Make Memories with These Must-Try Family Activities in Surrey
Posted on 28/10/2025
Surrey, with its mix of lush parks, fascinating museums, and bustling attractions, is a perfect destination for family fun. Whether you're a local looking for fresh ideas or planning a getaway with your loved ones, this comprehensive guide to family-friendly activities in Surrey will help you create unforgettable moments together.
Read on to discover the top must-try things to do in Surrey with kids, teens, and adults alike--from outdoor adventures to indoor entertainment and educational experiences you'll cherish for a lifetime.
Why Choose Surrey for Your Next Family Adventure?
Surrey is a county that blends picturesque countryside with lively towns and rich history. Its diverse family attractions cater to all ages and interests, making it easy to find new favorites and cherished traditions. Here's why Surrey should be high on your list for memory-making family time:
- Accessible location: Easily reached by train, car, or bus from London and the South East.
- Stunning natural scenery: From rolling hills at the Surrey Hills AONB to tranquil parks and rivers.
- Wide variety of activities: Outdoor adventures, wildlife parks, interactive museums, and much more.
- Year-round appeal: Things to do in Surrey whatever the weather.
Let's dive into the best family bonding activities in Surrey to help you make memories that last!
Outdoor Adventures: Embracing Surrey's Natural Beauty
Kick off your family escapades by stepping outside. Surrey offers a wealth of beautiful locations for families to explore together. Here are some of the top must-try outdoor family experiences in Surrey:
1. Explore the Surrey Hills
The Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is famous for its scenic trails and stunning viewpoints. Hiking, cycling, or simply picnicking here is a treat for all ages. Don't miss:
- Box Hill: Known for its panoramic views, walking trails, and spring wildflowers.
- Leith Hill: The highest point in South East England, with woodland walks and a climbable tower.
- Denbies Wine Estate: Family-friendly vineyard offering excellent walks, tractor train rides, and a lovely cafe.
2. Go on a Wildlife Safari at Bocketts Farm Park
Bocketts Farm is a beloved destination for families seeking hands-on fun. From feeding lambs and pony rides to indoor play barns and pig racing, Bocketts Farm proudly stands out among Surrey's family attractions. Visit in spring or autumn for adorable baby animals.
3. Enjoy Water Fun at Frensham Great Pond
On warm days, Frensham Great Pond offers sandy shores, swimming (seasonal), and water sports including kayaking and paddleboarding. Bring your picnic basket and sunscreen for a laid-back family beach day--without leaving Surrey!
4. Cycle the Family-Friendly Thames Path
The Thames Path in Surrey provides gentle cycling and walking for all ages. Watch boats glide by, spot ducks and swans, and stop for ice cream in picturesque riverside towns like Walton-on-Thames and Kingston.
5. Discover the Magic of RHS Garden Wisley
RHS Wisley is an enchanting spot for families. Explore themed gardens, marvel at exotic plants in the Glasshouse, and let kids roam free in the accessible play areas. Seasonal family trails, gardening workshops, and events make it a year-round hit.
- Tip: Visit during spring for stunning cherry blossoms and tulips, or autumn for vibrant foliage displays.
Rain or Shine: Best Indoor Family Activities in Surrey
Don't let the British weather dampen your plans! These indoor attractions provide hours of laughter, learning, and entertainment:
1. The Lightbox - Woking
This award-winning gallery and museum in Woking features exciting exhibitions and hands-on art workshops that appeal to all ages. The children's interactive gallery is a great way to introduce young ones to creativity.
2. Guildford Spectrum Leisure Complex
Searching for active family fun? The Guildford Spectrum has it all--ice skating, bowling, leisure pools with slides, and a soft play area. Book ahead for special family sessions and discounts.
3. Brooklands Museum - Weybridge
Budding engineers and history buffs will love Brooklands Museum, the birthplace of British motorsports and aviation. Climb aboard vintage aircraft, race cars, and try hands-on exhibits. Perfect for curious minds and future pilots!
4. Godstone Farm's Indoor Barn
Godstone Farm is open year-round with a huge indoor play barn, animal encounters, and craft activities. It's an ideal spot for burning off energy and learning about farm life, rain or shine.
5. Visit a Soft Play Centre
Surrey is packed with soft play centres, from Wacky Warehouse in Leatherhead to Adventure Island in Staines. These are excellent for younger children needing a safe space to climb, slide, and make new friends.
Learning Together: Educational Family Experiences in Surrey
Make learning fun with these interactive and inspiring cultural attractions--perfect for curious kids and their parents!
