THE MAY LOWDOWN – RECAP….
Posted by Francesca De Franco on 16 May 2025
One more bank holiday and lots of events still to come!
Here’s your lowdown – recap…
Comedy @ The Horton

Friday 16th May, 8pm – Top-notch stand-up comedy brought to you by comedians, Mark Cram, Tadiwa Mahlunge, Kate Lucas and Alistair Barrie.
More info here.
The Community Brain Mini Day 2025

The Community Brain invites you to a spectacular day of family friendly activity on Saturday, 17th May (11am-5pm). Celebrate the ingenuity of John Cooper, the triumph of the Mini Cooper at the Monte Carlo Rally of ‘64 and ‘65, and wider stories of innovation and cutting edge design in Surbiton.
Featuring:
● Over 100 Minis through the ages (including the winning
Monte Carlo Rally car)
● Live music
● Tours of the garage where John Cooper was based and
the Mini Cooper was designed
● Children’s fancy dress competition
● Food and Drink
● Fashion and craft stalls
● A ‘Mini Monte’ drive through the streets of Kingston
● Vintage London bus
Dress to impress and take part in our FREE fashion show! Calling on adults to walk down the runway to celebrate your best ‘60s outfits while children can also take part in general fancy dress!
More info can be found here – https://www.thecommunitybrain.org/whatson
Spring Plant Sale @ Christ Church Epsom

It’s Christ Church Epsom’s Spring Plant Sale on Saturday, 17th May (2.30pm-4.30pm). Better value than the garden centre and you can enjoy a scone with jam and cream, or choose from a selection of cakes, and relax with a cuppa before getting back to the gardening!
Everyone welcome. At Christ Church Epsom Common, KT19 8NE.
St Mary’s Ewell Spring Market

The St Mary’s Ewell Spring Market is taking place on Saturday, May 17th (10am-12pm) at Ewell hall. You can pick up your spring plants, books and bric-a-brac. There’ll also be cakes, a raffle and refreshments.
Bring donations Friday 16th (2pm-5pm) or from 8.30am on Saturday, 17th May.
Jack Percival’s 24-Hour Treadmill Walk

In Support of Percy’s Homeless Hub & Men’s Mental Health Awareness it’s Jack Percival’s 24-hour treadmill walk.
When : Saturday, 17th May (2pm) – Sunday, 18th May (2pm) – a full 24 hours on the move!
WHERE: Epsom Clock Tower (Outside Glide Barbers)
WALK. TALK. SUPPORT. Join Jack Percival as he takes on a 24-hour nonstop treadmill challenge — raising essential funds for Percy’s Homeless Hub and starting crucial conversations around men’s mental health.
Treadmills will be available — step up and walk alongside Jack to show your support!
Bottomless Brunch @ The Grape Variety

The next The Grape Variety Bottomless Brunch is on Saturday, 17th May (1pm – 3pm).
A sophisticated bottomless brunch serving up some amazing food and drinks in a relaxed atmosphere with great music and service.
Menu:
Marinated olives and bar nuts
A generous cheese and charcuterie board to share
Patatas fritas
Hummus, hot sauce, tortillas
All served with two hours of unlimited house fizz, wine, beer or soft drinks.
Price – £45pp. Book here.
Epsom Playhouse – Everybody’s Talking About Jamie

Running until Saturday, 17th May (1.30pm).
Sutton Theatre Company presents Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, the musical that’s fresh from its West End and national tour.
Sutton Theatre Company is excited to be the first local company in the region to perform Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, the musical sensation about learning and loving who you are!
Find out more and book here.
Guildford Fire Station Open Day

A fun-filled day at Guildford Fire Station’s first Open Day of the year.
Head along and meet your local firefighters, explore the fire engines, and see exciting live demonstrations. There’ll be activities, safety advice, and plenty of opportunities to learn about the vital work the fire service does in your community.
Whether you’re curious about a career in the fire service or just looking for a great local day out, there’s something for everyone.
Location: Guildford Fire Station, By-Pass, Ladymead, GU1 1DL
Date: Saturday, 17th May
Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm (A.N.D Hour 10am-11am)
Entry: FREE
The Derby Walk 2025

The Derby Walk is back for 2025.
Follow in the footsteps of the millions of racing fans who over the years followed this route to the greatest show on turf: The Derby
Join on Sunday, 18th May on the walk from Knightsbridge to Epsom Downs Racecourse, all whilst raising money for Epsom RDA or a charity of your choice. For more information and to register go here: https://www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/epsom/events-tickets/derby-walk/
Men’s Pit Stop

