Families London-Surrey Borders Mar/Apr 23 PRINT issue

Contact us

EDITOR:

Tamar Pearson

T: 07537 141 998

E: editor@families-lsb.co.uk

Design: Rebecca Carr

Printed by: Buxton Press Limited

Cover image: London TDK

Next issue: May/June

Booking deadline: 7 April

In this issue

This product is made of material from well-managed, FSC®certified forests and other controlled sources.

Welcome

Spring has sprung, and along with it the warming weather brings butterflies, buzzing bees, giggles and laughter.

This issue we have a Mother’s Day surprise (page 14), sharing some inspiration ideas on what to do this Mothering Sunday. Easter is coming, and of course we have searched high and low for all the Easter delights the season has to offer.

We meet Vanessa Conlan, Head at Little Downsend as she takes us on a journey through life at Little Downsend School, who have achieved an ‘Excellent’ rating by the Independent Schools Inspectorate on page 8.

On page 10, Samantha Dholakia, Founder of SPD Tuition and Coaching talks to use about the importance of emotional regulation in supporting our children reach their fullest potential.

Successful Mums Career Academy share their FREE back to work coaching programme, so if you are struggling with confidence after a career break or are you looking for a job that fits around your family have a look on page 5 for more info.

Tamar xx

We’re an environmentally responsible publication

We often cover topics related to the environment in our magazine but have you ever wondered about how environmentally-friendly we are?

You may have spotted the FSC® logo in the magazine. We’re happy to report that this gives an assurance that all paper we use is made of material from well-managed, FSC®-certified forests and other controlled sources.

The magazine is printed by Buxton Press on responsibly sourced paper. Each aspect of our printer’s business has been examined for continual improvement of its green credentials. In fact, Buxton Press has even been recognised for its achievements to date, including winning PrintWeek’s award of Environmental Company of the Year. Read more at www.buxtonpress.com/ environment

Not only that but Families is reducing the impact of its publication on the environment by carbon-offsetting, compensating for the emission of carbondioxide into the atmosphere as a result of the paper making process.

Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of this magazine are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Print Ltd. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine but Families Print Ltd, its distributors, franchisees and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequences thereof.

Email Tamar for more info at editor@families-lsb.co.uk

Would you like to promote your business in our next issue and reach 1,000’s of local parents?

Godstone Farm sets a new Guinness World Record

In January Godstone Farm officially recorded 248 people jumping in a puddle – setting the first ever Guinness World Record for the number of people jumping in puddle at one time!

CEO of Godstone Farm, Nicola Henderson comments: ‘Our motto at Godstone Farm is ‘Have Fun’ and that’s exactly what our World Record Puddle Jumping event has been! We’re determined to encourage our visitors to embrace the Great British weather and make the most of our 45 acres of playgrounds and nature that is all around us at Godstone Farm.’

Visit www.godstonefarm.co.uk to see what fun is to be had in March and April.

Enjoy Earth Day

Earth Day takes place on 22 April every year and is a time when environmental issues take centre stage.

Marked by millions around the world, Earth Day is an annual event designed to shine a light on the serious environmental problems we’re facing, from the climate crisis to air pollution and deforestation.

The first Earth Day took place in 1970 in the USA to highlight the importance of clean air and water following a large oil spill in California. The event saw an astonishing twenty million people across the US taking to the streets. Since then, it is now the world’s largest civic event. To find an event near you visit www.bit.ly/EarthDayEventsMap

More info at www.earthday.org

KS2 music opportunities for children aged 7-11 years

Kingswood Surrey Music School is a music tuition service providing the very best education by professional musicians and teachers inspiring children to follow their dreams.

With a variety of programmes to study, from solo 1-1 music tuition, showcases for students to perform their Grade level music for Singing, Piano, Guitar, Violin, Flute, Drums and many more instruments.

Exams are excellent for students who wish to step towards harder levels. Our goal is to build a skill, growing confidence while learning about the Arts, Theory & History. For kids, Music is a fundamental subject that creatively helps cognitive learning with counting for Maths, English writing and diction and foreign language use.

They also provide Group learning, starting at £10. This is an excellent resource for children to work together on Music Medals. You can book the Violin Club, Ukulele Club, Band, Choir and Keyboard Club.

Visit www.kingswoodsurreymusic.co.uk to book a programme

Transforming lives through Taekwondo

Transforming lives through Taekwondo is the slogan of London TKD, a martial arts school that is dedicated to empowering children to reach their full potential and become the best version of themselves.

With a mission to create a community of confident and resilient children, equipped with the skills to thrive in all aspects of life, and values that focus on the 5 tenets of taekwondo, London TKD is setting the standard for martial arts education.

One of the unique programs that London TKD offers is the Blackbelt Journey, a system that teaches children to improve at school and at home through Taekwondo training. This system focuses on four key steps: Inspire, Challenge, Achieve, and Lead, integrating the five tenets of Taekwondo and the importance of self-defence into a child’s everyday life.

In addition to the Blackbelt Journey, London TKD offers a range of other programs, including a SEN programme that teaches life skills, a school holiday camp that provides childcare, and a career pathway for those interested in pursuing a career in martial arts.

Overall, London TKD is the perfect choice for parents looking for a martial arts school that not only teaches self-defence, but also helps children develop life skills, set goals, and become confident leaders. With its focus on transforming lives through Taekwondo, London TKD is making a positive impact on children’s lives in the community.

For more information call 07553 065 214, email: hello@londontkd.co.uk or visit www.london-tkd.co.uk

Get away to brighter days this Spring with Away Resorts

Whether you desire coastal or country, our 23 stunning UK locations are jam-packed with fantastic facilities, from arcades to swimming pools, and surrounded by awesome local attractions for full on family fun.

Join us at selected parks this Easter for themed activities, stage shows and live acts to keep you and the little ones grinning from ear to ear! So, are you ready to get away to it all with the family (and pooch!) where new experiences await at every turn?

Book at www.awayresorts.co.uk or call 03333 634189.

Confidence-building fun with Perform

Spring is the perfect time of year to get those feelgood endorphins pumping and Perform’s new summer term themes are sure to get bodies moving and hearts singing. What’s more, your child can try a class for free!

Perform offers a different type of children’s drama class. They don’t focus on creating perfect dancers or the next child stars. Instead, they put children’s social development at the heart of their classes, using a specially formulated mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s true potential. Exciting termly themes keep young imaginations buzzing while small class sizes ensure lots of individual attention from experienced professionally trained actors, dancers and singers.

