Fun Things to do in Surrey
British Columbia
city guide
Surrey, a picturesque county in England, offers a plethora of exciting and enriching activities for visitors to enjoy without breaking the bank. From art galleries to historic walks and natural landscapes, there is something for everyone to explore and discover in this lovely county.
Here are eight of the best free things to do in Surrey:
1. **The Lightbox, Woking, GU21 4AA**: This innovative art gallery features well-presented exhibitions in a light and airy building. Visitors can explore local history on the top floor, making it a perfect destination for art and history enthusiasts or those seeking a quiet place to relax.
2. **Guildford Guided Town Walk, GU1 3AA (seasonal May - September)**: Join a free historic walk of Guildford from May to September. Meet at Tunsgate Arch for a guided tour through 1000 years of history, led by knowledgeable town guides.
3. **Skateboard Park and Splash Pool in Stoke Park, Guildford GU1 1EZ**: Stoke Park offers a popular skate park with ramps, handrails, and bowls suitable for skaters of all levels. The nearby splash pool provides a refreshing escape for children on sunny days.
4. **Box Hill, near Dorking KT20 7LB**: Explore the trails at Box Hill, made famous by the Olympic cycling events. Enjoy peaceful walks and breathtaking views of the Surrey countryside away from the summit.
5. **WWF - Living Planet Centre, Woking GU21 4LL**: Visit the Living Planet Centre for interactive educational activities for children. Entrance is free, and parking is convenient, making it a great destination for families.
6. **Virginia Water, near Egham G25 4QF**: Take a leisurely stroll around the beautiful lake at Virginia Water. The scenic path leads through woodlands, gardens, and historic sites like the 18th-century ornamental cascades and Roman temple.
7. **Farnham Castle Keep, Farnham, GU9 0AG**: Explore the historic Farnham Castle Keep, managed by English Heritage and open to all visitors free of charge. The castle offers a glimpse into the region's rich past and provides free parking for up to 95 cars.
8. **Guildford Cathedral Explorer Tour**: Children can embark on a fun adventure at Guildford Cathedral, following Stanley the Stag on a tour and using Explorer Bags filled with tools like binoculars and magn
Best time to go
If you're looking for the very warmest time to visit Surrey, the hottest months are July, August, and then June. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally early August where highs are regularly around 81.1F (27.3C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 55.4F (13C) at night.
Fun city facts and activities
- 8 OF THE BEST THINGS TO DO FOR FREE IN SURREY
We've put together a list of fantastic things to do and see for free in Surrey to help you save money and make the most of your time in our lovely county.
The Lightbox, Woking, GU21 4AA
Interesting Art Gallery with great innovative and well presented exhibitions housed in a light, airy spacious building. On the top floor you will find an excellent local history section. So whether you're passionate about the arts and history, want activities or would just like somewhere quiet to relax, you will find it at the Lightbox for Free.
Guildford Guide Town Walk, GU1 3AA (seasonal May - September)
From May to September you can join a free afternoon historic walk of the charming town of Guildford. Meet at Tunsgate Arch (opposite the Guildhall Clock) in the High Street at 2.30 and a voluntary town guide will take you through 1000 years of history.
Skateboard Park and Splash pool in Stoke Park, Guildford GU1 1EZ
A popular skate park and splash pool sit within the relaxing Stoke Park in Guildford. The Skate Park has a great mix of ramps, handrails and bowls which caters for beginners and experiences skaters. Whilst the splash pool (open seasonally) surrounded by open grassy space offers children a large shallow pool to cool down in on sunny days.
Box Hill, near Dorking KT20 7LB
Now world famous after the Olympic Cycle races, take a trails that leads you away from the summit and enjoy some peace with beautiful views of stunning Surrey countryside.
WWF - Living Planet Centre , Woking GU21 4LL
The Living Planet Centre It is a children's educational centre with interactive activities. It is free to enter and parking is very easy
Virginia Water, near Egham G25 4QF
Enjoy a waterside stroll around the lovely lake at Virginia Water. There's so much to explore as the well defined path around the lake guides you through woodlands, gardens, an 18th century ornamental cascades, a Roman temple as well as the Leptis Magna Ruins. (Car parking charges apply)
Farnham Castle Keep, Farnham, GU9 0AG
The Castle is currently divided into two, The Keep and Bishops Palace. The Bishops Palace is a conference and wedding venue but The Keep which is managed by English Heritage is free for all to explore and enjoy. Free parking for up to 95 cars.
