THE MAY LOWDOWN…
Posted by Francesca De Franco on 01 May 2026
We’ve had a taste of lovely spring weather – thank goodness! I don’t know about you, but our BBQ has been out several times already. Of course it could all change, but fear not there’s plenty going on come rain or shine and we’ve got two Bank Holidays to look forward to.
Here’s your May Lowdown…
Karaoke Night at The Famous Green Man
Get those voices ready for a fun night of karaoke at The Famous Green Man in Ewell. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just in it for the laughs.
📅 Friday, 1st May
⏰ Time: 7:30pm
📍Location: The Famous Green Man 71 High Street, Ewell, KT17 1RX
A great one for a night out with friends – expect good vibes, great tunes and maybe a few surprise performances
May Makers Market @ The Horton
Discover unique, handcrafted creations and artwork at The Horton Makers Market.
The Horton will be filled with market stalls selling craft products and artworks made by artists and artisans from Epsom, Surrey and across the South East.
Stalls will include Jewellery, textile crafts, ceramics, artwork & prints… and so much more.
📅 Date: Saturday, 2nd May
⏰ Time: 9:15am – 4pm
📍 Location: The Horton, Epsom
Free Entry. More details here.
Find out what else is happening at The Horton this month.
Creative Journaling Workshop
Join Kate McBarron at Epsom Library for an uplifting and creative journaling workshop designed to support wellbeing.
Journaling is a wonderful way to express yourself, explore your thoughts and release creativity. In this free taster session, you’ll be guided through activities step-by-step, exploring the theme of nature in a relaxed and supportive environment.
There’s no pressure to share anything you create — just come along and enjoy the process. You’re welcome to bring your own notebook, or materials will be provided.
📅 Date: Saturday, 2nd May
⏰ Time: 2:00pm – 3:30pm
📍 Location: Epsom Library
🎟️ Free (18+)
To book your place, visit the Epsom Library help desk or email epsom.library@surreycc.gov.uk
Cagers Basketball
All Girls Basketball
Cagers are proud to announce an all girls basketball session starting on Sunday, May 3rd. Providing an opportunity for young female athletes to learn the game in the Epsom, Surrey and surrounding areas. Our aim is to eventually have an all girls competitive team.
Mini Ballers
Introducing our grass roots session. This is where it all begins. Led by Coach Karl, young athletes will learn the basics of good movement in a fun and nurturing environment. We can’t wait to see you! Every Sunday, from Sunday, May 3rd.
For more information, go to: https://www.cagersbasketball.com/
Nonsuch Town & Country Show
The Nonsuch Town & Country Show returns this weekend, bringing a packed programme of family-friendly entertainment to Nonsuch Park.
With something for all ages, it’s a great local day out filled with activities, performances and plenty to explore.
📅 Date: Sunday 3rd & Monday 4th May
📍 Location: Nonsuch Park, KT17 2DL
What to expect:
🎶 Live music
🎤 K-Pop tribute in the kids’ area
🎨 Craft area
🐾 Animals, displays and family entertainment
Plus lots more to keep the whole family entertained throughout the day.
Tickets – https://www.nonsuchcountryshow.co.uk/
Bank Holiday Karaoke @ The Eight Bells
Head to The Eight Bells – Ewell on Sunday, 3rd May (4pm) for karaoke with Jodie Stone.
Ben Vs Grant Charity Football Match
Get ready for a high-energy charity football match as Team Ben takes on Team Grant in support of a fantastic cause.
This community event is raising money for YoungMinds, supporting youth mental health across the UK. Expect a lively atmosphere with football, food, drinks, music and community spirit — a great day out for all ages.
Date: Sunday, 3rd May
Time: 12:00pm – 3:00pm (Kick-off 1:00pm)
Location: Court Rec Astro, KT19 8SB
Everyone is welcome, so come along, show your support and help raise money for an important cause.
Flower Workshops at BBL Floral Design
Join BBL Floral Design for a series of beautiful, hands-on workshops where you’ll learn, create and take home your own stunning arrangement.