1. Loseley Park & Gardens
Step back in time at this historic manor house, with its beautiful walled gardens, maze, and fascinating tours. Seasonal events and workshops offer a deeper dive into local history and crafts.
2. Painshill Park - Cobham
A masterpiece of landscape design, Painshill Park boasts whimsical follies, crystal grottos, and surprise views. Family trails, activity booklets, and themed days (like the magical Fairy Door Trail) bring the park's stories to life.
3. Watts Gallery - Artists' Village
Families with creative flair will adore the Watts Gallery, studios, woodland walks, and family workshops. Discover the story of artist G.F. Watts and try your hand at painting or sculpture together.
4. Explore Hampton Court Palace
Technically just over the border, Hampton Court Palace is a Surrey staple. Dress up in Tudor costumes, solve the world-famous maze, and join family-friendly guided tours through a palace steeped in history.
5. The Rural Life Living Museum
Experience Surrey's past at the Rural Life Living Museum, with hands-on exhibits, a vintage playground, and regular demonstrations of traditional skills. A delight for all generations.
Active & Adrenaline-Pumping Family Activities in Surrey
If your family craves excitement, Surrey offers activities that will get everyone's heart racing.
1. Go Ape Alice Holt Forest
Test your nerves with treetop rope courses and thrilling zip lines at Go Ape in Alice Holt. There are courses tailored for younger children as well as more challenging routes for teens and adults.
2. Wild Wood Adventure, Guildford
At Wild Wood Adventure, tackle high ropes courses and epic zip wires surrounded by leafy woodland. It's a fantastic way to build confidence and have a laugh together.
3. Explore Bike Trails at Alice Holt Forest
Bring your own bikes or hire them onsite to enjoy gentle woodland trails, natural play areas, and picnic spots. Keep an eye out for play sculptures along the routes.
Unique & Seasonal Family Activities: Make Every Visit Special
1. Lavender Fields - Mayfield or Hitchin
Visiting Surrey's stunning lavender fields (best in June & July) is a picture-perfect experience. Wander between purple blooms, enjoy farm cafes, and capture gorgeous family photos.
2. Christmas at Polesden Lacey
Every winter, Polesden Lacey transforms with festive lights, markets, and family trails. Meet Father Christmas, explore decorated rooms, and warm up with hot chocolate after a crisp walk.
3. Pumpkin Picking and Halloween Fun
From Garsons Farm to Secretts, Surrey abounds with pumpkin patches and spooky family-friendly events throughout October. Pick your own pumpkins, join craft sessions, or lose yourself in a maize maze!
Family-Friendly Dining in Surrey: Refuel and Relax
No family outing is complete without a tasty treat. Surrey's vibrant cafe and restaurant scene offers plenty of options for fussy eaters and tired explorers.
- Child-friendly pubs: The Jolly Coopers (Epsom), The Runnymede on Thames (Egham), and The Plough Inn (Cobham) have gardens and kids' menus.
- Cafes with play areas: The Medicine Garden (Cobham) offers delicious cakes and an enclosed play area.
- Picnics in parks: Pack your own or grab supplies from Surrey's farm shops or markets to enjoy al fresco at a beauty spot.
Top tip: Many attractions, including RHS Wisley and Bocketts Farm Park, have their own excellent cafes with child-friendly menus and baby facilities.
Top Tips for Making the Most of Family Days Out in Surrey
- Book in advance during school holidays and weekends to avoid disappointment and get the best deals.
- Always check attraction websites for opening times, tickets, changing facilities, and accessibility information.
- If using public transport, plan your route in advance--most key towns are well served by trains and buses.
- Prepare for all weathers: bring wellies, sun hats, water bottles, and waterproofs!
- Pack a change of clothes, especially for outdoor and adventure activities.
Start Making Memories: Your Unforgettable Family Adventure Awaits in Surrey
Whether you're after outdoor thrills, indoor adventures, history, or hands-on learning, Surrey offers an unbeatable range of family activities that promise to delight every member of the family. From exploring wild hills and imaginative museums to sharing a picnic in the sunshine, there's no end to the experiences and laughter you can enjoy in this beautiful county.
Start planning your next Surrey family day out today! Revisit old favorites, try something new, and create memories that you and your children will treasure forever.
Latest Posts
Experience Surrey: From Stunning Landscapes to Food Lover's Havens and Cultural Landmarks
Make Memories with These Must-Try Family Activities in Surrey
Discover the Secrets to Enjoying a Perfect Day in Surrey