Children can follow Stanley the Stag on a tour of Guildford Cathedral and use one of the Explorer Bags containing binoculars, magnifying glass and clipboard to look for hidden treasures in a truly magnificent setting.
Neighborhoods to explore
- 1) Guildford
2) Morgan Creek
3) Newton. Photo
4) Cloverdale
5) Sunnyside Park
6) Clayton
7) Fleetwood
Restaurants
Food Specialties
- 12 Best Surrey Restaurants:
12. The Samosa House
11. Sapporo Kitchen
10. Chopsticks on Pho
9. Taste of Himalayas
8. New York New York Greek Restaurant
7. Dominion Bar + Kitchen
6. Liberty Kitchen
5. S+L Kitchen & Bar
4. Clove The Art of Dining
3. UR Restaurant
2. Old Surrey Restaurant
1. Afghan Kitchen South Surrey
Surrey Offbeat activities
Free or cheap things to do
1. Take a Historical Tour of Guildford - Explore Guildfords past with a guided tour of the towns historic buildings, monuments and sites.
2. Visit the Surrey Sculpture Society - See a wide range of sculptures by local artists in the Surrey Sculpture Societys outdoor sculpture garden.
3. Take a Walk Around the RHS Garden Wisley - Explore the beautiful grounds of RHS Garden Wisley and discover its unique plants and wildlife.
4. Visit The Lightbox - Enjoy the art galleries and exhibitions at The Lightbox, a modern art and culture venue in Woking.
5. Explore the Surrey Hills - Take a hike through the Surrey Hills and enjoy its rolling countryside, spectacular views and charming villages.
6. Go Cycling Along the North Downs Way - Follow the North Downs Way and enjoy a leisurely ride through the stunning Surrey countryside.
7. Visit the Surrey Wildlife Trust
Fun things to do in with kids
Free or cheap things to do
1. HONEYBEE CENTER
A fantastic destination for bee and honey lovers, this facility offers a chance for kids to see the lives of bees. The visitors center has an active program to teach about bees and all the useful particulars about these creatures as children watch live bees at work in a glass enclosed hive. The general store offers honey products and all sorts of goodies that your kids will love. Stop for afternoon tea or a honey inspired meal at the on-site restaurant with its pretty greenhouse setting.
2. BOSE CORN MAZE & PUMPKIN PATCH
A seasonal activity that will have kids excited for fall, the Bose farm hosts an incredible pumpkin patch and corn maze during the autumn months. Kids can answer a series of trivia questions to make their way through the two-part maze, or head out into the pumpkin field on a hay ride to look for their perfect pumpkin to carve for Halloween.
3. WE PLAY KIDS GYM
With three areas for playing, this facility is the best place to spend some time with your kids. The main play area is made up of a huge climbing and play structure, slides, a play house, ball pit, monkey bars, spinning equipment, swings, a climbing wall, and age appropriate games. A second area is available for creative art projects. The third area is called Be Chill and is a fantastic rest area for when they need to calm down.
4. PROJECT CLOVERDALE CLIMBING GYM
To challenge your kids to a new activity, or to advance climbing or bouldering skills, head on out to Project Cloverdale. With all types of walls and belay options, this activity is good for beginners as well as skilled climbers. Shoes, harnesses and chalk are available for rent, and you have the choice of purchasing a day pass or multi-day pass.
5. 1001 STEPS
There is nothing like a challenge to get kids up and going, and this walk down to the beach is certainly that. Dont worry, you can stop along the way to enjoy the views. The crisscross pattern of the stairs leads your family down to spectacular beach where you can all rest before climbing back up again. Kids will love to have the chance to enjoy a usually deserted beach and perhaps see Harbour Seals and Blue Herons up close.
6. CLOVERDALE YOUTH PARK
For youth who love to BMX or skate, this is a great destination. Have a seat and watch your kids have fun. Adjacent to the skate and bike area, youth will find a ball hockey court, a basketball court, and an outdoor social space.
