Surrey Hills Enterprises and Merrist Wood College are delighted to announce the return of the Surrey Hills Country Fair on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th June 2026.
Set within Merrist Wood, Surrey’s leading land-based college, this unique event offers a hands-on countryside experience for all ages. From traditional rural crafts to modern land-based careers, the fair brings the Surrey Hills to life through activities, demonstrations, and interactive experiences designed to inspire all ages.
Following a strong programme of Surrey Hills events, the Country Fair at Merrist Wood builds on growing demand for high-quality, sustainable family days out that celebrate the countryside, local skills, and outdoor living.
Experience Heritage Skills in Action
Visitors can enjoy a rich programme of live demonstrations from talented craftspeople throughout the weekend. Traditional skills such as willow weaving, hurdle making, chair making, wood turning, and chainsaw carving will be brought to life, offering a fascinating insight into the craftsmanship that has shaped the Surrey Hills.
These heritage skills continue to play an important role in sustainable land management and the rural economy, showing how traditional techniques remain relevant in a modern context.
A Full Day of Outdoor Family Adventure
The fair offers a wide range of activities designed to keep children active, engaged, and enjoying the outdoors. From pony rides and tractor-trailer adventures to tree climbing and hands-on experiences such as bird box making, there is plenty to capture young imaginations. Alongside the more energetic activities, families can enjoy face painting, gentle animal encounters, and live entertainment, including the ever-popular balloon artist. Interactive stands from organisations such as Cranleigh Chimney Sweep, Surrey Hills Society, and Surrey Road Safe Police add an educational element, creating a day that is both fun and informative.
Discover Countryside Skills and Careers
Set within Merrist Wood College, Surrey’s leading land-based training provider, the fair offers a unique opportunity to explore how the countryside works behind the scenes. Visitors can discover training and career pathways in areas such as animal care, horticulture, forestry, and land management, while speaking directly with tutors and students about their experiences. This real-world setting provides valuable insight into the skills and knowledge needed to support the future of the countryside, helping to inspire the next generation.
Shop Local, Eat Well, and Enjoy the Atmosphere
A vibrant artisan market will showcase high-quality local producers, makers, and craftspeople. Visitors can browse handcrafted goods, enjoy locally sourced food and drink, and relax to live music across the weekend.
The event reflects the Surrey Hills commitment to supporting local businesses, sustainable production, and high-quality visitor experiences.
New for 2026: Wellness Village
A new wellness village will offer visitors the chance to pause and reconnect, with taster sessions including yoga, mindfulness, and nature-based wellbeing experiences.
This addition reflects the growing importance of the countryside in supporting both physical and mental wellbeing.
Inspiring the Next Generation
The Country Fair at Merrist Wood is designed not only as a day out, but as an opportunity to inspire curiosity and awareness of the countryside.
By combining heritage skills, modern careers, and hands-on experiences, the event encourages young people and families to better understand and value the role of the rural economy and the environment.
The event also supports Shooting Star Children’s Hospices, helping families of children with life-limiting conditions.
Maggie Howell, CEO of Surrey Hills Enterprises, said:
“This event is about giving families a genuine connection to the countryside. Through our partnership with Merrist Wood, we can show both the traditional skills that define the Surrey Hills and the modern careers that will shape its future. We want visitors to leave having had a great day out, but also feeling inspired by what they have discovered on their doorstep.”
Plan Your Visit
Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th June 2026
Merrist Wood College, Guildford
Experience a countryside fair where you don’t just watch – you take part!
For more info and tickets, visit: The Country Fair at Merrist Wood 2026