Workshops:
🌷 7th May – Spring Bouquet
🌼 14th May – Vase Arrangement
🪴 22nd May – Planting Workshop
🌿 30th May – Ikebana
🕔 All workshops: 5–6pm
🥂 Includes a glass of prosecco
👥 Small groups (max 6 people)
💷 £60 per person and £65 for Ikebana
📍 Corner House Parade, 13 Epsom Road, KT17 1NX
Spaces are limited, so be quick!
📞 Call: 020 8393 6322
📧 Email: info@bbldesign.co.uk
National Year of Reading Crafternoon at Epsom Library
Celebrate the National Year of Reading with a fun and creative Crafternoon at Epsom Library.
Children can get hands-on making their very own wiggly bookworm, inspired by their favourite stories — whether it’s a hungry caterpillar or a book-loving worm, the choice is theirs.
📅 Thursday, 7th May
⏰ 4:30pm – 5:30pm
📍 Epsom Library
👧 Ages 4+
🎟️ Free event (donations welcome). No booking required.
Music Bingo Night
The Sunnybank Quiz Night is back… but this time we’re changing things up 🤩
Join us for Music Bingo 🎶🏆🙋♀️🕺
🗓️ Date: Friday the 8th of May
🕖 Time: 7pm
⛪️ Location: St Joseph’s Church, Epsom, KT18 7JQ
If you know your bangers from your ballads, or just want a fun night out, come along on May 8th in Epsom. Don’t miss it!
Book your place or get more info: 📧 info@sunnybanktrust.org We’d love to see you there.
Surrey Day at Bourne Hall Museum
Celebrate Surrey Day at Bourne Hall Museum with a full programme of fascinating, hands-on activities exploring this year’s theme: “Underground Surrey.”
There’s something for all ages, from talks and exhibitions to interactive sessions for children.
📅 Saturday, 9th May
📍 Bourne Hall Museum, Ewell (KT17 1UF)
What’s on:
🕚 Archaeology of Bourne Hall Walk & Talk (£6.50)
11:00am – 12:00pm
Explore the history of the site and discover archaeological finds beneath Bourne Hall. (Pre-booking required)
🪙 Coin Identification (Free)
10:00am – 4:00pm
Drop in to meet a coin specialist and learn more about your own discoveries or local finds.
🧑🔬 Be an Archaeologist (Ages 8–12) (£6.50)
1:00pm – 2:30pm
A hands-on session where children can try trowelling, recording and drawing finds.
🦴 The Mysterious Discovery of the Epsom Aurochs Talk (£6.50)
2:30pm – 3:30pm
Learn about the discovery of 3,500-year-old remains found on Epsom Downs and what they reveal about prehistoric Britain.
🏺 Secrets of Bourne Hall Exhibition
A temporary exhibition exploring the history hidden beneath the site.
🎟️ Booking available via bournehall.org (limited spaces for paid sessions)
Plant Sale & Eco Fair at Christ Church Epsom Common
Enjoy an afternoon of plants, homemade treats and eco-inspired stalls at the Plant Sale & Eco Fair at Christ Church Epsom Common.
A lovely local event for anyone interested in gardening, sustainability or simply enjoying a relaxed community afternoon.
📅 Saturday, 9th May
⏰ 2:00pm – 5:00pm
📍 Christ Church Epsom Common, Christ Church Road, Epsom, KT19 8NE
🎟️ Free Entry
What to expect:
🌱 Great-value plants
♻️ Eco displays & stalls
☕ Tea & refreshments
🧁 Homemade cakes and more
Race Night – Rotary Club of Ewell
Enjoy a fun-filled evening at this exciting Race Night, hosted by the Rotary Club of Ewell – all in support of a great local cause.
Place your bets, cheer on your chosen horse and soak up the atmosphere for a lively night out, all while helping raise funds for Good Company Pantry (Epsom & Banstead).