Classes are for children of all abilities and they can join at any point in the term; the only requirement is to be ready to have the best fun of the week!

From April to July, 4-7s will be setting sail on the Jammy Dodger in Mermaids & Pirates whilst 7–12s will take part in The Dream, an hilarious adaptation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Classes run in Caterham, Oxted, Purley, Reigate and Shirley.

To book a FREE trial class, visit www.perform.org.uk/try

Charlie and Chocolate Factory is the most popular book

Roald Dahl has scooped the top three places in a list of the UK’s favourite children’s reads from the past eighty years.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, first published in 1964 and illustrated by Quentin Blake, tops the poll of two thousand parents of children ages 1 to 12 commissioned by the CILIP Carnegie Medal. The BFG (1982) and Matilda (1988), both also illustrated by Blake, followed in second and third place respectively.

The CILIP Carnegie Medal are the UK’s longest running children’s book awards, recognising outstanding reading experiences created through writing and illustration in books for children and young people. The poll also revealed that the majority of parents read to their kids for an average of two hours per week and over eighty percent prefer print books to e-books.

To view the Top 15, visit www.thebookseller.com/news

Successful Mums Career Academy: For mums looking to return to work

Are you a parent looking to get back to work? Are you struggling with confidence after a career break? Are you looking for a job that fits around your family?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, Successful Mums Career Academy is here to help with a FREE back to work coaching programme.

The coaching, perfect for mums wanting to return to work, can cover a whole raft of brilliant topics including getting your mojo back; CV creation; finding a job; applications; imposter syndrome and combatting nerves; plus those all-important interview skills and where the flexible and part time jobs are hiding.

All the coaching is online, flexible and one-to-one so you get the most out of it.

Whether you’ve been out of work for eight months or eight years or you are looking for a change of career, get in touch.

Email: hello@successfulmums.co.uk or visit www.successfulmums.co.uk for more information.

COACHING FOR PARENTS

Driving creativity and curiosity at Elmhurst

STEAM is a popular phrase in education, where the combination of the creative and mathematical disciplines aim to engage learners to achieve deeper understanding.

At Elmhurst, boys already benefit from an integrated curriculum but through the appropriate use of technology in school, engagement can reach new depths.

Part of the Bellevue family of schools, Elmhurst boys benefited from a visit from Adam Atkinson, the digital strategy lead at Bellevue, who showed our youngest learners how they could code. They used indi cars to develop their programming, logic and problem solving skills working together beautifully. The delight on their faces as they got to grips with the task was overwhelming and exactly the sort of memorable learning experience we look to create.

To watch the boys at work and listen to Adam Atkinson talk about why STEAM matters visit www.elmhurstschool.net/category/news

Educational trips for schools at Godstone Farm

Godstone Farm offers educational trips with a specific programme to complement the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). With over 40 years of experience, children in pre-school and reception can enjoy hands on visits, allowing them to learn about animals and nature whilst outside the classroom. Of course, there’s a heap of fun thrown in too!

A visit includes the day on the farm with specific activities to choose from such as talks about livestock, feeding the ducks or planting and growing food. There’s ample of free coach parking, a dedicated picnic barn for lunch and one free adult ticket per five children.

For booking and information www.godstonefarm.co.uk

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL OPEN MORNINGS

Open events require advance booking, so please call the school to check.

Aberdour School, KT20 6AJ

www.aberdourschool.co.uk

Fri 10 Mar

Banstead Prep, SM7 3RA 01737 363600

Co–educational Prep School, 2–11 yrs www.bansteadprep.com

Nursery: Sat 4 Mar

Whole School: Thu 16 Mar

Caterham School, CR3 6YA 01883 343028 www.caterhamschool.co.uk

Wed 15 Mar & Wed 17 May

City of London Freeman’s Ashstead Park, KT21 1ET 013 7282 2423

www.clfs.surrey.sch.uk

Fri 24 Mar: Year 5 pupils looking to join in Year 7 in Sep 24.

Wed 26 April: Year 1 pupils looking to join in Year 3 in Sep 24.

Croydon High School, CR2 8YB

020 8260 7508

Independent Girls’ Day School, 3–18 yrs

www.croydonhigh.gdst.net

Ready 4 Reception 2023, Thu 23 Mar

Downsend School

Leatherhead, Ashtead, Epsom Co–educational Pre Prep School, 2-6 yrs

www.downsend.co.uk

Junior and Senior: Fri 10 Mar

Talk and Tours Led by either Clare Kirkham (Head of Junior) or Karl Newland (Head of Senior). See the school in action, visiting classes and see specialist facilities in use.

Junior: Wednesdays, 9:30am

Senio: Tuesdays at 10:45am

Dunottar School

Reigate, RH2 7EL

Co-educational day school, 11-18 yrs

www.dunottarschool.com

Wed 26 Apr & Wed 3 May

Elmhurst School for Boys and Little Elms

Nursery, CR2 7DW 020 8688 0661

Independent day school for boys, 2–11 yrs

www.elmhurstschool.net

Fri 28 Apr

Essendene Lodge

Caterham, CR3 5PB

018 8334 8349

www.essendenelodge.co.uk

Thu 27 Apr

LEO Academy Trust

At all schools across LEO Academy Trust, inclusion is a fundamental principle of our Learning, Excellence and Opportunity ethos.

All our schools are welcoming, encouraging, and enable every pupil to achieve their best; whatever the challenges. We aim to provide appropriate and professional services to engage, empower, and enrich families and pupils within the Trust.

We seek to eliminate discrimination in the form of unwitting prejudices, ignorance, and stereotyping; with the goal to ensure that no-one is disadvantaged.

Ewell Castle Junior and Senior, KT17 2AW 020 8393 1413

Co-educational day school, 3–18 yrs

www.ewellcastle.co.uk

Whole School: Fri 10 Mar

Nursery, Pre-Prep & Prep: Wed 26 Apr

Year 3 Discovery event for current year 3 pupils: 20 Mar

The Hawthorns School, RH1 4QJ

Co-educational day school, 2-13 yrs

www.hawthorns.com

Thu 16 Mar & Sat 13 May

Lingfield College, RH7 6PH www.lingfieldcollege.co.uk

Prep School in Action Morning: Wed 15 Mar & Wed 26 Apr

Old Palace School of John Whitgift Preparatory, CR2 7YN Senior, Croydon, CR0 1AX 020 8688 2027 www.oldpalace.croydon.sch.uk Prep School: Thu 23 Mar

Seaton House School, SM2 5LH www.seatonhouse.sutton.sch.uk

Sat 25 Mar

St David’s School, Purley, CR8 3AL

www.stdavidsschool.co.uk

Wed 26 Apr

LEO Academy Trust is proud to be celebrating Children’s Mental Health Week across all of our schools from 6-12 February. This year’s theme ‘Let’s Connect’ is about making meaningful connections for all. We will be encouraging pupils to connect with others in healthy, rewarding, and meaningful ways.

