As winter sets in, North Surrey transforms into a festive wonderland, offering a wide range of activities and events to embrace the Christmas spirit. From traditional markets and spectacular light displays to cosy theatre performances and festive walks, North Surrey presents the perfect destination for a winter getaway. Whether you're looking for family fun or a romantic escape, this area has everything you need to make your December memorable.

1. Christmas Markets and Fairs December brings a host of Christmas markets across North Surrey, perfect for picking up unique gifts, festive food, and local crafts. One highlight is the Farnham Christmas Market, located in the town centre. Visitors can enjoy seasonal stalls, mulled wine, and Christmas carols as they browse hand-crafted gifts and festive foods. The charming atmosphere and historical backdrop of Farnham’s streets create the ideal setting for a festive shopping spree. Other notable markets in nearby towns like Guildford and Woking also offer festive delights and traditional Christmas cheer.

2. Christmas at RHS Garden Wisley The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Garden Wisley in Woking is an enchanting destination for nature lovers. This December, Wisley is transformed with stunning seasonal displays, including a winter garden showcasing thousands of seasonal plants. The garden is illuminated by beautiful Christmas lights, adding a magical touch to the winter landscape. Wisley also hosts workshops where you can learn how to create your own festive decorations using natural materials, making it a great family-friendly destination during the holiday season.

3. Ice Skating at Guildford Spectrum For some festive fun, head to Guildford Spectrum, where the ice rink offers the perfect setting for skating with loved ones. Whether you are a seasoned skater or a beginner, the rink is an ideal spot to enjoy some seasonal sport. During December, the rink is decked out with Christmas decorations, and you can enjoy hot chocolate or mulled wine after your session to warm up. It's a great way to spend a chilly afternoon, especially for families with children or couples looking for a festive date.

4. Pantomimes and Christmas Theatre No Christmas season is complete without a trip to see a pantomime, and North Surrey has plenty to offer. The Yvonne Arnaud Theatre in Guildford puts on a fantastic family-friendly panto each year, typically a colourful and interactive performance. Other venues, such as The Rhoda McGaw Theatre in Woking, also feature festive performances for all ages. Whether you prefer a traditional Cinderella or a more contemporary panto, there’s something for everyone in the region.

5. Christmas Light Displays and Festivals Many of North Surrey’s towns light up during December with beautiful Christmas light displays. Staines-upon-Thames hosts an annual Christmas lights switch-on event, complete with music, entertainment, and market stalls. Guildford also hosts a magnificent light festival, where the town centre is adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. These sparkling displays create a festive atmosphere that is perfect for a winter evening stroll or a romantic outing.

6. Surrey Hills Winter Walks For those who love the outdoors, the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a peaceful place to escape the holiday hustle and bustle. With crisp winter air and panoramic views, a walk through the hills is a perfect way to experience the beauty of North Surrey’s landscapes. Popular routes include Leith Hill (the highest point in Surrey) and Box Hill, both of which offer breathtaking views, lovely woodland, and refreshing open spaces. Wrap up warm and enjoy a winter walk before returning to a cosy cafe for a hot drink.

7. Visit to The Lightbox Located in Woking, The Lightbox is an award-winning gallery and museum that offers an exciting variety of art exhibitions and events. In December, you can enjoy the seasonal exhibitions or participate in craft workshops to create your own festive masterpieces. This venue also holds Christmas-themed events, such as seasonal afternoon teas, making it a great place to spend a winter afternoon.

8. New Year's Eve Celebrations For a memorable end to the year, North Surrey has various New Year’s Eve events to choose from. Many pubs and venues, like those in Farnham and Woking, host special events with live music, dancing, and celebratory drinks. For a family-friendly celebration, many venues offer early evening events with entertainment for children and a chance for families to ring in the New Year together.

9. Winter Wine Tasting What better way to enjoy the winter season than by warming up with a wine tasting experience? North Surrey has a selection of wineries offering tours and tastings, where you can sample fine wines made from local vineyards. Denbies Wine Estate in Dorking is one of the region’s largest wine producers and hosts tours that allow you to explore the vineyards and enjoy seasonal wines. It’s a lovely, relaxing way to spend a winter day in Surrey.

10. Santa’s Grotto and Christmas Experiences For families with younger children, visiting a Santa’s Grotto is an exciting December activity. G Live in Guildford often has special Christmas events where kids can meet Santa and receive a gift. Similarly, Polesden Lacey, a National Trust property in the Surrey Hills, offers a magical Christmas experience where children can meet Santa in the gardens, take part in festive crafts, and enjoy seasonal treats.

Stay with Pass the Keys for the Perfect December Getaway in North Surrey

If you’re planning to experience the best of North Surrey this December, staying with Pass the Keys ensures that you have a comfortable and convenient base. Offering a variety of high-quality accommodation options, Pass the Keys provides self-catering homes in prime locations, from countryside cottages to urban apartments. Whether you’re looking for a cosy space for a romantic weekend, a family-friendly home for festive fun, or a stylish apartment near the best shopping and event hubs, Pass the Keys offers the ideal place to relax after a day of exploration.

In conclusion, December in North Surrey is filled with events and activities that cater to every interest, from outdoor adventures and Christmas markets to festive theatre and cosy indoor experiences. With so much to see and do, your winter getaway in Surrey promises to be a memorable one, and Pass the Keys is here to provide you with exceptional accommodation that will make your stay even more enjoyable. Whether you’re in town for a short visit or planning a longer stay, North Surrey in December is the perfect place to celebrate the season