporate hires for its lovely backdrop setting. It is no wonder that the locals love to host their weddings, key events and celebrations here. To learn more about the timeless beauty of Loseley House, sign up for a guided tour for a full experience!
Loseley Park
Address: Guildford GU3 1HS, UK
Website: Loseley Park
Opening hours: Mon - Wed 11am - 5pm (closed from Thu - Sun)
Price: 13 USD
6. Learn about the history of British motorsport and aviation at Brooklands Museum
Learn about the history of British motorsport and aviation at Brooklands Museum located at Weybridge, Surrey. This unique heritage site has seen many of British engineering and technological accolades since the early 20th-century and through significant historic milestones. History buffs and motor enthusiasts will definitely appreciate the variety of programmes lined up - from motorsport, aviation, military, retro events, car and engine runs; there is bound to have an activity for everyone. Parents fret not, there are also plenty of activities for children to participate in and keep them entertained and well-informed at the same time.
Brooklands Museum
Address: Brooklands Rd, Weybridge KT13 0SL, UK
Website: Brooklands Museum
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily in summer); 10am - 4pm (daily in winter)
Price: 20 USD
7. Bring your dog for a competition at Hatchlands Park
There is no better place to bring your four-legged companion for a treat than Hatchlands Park. This magnificent park is not only home to various exciting outdoor adventure activities all year round, but also displays a fine collection of paintings and musical instruments including Robert Adam’s early works. Discover the fine tricks of display that your four-legged friends can achieve by participating in the friendly competition classes at Hatchlands Park Dog Show.
Hatchlands Park
Address: East Clandon, Guildford GU4 7RT, UK
Website: Hatchlands Park
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
Price: Free
8. Hike through Devil's Punch Bowl
Enjoy the spectacular view of the countryside as you hike up the Devil’s Punch Bowl, one of the seven man-made wonders cited by BBC. Located at the second highest hill on Surrey, the Devil’s Punch Bowl has a long history and tradition that could be traced back to the 18th century. Go on a free guided walks to learn about the hidden history as well as be rewarded with wondrous sights of the lesser-known parts of this beautiful landscape. Not only is it a perfect choice for hiking and walking, it is also great to have a picnic in shady spots across the hills.
Devil's Punch Bowl
Address: London Road, Hindhead, Surrey, GU26 6AB
Website: Devil’s Punch Bowl
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
9. Visit England's modern yet classic cathedral
Visit Guildford Cathedral, a grand and magnificent place of worship situated at Stag Hill. Be awed by the splendour of England’s newest and last cathedral ever built. Unlike the other cathedrals, this young cathedral is fashioned in modern classic architecture; yet there is no doubt that there is a lot of history behind it. Go on a guided tour and learn about the history and heritage, as well as enjoy a memorable hill-top view of Guildford and the surrounding areas. All are welcomed to join in the daily services.
Guildford Cathedral
Address: Stag Hill, Guildford GU2 7UP, England
Website: Guildford Cathedral
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8:10am - 6:15pm; Sat: 8:40am - 5pm; Sun: 8am - 7:30pm
Price: Free
10. Experience being close to nature at Windlesham Arboretum
Located between the charming villages of Windlesham and Lightwater, the beautiful charity-owned Windlesham Arboretum is an iconic fresh waterpark attraction in Surrey. With lakes, ponds, and over 22,000 mature and rare trees, it is definitely a treat for nature-lovers to enjoy a walk, or hike around the area. This lovely haven is beautiful no matter what time of the year you are visiting, with a variety of flowers blooming at each season. Take a walk around the fields, or watch the birds on the lake; there is even an amphitheatre near the lake that would make an ideal venue for a play or concert.
Windlesham Arboretum
Address: 12 S Farm Ln, Bagshot GU19 5PA, UK
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
11. Sign up for a cocktail masterclass at Komo
Fancy learning how to make your own cocktail? Take a masterclass from the very best as the top bartenders share their expertise at Komo, Guildford! This award-winning independent cocktail bar is known for a favourite place amongst the locals for its good vibes, premium spirits, as well as amazing service and great music. If you are looking to spice up your evening, invite a bunch of friends and make them a special concoction of your very secret recipe that you picked up during the masterclass. It will be definitely a memorable night for family, friends, celebrations or social gatherings of any kind.