We have a wide range of resources which can be found on the LEO Academy Trust website www. leoacademytrust.co.uk/2022/ inclusion-for-all

Calling

all young Scientists!

Help us discover how babies & kids learn! We’re recruiting infants from birth through school age to take part in fun studies at Birkbeck’s BabyLab & ToddlerLab in central London. Our prime locations are easy to reach and we refund travel expenses. We also have online studies you can do from the comfort of home www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk/online-studies

020 3926 1207

babylab @ bbk.ac.uk www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk

Something for everyone at Ewell Castle Prep School

Ewell Castle Prep School in Ewell Village is a wonderful blend of academic aspiration and challenge, pastoral care and inclusivity and a real sense of warmth and community.

We focus on preparing children for life, both at school and beyond. We guide our pupils to build important life skills and teamwork, supporting their emerging talents within a nurturing and intellectually curious environment. We are a school where children thrive, engage, and excel - and we love teaching here.

Many of our children who join at Nursery continue on through the Pre-Prep, Prep and onto our Senior School and Sixth Form. We offer a seamless and stress- free transition from the Pre-Prep to the Prep, then from the Prep to the Senior School.

At Ewell Castle Prep School there is something for everyone and developing critical thinkers who are compassionate and curious, is what we are all about. We understand that who your children become is as important as what they know.

Email admissions@ewellcastle.co.uk to attend an open event and discover this for yourself.

A ‘universal childcare guarantee’ would boost UK economy

A ‘universal childcare guarantee’ for children up to age 11 would boost economy by extra £13 billion a year, a report finds.

The research by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) found that providing access to affordable childcare for all families could slash nearly £2.8 billion from government spending through the resulting increase in parents returning to work or extending their hours.

It would mean some 700,000 household could see their incomes rise and, whilst, at the same time, reducing the current high cost of childcare for families from between £620 and £6,175 a year.

With more women returning to full time work and progressing further and faster in their careers, the gender pay gap would also narrow.

The report sets out the steps needed to boost economic growth which start with increasing funding for free hours of childcare and extending wraparound care.

More information at www.bit.ly/IPPRchildcare

Meet the Head at Little Downsend Vanessa Conlan

Meet the Head Special feature

An experienced teacher of almost 30 years, the last 14 in headship, Vanessa is a graduate of the University of Southampton where she obtained a BEd (Hons) in Primary Education with Music. Vanessa is a mother of two boys, both at Downsend, and is an ex-rugby player who loves to travel, holiday in Pegasus, the family campervan and listen to live music.

Little Downsend currently educates children from the age of two to six, but in September 2023 will expand to welcome babies from the age of 6 months up to the age of 7.

What does being a Head at Little Downsend mean to you?

It is an absolute privilege to lead Early Years and Key Stage 1 schools. Education is such a huge part of a child’s life that it is vital we get the motivation to succeed right, right from the start.

Having the opportunity to do this and to nurture the very youngest minds, opening them up to the big wide world of possibility and how to safely and confidently navigate it through challenge, fun and experience is what gets me up each morning.

How would you describe the ethos of Little Downsend School?

We talk about Little Downsend being a place for little people with very big ideas –and that describes our schools perfectly. We’re innovative, go-getting, exciting, and adventurous.

Learning should be fun and playful, capturing the natural curiosity and creativity of small children. We’re passionate about making sure our children achieve outstanding results, whilst also providing them with the skills they will need to be incredible young people who are excited to take on everything the future has to offer.

How would the students describe you?

I think they would probably describe me as having endless energy – and although I am a firm but fair Headteacher, I do enjoy a bit of messy play or some time in the sand pit!

What attracted you to working with children in Early Years education?

I truly believe that we never stop learning, as life never stops teaching, and throughout my journey I have been both intrigued and inspired by children in the Early Years stages. What skills do children need to master in their formative years as the best foundations to enable high achievement and positive wellbeing in later years?

One of my biggest passions throughout my career has been working to support children through the teaching of reading, and the provision of a rich language environment. It is so important for young children to develop a passion for reading, and to read widely for pleasure as they grow older.

What are the qualities of a great teacher?

To be a brilliant Early Years teacher, you have to genuinely love what you do – enthusiasm, energy and the ability to inspire small children are a must! But what I look for in my teaching team on top of all that, is the willingness and flexibility to push the boundaries a little bit – to look at what we could be doing differently, or better, and to constantly be looking for opportunities to excite the children and add value to their learning journey.

What have you been most proud of since joining the Little Downsend as Headteacher?

Our recent achievement at Little Downsend for our innovative approach to the use of technology, even for our littlest people.

Achievements for me are never about awards and recognition, they are always about the impact on the children but being nominated for two innovation awards and being accepted into the Microsoft Showcase School Incubator Pathway really celebrates the amazing work of the Little Downsend team in delivering a truly excellent curriculum for our incredible little people. That, and achieving an ‘Excellent’ rating by the Independent Schools Inspectorate of course!

What is your biggest challenge at present?

We have all heard and read about the challenges in the education and Early Years sector currently. My teaching team are absolutely the reason our children receive excellence day to day and so recruiting and retaining within the sector, the very best in class teams to work with my children is a challenge.

What advice would you give to parents choosing a school?

Using your instinct is really important –does it feel right, can you imagine your child in the school every day and do your values align? It is easy to over-focus on data, and data is important, but you know your child best, so make sure you ask plenty of questions and get a real feel for the school, its team and the ethos.

To find out more about Downsend School visit www.downsend.co.uk or call 01372 372311.

Achievement, the academia and beyond

All parents want their children to thrive and succeed. We want them to be fit and healthy, have friends and achieve academically.

Children who are fit and healthy, get enough sleep, exercise regularly, and eat well are fulfilling their first basic human needs. Without which their developing brains would not be able to function at their highest capacity.

