30 Fun Things to Do in Surrey for Families
Of all the best family-friendly counties in England, Surrey is certainly worth visiting. Packed with easy, fun days out and plenty of options for all types of personalities, there’s so much to do.
In this guide, we highlight 30 fun things to do in Surrey for families. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or you’re local to the area, you won’t be disappointed.
If you’re a fan of simple, straightforward lists, read on to plan your next Surrey trip.
Our hotel in Camberley is the perfect base for any family holiday to Surrey. Our independent, lakeside hotel is situated conveniently for days out in the area. With free parking and great-value offers, we encourage you to book now.
Theme parks and big family attractions in Surrey
Thorpe Park
As one of the best theme parks in the UK, Thorpe Park is an excellent day out in Surrey for older children and teens. Expect high-energy thrill rides, and be sure to allow a full day for plenty of fun.
Chessington World of Adventures
A great option for mixed ages, this day out idea combines rides, animals and shows. Chessington works well as a full day for primary-age children.
Legoland Windsor Resort
Just outside Surrey and very popular with younger children, Legoland is bright, busy and best planned in advance.
Go Ape Alice Holt
Expect outdoor climbing and zip lines with height limits applied. For this reason, Go Ape Alice Holt is a fantastic choice if you're looking for family days out in Surrey, and is best for confident primary-age children and teens.
Painshill Park
Keep a lookout for seasonal events at Painshill Park. This is a great, calmer option for a special family day out.
Farms, animals and wildlife experiences in Surrey
Bocketts Farm Park
An excellent day out for toddlers and younger children, Bocketts Farm Park has plenty to keep little legs entertained all day. Expect regular feeding times for hands-on fun. And, there are indoor barns for damp days!
Godstone Farm
We recommend Godstone Farm as a good half-day visit. The farm includes soft play and animal encounters, making it great for little ones. There are also pushchair-friendly paths throughout.
British Wildlife Centre
British Wildlife Centre is best for primary-age children. Get the opportunity to interact with native animals and attend timed talks. The centre is mostly outdoors, so be sure to check the weather in advance.
Birdworld
At Birdworld, you’ll find so many species of birds, easy walking routes and regular shows. A day out that works well for mixed ages!
Hobbledown Heath
Expect lots of adventure play with animals at Hobbledown Heath. It’s a great option for energetic children and curious minds. Expect a longer visit if the weather is good, as it’s very popular for days out in Surrey.
Museums and hands-on learning days out in Surrey
Brooklands Museum
A strong choice for all ages with intriguing exhibitions including planes, cars and hands-on things too. Brooklands Museum has an onsite Cafe and family facilities too.
Rural Life Living Museum
Rural Life Living Museum is very interactive and easy to explore. It’s fantastic for primary-age children with a nice mix of indoor and outdoor displays.
Guildford Museum
Expect free entry and a central location, making Guildford Museum ideal for shorter visits. To make the most of your day out, grab lunch in town at one of the many local foodie spots.
Farnham Museum
Farnham Museum is on the smaller side, meaning it’s very manageable even with little ones. There’s a nice family trail available at times, and it’s an excellent spot for a rainy morning.
Lightwater Country Park
At Lightwater Country Park, you'll find a nature-focused learning area with play spots for smaller children. This day out is a good balance of walking and discovery.
Gardens, parks and National Trust days out in Surrey
Polesden Lacey
Explore the many family-friendly routes and wide lawns with seasonal trails for children. There are plenty of picnic spots available at Polesden Lacey, so don’t forget to pack your favourite snacks!
Claremont Landscape Garden
Here you’ll find gentle paths and open, lovely views. Claremont Landscape Garden works well for mixed ages and is best enjoyed in spring and summer.
RHS Garden Wisley
If you love organised gardens, then RHS Garden Wisley spot for your family. There’s a range of excellent facilities on site and plenty of greenery to explore.
Frimley Lodge Park
Frimley Lodge Park is very popular with local families and boasts a mini railway and various play areas. There’s also easy parking nearby.
Box Hill
At Box Hill, take in the great views and explore the many short walks. Keep in mind that some of the paths are on the steeper side, making them more suitable for teens.
Easy outdoor adventures and family walks in Surrey
Virginia Water Lake
Situated in a former royal pleasure ground, Virginia Water Lake stretches 2 miles and has lots of flat paths and easy walking routes. It’s pushchair-friendly. There’s also convenient parking available, so no need to worry about that.
Alice Holt Forest
Alice Holt is a spectacular forest and is home to the aforementioned Go Ape entry, with shaded trails and multiple play areas for younger children. The location can get muddy after rain, so wear suitable boots or wellies.
Frensham Ponds
Frensham Pods is a particularly lovely spot for families. There are lots of sandy areas which feel like a beach. Swimming is seasonal and supervised, but catch the ponds at the right time for a cooling dip!
Surrey Hills AONB
Surrey Hill AONB was the fifth designated AONB in the UK. and is full of beautiful, family-friendly trails. Be sure to choose shorter trails with children.
Lakeside International Hotel local walks
There are many easy lakeside routes nearby to our hotel, ideal for low-effort days or arrival afternoons.
Rainy-day indoor activities in Surrey for families
AirHop Guildford
This spot is best for primary-age children and teens. Be sure to book ahead during school holidays as the trampolines often fill up fast.
Jump In Adventure Camberley
Jump In Adventure Camberely is another reliable wet-weather option. Clear age sessions help with planning, and there’s plenty of fun to be had once inside!
Hobbledown Heath Indoor Play
This is a useful backup for when outdoor plans fail. Bear in mind, Hobbledown Heath Indoor Play can get busy at weekends, so planning is crucial.
Fired Frog Pottery Cafe
Last but not least, a calmer indoor activity option. Painting your own pottery at Fired Frog Pottery Cafe is best for older children and a lovely way to get creativity flowing.
Hampton Court Palace
Historic days out don't get much better than this. Step back in time at Hampton Court Palace and discover the fascinating residence of Henry VIII.
Tips to help you plan your family day out in Surrey
- You should always start by choosing activities based on age. Toddlers need space and flexibility, whereas older children enjoy structure and bigger attractions.
- Mix one main activity with something lighter, as this helps avoid feeling overtired in the afternoons.
- Set a rough budget before you go and balance ticketed attractions with free parks and walks.
- Be sure always to check opening times and seasonal closures. Many places reduce hours outside school holidays, which is worth keeping in mind!
- Keep things as simple as possible for the most enjoyment.
- We recommend that you do your main activity in the morning, stopping off for lunch somewhere easy.
- Finish with a park, a short walk or an indoor option. You don’t need to see everything. One good day out is better than an over-packed schedule.
Where to stay
Lakeside International Hotel is a welcoming and practical base for exploring Surrey with children.
Combining great value rooms with a tranquil lakeside setting, you'll find plenty of nature-exploring activities on our doorstep.
Our free parking and on-site dining work well for both parents and children, keeping things convenient and simple.
We’re located just off the M3, making your journeys to attractions across Surrey and nearby counties easy and convenient.
Book your family stay at Lakeside International Hotel
Make Lakeside International Hotel your base for exploring Surrey with kids.
Book direct for great-value family breaks with free parking and easy access to top attractions.
After a full day out, return to a relaxed lakeside setting with space to rest and refuel.
Whether you are planning a weekend or a short stay, Lakeside keeps family travel simple and stress-free.