Komo
Address: Weymead House, Millbrook, Guildford GU1 3YA, UK
Website: Komo
Opening hours: Mon-Thu: 5pm - 12am, Fri: 5pm - 2am, Sat: 6pm - 2am, Sun: 6pm - 12am
12. Explore one of the United Kingdom’s biggest heritage projects at Clandon Park, Guildford
Explore one of the United Kingdom’s biggest heritage projects at Clandon Park, Guildford. This 18th-century Palladian mansion survived a huge fire in 2015, and stands as a modern ruin attraction, welcoming visitors from all over to witness the post-fire state, and the restoration works of the house. It is an ideal place for budding architects and designers to witness the incredible Palladian structures at its authentic albeit slightly charred state. Visitors will have the unique opportunity to discover the basement spaces, as well as the State Rooms, floating fireplaces and a lovely garden at the Clandon Park. There are also events occasionally held there, and are open to public.
Clandon Park
Address: West Clandon, Guildford GU4 7RQ, UK
Website: Clandon Park
Opening hours: Wed - Mon: 10am - 5pm (closed on Tue)
Price: 11 USD
13. Tour the Oakhurst Cottage
Take a walk down memory lane and have a glimpse into England’s rural past by visiting Oakhurst Cottage, a cosy 16th-century cottage in Surrey. This lovely restored cottage is an icon of a Surrey labourer’s home, and houses many Victorian era plants. Visits are exclusive to public through guided tours of less than six pax in a group. Book your appointment to this popular spot before it gets filled up. Alternatively, you could sign up to a volunteer guide and provide tours of this historic cottage, retelling the stories of old to keen visitors and travellers eager to learn about England’s history.
Oakhurst Cottage
Address: The Cricket Green, Hambledon, Godalming GU8 4HF, UK
Website: Oakhurst Cottage
Opening hours: Wed - Thu: 2pm - 5pm; Sat-Sun: 2pm - 5pm (closed on Mon, Tue & Fri)
14. Go butterfly spotting at Box Hill
Located at the summit of the North Downs in Surrey and overlooking the River Mole, Box Hill is a beauty to behold. Sporting a spectacular panoramic views of the western Weald, Box Hill is definitely an ideal choice for a day to enjoy Surrey’s beautiful natural landscapes. Not only does it offer a long-distance footpath that is choice for hiking and cycling, it is also great for butterfly spotting with rare vibrant sights of the delicate creatures in the hills. Make the most of summertime and go for a time of picnic bonding with family and friends across the Surrey Hills. Alternatively, there are also aplenty of options to eat at the Hills indoor cafe.
Box Hill
Address: The Old Fort, Box Hill Road, Tadworth, Surrey, KT20 7LB
Website: Box Hill
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Price: Free
15. Have an enriching horticultural experience at Royal Horticultural Society Garden Wisley
Enrich your learning experience by taking a trip to appreciate the beauty of flora and fauna at one of the world’s greatest gardens. Located at the south of London, the Royal Horticultural Society’s (RHS) garden at Wisley, Surrey is one of the five prestigious gardens run by the Society and has a rich history behind it. More than just a tourist attraction, Wisley has expanded to house several glasshouses with unique topical displays as well as an extensive arboretum alongside various fruit fields, and wild gardens. Horticulturalists and enthusiasts will not want to pass on the rare opportunity to the plant centre or visit the trials field where plants are being submitted for trial.
Royal Horticultural Society Garden Wisley
Address: Wisley Ln, Wisley, Woking GU23 6QB, UK
Website: Royal Horticultural Society Garden Wisley
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 6pm; Sat - Sun: 9am - 6pm
Price: Free
16. Enjoy the English countryside glory from Leith Hill
Go and explore the lovely countryside and second highest point in south-east England, Leith Hill. On the summit lies an 18-century Gothic tower that was originally built with the purpose of enjoying the glory of the English countryside. It will be a good workout as your climb 78 steps to the top where you gain a rewarding view of the spectacular surroundings through a telescope, or from your own naked eyes. The sight is a beauty to behold, so do make sure you bring your cameras along. From wildlife and diverse habitats to entertainment and summer fun of festivals and performances, you can most certainly be assured that Leith Hill is a place for everyone!