Likewise, children who feel safe and secure in their social connections, physically and emotionally, have a far better capacity to take on and understand new information. So, when it comes to making space for learning and achieving academically, children need to be ‘learning ready’ through fulfilling these two basic human needs.

Understanding of the world makes a physical impact in our developing bodies. We internalise our fears, worries and anxieties without consciousness and as a result, many of our limiting beliefs are formed before the age of 7.

There are many things parents could focus on, however in my experience the one that underpins them all is emotional regulation, as without it children do not have the capacity to retain information and sustain their learning stamina as they move through the education system and into adulthood.

There are some fundamental things parents can do to support their children in developing the ability to manage emotions, and by manage I do not mean avoid, I mean to allow, accept, and move through them without them taking hold or being suppressed, only to pop up elsewhere.

Allow space for failure in a safe and supported environment. The more children practise and experience failure, the more resilient and confident they become. Children who have overcome the huge emotions of disappointment and frustration build belief in themselves and their capabilities. Showing empathy and encouraging them is a huge part of nurturing long term academic success. Children that do not build resilience to fail, grow to avoid it, wanting to maintain their emotional safety.

Allow them to reflect on what they have learnt without projecting your emotional experiences onto them. As adults, with our fully developed brains, we see the world through our own

experiences and beliefs. It can be difficult to manage our own desires of success for our children and to avoid feeling frustrated when they are not achieving what we know they can. Allowing them to reflect on where they went wrong, how they can do things next time and what different strategies and techniques they could apply is a challenging but fundamental step to learning. As human beings we learn most successfully through our own experience.

Through building our children’s confidence, resilience, and self-esteem they become happier, healthier and more able to take on new challenges. This impacts not only their academic achievements but also their social interactions, which brings us around full circle - healthy bodies, secure connections and increased academic achievements. When the human brain feels safe and secure physically and emotionally, it moves its focus from surviving to thriving.

The learning jigsaw

Number bonds and times tables.

The understanding of the way numbers fit together is a crucial part of every maths equation. If children know their multiplication, they can easily spot number patterns and relationships in more challenging questions.

Read beyond the curriculum.

Children who read for interest and enjoyment come across a great many more vocabulary choices and sentence structures than those who read for purpose. This allows them to replicate what they read more successfully and with emotional engagement fuelling inner motivation.

Revision is multisensory.

To truly revise with success, children need to engage a mixture of senses. They need to read the information, say it out loud, hear it and write it down. When children do this, they are far more likely to remember it.

The most effective approaches to learning include rhythm, rhyme, images and games to engage emotional connection to the experience itself. The brain remembers what we feel more quickly than what we know so connecting the two is a great way to support your child’s learning.

SPD Tuition and Coaching focus on behaviour as communication and support parents, practitioners and young people in embracing every stage with the confidence and strategies they need to support, challenge and inspire.

If you would like to hear more about the emotional and academic support they offer, email: spdtuitionandcoaching@ gmail.com or visit www.spdtuitionandcoaching.co.uk

Our goal is to bring out the very best in your daughter, releasing her potential to enable her to fly! To find out what the buzz is about, why not book a private tour? Please email

Clubs & Classes Directory

LONDON TKD

Epsom, Sutton, Caterham

An exciting children’s martial arts programme for ages 4-5s and 6-11s.

www.london-tkd.co.uk

LCA STAGE ACADEMY

Oxted, Ashford

Performance classes and workshops in singing, acting and dancing including technique training, one to one sessions and a range of opportunities for young, aspiring performers aged 3-18.

www.lca-stage.com

Perform Caterham, Oxted, Purley, Reigate, Shirley Confidence building weekly drama, dance and singing classes for ages 4-7s and 7-12s. Classes are designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and coordination.

www.perform.org.uk/try

KSM SCHOOL

Teaching across Surrey

Lessons for beginner to advanced levels from 3 years to adult. Music theory training for music medals, music theatre and band. 1-1 or group lessons in Piano, Guitar, Drums, Violin and choir.

www.kingswoodsurreymusic.co.uk

THE LOTUS PRACTIVE: BABY MASSAGE AND YOGA Croydon CranioSacral therapy, baby massage, yoga and osteopathic treatments for helping with new-born babies, pregnant mothers, as well as children, teenagers, and adults right through to the elderly.

www.thelotuspractice.com

LIVE LOVE PERFORM

Reigate, Dorking, Brockham

Fresh and immersive Ballet, Street Dance, Musical Theatre, and Tap classes, for ages 2+ with a unique ethos.

www.liveloveperform.co.uk

DUNOTTAR SATURDAY MUSIC ACADEMY

Reigate

Music tuition for young musicians aged 5-18. All abilities welcome. Piano, Singing, Woodwind, Strings, Brass and Music Theory.

www.dunottarschool.com/saturdaymusic-academy

SPD TUITION

Tailored one-to-one teaching, allowing students to achieve their full potential. We also offer students support in developing fundamental life skills such as building self-esteem, awareness, resilience and emotional intelligence.

www.spdtuitionandcoaching.co.uk

RUGBYTOTS

Croydon, Sutton, Epsom, Reigate, Leatherhead and more.

Offering dynamic weekly sessions which enable boys and girls aged 2-7 to develop social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment

www.rugbytots.co.uk

TUMBLE TOTS

Epsom, Ewell, Sutton, North Cheam

A progressive play programme designed to develop children’s balance, climbing and co-ordination, which enhances brain development and builds confidence. From 6 months old who can sit up unaided.

www.tumbletots.com/epsom

CURLY ENTERTAINMENT

London, Croydon and Surrey

Curly Entertainment provides allinclusive, active entertainment for children’s parties. We provide magic shows, balloon modelling, mascots, sound system with lights, prizes for all and high energy, fun games and dances.

curly-entertainment.business.site

“We believe that every child deserves an opportunity to follow their dream”

KSM School

Lessons for beginners to advanced levels Range of packages to learn music including:

• Weekly 1:1 and/or inclusive Group sessions from £25 (with performance opportunities throughout the year)

• Music lessons for Singing, Piano, Guitar, Drums, Violin, Flute, Music Theory and more

• Grade exams for Music Medals, ABRSM, Trinity, Rock School or LCM & Musicianship

www.kingswoodsurreymusic.co.uk - Call 01737 830774

The Lotus Practice

Now offering

ü Cranio-sacral therapy

ü Baby Massage Courses

ü Baby Yoga Courses

ü

Osteopathy

CranioSacral therapy is a gentle, non-invasive handon technique that supports body’s innate ability to balance, restore and heal itself. It is suitable for everyone from new-born to elderly.