📅 Date: Saturday, 9th May
⏰ Time: 7:00pm (for 7:30pm start)
📍 Location: St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church Hall
59 The Avenue, Tadworth, KT20 5AB
🎟️ £10 per person
🥂 Bring your own drinks and snacks
To book your place or find out more, contact:
📞 07721 867035
📧 martin.associates@btinternet.com
Live music @ The Eight Bells
Head to The Eight Bells for live music from High Milage.
📅 Date: Saturday 9th, May 2026
⏰ Time: 8:00pm
📍 Location: The Eight Bells, Ewell Village
Ewell on Saturday, 9th May (8pm)
Live Music at The Cock Inn, Headley
Live music is back at The Cock Inn with a great evening of rock ’n’ roll.
Join The Grand Union Revival, a three-piece band bringing a lively set of classic tunes and good vibes — perfect for a relaxed night out.
📅 Date: Saturday 9th, May 2026
⏰ Time: 8:00pm – 10:00pm
📍 Location: The Cock Inn, Headley
Expect great music, a friendly atmosphere and a fun evening — ideal for catching up with friends or enjoying a local night out.
Aaron Norton @ The Eight Bells
Live music with Aaron Norton at The Eight Bells – Ewell on Sunday, 10th May from 4pm.
Karaoke Night at The Grape Variety
Turn up the volume and join The Grape Variety for a fun-filled Karaoke Night.
Sing your heart out with friends while enjoying a relaxed evening of great wine, artisan cheeses and charcuterie boards — perfect for sharing. Whether you’re taking to the mic or just soaking up the atmosphere, it’s all about good music, good food and even better company.
📅 Date: Wednesday, 13th May
⏰ Time: From 7pm
📍 Location: 12 Chipstead Station Parade, Chipstead
🎟️ Free entry
Grab a glass, pick your song and let the night unfold.
Yoga with Kalli @ The Horton
Kalli offers gentle, welcoming and inclusive Hatha yoga classes focused on breath, mindful movement and relaxation.
Running on selected Thursdays in The Horton Mezzanine or performance space.
Whether you’re completely new to yoga or returning to your mat, Kalli’s classes encourage you to move at your own pace, tune into what you need, and leave feeling a little more like yourself.
This is an all-inclusive class, suitable for all levels.
Thursday, 14th May
9:30am – 10:30am
Thursday, 21st May
9:30am – 10:30am
Thursday, 28th May
9:30am – 10:30am
Course £35, Individual Sessions: £14.50 per session
Find out more here: https://thehortonepsom.org/events/yoga-with-kalli/
Epsom Common Allotment Plant Sale
Get your garden gloves ready! Whether you’re looking to brighten up your flower beds or start a “grow your own” vegetables, our Annual Plant Sale is the place to be.
📅 When: Saturday, 16th May
📍 Where: Epsom Common Allotments
⏰ Time: 10:00 AM
It’s a fantastic chance to meet local growers, swap gardening tips, and support the Epsom allotment community.
Pro-Tip: Arrive early for the best selection, the popular veggies tend to go fast!
Spring Market in Ewell
Browse, shop and enjoy a lovely community atmosphere at this local Spring Market in Ewell Hall.
With a mix of stalls and refreshments, it’s the perfect chance to pick up something special while supporting local sellers and enjoying a relaxed morning out.
📅 Saturday, 16th May
⏰ 10:00am – 12:00 noon
📍 Ewell Hall, London Road, Ewell
Expect:
🌿 Plants
🛍️ Bric-a-brac
🧁 Cakes
👒 Ladies & Gentlemen’s accessories
🎟️ Raffle
☕ Refreshments
A lovely local event to pop by and enjoy this spring.
The Glide Band @ The Eight Bells
The Glide Band will be at The Eight Bells – Ewell on Saturday, 16th May (8pm) playing live music and bringing good vibes!
Bottomless Brunch @ The Grape Variety
Saturday, 16th May (1pm – 3pm)
Properly bottomless. Two hours of unlimited fizz, wine, beer, or soft drinks, alongside olives, cheese and charcuterie, patatas fritas, and hummus and pitta. Sophisticated, sociable, and very good value. £45pp.