7. SURREY NATURE CENTER
A great place to explore nature right in the city. Kids and adults alike will love the opportunity to enjoy the activities available here. Year round your family can find drop in fun like Story Times, Nature Walks, and nature programs. Your child can borrow an adventure backpack or a fishing rod to make their experience memorable.
8. SCOTTSDALE LANES
A bowling center that offers 5-pin bowling for all levels. Loads of family fun as you compete to see who can get the best score. Indulge in snacks from the on-site snack bar as you play. This business offers family specials, so check their website for deals available.
9. FUN WORLD
Kids of all ages will be clamouring to visit this fantastic indoor playground. A whole day can easily be spent here as children enjoy the laser tag arena, rock climbing wall, arcade, games area, bumper cars, ball area, and the marine themed playground.
10. FUNPLEX
A large indoor gym style playground, this facility has a huge toddler play area for the little ones, along with a three-level jungle gym, laser maze, mini gym and an interactive floor. An affordable caf̩ is located on -site with all the goodies that your family will love. This business is open 7 days a week from 10 am to 7 am, so families will have plenty of opportunities to visit.
11. COASTAL CLIMBING CENTER
With routes from beginning to expert, this facility provides great services for climbers of all ages and abilities. There are more than 100 routes to climb, and an extensive bouldering area to enjoy. Kids will have hours of fun learning to climb, and parents can join in or watch. Equipment is available for rent, so children can try it out without parents having to purchase gear.
12. SKY ZONE INDOOR TRAMPOLINE PARK
If your kids love to jump, then this is the place to take them. Wall to wall trampolines for jumping enjoyment, or exciting times flying through the air fun as kids jump as high as they want and land in the foam pits. For those more sports minded kids, they can try out the ultimate dodgeball or the Skyslam basketball area. If you have little ones, take advantage of toddler time, when parents can jump with their kids. Special jump times are even available for kids and families with sensory disorders.
13. FUNKY MONKEY FUN PARK
An indoor playground appropriate for kids 12 and under. One admission fee gets your kids into the playground area with its multi-level fun zone. Obstacles, slides, mazes, tubes and a huge ball area create a zone that your young children will have tons of fun in. For an additional cost children can also enjoy laser tag, bumper cars and other activities.
14. ARTS UMBRELLA
This not-for-profits arts center provides opportunities for kids to learn various forms of art. Classes and workshops are offered for children as young as 2 years old, up to 19 years old. If your child is interested in dance, theatre, music or art, then this is probably the place for them.
15. HISTORIC STEWART FARM
Step back into history with your family when you take a visit to the Stewart Farm. This heritage site has costumed staff and families can enjoy a visit to the restored farmhouse, outbuildings, garden and orchard. There is plenty of open space for kids to run around, and they will find this a pleasant outing on any day.
16. UNWIN PARK and WATERPARK
A new water park in Unwin Park, kids will have an amazing time dancing in the spraying waters from the water tower and giant flowers here. The park itself also has an outdoor pool, baseball diamonds, batting cages, cricket and soccer fields, lacrosse boxes and a basketball court. Full on fun for the whole day!
17. DELL LANES
From little to big, kids also have fun bowling. Offering 5-pin bowling and bumper pads for the little ones and new bowlers, this facility has affordable bowling for all budgets. If you can handle loud music and glowing lanes, check out the laser bowling nights, held three nights a week. Specials can be had, so check the website for information.
18. FIONAS PLAYDATE CAF
For young children only, this caf̩ is a perfect spot for parents to take a break while their children play. Created for babies, toddlers, pre-schoolers, this play spot hosts drop in play times in a safe environment. Working with a knowledgeable Early Childhood Development Specialist, the play area and activities have been specially designed to encourage healthy development in children.
19. GLADES GARDEN
Enjoy a walk in the 5 acre garden that is home to sweet smelling flowers that delights the senses. Take a keepsake family photo at this spectacular garden that features masses of colourful rhododendron blooms in the spring to rich toned foliage in the fall.
