Free summer events in Priory Park

A whole host of free events are on offer in Priory Park this summer, from bat walks to history talks and much more.

• On Thursday 27 May the Council’s Countryside Rangers will lead an evening bat walk around Priory Park Lake. The Park is home to at least six different types of bat including the comparatively rare Serotine Bat. The Rangers will be equipped with bat detectors to hear the bats as they hunt for insects. The walk starts at 8:45pm from the Pavilion. Walkers should come prepared with sound footwear. Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult but we ask that you do not bring dogs to this event.

• To mark the publication of a new book about Lady Henry Somerset, whose family owned Reigate Priory house and grounds from 1807 to 1921, the author will be hosting a talk about her life on Friday 28 May at 7.30pm. The talk will be held in the Holbein Hall, which is in Reigate Priory School, behind the museum. To book your place please email lhs.ros@googlemail.com.

• If you are you looking for a fun new way to get fit whilst enjoying the outdoors, then why not try Nordic Walking? Nordic walking was originally developed as a summer walking activity for cross-country skiers. An introductory Nordic Walking workshop is being held in the park on Friday 4 June from 10:30 to 12 pm. Poles will be provided.

• Starting on Saturday 19 June, Reigate Croquet Club will be offering a series of free croquet taster sessions. Further sessions will take place on 10 July and 14 August and all three will run from 10.00am to 1.00pm. There is no need to book in advance, just turn up and have a go.

• To coincide with the launch of a new leaflet about the archaeology of Priory Park, Surrey County Archaeological Unit is giving an evening talk about the site’s archaeology and the archaeological investigations made during the restoration of the park on Thursday 24 June at 7.00pm. The talk is free but as places are limited please book in advance by email to PrioryPark@reigate-banstead.gov.uk.

• On Saturday 26 June the Priory Park Community Festival returns to the park, promising a fun-packed day for all the family with a host of community, craft and information stalls; fun activities for children; traditional fairground rides; conservation activities; a youth zone; demonstrations; live music and performers and a variety of food and drink stalls. The fun starts at 11.00am and runs until 5.00pm. Entry to the event is free but certain activities will be charged for.

• On Sunday 4 July, St Mary’s Church will be holding a Church service in the park. The service starts at 10:30am, everyone is welcome.

• For children – and their parents – there is a Mammal Detective Workshop on Thursday 29 July. Run by the People’s Trust for Endangered Species, this free 30-minute workshop gives kids the chance to learn about woodland creatures and examine real clues to solve an animal mystery. The workshops for children aged six to twelve run at various times throughout the day, at 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 1:30pm and 2:30pm. Although the event is free, places are limited and so must be booked in advance. To secure your place at this unique event please email PrioryPark@reigate-banstead.gov.uk.

Cllr Adam De Save, Reigate councillor and Executive Member for Leisure and Wellbeing, said:

“This fantastic series of events means you won’t be stuck for something to do this summer – there’s something for everyone, come rain or shine.

“Since the restoration of Priory Park was completed in 2008, park staff have been working hard to build an interesting and varied year-round programme of events and this summer’s is the best yet. More events are being added all the time, so keep a look out for new events on our website, in the park pavilion or park notice boards.”

All events meet at Priory Park Pavilion, except where stated otherwise.

For further details about these and future Priory Park events see the ‘what’s on guide’ on the Council’s website: www.reigate-banstead.gov.uk or contact Helen West, Priory Park Interpretation Officer on 01737 242179 or by email to PrioryPark@reigate-banstead.gov.uk.