Leith Hill
Address: near Coldharbour village, Dorking, Surrey
Website: Leith Hill
Opening hours: 10am - 3pm (daily)
Price: 4 USD
17. Immerse yourself in an art experience at Watts Gallery - Artists' Village
Be immersed in a wholesome art experience of Victorian paintings and sculpture in the historic Watts Gallery also known as the Artists’ Village nestled in the Surrey Hills. There is no other gallery like the Watts Gallery - with a huge and significant art collection dedicated to the great Victorian artist George Frederic Watts. You could easily spend a whole day admiring the paintings at the Gallery, and exploring the beautiful woodlands and grounds of Watts Studios. Go on a guided tour of the artists’ home, and check out the Pottery Building and Watts Contemporary exhibition as well. If you are hungry, fret not. The cozy Tea Shop offers delicious bites that will fill your tummy and keep you going!
Watts Gallery - Artists' Village
Address: Down Ln, Guildford GU3 1DQ, UK
Website: Watts Gallery - Artists’ Village
Opening hours: 10:30am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 15 USD
18. Delight in the great outdoors at Virginia Water Lake
Lying on the southern edge of Windsor Great Park, Virginia Water Lake is a beautiful scenic lake that is well steeped in Royal history. It is an ideal choice to spend a day outdoors with your family - swimming, walking, biking or simply chilling and enjoying the view. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the beauty of this magnificent lake, and the abundance of wildlife spotted here. There are many great ways to make the most out of your visit - exploring the woodland paths of The Valley Gardens, an enriched learning experience at Windsor Great Park Environmental Centre, a visit to the Copper Horse, or chilling at the Virginia Water Pavilion. There are aplenty to do here that is bound to keep you occupied.
Virginia Water Lake
Address: Virginia Water, Surrey, GU25 4QF
Website: Virginia Water Lake
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
19. Spend a day of family fun at Hobbledown Adventure Farm Park and Zoo
Posted by Hobbledown on Friday, 6 September 2019
Spend a day of family fun at Hobbledown Adventure Farm Park and Zoo in Epsom, Surrey. This award-winning park offers a range of fun activities to choose from - adventure playground, archery, user, zorbing, animal experiences, high ropes and even an indoor play barn! From goats to owls to other excitable animals, your children will most definitely enjoy meeting new animal friends and experience being a zookeeper for the day as they take these animals on the walkthroughs of grassy hillocks and sturdy bridges. Undoubtedly, Hobbledown is also a choice location to hold birthday celebrations and parties with great rates for group bookings! Put the fun into learning by bringing your children down for a day or two!
Hobbledown Adventure Farm Park and Zoo
Address: Horton Lane, Epsom KT19 8PT, England
Website: Hobbledown Adventure Farm Park and Zoo
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 10am - 6pm; Fri: 10am - 7pm; Sat: 9am - 7pm; Sun: 9am - 6.30pm
Price: From 7 USD
20. Drink gin from the mystical Silent Pool spring
Take a trip to the mystical Silent Pool spring located at the foot of North Downs, east of Guildford in Surrey. This sacred site has been popular since the Victorian times, with folk stories passed down through the centuries about a midnight maiden that has been guarding the pool. Interestingly, the infamous disappearance of renowned writer Agatha Christie is also mysteriously linked to the pool. While stories of such loomed around the Silent Pool, the practical use of the pool is also fitting to the tastebuds of many with its original production of gin. The sustainable business of distillery attracts many to visit, especially for their tasting sessions.