Book here.
The Derby Walk 2026
Join hundreds of walkers on a unique charity journey from the heart of London to the world-famous Epsom Downs Racecourse for the return of The Derby Walk 2026.
Now in its 17th year, the event invites participants to walk in the footsteps of generations of racegoers, travelling from Knightsbridge through some of London’s most iconic streets and suburbs before finishing at the home of the legendary Derby Festival.
Date: Sunday, 17th May 2026
Start Time: 9am (Derby Walk)
Derby Dash Start: 11.30am from Morden Hall
Location: From Knightsbridge, London to Epsom Downs Racecourse
Find out more and get tickets here: https://www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/epsom/events-tickets/derby-walk/
Sunday Session with Xan @ The Eight Bells
Head to The Eight Bells – Ewell on Sunday, 17th May (4pm) for smooth, sultry and soulful tunes with Xan.
Icons of the West End @ The New Victoria Theatre, Woking
Sunday, 17th May
Icons of the West End is a thrilling concert celebration of the voices, songs, and some of the stars that have defined musical theatre at its very best.
Bringing together four of theatre’s most renowned performers – Kerry Ellis, Lucie Jones, Matt Henry, and Ben Forster – this spectacular event promises powerhouse vocals, iconic songs, and unforgettable moments.
Book your tickets here: https://atgtix.co/4rA1OjI
Epsom Library – Foster Care Fortnight
Could fostering be your next chapter? To celebrate Foster Care Fortnight, we are hosting a ‘Local Libraries, Local Care’ drop-in session at Epsom library.
To find out what fostering is all about, come and visit the Fostering Team stand at Epsom Library on:
Monday, 18th May (11am – 2pm)
Thursday, 21st May (11am – 2pm)
Decades Apart @ The Eight Bells
Decades apart is making their debut at The Eight Bells, Ewell! Join on Saturday, 23rd May (8pm) for live music, good vibes and great times.
May Half-Term @ Hobbledown
Families can enjoy a wild May half-term adventure at Hobbledown Epsom during Capybara Discovery Week from 23rd–31st May.
The special event includes capybara keeper talks, treasure hunts, feeding experiences, a bubble disco and an Adventure Quest passport, alongside birds of prey displays, animal encounters and daily talks. Families can also enjoy Hobbledown’s indoor play barn, outdoor adventure villages, zoo and farm animals, plus The Imaginarium.
For children wanting an even closer encounter, there are additional animal experiences including hand-feeding capybaras and “Zookeeper for a Day” sessions. Advance booking is recommended, which you can do here.
The Grape Variety for The Children’s Trust
Sunday, 24th May (11.15am)
Join TGV this May as they walk 40 miles together, to support an incredible cause…
Lace up for their 5-mile charity walk in support of The Children’s Trust 💛 – £10 entry, sponsorship encouraged with all proceeds going to TCT.
Sign up here.
Steeling Scarlett @ The Eight Bells
Music lovers from the soul, playing Blues, Soul and Pop at The Eight Bells, Ewell! Join on Sunday, 24th May (4pm).
Bank Holiday Inflatable Fun Day
(Suitable for families, children aged 0-5 years)
Jaimies Castles have teamed up with Beare Green Community Association to bring you a fantastic Bank Holiday Inflatable Family Fun Day this May on Monday, 25th May (10am – 5.30pm).
Enjoy 90-minute bounce sessions packed with inflatables including a helter skelter, mega assault course, giant slides, toddler inflatables and themed 3D bouncy castles (all run by professional event staff). Sessions are limited to keep things safe and not overcrowded. There’s also a dedicated SEN relaxed session (4pm–5.30pm) with reduced numbers.
The wider community fun day is free to attend, with BGCA hosting a live band, local stalls, raffle and food & drinks, so you can make a proper family day of it.
