A Winter Wonderland: Discovering Surrey’s Best Christmas Lights and Festivities (2024)
The magic of Christmas is returning to Surrey in 2024 with an exciting lineup of events that will dazzle families, friends, and festive explorers alike.
From twinkling light trails that illuminate Surrey’s famous gardens to vibrant Christmas markets and cultural celebrations, Surrey promises an unforgettable holiday season. Whether you’re skating under the stars, sipping hot chocolate in a cozy market, or walking through glowing forests, Surrey’s Christmas festivities will leave you in awe. Let’s embark on a festive journey through the region’s best Christmas lights and activities for 2024.
Glow at RHS Garden Wisley
One of Surrey's most anticipated events, Glow at RHS Garden Wisley, is a spectacular light display that brings the winter landscape to life. The 240-acre garden, known for its stunning year-round beauty, is transformed into an illuminated wonderland during the festive season. Strolling through the gardens, visitors can marvel at twinkling displays lighting up the trees, shrubs, and unique garden structures. Each year, the show grows in creativity, with new displays and innovative ways to celebrate nature through light.
Expect highlights such as:
The Jellicoe Canal: The central canal, often reflecting calm waters, will become a canvas for floating lights and illuminated fountains.
The Glasshouse: The exotic plants inside Wisley’s glasshouse are decorated with enchanting lights, giving an otherworldly feel to this botanical haven.
Festive Food & Drink: The Wisley Café offers seasonal treats like mulled wine, spiced cider, and warm mince pies, the perfect complement to a wintry walk.
Dates: November 27 – December 30, 2024
Address: RHS Garden Wisley, Wisley Lane, Woking, Surrey GU23 6QB
Opening Hours: 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM (last entry at 7:00 PM)
For tickets and additional details, visit the RHS Garden Wisley website.
Christmas at Hampton Court Palace
Imagine skating in front of a Tudor palace, where the history of Henry VIII comes alive amidst the backdrop of twinkling Christmas lights. Hampton Court Palace offers a unique blend of historic grandeur and modern festive fun with its Ice Rink and Christmas activities. Nestled on the palace grounds, the ice rink is surrounded by festively lit trees and the imposing palace itself, making it one of Surrey’s most magical Christmas destinations.
The skating experience is perfect for families, couples, and groups of friends, and after your session, you can explore the palace’s Christmas decorations. The palace grounds also feature festive markets where visitors can shop for gifts, indulge in holiday treats, and enjoy Christmas performances.
Dates: November 22, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Address: Hampton Court Palace, Molesey, East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
To book your skating session, visit the Hampton Court Palace website.
Christmas at Painshill Park
The 12 Days of Christmas Trail is a festive adventure where visitors can explore beautifully crafted figures representing each of the iconic gifts from the beloved Christmas carol, including two turtle doves, twelve drummers drumming, and the famous partridge in a pear tree. Each figure, made from traditional wood, is hand-painted with intricate detail, evoking a sense of nostalgia.
As guests search for all twelve treasures along the trail, they’ll be immersed in the charm of these timeless, handcrafted creations that bring the magic of the song to life.
Dates: December 1 – December 31, 2024
Address: Painshill Park, Portsmouth Rd, Cobham KT11 1JE
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
For more information, visit Painshill Park's website.
Denbies Wine Estate Christmas Fair
The Santa Express at Denbies Wine Estate invites families for a festive train ride through the scenic Surrey vineyard, creating a memorable Christmas experience. Children get to meet Santa in person, enjoy holiday-themed activities, and receive a special gift from him. The picturesque route offers charming views of the estate, ensuring the journey is filled with festive cheer and magic. Parents can also relax at the estate’s café, indulging in seasonal treats while the little ones bask in the Christmas spirit.
Dates: November 23 – December 24, 2024
Address: Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6AA
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
For event updates and ticket information, check out Denbies Wine Estate's website.
Guildford Cathedral Christmas Fair
The Guildford Cathedral Christmas Fair promises a delightful festive atmosphere, offering visitors a chance to explore over 50 carefully curated stalls featuring artisan gifts, local crafts, and seasonal food treats. Held in the grand setting of the cathedral, the fair also provides live music and cozy refreshments, making it an ideal destination for Christmas shopping while soaking in the holiday spirit.
Dates: November 22-23, 2024
Address: Guildford Cathedral, Stag Hill, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7UP
For ticket details and event schedules, visit the Guildford Cathedral website.
Surrey Hills Christmas Arts & Artisan Market
Experience a distinctive Christmas shopping adventure that showcases the finest arts, crafts, and artisanal products from Surrey. Set within the picturesque Manor House and the breathtaking Barn, this event highlights the region's exceptional talent and creativity, making it a perfect destination for those seeking unique gifts and festive inspiration.
West Horsley Place is a historic country estate located in Surrey, England, renowned for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. Originally a medieval manor, it has undergone significant restoration and is now a vibrant cultural venue, hosting various events, performances, and workshops. The estate is set amidst picturesque countryside, providing a tranquil setting that invites visitors to explore its rich history and artistic offerings.
Dates: November 22-24, 2024
Address: West Horsley Place, Epsom Road, West Horsley, KT24 6AN
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Additional Festivities in Surrey
Surrey’s Christmas festivities go beyond the major events, with a variety of smaller markets, light shows, and community celebrations taking place across the region. Farnham Christmas Market is a charming event filled with festive stalls, live music, and a visit from Santa, while Reigate’s Christmas Lights Switch-On is a heartwarming community event featuring local performers, food stalls, and a joyful countdown to the town’s Christmas lights.
Another must-see is Santa’s Winter Wonderland at Chessington World of Adventures, where families can embark on a magical Christmas journey through a world of festive fun, meeting Santa and his reindeer along the way.
For a quieter festive experience, take a stroll through the historic streets of Shere or Godalming, which are beautifully decorated with Christmas lights and small holiday displays, perfect for an evening of exploring Surrey’s quaint villages.
Plan Your 2024 Christmas in Surrey
With such a diverse range of events, Surrey’s 2024 Christmas season is sure to offer something for everyone. Whether you’re ice skating in front of a Tudor palace, walking through illuminated gardens, or sipping mulled wine at a Christmas market, Surrey’s festive offerings will create lasting memories for all who visit.
Be sure to book your tickets in advance for these popular events and check the official websites for any updates or changes to schedules. From grand light displays to cozy local markets, Surrey’s Christmas season is the perfect way to celebrate the magic of the holidays in 2024.
Related articles