Silent Pool
Address: Silent Pool Cottage Shere Road, Guildford GU5 9BW, England
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
21. Learn about the local history at The Lightbox
If you are a history buff or art enthusiast, you have to definitely check out one of the most exciting cultural spaces in Surrey, The Lightbox. This award-winning public gallery and museum is the ideal choice to learn more about the local history with three amazing galleries dedicated to presenting great exhibitions. Occasionally, you will find a treat or two of poetry open mic and comedy nights to keep you entertained. This gallery is welcoming to both physically challenged visitors, as well as young children. Check out the Lightbox Shop for a tasteful selection of local arts and crafts - making for excellent gifts to take home.
The Lightbox
Address: The Lightbox, Chobham Road, Woking, Surrey, GU21 4AA
Website: The Lightbox
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10:30am - 5pm (last Thu of the month: 10:30am - 8:30pm); Sun: 11am - 4pm (closed on Mon)
Price: Free admission
22. Engage in sports at Priory Park
Explore the lovely Priory Park located in the heart of Reigate, Surrey. This historic park is a place for everyone to enjoy - with a range of sports facilities such as tennis courts, multi-sport courts, skatepark, football pitches, etc. We all know sports not only gives you an adrenaline boost, but also keeps you happy with the release of endorphins. There is also a vibrant playground, splash pads, and picnic area to keep the non-sporty ones entertained. It is also perfect to take walks or cycle around this area of outstanding natural beauty, and soak in the lovely sights and sounds of nature. There is none quite like Priory Park and it is perhaps a choice destination for every family’s day out.
Priory Park
Address: Bell St, Reigate RH2 7RL, UK
Website: Priory Park
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
Price: Free
23. Delve into the history of Britain's first monastery
Learn about the history of Britain’s very first monastery located in Surrey, Waverley Abbey by visiting the impressive remains of this historic site. Interestingly, this site has been used as a backdrop for iconic films such as Disney’s Into the Woods, and Elizabeth. Take a moment and try to recall your favourite moments that were filmed at this very location. You may go on an audio tour of Waverley Abbey, and enjoy the designated guided tour as you walk around the monastic precinct and bask in solitude for an hour or two.
Waverley Abbey
Address: Waverley Ln, Farnham GU9 8EP, UK
Website: Waverley Abbey
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Price: Free
24. Relish a European fine dining experience at Stovell's
When in Surrey, it would be an absolute regret if you missed out on Stovell’s. This contemporary European restaurant is set in a stylish 16th-century Tudor farmhouse with its very own wood-fired grill offers great dining delights with a taste of Mexican. Their dishes are made of sustainably sourced local produce and prepared by talented chefs with a passion for tasteful creations. It is perfect for families and gatherings, with a huge space to accommodate up to 70 guests. Private functions are also welcomed, with two separate rooms or the entire venue itself available for hire.
Stovell's
Address: 125 Windsor Rd, Chobham, Woking GU24 8QS, UK
Website: Stovell’s
Opening hours: Tue - Wed: 5pm - 10pm; Thu - Sat: 12pm - 10pm; Sun: 12pm - 3pm (closed on Mon)
25. Discover contemporary art at Surrey Arts
From art exhibitions to performances to art classes, immerse yourself in a wholesome arts experience at Surrey Arts. This artistic hub is home to Surrey’s very own Art Gallery, Civici Theatres’ Main Stage and Studio Theatre, and the Surrey International Children’s Festival. Discover contemporary art, and be in tuned with the latest events covering visual arts, drama, music and dance in this very town. Choose from a spectrum of fascinating elements in art to discover - each one will certainly find one to their own liking. Be prepared for an engaging and inspiring time of art immersion and experience!
Surrey Arts
Address: 14 The Pines, Guildford GU3 3BH, UK
Website: Surrey Arts
26. Enjoy a picturesque golfing experience at Woldingham Golf Club
Set in the heart of the countryside, Woldingham Golf Club invites you to a picturesque golfing experience in the beautiful North Downs. Golf in style in one of the most attractive courses in Surrey. Golfers will most certainly appreciate the excellent rolling course as well as the serenity of the Halliloo Valley. The club’s excellent facilities, as well as beautiful surroundings make it a popular destination for both golf enthusiasts and events planners alike. If you are into golfing, be sure not to miss out on visiting one of Surrey’s finest golf courses!