🎟 £10 per child (includes one free adult in the inflatable zone) Tickets must be booked in advance online. Find full details and book here: https://www.jaimiescastles.co.uk/events/bank-holiday-inflatable-fun-day.php
📍 Beare Green Village Hall, RH5 4RD
Hayman’s Gin Tasting @ The Grape Variety
Join us on Wednesday, 27th May for an exclusive gin tasting hosted by the legendary Chris Hayman himself 🍸✨
Doors open at 7pm with a welcome drink in hand, before the tasting kicks off at 7:30pm. Chris will guide you through a selection of Hayman’s gins, sharing the stories and expertise behind each one. At 8pm we’ll take a break for food, then dive back in at 8:30pm to finish the journey.
We’ll also be running a raffle on the night in aid of The Children’s Trust – great drinks for a great cause.
Tickets are £30pp and include your welcome drink, gin tastings, and a shared nibbles board.
A must for any gin lover – grab your spot now!
Sip & Sketch with Tom Middleton @ The Grape Variety
Thursday, 28th May (6:30pm)
Unwind, uncork, and unleash your inner artist, guided by two-time Wildlife Artist of the Year category winner Tom Middleton. All materials included, plus a complimentary glass of bubbles on arrival. Three hours of relaxed creativity, great wine, and that satisfying moment when your scribble becomes art.
£35pp – Book here.
May Half Term Cooking Workshops – Grow, Cook, Enjoy
Thursday, 28th May
Mexican Fun and Kitchen Science Workshops: Half term Baking Fun for Budding Chefs!
Morning and afternoon sessions available (book the morning and afternoon session and save 15%).
For more info head to the website: https://www.growcookenjoy.co.uk/holiday-workshops
Sips & Giggles Comedy Night @ The Grape Variety
Saturday, May 30th
Get ready for a night where the punchlines flow as freely as the fizz. Head to The Grape Variety for an evening of top-tier stand-up, featuring fantastic comedians and hosted by our brilliant resident MC, Robin Boot, who’ll keep the laughs popping from start to finish.
Your £25 ticket includes a glass of fizz on arrival, then settle in for a comedy showcase packed with sharp wit, unexpected turns, and laugh-out-loud moments in our warm, intimate venue. Perfect for a date night, a group outing, or just an excuse to drink bubbles while laughing at strangers with microphones.
The Line-Up:
🎤 Opener: Mandy Muden — Britain’s Got Talent star and the only female act on the circuit to combine comedy and magic, winner of the prestigious Magic Circle Carlton Award for Comedy in Magic.
🎤 Middle: Paul Revill — An extremely likeable act who tells stories with vivid characters and involves the audience in the fun, winner of the Bath Comedy Festival New Act of the Year and a favourite on the UK circuit.
🎤 Headline: Nick Page — Winner of English Comedian of the Year, with shows full to bursting with stories from a life lived on the edge of self-inflicted disaster — described by The Guardian as a bear-like man with barely believable tales of life, love, and brushes with the law.
Book here.
Take That tribute @ The Eight Bells
“Rich as Gary Barlow” feat. Robbie Williams Hits at The Eight Bells on Saturday, 30th May (8pm) Live Music| Good Vibes| Great Times
Sri Lankan Sunday Roast @ The Grape Variety
Sunday 31st May, 1-5pm
Manny’s Kitchen takes over for a Sunday roast with a serious spice upgrade.
This month’s menu:
STARTERS – 2 for £8 Lamb or Vegetarian Wade
MAINS – Roast with trimmings for £20 CHICKEN or SALMON
Accompanied with …
Cumin and Garm Masala yorkshire puddings, Methi Aloo Potatoes, Tender stem broccoli, sweetcorn, peas and shallots tempered with mustard seeds.
DESSERT – £8 Pineapple Gateau
Email chipstead@thegrapevariety.com to book or visit the website.
Karaoke Sunday @ The Eight Bells
Grab the mic – be the star! Head to The Eight Bells for karaoke tunes on Sunday, 31st May! Eat from 12pm-4pm and then sing from 4pm until late.
