As the new year rolls on and we stumble into January, this month can feel like a long, grey stretch after the sparkle of the festive period. But instead of letting the winter doldrums take over, why not plan some family days out in Surrey for the next few months so you and the family will have something to look forward to?
There are tons of amazing days out you can have in and just outside our county, from a day of thrill-seeking Chessington World of Adventures, to a peaceful wonder around the 'living painting' of Painshill park gardens. There truly is something to do for everyone in Surrey.
SurreyLive has compiled a list of the top fifteen attractions according to TripAdvisor's 'traveller favourites' based on reviews left on their website. Taking the top place for 2025 is the ever recognisable Thorpe park amusement park, which features 30 thrilling rides and various attractions, people travel from across the UK to visit the park, so it is fair to say we are lucky to have it on our doorstep.
Being in January as we are, it is also important to know of attractions that are suitable for rainy days. Not to worry, as this list has multiple places to go for a day out that are either covered or partially covered so you won't get too soggy. Some of these attractions are Mercedes-Benz World and Brooklands Museum - both perfect for motor and aviation fans.
As the new year begins, take notes of these memorable attractions in Surrey, perfect for a day out to rid yourself of the winter blues.
1. Thorpe Park
Described as a one of the UK's "must visit" destinations, we are lucky enough to not even need to leave our county to enjoy a day out there. The park is set to open on March 28 2025, and stay open until the end of October.
2. Hampton Court Palace
Soak up some history at the former home of King Henry VIII at his former palace in East Moseley. You can visit the famous famous hedge maze, the Tudor knot garden and state apartments at the infamous King's splendid red-brick Tudor Palace.
3. Chessington World of Adventures
Part of 'historical' Surrey, the resort is just a short journey outside of the county's borders, but TripAdvisor have included it in their top 15 list likely due to how popular it is. The World of Adventures is not only a theme park with ten rides; it also has an expansive zoo and a Sealife aquarium.
4. RHS Garden Wisley
The award-winning garden in Woking is a marvel of nature and is truly one of the shiniest jewels in the crown of our county. The gardens are child and wheelchair friendly and there are various cafes and restaurants sprinkled around the site to warm you up.
5. Brooklands Museum
On the site of the first ever purpose-built motor race circuit, Brooklands features a number of museum exhibits which paint a picture of the history of aviation and motoring.
6. Mercedes-Benz World
Car enthusiasts will have a field day at this speciality museum which features a range of rare cars. Anyone over 1.5 meters tall can also get involved in their exhilarating Driving Experiences.
7. The Sculpture Park
This beautiful park near Farnham exhibits over 800 sculptures in a landscape with lakes and wildlife. Additionally, there is a coffee shop great for a bite to eat during your walk.
8. Bocketts Farm Park
The only farm on this list, Bocketts has an exceptional combination of both indoor and outdoor animal and play areas. You can watch their famous pig race, take a pony ride, or hop on board the tractor for a journey.
9. Polesden Lacy
Another place for a great walk round is this Edwardian house and estate near Dorking. Looked after by the National Trust, the gardens offer something for every season, including climbing roses in June, and for winter, a garden bursting with yellow aconites.
10. Hobbledown
Located in Epsom is an amusement park which features farm animal exhibits, an extensive soft play and numerous imaginative indoor and outdoor pay areas. An excellent day full of play for young ones.
11. Box Hill trails
One of Surrey's most famous National Trust sites is perfect for a sweat inducing hike. Located near Dorking, the hiking trail has some of the best views of the landscape you can find in all of Surrey.
12. Alice Holt Forest
The ancient woodland near Farnham is perfect for walks with all ages. The forest retreat has a Go Ape, and is full of play areas and different trails for walks and biking, there is even a Gruffalo trail inspired by the children's book.
13. The British Wildlife Centre
This quaint zoo near Lingfield is home to an impressive collection of wildlife native to Britain. All species are housed in large enclosures, and landscaped to reflect natural habitats.
14. Birdworld
Located in Farnham, it is the UK's largest bird park, covering 26-acres. There are more than 180 different species of bird within the collection, but you will not just see birds on your visit; there are also tortoises, pelicans and penguins.
15. Painshill Gardens
Just because Painshill is 15th on the list, this by no means makes it somewhere that is not completely worth a visit. The garden is a 160-acre award winning 18th Century landscape great for a day out with all ages, dogs are even welcome.