Music Tuition

Dunottar Saturday Music Academ

Calling all young aspiring musicians aged 5 -18 All abilities welcome from beginners to more experienced musicians.

The Academy operates from 8.30am to 3.00pm on Saturdays. Lesson times are arranged between the teacher and pupil.

Strings: Violin, Viola and Cello

Woodwind: Flute, Clarinet and Saxophone

Piano, Voice and Music Theory

www dunottarschool com/saturda mus academy

WWW.DUNOTTARSCHOOL.COM

High Trees Road, Reigate, Surrey RH2 7EL Tel: 01737 761945 Email: info@dunottarschool.com

MAKE YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT MORE FUN!

TRY RUGBYTOTS

O ur dynamic weekly play sessions enable boys and girls aged 2–7 to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment. For more details, just call or email.

0345 313 3242

enquiries@rugbytots.co.uk

rugbytots.co.uk

The world’s favourite rugby play programme

Treat your Mum like a queen this Mother’s Day!

Take her shopping at the Belfry

Mother’s Day is the perfect time to show the women in our lives how much they mean to us. Find that perfect gift, to say thank you for making everyday moments so special, at the Belfry. From luxury treats to relaxing self-care, special gift experiences and new top-selling books they’ll love, it’s all under one roof!

Visit a castle fit for a queen

Once home to Anne Boleyn, Queen of England from 1533 to 1536 and second wife to King Henry VIII, Hever Castle and Gardens is the perfect setting to show your mum just how much you love her with a wonderful family day out to Hever Castle on Mother’s Day Weekend. The historic Castle and stunning gardens are the perfect place to say thank you and enjoy a family day out. www.hevercastle.co.uk

Make a scrapbook

Have a game or movie night

Gather up your family and spend some meaningful time together, shared with laughter and giggles. My family love interactive options like charades, or games like Pictionary that can be adapted for all ages. If it is a movie night, pick your mother’s favourite and prepare everything beforehand - from dinner to popcorn to after-show desserts.

Gather a collection of pictures from your favourite memories together and collate them into a scrapbook. This will be truly heart-warming and will make her happy and will be something that she will look through again and again. Hobbycraft have everything you could possibly need to create a beautiful and memorable scrapbook that will be treasured for years to come. www.hobbycraft.co.uk

Start a new tradition

If you don’t yet have a tradition for celebrating Mother’s Day, start a new one. How about taking a family photo and vowing to take that same photo every year? Going on a family bike ride or having a glorious all-day picnic in a park nearby?

Celebrate in style with thoughtful cards, balloons, chocolate, teddies and more from Card Factory, Cards Direct, M&S and many other stores!

There are plenty of great gift options to treat mum, from top-brand fragrances to luxury skincare! We have a selection of stores from Boots, Superdrug and The Fragrance Shop – to name just a few! Find everything you need to Celebrate Mother’s Day at the Belfry, the heart of Redhill. www.thebelfry.co.uk

Help pursue a hobby

Mothers spend most of their time working or meeting the family’s needs and seldom get a chance to unwind by doing things they like. If you know an activity your mother has been planning to do for ages, then enrol them in a class or download an online app to help them to pursue the hobby, or simply provide them the time needed to revisit a past hobby they enjoy.

Make something

Chances are that you’re good at something, so why not take the opportunity to make something special for your mum? Put those talents to good use and pass on your skills to the kids! If your talent is a crazy gift for research, start a family tree and let her know that you’d be happy to trace your ancestry together.

Easter adventures with the National Trust

British Wildlife Centre

l Badgers, hedgehogs, deer, pine martens, wildcats, foxes, owl display & more l Keeper Talks l Coffee Shop l Picnic Areas

Gift Shop

l Free Parking

Bring the whole family together this Easter and treat your loved ones to a spring adventure with the National Trust. From getting active in the great outdoors, to spotting the signs of spring and experiencing nature bursting into life at your local National Trust Easter trails.

Each National Trust Easter trail ends with a chocolate egg, or vegan and free from egg, made here in the UK using cocoa that’s responsibly sourced from Rainforest Alliance Certified farms. The egg trails cost £3 per child, plus normal National Trust admission/free entry for members. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

25 Mar–19 Apr

Run Wild Through Time at Polesden Lacey

Great Bookham RH5 6BD

Embrace your inner wild animal and explore the grounds as you journey back in time to when elephants, wolves and lynx would have roamed free, with a few surprises along the way. Dressing up is encouraged.

7-10 Apr

Easter Crafts at Dapdune Wharf

Wharf Road GU1 4RR

Enjoy activities along the trail including den building, crafts and bunny hopping! There is no charge to enter the Wharf.

25 Mar-10 Apr

Easter at Claremont

Landscape Garden

Esher KT10 9JG

You and the family can join in with games in the garden whilst taking in the picturesque views created by some of the greatest Landscape designers. Spring offers the chance to stroll through swathes of daffodils, feed tiny goslings, and make the most of bright days in this historic royal pleasure ground.

1–16 Apr

Easter at Winkworth Arboretum

Godalming GU8 4AD

This Easter, take a voyage of discovery winding your way

through the arboretum on an activity-filled nature trail while taking in the landscape springing into life and colour. Kids can have a go at making their own masterpiece with items found across the woodland floor, search for wildflowers or predicting the weather.

1–16 Apr

Easter Trail at Hatchlands

Park East Clandon GU4 7RT

See how many eggs you can spot on our Easter nature trail, with games and challenges to enjoy along the way.

1–16 Apr

Easter Trail at Hindhead Commons and the Devil’s Punch Bowl

Hindhead GU26 6AB

Enjoy an adventure in nature at Hindhead Commons with activities and fun for all the family.

7–10 Apr

Egg Rolling at Box Hill

Tadworth KT20 7LB

Take part in the grand old tradition of egg rolling down the big hill at Box Hill. Bring your own fabulously decorated egg to roll down the hill 11am or 3pm each day. Best decorated egg wins a prize. Come early if you’d like to visit the egg decorating station to get egg ready. No extra charge.

Step into spring at Winkworth Arboretum with nature‑themed games and activities

Enjoy adventures in nature at Hindhead Commons

Go egg spotting at Hatchlands Park with games and challenges along the way Spring into action at then get creative with Easter crafts

What's On Family Theatre

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the information displayed here is accurate, always check with the venue before attending.

an exciting opportunity to meet the characters after the show, this is sure to be the family show of the year that you don’t want to miss!