Book Now!
A Musical in a Week – Summer School @ Laird Academy
Join us for a magical week of theatre fun packed with singing, dancing and acting, ending with a performance for family and friends!
📅 3rd–7th August, 2026
📍 Kingswood Village Hall
👧🧑 Juniors and Seniors
📧 Email to Register via: laird.ballet@gmail.com
Mayfield Lavender Farm
Tickets are now available for the Summer 2026 season at the stunning Mayfield Lavender Farm, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary.
New for 2026 are flexible ‘Anyday Tickets’, which allow visitors to attend on a day of their choice without being tied to a specific date. There are also a host of new experiences as well as perennial favourites to discover.
Find out more details and book here.
Coming Up!
DerbyFest at Epsom Downs – Derby Weekend
Derby Weekend is fast approaching, and this year there’s something new to enjoy on The Hill…
DerbyFest is an exciting FREE festival taking place alongside the Epsom Derby, bringing a fun, festival-style atmosphere to the iconic racecourse.
Expect live music, top DJs, great food and drink, plus family entertainment throughout the day — making it a fantastic option whether you’re heading to the races or just looking for a great day out locally.
📅 Friday 5th – Saturday 6th June 2026
📍 Epsom Downs Racecourse (The Hill)
🎟️ Free event (tickets required). For more information and tickets, visit: www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/epsom/events-tickets/derbyfest/tickets/
St Helier Abseil
The St Helier Abseil is BACK for 2026!
After such an amazing first year, we’re so excited to bring this incredible community event back — and we’d love to see even more local faces getting involved this time!
📅 Thursday, 18th June
This is your chance to join neighbours, friends, local NHS staff, and patients in doing something truly unforgettable — abseiling down St Helier Hospital 😲
Whether you took part last year or cheered from the ground, why not get involved this time? Bring a friend, sign up as a team, or come along to support — it’s all about our community coming together 💙
💥 Why it matters to our local community
Last year, local participants raised an incredible £55,000 — funding equipment, improving patient spaces, and supporting staff wellbeing right here at St Helier. Every penny stayed local and made a real difference.
💡 Never abseiled before? No problem!
You don’t need any experience — just a bit of courage and community spirit 😊
👉 How to take part:
• Entry: £25
• Fundraising target: £145 (for a ward or department that means something to you or your family)
• Full support from a friendly local charity team
🎯 Fancy taking the leap?
Find out more:
www.esthcharity.org.uk/abseil-st-helier-2026/
Sign up here:
https://register.enthuse.com/ps/event/AbseilStHelier2026
Mates & Dates at Godstone Farm
Looking for a fun, grown-up night out with a twist? Mates & Dates at Godstone Farm is back and tickets are already selling fast.
This relaxed evening event offers the perfect mix of great food, drinks, music and a unique farm setting, ideal for a catch-up with friends or a different kind of date night.
📅 Friday, 19th June
📍 Godstone Farm, Tilburstow Hill Road, Godstone, RH9 8LX
What to expect:
🎶 Live music & feel-good vibes
🍔 Street food & drinks available to purchase
🐾 Animal encounters
🎠 Access to the play barn (yes, even for grown-ups!)
🌿 Beautiful countryside setting
🎟️ Earlybird tickets: £15 (limited time). On the gate: £19. Book here.
Ewell Village Fair 2026
A much-loved local event returns this summer as Ewell Village Fair takes over St Mary’s Church and grounds for a day of community fun.
Expect a lively atmosphere with stalls, activities and entertainment for all ages — the perfect day out for families and the local community.
📅 Saturday 11th July 2026
⏰ 10:00am – 4:00pm
📍 St Mary’s Church & Grounds
London Road, Ewell, KT17 2AY
🎟️ Free admission
A great one to pop in the diary and enjoy a classic village fair right on your doorstep.
Please continue to pop back and check this Lowdown as we will be adding more events throughout the month.
Have a good one!
Fran x