The Men’s Pitstop – a confidential support group for men – is on every Tuesday (1-3pm) at St Barnabas Church with the next taking place on May 17th.
Please contact Blair if you would like more details on blair.parrott@surreycc.gov.uk or 07815 556 320.
Planning For Later Life – Peacock & Co Solicitors @ The Horton

Have you made a will or set up a Lasting Power of Attorney? Considering downsizing or moving into assisted living?
Head down to The Horton for an informative afternoon with expert solicitors from Peacock & Co, who will be on hand to answer your questions.
Wednesday, 21st May, 2pm-4pm
There will be a panel talk and Q&A session, whilst you enjoy an afternoon tea in the atmospheric Horton Performance Space, all in partnership with Peacock & Co Solicitors.
This is a free event, but advance booking is essential. Reserve your place via The Horton website or by giving them a call.
Grow and Glow – Womens Peer Support Group

You’ve spent all week giving to everyone else — work, family, life — but what about you?
Grow and Glow is your midweek moment to breathe, connect, and refill your cup. A free, female-only support group meeting every Wednesday (next one is Wednesday, 21st May) evening across Surrey: Epsom, Guildford and Reigate.
“We talk, we laugh, we sometimes cry — but mostly, we just get it. There’s no pressure to be “fine,” and no need to have it all together.”
To find out more go to: https://growandglow.org.uk/ or email: info@growandglow.org.uk
Epsom Rotary – Quiz Night

Epsom Rotary is celebrating its 100th anniversary with a quiz. Join this fantastic local organisation and show off your quizzing skills on Friday, 23rd May (7pm starts) at St. Josephs Church Hall. To book email: barb.warwick@virginmedia.com
Dementia Disco @ Epsom Beaumont Care Home

Join Epsom Beaumont Care Home for a silent disco for dementia action week on Friday, 23rd May at 2.30pm
Please RSVP to Epsom.reception@barchester.com if you will be attending.
To find out more about Epsom Beaumont Care Home, please visit the website: www.barchester.com/home/epsom-beaumont-care-home
Mini Spring Workshops @ Family Fun Zone, Sutton

For Kids Ages 4–12
May Half-Term
️ Sat 24.05 | Sun 25.05 | Fri 30.05 | Sat 31.05 | Sun 01.06
Time slots:
• 12:00 – 12:45
• 13:00 – 13:45
️ £5 per workshop | Book online: https://familyfunzone.co.uk/workshops/ or at reception
Special Weekend & Half-Term Line-Up:
Sat 24.05 — Spring Slime Lab
Sun 25.05 — Petal Art Mandalas
Fri 30.05 — Raindrop Rainbow Garland
Sat 31.05 — Fairy Wand & Crown Craft
Sun 01.06 — Watermelon Hand Fans
✅ How It Works
• Drop in for just one session or stay for more!
• All materials are included
• Parents can stay and play or relax in the on-site café
• Suitable for kids aged 4–12 (under 5s with an adult)
Book Now: https://familyfunzone.co.uk/workshops/
Questions? Email: bookings@familyfunzone.co.uk
Family Fun Zone, Level3, St Nicholas Shopping Centre, 3 St Nicholas Way, Sutton, SM1 1AY
Uptown Flava’s Caribbean Sunday Roast @ The Grape Variety

Uptown Flava’s infamous Caribbean Roast will be back on Sunday, 25th May, followed by the last Sunday of every month going forward.
Get ready to savour the flavours of the Caribbean, slow-roasted to perfection and bursting with spices you love! What better way to spend the Bank Holiday weekend than sipping on great wines and eating delicious food?
They will also have The Kid’s Table in residence with arts and crafts to entertain the kids. Book here now.
Family Art and Craft Drop in @The Horton

Enjoy a range of art and crafts with Epsom-based mental health charity, Love Me Love My Mind in The Horton’s Atrium on the following dates:
Tuesday, 27th May (11am – 4pm)
Thursday, 24th July (11am – 4pm)
Thursday, 28th August (11am – 4pm)
The family drop-in sessions are free to attend. Find out more here.
Half-Term @ Ewell Library

Head to Ewell Library on Tuesday, 27th May (2-4pm) for a special half-term craft!
Create your own beaded charm bracelets for just £1 per child
No pre-booking required – just turn up on the day! Children must be accompanied by an adult.
The Horton Summer Exhibition 2025

The Horton Summer Exhibition will be held 1st – 26th August 2025 and will showcase a variety of artwork selected by a judging panel. ‘The Music of Life’ is this year’s theme, which pays tribute to The Horton’s extraordinary legacy as Europe’s first centre for music therapy. Artists are invited to submit their entries between Tuesday, 27th May and Monday, 9th June.
For more details go here.
Craft my Day – Half Term