Woldingham Golf Club
Address: Halliloo Valley Road, Woldingham CR3 7HA, England
Website: Woldingham Golf Club
Opening hours: Sun - Fri: 7.30am - 5.30pm; Sat: 6am - 7pm
Price: From 25 USD
27. Be inspired at WWF Living Planet Centre
Think green, and think fun! Home to the World Wildlife Fund, WWF Living Planet Centre not only holds educational workshops, it is also open to hosting family activities, public talks, and even welcomes all to come on a behind-the-scenes tour of the facility. It is a great place for everyone who wants to visit this lovely visitor centre, with easy access to and fro the Woking town centre. Assistance dogs are also welcomed in the Living Planet Centre; it is a place for all to enjoy!
WWF Living Planet Centre
Address: WWF UK The Living Planet Centre Rufford House, Brewery Rd, Woking GU21 4LL, United Kingdom
Website: WWF Living Planet Centre
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
Price: Free
28. Dine in style at Sorrel Restaurant
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
If you are in Surrey, be sure to check out Michelin star chef Steve Drake’s new modern fine dining restaurant. Be rewarded with nothing short of mouthwatering British fare, with gluten-free and vegan options in the menu and impeccable wine offers. It is perfect for family celebrations, special occasions, and the occasional quality dates. With excellent service and an extraordinary menu, Sorrel is definitely a choice destination for a memorable fine dining experience.
Sorrel Restaurant
Address: 77 South St, Dorking RH4 2JU, UK
Website: Sorrel Restaurant
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 12pm - 2:15pm; 7pm - 9:15pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
29. Gorge on delicious seafood at Kinghams Restaurant
Enjoy contemporary British fare and daily fish specials in a lovely 17th-century setting at Kinghams Restaurant. Set in the heart of Surrey Hills, this charming restaurant is known for the best quality seafood in town using only fresh local produce, and their unique choice of daily fish specials warrant their regular customers to keep returning. Choose to dine in a lovely garden with its very own heated gazebo during summertime and enjoy the view. This popular restaurant is traditional yet cosy, ideal for both lunch and dinner choices. Do note that it is best to make a booking, especially during peak times, to ensure a guaranteed seat for you and your family.
Kinghams
Address: Gomshall Lane, Shere, Guildford GU5 9HE, England
Website: Kinghams
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 12pm - 7pm, Sun: 12pm - 5pm (closed on Mon)
30. Get an adrenaline high roller coaster ride at Thorpe Park Resort (from USD 54.0)
Are you brave enough for Thorpe Park? This state-of-the-art amusement park is home to the United Kingdom’s fastest rollercoaster, and over 30 thrilling rides that are bound to have you screaming your lungs out. Scare your wits out with horror rides from The Walking Dead, Ghost Train, and hair-standing popular ride Nemesis Inferno. It gets your heart pumping with adrenaline high and leaves your legs feeling like jelly as much as you are too scared to admit. Thorpe Park is a promising land of fun for all - kids and adults alike - with aplenty of sights and activities to do. Check out the Angry Birds themed land, water-themed Amity Beach, and stay in the frightfully amazing Thorpe Shark Hotel.
THORPE PARK Resort Admission Ticket with Meal Deal
An amazing Surrey experience awaits you
From the rolling hills in picturesque countryside villages and historic icons to an immersive art experience and fine dining at classy restaurants, there is no shortage of fun things to do in Surrey. It is a perfect choice to bring your family to be close to nature–with an amazing diversity of cultural and historic activities and events ongoing all year round, there will certainly be an activity to everyone’s liking. Be sure to check out the things to do in Surrey, and spread the word around!
Frequently asked questions about things to do in Surrey
1. What are cheap things to do in Surrey?
If you are on a tight budget and would like to explore some of the fun activities in Surrey that don’t cost much, you can take a scenic walk around Winkworth Arboretum.
2. What are the best places to visit in Surrey with kids?
If you would like to spend quality time with the kids in Surrey during your sightseeing tours here, you can spend a day of family fun at Hobbledown Adventure Farm Park and Zoo.
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