The six-week summer holiday can pose many problems for parents, namely, keeping the children entertained long enough before hearing the ‘b’-word.
Luckily, Parkers is here to help. Here are six suggestions for activities this summer that are fun for all the family.
- Polesden Lacey
Polesden Lacey, nestled in the rolling Surrey Hills, is a stunning Edwardian mansion and estate owned by the National Trust. Once the party house of socialite and renowned hostess Mrs. Margaret Greville, it is famed for its lavish entertaining and royal guests, including King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, who spent part of their honeymoon here.
The house is a treasure trove of art and antique furniture, while the extensive grounds, with their walled rose garden, ancient woodland, and stunning views across the North Downs, offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
Polesden Lacey is holding its ‘Summer of Play’ event, which is running from Saturday 15 July to Thursday 31 August. The event provides fun for all the family, from playing tennis to arts and crafts, there will be something for everyone!
- Hindhead Commons and the Devil’s Punch Bowl
Step through the gate into Hindhead Commons and the Devil’s Punch Bowl, and you’ll find yourself immersed in a vibrant tapestry of purples, greens, and golds. This tranquil haven, designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a symphony of nature’s sounds, offering a serene escape from the everyday hustle and bustle.
The landscape here is breathtaking, with the view across the Devil’s Punch Bowl offering a stunning panorama that’s hard to beat. Venture further to Highcombe Edge and Gibbet Hill, Surrey’s second-highest point, and you’ll be rewarded with sweeping vistas across the Weald.
Hindhead Commons and the Devil’s Punch Bowl are perfect for family adventures, with plenty of space for exploration and idyllic spots for picnics. And when you’re ready for a break, the on-site café offers delicious home-cooked food.
On 13 August, this location will be hosting a puppet and theatre show which will be free for anyone to attend. Created by award-winning puppetry and theatre company Smoking Apples, Arbor tells the story of a tree pushed from his home and his fight to preserve his future. Show times are 11:00 – 11:30 and 15:00 – 15:30.
- Wilderfest @ Chessington World of Adventures
Wilderfest, Britain’s wildest family music festival, is back for its third year at Chessington World of Adventures. From 31 July to 3 September, the festival will be hosting some of the fiercest artists in the animal kingdom on the Mane Stage.
The fun doesn’t stop at the music; the Groupie Troupe will be back, and there will be a variety of tasty treats available to enjoy while taking a break from over 40 rides and attractions, including the Zoo and SEA LIFE.
New for 2023, little rangers can join JJ and his friend Cody for a CoComelon dance-along show. Whether it’s your first festival ever or just the first festival of the year, Wilderfest promises a summer of fun, music, and adventure.
- Very Hungry Caterpillar trail at Birdworld
Get ready for an adventure with The Very Hungry Caterpillar, at Birdworld near Farnham. Secure your tickets now and embark on an exciting trail featuring this classic children’s favourite. This summer, Birdworld is thrilled to host The Very Hungry Caterpillar for the very first time.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar trail runs from 22 July to 1 September. Experience unparalleled fun with this brand-new attraction, bringing this cherished children’s story to life in a way you’ve never experienced before. Don’t miss out on this unique adventure!
- Jump In Adventure & Trampoline Park Camberley
Jump In Adventure & Trampoline Park Camberley is a world of fun and excitement for the whole family. It features a playground of wall-to-wall trampolines, giant airbags, battle beams, wipeout zones, tumble tracks, extreme slides, and inflatables.
The Open Jump session is suitable for ages 4 and up, and grants access to all areas of the park for an exhilarating experience. For those aged 6 months to 6 years, the Toddler Takeover provides a safe and fun environment filled with ride-ons, sensory toys, and bubble time.
If you prefer to watch the action from the sidelines, the Jump In Café offers a range of hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, wraps, snacks, and sweet treats. You can relax and watch as others defy gravity or enjoy arcade games.
- Fishers Adventure Farm Park
Fishers Adventure Farm Park is situated in the glorious West Sussex countryside and promises an unforgettable day out, no matter the weather.
The award-winning park boasts a wide range of attractions, from indoor soft play areas to farm animals and thrilling rides that the whole family can enjoy. Don’t miss the incredible indoor play barns, the popular Splash Attack during the summer months.
The park is open 363 days a year from 10 am – 5 pm and offers live animal encounters, theatre shows, and new attractions added every year.