Epsom Playhouse KT18 5AL www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk

28 & 29 Mar

Epsom & Ewell Schools’ Music Festival

This Music Festival has been organised by the Borough Opportunities, which is part of the Collaborative Learning Teaching School Alliance. It is a fantastic opportunity to see children from the Epsom and Ewell schools showcase their singing.

loves her singing but soon she finds she’s been tricked by the dastardly circus master. Will she ever escape? And who will help her along the way?

13 Apr–7 May

The Lost Spells

Journey with us into the wild world…A fun, wild and boisterous adventure full of paw-tapping music and dancing, played live on-stage by actor-musicians, The Lost Spells celebrates the magic, power and wonder of nature that could be just outside your window. The Barn Theatre RH8 0AA www.barntheatre.org.uk

Dorking Halls RH4 1SG 01306 881717 www.dorkinghalls.co.uk

1 Apr, 2pm & 6pm

Rapunzel: Easter Panto

Don’t miss another fun-filled Easter pantomime from the same team behind Cinderella, The Wizard of Oz, Peter Pan and Beauty and the Beast. With a star cast, impressive music, energetic dance routines as well as plenty of jokes, slapstick and heaps of audience participation! Starring comedy legend Bobby Davro, Britain’s Got Talent WinnerCollabro’s Matt Pagan and Easter panto funny-man Karen The Mam’s Lewis Denny.

11 Apr Fireman Sam LIVE

Join Sam, Penny, Elvis, Station Officer Steele and Norman in an all singing, dancing, actionpacked show. You can become a fire-fighter cadet and then watch the magic of the circus. So, come along to Pontypandy and watch the adventures unfold!

The Horton KT19 8NP www.thehortonepsom.org

Fri 7 Apr

Short Stories Tall Tales – Mouse and Sam

A heart-warming tale about being brave in a great big world and finding a friend.

Your little ones will be enthralled and love to explore and discover the world through his eyes as he finds a way to play, have fun and be brave. Ages 0-5.

The Hawth RH10 6YZ www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk

30 Mar–1 Apr

Kensuke’s Kingdom Michael is a young boy who goes on a fantastic sailing adventure with his parents around the world. Their dream becomes a nightmare when the boat is hit by a terrifying. Washed up alone on an island, he fights for survival before making a startling discovery... the island is already home to one extraordinary man - this is Kensuke’s kingdom.

Ages 7+

Harlequin Theatre RH1 1NN www.harlequintheatre.co.uk

31 Mar & 1 Apr

Twirlywoos

The funny, loveable Twirlywoos are brought to life on stage with beautifully inventive puppetry promising an hour of colourful fun and laughter. Ages 1+.

2 Apr

The Little Mermaid

Expect lots of fun, singing and dancing, all brought to you by a fantastic and energetic company of wonderful performers. Sparkling scenery, beautiful costumes and

3 Apr

Let’s All Dance present Cinderella

Let’s All Dance Ballet Company biggest show to date.This magical new ballet follows the traditional tale with fresh touches, and is the ultimate fairytale treat for the whole family.

The Leatherhead Theatre KT22 8DN www.theleatherheadtheatre.com

16–18 Mar

HOFE Presents the Wizard of Oz

This timeless classic, brought to life by the talented cast from Howard of Effingham School is not to be missed!

Polka Theatre SW19 1SB www.polkatheatre.com

1 Apr-21 May

Let’s Build!

Let’s Build! Embraces the magic of discovering things for the first time, where mistakes are a door to something new. A new interactive performance made especially for 2–5-year-olds.

31 Mar–8 Apr

The Singing Mermaid

The singing mermaid is tempted away to join a travelling circus, with the promise of a life of excitement (and her own swimming pool!). The audience

1 Apr

Goodnight Mister Tom

Goodnight Mister Tom is the story of William Beech, an artisticallygifted but abused young boy who escapes his brutal home life when he is evacuated to the countryside during World War II. He is ultimately rescued from his hideous upbringing when he is taken into the care of Mister Tom, a lonely old man.

Colour House Children’s Theatre SW19 2RD www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk

1 Apr–4 Jun

Alice in Wonderland

Join the fun at Colour House Children’s Theatre with our wonderful new musical adaptation of the ever-popular tale by Lewis Carroll – a true classic for the family to enjoy, every Sat and Sun!

The Electric Theatre, Guildford www.electric.theatre

2 Apr

Let’s All Dance – Cinderella Combines stunning dancing, storytelling, music and beautiful costumes to enchant the family.

16 Apr

The Bubble Show

Join Mr Bubbles with his extraordinary soap bubbles in all shapes and sizes. Ages 3-12.

What’s On

All listings are correct at the time of publication. Please check with the venue before you visit in case anything has changed.

STAY & PLAY SESSIONS

Term time only

Fri, 9.30-11am

Toddle Time at Banstead Prep

www.bansteadprep.com/nursery

A free weekly parent and toddler group featuring toys, activities and fun Led by Miss Compton, the Head of Early Years. Children aged 1- 3.

Mon, 10am–12pm

Stay and Play at Cumnor House

Kindergarten & Pre-School, Purley www.cumnorhouse.com

Aimed at children from age of 1 who are steady on their feet. Join the Early Years team for a morning of fun, with themed weeks and planned activities!

Mon & Tue, 10-11.30am

Little Ivy’s Stay and Play at Croydon High School

www.www.facebook.com/littleivys

Aimed at children from birth to 4 years, accompanied by an adult! Lots of activities including music and movement, stories, and craft. £3 per child, which includes refreshments for adults and children.

Fri, 10.30am–12pm

Active Play with Hawthornes School

www.hawthorns.com

Fun activity stations designed to stimulate minds and encourage active bodies, with a baby area. Session’s end with a fun song time. Snacks and refreshments included. £3.50 (card payments only).

MARCH & APRIL

PYO Daffodils

Priory Farm Estate, RH1 4EJ

www.prioryfarm.co.uk/ discoveryland

Hop aboard the tractor trailer and take a ride to the beautiful daffodil fields to pick your very own bunch of beautiful spring blooms. Visit the website to find out when the daffodils are ready for picking.

