As the embers fade on the Guy Fawkes’ bonfires around Surrey, we can look ahead to what’s in store over the festive season. We are lucky to be a part of such an active community in Reigate and this strong community spirit is also evident in so many of our neighbouring towns across Surrey. Over the coming weeks, there is a wonderful variety of Christmas events taking place in and around the county, which all support, and are supported by, the abundance of local independent retailers and businesses we find on our doorsteps. Our team have gathered together a selection of events that are worth a visit, to help get you in the festive mood, enjoy your first mince pie (or two) and perhaps tick off a few of the items on your loved ones’ Christmas list:
19th/20th November – Guildford Cathedral Christmas Fair
On Friday 19th and Saturday 20th November from 10am – 4pm, local artisans will display their wares against the magnificent backdrop of Guildford Cathedral. Entry on the door is £3 per person. More information can be found here.
26th November – Surrey Hills Christmas Fair, West Horsley Place
Celebrating the best of Surrey arts, crafts and artisanal produce, the Surrey Hills Christmas Fair will be hosted in the beautiful estate of West Horsley Place from 12-4pm on Friday 26th November. Tickets are £8 and can be booked here.
27th November – Reigate Business Guild Christmas Fayre, Church Street
It’s back! After having to cancel the event last year, The Reigate Business Guild Christmas Fayre will be returning to Church Street, Reigate on Saturday, 27th December. With so many of our wonderful local independent businesses booking stalls and taking part in the entertainment during the day, it looks set to be a great event to visit! Follow Reigate Business Guild on Facebook for up-to-date information on the event.
3rd – 5th December, Hampton Court Palace Festive Fayre
Slightly further afield, a stunning Winter Wonderland awaits in the regal palace courtyard and gardens of Hampton Court. Street food, pop-up bars, artisan producers, family fun and live music are all on offer across the 3-day event. Tickets must be booked, with adult entry costing £25.30, over 65s £20.20, children (5-15yrs) £12.60. 50% savings for arrivals after 3pm. More information and bookings can be found here.
4th December – Santa Landing, Grotto & Christmas Market at Reigate Priory School
A local tradition for 50 years sees Santa arriving by helicopter at Reigate Priory School on Saturday, 4th December at 10:30am, brought to us once again by The Reigate and Redhill Round Table. This year, you will also find fun rides and the all-important Santa’s Grotto for the little ones to visit, alongside a photo booth Santa experience! A Christmas Market will be set up in the atmospheric historical school courtyard, with a variety of stalls from independent local businesses, including hot food, arts & crafts and gifts. All money raised on the day is channelled back into the local community by the Round Table, supporting charitable causes locally such as Stripey Stork and Renewed Hope Trust. Follow The Round Table on Facebook for more information on Santa’s Landing and Sleigh Routes locally.
5th December – Curated by Dapper & Suave – Christmas Market, Dorking Halls
Curated by Dapper & Suave brings us a unique Christmas Market at The Dorking Halls on Sunday, 5th December from 11am – 4pm. The event promises to host a mix of friendly, creative and unique business where visitors can expect to find artwork, beauty, handmade gifts for the home and jewellery, alongside food and drinks. Admission is free but time allocated tickets need to be booked in advance here.
11th December – Love Reigate Christmas Market, The Reigate Grange
Join Love Reigate for a spot of Christmas shopping at their second market this year, where you can support local businesses and get rewarded for shopping local! The market takes place on Saturday, 11th December between 10am-4pm at The Reigate Grange (on the way to Reigate Heath) With over 20 stalls from a range of Love Reigate partners, including food & drink, arts & crafts, live music & interactive dance displays, finished off with a spot of carol singing - it should be a great way to get in the Christmas spirit! You can also sign up for a Love Reigate membership on the day and start saving straight away, plus receive a free goodie bag! Follow Love Reigate on Facebook for more information on this and other events. You can also find their Instagram here.
We hope that this has given you some fun festive dates to put in your diaries over the coming weeks. There are plenty of activities going on in and around Surrey in the lead up to Christmas, so get involved and show your support to all of our fabulous independent businesses!