Tuesday, May 27th – Friday, May 30th
Half-Term is calling and the kids will soon be off school. Craft my Day combines creative learning, with super-fun projects that keep children and teens entertained, improving creative thinking, friendship making, and developing fine motor-skills.
Book the morning or afternoon session. You can also drop them off (with lunch) for the whole day. They provide snacks and juice at break-time, and of course children take home everything they create.
For more details and booking go here.
Grow Cook Enjoy – May Half Term

Wednesday 28th May: In the morning session, berry explorers will learn how berries grow then turn them into yummy treats. Make strawberry jam, berry ice cream, cherry clafoutis, berry short bread and mini fruit tarts.
The afternoon tea baking workshop will be held on 29th Thursday May. Create delicious treats like scones, Victoria sponge, chocolate red velvet cakes and fondant fancies. You’ll also plant seeds to grow at home.
Morning 10-12pm or afternoon workshops 1pm-3pm slots available or stay for the day and make lunch see website for details https://www.growcookenjoy.co.uk/holiday-workshops
Kids Eat Free @ The Grape Variety

Wednesday 28th May – Sunday 1st June
This May half term, bring the whole family and enjoy a treat on The Grape Variety as kids eat free! For every paying adult who orders either the Small Plates or Sharing Boards, one child will eat free from their kids menu.
Find out more and book here.
May Half Term Workshops – O’Connor Dance Academy

O’Connor Dance Academy will be running some dance workshops over May half term.
Both days will take place at Epsom and Ewell High School, Ruxley Lane, KT19 9JW.
Wednesday, 28th May – ‘The Greatest Showman’
Suitable for ages 5-10.
10am – 4pm.
Join for a day of learning fun dance routines, circus skills and exciting activities inspired by the movie!
Thursday, 29th May – ‘A Day of Dance’
Suitable for ages 11-18.
10am – 4pm.
Join for an action-packed day of dance including ‘kicks, turns & leaps’ training and jazz, commercial and lyrical dance routines!
Each day costs £40 per child with 10% sibling discounts available. Please email hello@oconnordanceacademy.co.uk to book your child’s place.
Pop Princesses World Tour @ Epsom Playhouse

Get Ready To Party With the Pop Princesses
This is the children’s pop concert with a big difference. The four fabulous fairy tale Princesses are back, and this time they are on their first World Tour! Come and join them on this epic around-the-globe show.
Featuring a soundtrack of top pop hits from artists such as Taylor Swift, Meghan Trainor, Miley Cyrus, Dua Lipa and Lizzo, plus a few of the best songs from all your favourite films and Musicals.
: Wednesday, 28th May
⏰: 2.30pm
: www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk/shows/pop-princesses-2025 (Meet & Greet option also available).
Indian Supper Club & Rum Tasting @ The Grape Variety

Wednesday, 28th May, 7pm
Join The Grape Variety for a 3-course Indian Street Food menu from an amazing local Indian chef, combined with a rum tasting by a brilliant local rum producing family.
Let your senses travel from the bustling streets of Mumbai to the vibrant markets of Delhi, as each course is paired with a with a drink to compliment the flavours.
Starting with a cocktail paired with your starter, perfectly curated by Hathi Spiced Rums, which celebrates the fusion of South Asian spices and premium Caribbean craftsmanship. Followed by the main dish, which will be served with a wine or beer pairing, and finally finishing with dessert and a tasting of 3 Hathi Spiced rums.
For more details and booking go here.
Giggles Soft Play – Mad Hatters Tea Party

You’re Invited to the Mad Hatters Tea Party!
Join Giggles Soft Play on Thursday, 29th May for a magical day full of fun, laughter, and Wonderland madness!
What’s in store?
Tea party with amazing snacks
Arts & crafts
Temporary tattoos
Crazy fancy dress
Tea & a scone (£2.50 when it’s gone, it’s gone!)
A wild adventure with Alice, the Mad Hatter & the White Mouse!
Tickets just £7.25 each – Booking essential. Soft play included in the price. Email: gigglessoftplay@hotmail.com Website: https://giggles-soft-play.co.uk/
Sip & Sketch @ The Grape Variety

Thursday, 29th May (7pm – 9.30pm)
Unleash your inner artist at Sip & Sketch with Tom Middleton! Tom, twice Wildlife Artist of the Year Category Winner, will guide you through a fun and interactive sketching session, whilst you enjoy a glass of your favourite wine or other beverage.
This will be hosted on the last Thursday of every month downstairs in their cosy Green Room. It is also pizza night, so grab a slice and a drink and enjoy a great evening!
Tickets are £35 per person and includes materials and a glass of fizz on arrival. Book here.
Epsom Family Fridays