11–25 Mar

Fiver Fest Oxted

www.loveoxted.co.uk

If everyone in Oxted spent £5 per week in local independent

businesses instead of online, it would generate £2.2 million for the local economy. So, as part of Totally Locally’s national high street campaign, Oxted will be taking part in #fiverfest this March, with participating businesses offering special deals for £5.

11 Mar

Rome Needs You! Join the Roman Army Bourne Hall, KT17 1UF www.epsom-ewell.gov.uk

The Legions of Rome march into Ewell, enforcing the rule of the Empire. Discover what it was like to be a Roman soldier, having to serve for 25 years before receiving your generous pension — if you survived!

18–19 Mar, 22–23 Apr and 1–16 April Steam & Heritage Diesel Train Rides Spa Valley Railway www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk

Enjoy a train ride this with a steam locomotive and a heritage diesel between Tunbridge Wells West and Eridge, calling at High Rocks and Groombridge. You can sit back and relax letting the train take the strain, which is perfect on those damp rainy moments or bright sunny days!

From Apr to early May Tulip Festival Arundel Castle, BN18 9AB www.arundelcastle.org

The festival is regarded as one of the top tulip displays in Europe, and is set against the breathtaking backdrop of the castle’s gardens. A sea of colour awaits as the festival showcases over 120 different named tulips.

1 Apr Ewell Horticultural Association’s Spring Show Blenheim High School, KT19 9BH www.ewellhortassn.co.uk

Displays of spring flowers, cookery, photography, craft & design and floral art plus plants, bulbs and garden sundries for sale.

1–16 Apr Hedgehog Fun Box Hill, The Old Fort, KT20 7LB www.nationaltrust.org.uk/box-hill

Enjoy lots of free hedgehog games and crafts for all the family.

Introducing the Music Garden, a new interactive feature at Discovery Land

Come and experience the new space, designed for both children and adults alike to explore the wonderful world of sound, making music in unexpected and surprising ways!

Musicians-in-the-making can take centre stage to chime hanging bamboo pipes, bang on giant gong or strike the mushroom cymbals. Together with your family, you’ll have the opportunity to tap along to the tunes as you move to the beat on our giant fern xylophone or play your favourite melodies on our hand pipes!

The Music Garden will be a permanent feature at Discovery Land from 1 April, with entry included as part of the General Admission.

Priory Farm Estate, RH1 4EJ I www.prioryfarm.co.uk/discoveryland

1–2 Apr

Bunny Hunt

Riverhill Himalayan Gardens, TN15 0RR www.riverhillgardens.co.uk

A family favourite at Riverhill, come and hunt for the hidden bunnies amongst the blooming rhododendrons and earn yourself a chocolate egg reward.

2 Apr

Gatton Park Open Day

Reigate, RH2 0TW www. gattonpark.co.uk

Stroll around the park to enjoy the spring flowers. The grounds are fully open and there is a small plant sale as well as free guided tours and activities for children. Tea, cake and other refreshments are available to purchase.

3 & 4 Apr

The Brick People

Denbies Wine Estate, RH5 6AA www.denbies.co.uk

Brick building with LEGO® and LEGO® DUPLO play areas. 60-minute sessions hosted by The Brick People. Children under 5 are free with a paying adult.

3 & 4 Apr

Baby Animals Egg Hunt

Sutton Ecology Centre, SM5 3NY www.suttonbiodiversity.eventbrite. com Find out more about baby animals, go on an egg hunt and make a craft to take home. 3yrs+. £6.50 per child + booking fee.

7 Apr & 1 May

Surrey S.M.E Open Day SAT NAV enter Mill Lane, Leatherhead www.ssme.co.uk

The Surrey Society of Model Engineers invite the public to come and enjoy rides on our steam and electric trains.

7–9 Apr

Medieval Festival

Arundel Castle, BN18 9AB www.arundelcastle.org

Set within a large, tented encampment, this three-day event will have demonstrations of 12th century combat, archery, falconry, musicians, and have a go activities such as archery, and a craft tent.

11 Apr

Maisy’s Nature Walk

Sutton Ecology Centre, SM5 3NY www.suttonbiodiversity.eventbrite. com

Join Maisy and friends for adventures in the Ecology Centre spotting signs of spring. Booking essential. 3-7 yrs. £6.50 per child + booking fee

21–23 April

Branch Line Gala Weekend

The Bluebell Railway, TN22 3QL www.bluebell-railway.com

Come along for a fun-packed weekend showcasing Bluebell Railway’s small locomotives and some very special visitors!

22 & 23 Apr

Spring Live!

South of England Showground www.seas.org.uk

Featuring live and interactive entertainment, hundreds of shopping stalls, a food hall, and mouth-watering artisan treats from independent producers, Spring Live! is a must-attend event of the season.

23 & 25 Apr

Little Explorers at Claremont Landscape Garden www.nationaltrust.org.uk

A fun-filled adventure investigating Spring through outdoor exploration and hands-on activities. £6 per child accompanied by a parent or guardian. Online booking essential. 23 Apr, 11am & 1.30pm (ages 5-9). 25 Apr, 11am & 2pm (ages 3-5).

29 Apr

Banstead Village May Fayre www.facebook.com/ bansteadmayqueen?locale=en_GB

A great day out for the whole family.

29 & 30 Apr

See Bluey Spa Valley Railway www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk

Children’s favourite Bluey will be appearing at Groombridge station. Take a steam train ride from Tunbridge Wells West to Groombridge where you can alight to see Bluey as the steam locomotive changes ends of the train.

30 Apr & 1 May

Nonsuch Town & Country Show Nonsuch Park, KT17 2DL www.nonsuchcountryshow.co.uk

The Nonsuch Town and Country Show is a guaranteed great day out, with something for everybody from Food Festivals to Motorbike Stunts to Festivals of Dogs.

14 May Cow Pie Country Show Blindley Heath, Lingfield, RH7 6JL www.cowpie.co.uk

An exciting country show organised by Surrey Young Farmers Clubs with something for all the family to see and do.

EASTER HOLIDAYS HOLIDAY CAMPS

1–16 Apr

Ready to Race Brooklands Museum, KT13 0QN www.brooklandsmuseum.com

Family workshops, costumed characters, pedal cars, heritage bus rides, planes and boarding a Concorde.

1–16 Apr

Springtime on the Farm Bocketts Farm Park, KT22 9BS www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

Hundreds of gorgeous baby lambs due. Complete the Spring Trail with chocolate treats. Meet chicks and bunnies in Small Animal Encounters sessions. Explore acres of outdoor play. Hop on board the Tractor and Trailer Ride.

