Surbiton, a charming town in South West London, offers a delightful mix of outdoor activities, local attractions, and family-friendly venues. Whether you're looking for fun in nature, a bit of adventure, or a spot for creative play, Surbiton has plenty to offer. Here’s a guide to some of the best activities for families with children to enjoy right now.
1. Claremont Gardens
If your family enjoys the outdoors, Claremont Gardens is a fantastic spot for a day of fresh air. This beautiful park features large, open spaces perfect for a family picnic, and its lovely surroundings make it an ideal place to explore together. The park also has a fantastic playground, where children can enjoy swings, climbing frames, and slides. Right now, you can also enjoy a peaceful walk along the riverbank, with beautiful views of the nearby areas.
- Opening Hours: Open year-round
- Ticket Price: Free
- What’s on Right Now: Playground fun, family walks, and picnics by the river.
- Learn More: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/surrey/claremont-landscape-garden
2. Surbiton Railway Station & The Story of the Railway
For a bit of local history, why not visit Surbiton Railway Station and learn about its role in the development of the railways? While this might sound like a more niche activity, kids who are interested in trains will love exploring this iconic station and its rich railway heritage. The area has some interesting displays and a fascinating history that families can explore together. Plus, taking a train ride to nearby towns or central London can be a fun adventure for younger children.
- Opening Hours: Open year-round
- Ticket Price: Free to explore the station; train fares vary
- What’s on Right Now: Train-themed exploration and local railway history.
3. Kingston Upon Thames - Riverside Walks
Just a short walk from Surbiton, the Kingston Riverside offers a beautiful area to explore, with lots of walking paths, cafes, and spots for a family picnic. Along the river, children can watch the boats go by, enjoy the views, and run around in the green spaces. There’s also the opportunity to hop on a riverboat for a scenic tour, giving everyone a fun and relaxing way to enjoy the area.
- Opening Hours: Open year-round
- Ticket Price: Free (boat rides vary)
- What’s on Right Now: Riverside walks, picnics, and scenic riverboat tours.
4. Surbiton Library - Family Events and Storytimes
For families who enjoy a bit of quiet time, Surbiton Library is a great place to explore. The library regularly hosts family-friendly events, including story time sessions for young children and craft workshops for all ages. Right now, there might be a number of events to get involved in, from educational sessions to interactive storytelling. It’s a wonderful place for children to learn, have fun, and get inspired by books.
- Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Ticket Price: Free
- What’s on Right Now: Storytime sessions, craft workshops, and family events.
5. The Fish & Flicks Outdoor Cinema
If your family enjoys outdoor movie nights, then the Fish & Flicks outdoor cinema at Surbiton Recreation Ground is a must-see. During the warmer months, this pop-up outdoor cinema offers a fun way to enjoy family-friendly movies under the stars. Right now, look out for upcoming screenings or events, as the cinema hosts a variety of films that are perfect for children of all ages. Pack a blanket, some snacks, and enjoy a fun evening with the whole family.
- Opening Hours: Varies by event
- Ticket Price: Varies by screening
- What’s on Right Now: Outdoor movie screenings and family film events.
6. Surbiton Skate Park
For active families with older children, Surbiton Skate Park is a great place to burn off some energy. The skate park is well-equipped for skaters, bikers, and scooter enthusiasts, and it’s a fun spot for children to practice their tricks and enjoy some outdoor activity. Whether your child is a beginner or an experienced skater, they can have a blast with friends or family at this exciting spot.
- Opening Hours: Open year-round
- Ticket Price: Free
- What’s on Right Now: Skateboarding, scootering, and BMX fun.
7. The Adventure Playground at Bushy Park
Just a short distance from Surbiton, Bushy Park offers one of the best adventure playgrounds in the area. This playground is perfect for children who love climbing, sliding, and swinging. With a variety of play equipment, including climbing walls, slides, and swings, it’s a great place for kids to play and explore. Afterward, families can take a stroll through the park, enjoy the wildlife, or even visit the park's stunning ponds and water features.
- Opening Hours: Open year-round
- Ticket Price: Free
- What’s on Right Now: Playground fun, outdoor play, and family walks.
- Learn More: https://www.royalparks.org.uk/visit/parks/bushy-park
8. The Long Ditton Village Green
For a more relaxed day out, Long Ditton Village Green is another local gem in Surbiton that’s perfect for a family picnic. With plenty of space for kids to run around and a lovely atmosphere, this village green is ideal for families who enjoy a laid-back afternoon outdoors. Bring a frisbee, ball, or just enjoy the open space for some quality family time.
- Opening Hours: Open year-round
- Ticket Price: Free
- What’s on Right Now: Picnic spots, outdoor games, and relaxed family time.
9. Surbiton Farmers’ Market
If your family enjoys exploring local produce and trying fresh food, Surbiton Farmers’ Market is a fun and educational experience. The market, held on the second Saturday of each month, offers a range of stalls selling fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal treats. It’s a great place to show children where their food comes from and try some delicious local produce while supporting independent businesses.
- Opening Hours: Second Saturday of the month, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Ticket Price: Free entry (food costs vary)
- What’s on Right Now: Fresh produce, family-friendly food stalls, and local shopping.
- Learn More: https://www.surbitonfarmersmarket.co.uk/
10. Surbiton’s Art & Craft Workshops
For a creative afternoon, Surbiton Art & Craft Workshops offers a variety of art and craft sessions that are perfect for children. Right now, there may be workshops focused on painting, drawing, or even clay modelling. These workshops are a great way for children to express their creativity while learning new skills. It's also a wonderful opportunity for families to bond and create something special together.
- Opening Hours: Varies by workshop
- Ticket Price: Prices vary by event
What’s on Right Now: Art and craft workshops, creative family activities.
11. Ultimate Activity Camps at Shrewsbury House Prep School
Are you looking for exciting and caring school holiday childcare in Surbiton? Ultimate Activity Camps provide outstanding, inspiring, and Ofsted-regulated activity day camps with the primary function of delivering a very high level of care and welfare for 4-14-year-olds during the Easter and Summer school holidays. We deliver this childcare through a fantastic range of exciting activities whether these be in the art room, the sports hall, playing fields or in the woods. We use our many years of experience and enthusiastic staff to create a programme that changes each day and delivers the outstanding levels of care you would expect whilst ensuring that the children of all ages are thoroughly engaged and inspired to try new activities and make new friends.
- Opening Hours: Easter and Summer School Holidays 8am to 6pm
- Ticket Price: Prices vary and early bird discounts available
- Suitable for: Children aged 4-14 years
- Book here: Surbiton Summer Camps
Surbiton may be a small town, but it offers a wonderful range of activities for families with children. Whether you're spending time outdoors in the park, getting creative at a local workshop, or enjoying a family film at an outdoor cinema, there’s no shortage of ways to have fun with the whole family. From the calm of the river to the excitement of the skate park, Surbiton provides the perfect setting for family adventures. So gather the family, step outside, and start exploring everything Surbiton has to offer right now!