Go Epsom is pleased to announce that its very popular Family Fridays are back for the Summer. This year, they have added an extra day during Spring Half Term on Friday, 30th May from 12pm – 4:30pm in the Marketplace. See poster for more details.
Epsom Library – Half-Term Space Craft Activity

Head to Epsom library this half-term on Friday, 30th May at 10.30am for a story and craft activity in their new library space. You’ll be making out of this world flying saucers, aliens and robots
Tickets are £3 per child. Age 4+, children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. To book, please email epsom.library@surreycc.gov.uk
Pepper Meets the Baby @ The Leatherhead Theatre

Friday, 30th May 11:00 am
Saturday, 31st May 11:00 am & 1:00 pm
Sunday, 1st June 1:00 pm
Join Peppa Pig and her family at the cinema as they get ready for their biggest adventure yet: welcoming a new baby! There’s no better time to embark on a full house renovation, shop for a new car and make special memories together. Celebrate the beginning of an exciting new era of Peppa Pig at this special, big screen experience with an hour of laughter, tears and loads of heartwarming moments. With 10 oinktastic new episodes, 6 brand new songs and music videos, your little ones can dance and sing along with Peppa and her family and friends.
Tickets £6.50 https://theleatherheadtheatre.com/whatson/peppa-meets-the-baby-cinema-experience/
May Makers Market @ The Horton

Saturday, 31st May, 9.15am – 4pm
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 and prints… and much more. Free Entry.
FVOXY @ The Famous Green Man

FVOXY a tribute to female artists, and only female artists, will be at The Famous Green Man on Saturday, 31st May from 8.30pm at The Famous Green Man.
Merland Rise Pie & Mash Night

Save the date: Merland Rise Café is opening its doors for a very special Pie & Mash night on Saturday, 31st May.
Head along for an evening of fresh, homemade pies, creamy dreamy mash, and yes… there’ll be a cheeky pudding to finish it all off.
Epsom RDA Open Day

Epsom RDA Open Day on Saturday, 31st May (11am-4pm). They’ve got lesson demonstrations from their participants, carriage driving demos, petting ponies, lots of stalls and some very special guests!
They do still have some spaces for stalls so please email us at fundraising@epsomrda.org.uk if you’re interested.
Coming Up and Book Now!
The Epsom Derby

The Betfred Derby Festival is on Friday 6th – Saturday 7th June. The Derby Family Festival Enclosure returns for 2025 on Saturday only; from tots to young teens, parents to grandparents there is something for everyone to enjoy! Kids under 12 go FREE and tickets start from just £13.
To find out more and book, go here: https://www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/epsom-derby/
Good Company – The Great Get Together

SAVE THE DATE!!
Good Company is hosting The Great Get Together on Sunday, 22nd June and they’d love you to come along!
Find out more here: https://goodcompany.org.uk/thegreatgettogether/
Millie Whizz Summer Intensive Courses 2025

Boost your child’s confidence and skills this summer. The Millie Whizz Summer Intensive Courses 2025 are designed to help students:
✅ Identify strengths and weaknesses in key subjects.
✅ Build confidence in Maths, English, and Reasoning.
✅ Strengthen problem areas through targeted practice.
✅ Enhance vocabulary and comprehension of complex words.
✅ Improve exam techniques and time management.
✅ Study in a supportive and motivating environment.
To find out more and book, go to: http://www.milliewhizz.com/summer-intensive-course/
Sam’s Classroom – ADHD in Girls

NEW DATES RELEASED
Do you have a daughter with suspected or diagnosed ADHD and would like to understand and support them better? Then sign up to Sam’s Classroom – ADHD in Girls, a two part, in person course, starting in June. Booking form here.
Circus Fun Day for The Children’s Trust

Join The Children’s Trust on Saturday, 21st June for a magical day the whole family will love. Get ready for three incredible performances from Circus PaZaz, featuring breathtaking aerial acts, hilarious clowns, and jaw-dropping juggling.
There’s plenty more to enjoy, including:
️Market stalls
A creative craft corner
A circus skills area
Delicious BBQ food
Circus Performance shows are at 11am, 1pm and 3pm.
Tickets start at just £20. Spaces are limited—book now to secure your spot and help support children with brain injury. Get your tickets today: https://www.thechildrenstrust.org.uk/events/circus-fun-day
Enjoy the rest of May, and don’t forget to keep checking back as this blog is constantly updated.
Fran x