1–16 Apr

Superworm Kew Gardens, Richmond www.kew.org

Follow the trail and discover familiar scenes from the story and explore the world of Superworm.

1–16 Apr

Egg-straordinary Dragon Trail Painshill, KT11 1JE www.painshill.co.uk

Find all the dragons and their eggs at Painshill this Easter holiday with our family statue trail. Perfect for all the family, the dragon trail follows a 1-mile route for those with buggies or little legs!

1–16 Apr

Duck Detectives London Wetland Centre www.wwt.org.uk

Easter activities for all ages: Duck Detectives trail for whole family to discover wildlife secrets. Free Colour Hunt trail card for under 5s,

A Real Natural History Experience

The British Wildlife Centre is home to the UK’s finest collection of native wildlife.

With everything from tiny harvest mice to magnificent red deer, including rare Scottish wildcats, badgers, polecats, owls, foxes and more.

daily drop-in Pond Dipping (11am and 2pm) and Plant Detectives sessions (1pm), both drop in.

1–17 Apr

Easter at RHS Garden Wisley www.rhs.org.uk

This Easter, go on a larger-than-life egg hunt at RHS Garden Wisley. Search for giant eggs designed by 2022 competition winners hidden in the garden and win a chocolate prize, and join in family seed planting and craft workshops in the Clore Learning Centre.

3–13 Apr

Easter Bunny Outdoor Train Ride Denbies Wine Estate, RH5 6AA www.denbies.co.uk

Enjoy a trip around the vineyard on Denbies Easter Bunny Train Ride with a special visit from the Easter Bunny himself. Spot the gold Easter eggs throughout the vineyard, ticking them off in your Easter Train Passport. Find all 3 gold eggs to win an Easter prize!

5-10 Apr

Easter Egg Hunt

Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ london/morden-hall-park/events

Make your way along the trail and take part in fun-filled games and activities that will get your heart racing and your brains whirring.

6 & 16 Apr

Hedgehog Craft Workshops

Box Hill, The Old Fort, KT20 7LB www.nationaltrust.org.uk/box-hill

Meet Lucy Reynolds, author of ‘Hedgehogs don’t live in the city’ and enjoy readings and a craft workshop. Booking essential. No extra charge.

Camp Glide, actionpacked multiactivity day camp Venues across Surrey www.campglide. co.uk

Camp Glide’s multi-activity day camps provide fun-filled and affordable childcare during the school holidays for school-aged children. A typical day includes free play, a range of clinics for campers to choose from, swimming and one of our exciting all-camp activities, so you can be safe in the knowledge that your child is having a great time!

3, 5, 10 and 12 Apr, SEN Camp (1:1)

7 Apr, Kids Critters Easter Camps

Betchworth www.kidscritters. co.uk/holiday-camps

Offering all children and teens a holiday camp with a difference, wildlife and nature activities with a twist ... come and spend time with the critters too! Ages 4 to teens.

London TKD Easter Holiday Camps

Ewell Grove Primary School, KT17 1UZ

www.london-tkd.co.uk/ programmes/holiday-camps

A multi activity camp for ages 5-11.

3, 4 and 5 Apr, Live Love Perfrom Easter Dance and Musical Theatre Workshops

Brockham Village Hall

www.llp.dance/workshops

Three fun-filled workshops based around a film (Zootropolis), a musical (Matilda) and a book (Gangsta Granny) for ages 4+. Themes will be explored through dance, singing and games with a mini performance to finish! 10am-12pm.

3–6 Apr, The Zone Holiday Club Banstead Prep School

www.thezonebanstead.co.uk

Book early for our Easter camp, lots of Easter fun, with egg hunts, arts and crafts, swimming, sport, drama and more. We have the Mini Zone too for 3 years up! Check our website for more details and how to book.

Family Fun at RHS Garden Wisley

RHS Wisley is steeped in history and blazing a trail as a glorious garden of the future. Discover RHS Hilltop – The Home of Gardening Science, dedicated to inspiring the next generation of gardeners.

Mon 31 Jul-Fri 4 Aug, LCA

Musical Theatre Summer Workshop 2023!

Oxted School, RH8 0AB www.lca-stage.com

Performers are taught several sequences, songs & scenes from a selection of Musicals and then present a demonstration performance at the end of the week!

Discover Britain’s wonderful wildlife this Easter Holiday when the Centre is open daily from 2023. The Centre’s popular Children’s Easter Trail takes place on Sunday 9 April and is free to admission tickets holders on the day.

British Wildlife Centre RH7 6LF I www.britishwildlifecentre.co.uk

Easter at Hever Castle and Gardens

Make some special family memories this Spring with an Easter quest and an egg-cellent craft egg decorating workshop at Hever Castle.

Children are invited to help the Easter bunny find sweet treats as part of a quest around the grounds or get creative with a free egg decorating workshop. Enjoy a dazzling display of spring blooms from late daffodils to tulips. Run off some steam in three play areas which include the Tudor Towers adventure playground. Or why not challenge yourself not to get wet in the Water Maze.

Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7NG I www.hevercastle.co.uk

Explore the abundant produce in our World Food Garden, sit and reflect in the Wellbeing Garden, or spot insects skimming the water’s edge in the Wildlife Garden.

For a day out that delights all the senses, race the kids up Battleston Hill, explore our colourful Exotic Garden, and wonder at the tropical Glasshouse.

Woking GU23 6QB I www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley

The Great Easter Grotto Escape

Enjoy a day out at Godstone Farm with families and friends, searching for clues in a fun and interactive experience, where success leads to a meeting with the Easter Bunny!

Wholesome fun continues all around the farm, with bunny hop sack races, a duck trail egg and spoon races plus exciting crafts to make and take. With over 500 animals to see there’s also all the usual farmyard fun, along with extensive indoor and outdoor play areas.

Booking online in advance guarantees the best price tickets.

Godstone RH9 8LX I www.godstonefarm.co.uk

The giant Easter egg hunt

Sat 1 – Mon 17 Apr

Hop on down, discover giant eggs hidden around the garden and win a chocolate prize. Your visit supports our work as a charity.

Get away to doing what you’d normally get a telling off for.

To the amazing colour festival. To embracing the technicolor chaos. To finishing the day exhausted, on a big comfy sofa in your Exclusive accommodation. Get away to it all, at one of our 21 UK locations.