THE MAY LOWDOWN – THE RECAP…
Posted by Francesca De Franco on 13 May 2026
Here’s your May Lowdown – Recap of events still to come this month…
Celebrate Florence Nightingale at Ewell Library
Join the Florence Nightingale Museum at Ewell Library this May to celebrate Florence Nightingale’s Birthday and International Nurses Week with a fun interactive event for all ages.
Visitors will have the chance to:
• Interact with historic objects
• Dress like a nurse
• Hold the famous Fanoos lantern
• Spin for the chance to win free museum tickets
• And more!
📅 Friday, 15th May
⏰ 10:30am – 2:30pm
FREE to attend.
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.
Free Wellbeing Fair @ Metropolis Epsom
Love Me Love My Mind Epsom is delighted to host a Wellbeing Fair at Metropolis Epsom on Saturday, 16th May, from 11 am to 4 pm, as part of Mental Health Awareness Week 2026.
We will also be running our weekly kids’ art and craft club from 11 am – 3 pm.
This free, community-focused event will bring together local wellbeing organisations, charities, and practitioners, all dedicated to supporting positive mental health and emotional wellbeing. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore a range of stands, access helpful information, and discover simple ways to look after their mental health.
The Wellbeing Fair is open to everyone and offers a welcoming, relaxed space to connect with others, ask questions, and find support close to home. Whether you’re looking for practical advice, local services, or simply a chance to pause and focus on your wellbeing, join us at Metropolis Epsom and be part of a positive, inclusive celebration of mental health.
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 Hogsmill River Walk
Join a member of the Countryside Team for a guided walk along the Hogsmill River. Learn about the fascinating wildlife that calls the river home, as well as the rich history of the gunpowder mills that were once powered by the river.
📅 Sunday, 17th May 2026
🌳 Hogsmill Local Nature Reserve
⌚ 2pm to 4.30pm – Meet at 2pm at Ewell Court House KT19 0EB
💰 FREE
Email: countryside@epsom-ewell.gov.uk or phone 01732 732000 if you have any questions.
More information – https://www.epsom-ewell.gov.uk/visitors/whats-on/event/hogsmill-river-walk
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)
Story Cube Workshop @ Epsom Library
Celebrating the National Year of Reading… Story Cubes are a great way of sparking imagination and helping to create exciting and original stories.
Join us for a Story Cube Workshop at Epsom Library on Thursday, 21st May (4:30pm – 5:30pm).
Make your own story cubes, roll them, see what picture comes out on top, together as a group we will use them to make up a brand new tale.
Tickets are £2 per child
Recommended for ages 4+
Please book at the Epsom Library Helpdesk or email epsom.library@surreycc.gov.uk
Chilcott Jazz Mass at St Mary’s Ewell
Enjoy an afternoon of music at this special church choral concert featuring Chilcott Jazz Mass, alongside other choral classics performed by the Parish Choir of St Mary’s Ewell.
📅 Saturday, 23rd May
⏰ 1:05pm
📍 St Mary’s Church, London Road, Ewell
Refreshments will be available following the concert.
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.
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:
🪴 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
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, 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/
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 The Grape Variety for a fun 5-mile charity walk in support of The Children’s Trust, helping children with brain injury.
💷 £10 per person
📍 The Grape Variety
12 Chipstead Station Parade,
Chipstead, Coulsdon, CR5 3TE
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 Bouncy Castle Fun @ The Cock Inn
We’re bringing the BIG bounce to The Cock Inn this Bank Holiday Monday.
Bring the kids down for an afternoon of bouncing, playing and family fun in the garden!
📅 Monday, 25th May
⏰ 12pm – 6pm
📍 The Cock Inn, Headley
🎟️ FREE ENTRY
Food, drinks, garden vibes & plenty to keep the little ones entertained.
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
May Half Term @ Metropolis Epsom
Metropolis has a host of activities on this half term, kicking off with the Ultimate Slime Day on Tuesday, 26th May (10am-12pm).
Book here.
Calling all Pokémon Go trainers and Pokémon fans! Assemble for an action-packed Pokémon Party on Wednesday, 27th May from 10am–12 pm, the ultimate school holiday adventure.
Book here.
🔫🎯 Kids Nerf Battle Event. Get ready for the ultimate Nerf showdown! Join us on Thursday, 28th May, from 10am-12:00pm for an action-packed Kids Nerf Battle Event in partnership with Unique Kids Parties.
Book here.
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
Book Fest @ Ewell Library
Celebrate a love of reading at Ewell Library’s Book Fest!!
Join on: Friday, 29th May for a day of exciting author talks, creative workshops, and fun activities.
Amazing author events below:
Join a Special Storytime with Michael Parkin at 10:00am
Take part in a Creative Writing workshop on Creating Characters with Sam Stewart at 11:00am
Squiggle, Swirl, and Create with Zehra Hicks at 1:00pm
Take part in a workshop on Telling Teen Stories with Young Adult author Sara Barnard at 2:00pm
All author talks are £3 per person – https://www.eventbrite.it/cc/book-fest-at-ewell-library-4838045
You can also enjoy the day by taking part in any of the FREE events, from book sales to drawing workshops and crazy craft activities – there’ll be something for everyone.
Tennis Open Day
Epsom Tennis Club is hosting a free Tennis Open Day – welcoming people of all ages and abilities to come along to try tennis, meet coaches, and find out more about the club.
🗓 Saturday 30 May
⏰ 11 am – 3 PM
📍 Epsom Lawn Tennis Club, Woodcote Road, Epsom, KT18 7QN
It’s a free, family-friendly event, and no prior experience is needed.
Family Quiz at Epsom Library
Put your family’s knowledge to the test at this fun book-themed Family Quiz at Epsom Library.
Perfect for families and children aged 6+, the quiz promises plenty of fun with prizes to be won, including Picturehouse Cinema tickets.
📅 Saturday, 30th May
⏰ 2pm
📍 Epsom Library
Book your FREE tickets at the library helpdesk or email: epsom.library@surreycc.gov.uk
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.
Drag Night at The Famous Green Man 💚🎤
Get ready for a fabulous evening of entertainment as Ms Cassidy brings her drag show to The Famous Green Man, Ewell this May ✨
Expect big performances, great music and plenty of fun for a lively adults-only night out.
📅 Saturday 30th May
⏰ 8:30pm
📍 The Famous Green Man, 71 High Street, Ewell, KT17 1RX
🎟️ FREE ENTRY
🔞 18+ event
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/Save the Date!
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.
Save the date – ZEVEFEST
Join us on Sunday, 28th June from 12–4pm on the field for an afternoon packed with family fun, laughter, and community spirit. Introducing our FIRST FAMILY FUN DAY!
Expect:
🎈 Inflatables & games
🎶 Live music & performances
🍔 Delicious food & treats
🛍️ Amazing local sellers
⚽ Activities for all ages
✨ And so much more!
Bring your friends, bring your family, and keep the date free for what promises to be an unforgettable day while raising money for one very special boy 💙.
More details coming soon…
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