20. SURREY MUSEUM and MOBILE MUSEUM
While the regular Surrey Museum is being renovated, families can still enjoy the Mobile Museum at community events throughout the city. Kids can enjoy the Kids Explore Zone, hands-on games and fun crafts and activities. Once the renovations are complete in 2018, visitors will be able to enjoy national and international exhibits, along with an Indigenous Hall and a Kids Explore Zone.
21. BEAR CREEK MINI GOLF and TRAIN
Kids will absolutely fall in love with Eddy the Engine, the diesel engine and train that was brought over from England in 1996. The train has been providing rides for kids since then, and children always enjoy the 10-minute ride through forests, gardens and tunnels. Complete your activities here with a fun round of mini-golf on the 18-hole course that winds its way through the beautiful scenery.
22. CREATE I T EMPORIUM
Creativity running through your kids veins? This is a fantastic activity that will keep your kids busy for a time while they get their creative juices flowing. Drop in pottery painting is a good choice at any time, or book a party to be able to try out glass fusion, canvas painting, and needle felting.
23. FRASER VALLEY HERITAGE RAILWAY
A chance for kids to ride the rails like the good old days! There are two different restored trains to take a ride on, as well as an inspection vehicle that kids can try out for themselves. Take a tour of the Carbarn to see some restorations going on and visit the Transit Museum for more fun.
24. SERPENTINE FEN
Another fabulous nature site for families to visit any day of the year. With an amazing array of over 100 bird species to be seen here, this area is popular with birdwatchers. Take your kids for an easy walk along the 3.5-kilometer circle trail and have them climb the three watch towers for better views of the area. During the winter you can enjoy ice skating here.
25. CRESCENT BEACH
What is summer without a day at the beach? Build sandcastles, or laze around or enjoy swimming in the cool waters!
26. ELGIN HERITAGE PARK
This heritage park offers a fabulous three-kilometer-long nature trail that runs by the Stewart Farm, a salmon bearing creek, and many ponds and marshes. This is an easy hike that kids of all ages will enjoy. There are several picnic areas available, so why not pack a lunch and spend a leisurely day here. Check out the boats in the marina or bring your bikes for a lovely ride.
27. KIDS PLAY CAFE
Designed for children 6 years and under, this caf̩ is a great place for parents to take a little break while their kids play in a safe environment. Adults can enjoy yummy coffee and snacks, and the little ones can have fun in the indoor playground area that has plenty of activities and games to keep your kids busy and happy.
City data and FAQ
Is Surrey worth visiting?
In fact the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is in the heart of Surrey Hills. It is a great place to have a picnic and start a walk. It's also ideal for cycling, horse riding and family wandering. There is a visitor centre, toilets, cafe and picnic area.
What is Surrey famous for?
The City of Surrey is the largest city by land area and second most populated in Metro Vancouver. We are a forward-thinking, globally recognized leader in building vibrant, sustainable communities through technology and innovation. Our city is one of the fastest growing, culturally diverse cities in Canada.
Landmarks in the city
1. Crescent Beach: A charming seaside community with a sandy beach, scenic walking trails, and a historic pier.
2. Surrey Museum: A local history museum featuring exhibits on Surrey's past, including First Nations artifacts and pioneer-era items.
3. Bear Creek Park: A large urban park with playgrounds, gardens, sports fields, and a miniature train ride.
4. Redwood Park: A serene forested park with old-growth trees, walking trails, and a picturesque garden.
5. Fort Langley National Historic Site: Located nearby in Langley, this historic site features a restored Hudson's Bay Company fort and offers a glimpse into the region's fur trade history.
6. Surrey Art Gallery: A contemporary art gallery showcasing works by local and international artists, with changing exhibitions throughout the year.
7. Historic Stewart Farm: A restored 1800s farmstead that offers guided tours, heritage programs, and special events to give visitors a taste of pioneer life in Surrey.
8. Green Timbers Urban Forest: A large forested park with walking trails, picnic areas, and a lake, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
9. Guildford Town Centre: A popular shopping mall with a wide range of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options for visitors looking to shop or dine.
10. Surrey Central City: A modern shopping and entertainment complex featuring a mix of retail stores, restaurants, a library, and Simon Fraser University's Surrey campus.