Things to do with elderly parents in Surrey

Spending time with elderly parents is incredibly valuable, but finding activities that are accessible, enjoyable, and not too tiring can be challenging.

Whether your loved one has limited mobility, lives with dementia, or prefers slower-paced outings, Surrey offers a wide range of options for the elderly. If you are supporting them day to day, understanding companionship care can help them stay socially active and engaged.

Outdoor days out in Surrey

1. Visit Hampton Court Palace

Located in East Molesey, Hampton Court Palace offers a mix of Tudor and Baroque history set across extensive gardens and riverside grounds.

Inside, you can explore Henry VIII’s kitchens, the Great Hall, and exhibitions that bring royal life to life. Outside, the formal gardens, fountains, and famous maze provide a peaceful setting for a gentle walk.

• Why go: A mix of indoor and outdoor spaces allows you to tailor the visit to your loved one's energy levels
• Accessibility: Step-free routes, accessible toilets, wheelchair hire available
• Tip: The café and riverside paths are ideal for a shorter visit

2. Explore RHS Garden Wisley, Woking

RHS Wisley is one of the most accessible gardens in the UK, with wide pathways and carefully designed planting throughout the year.

The large glasshouse provides a warm indoor option in colder months, while the outdoor areas include flat lakeside paths and quiet seating spots.

• Why go: Calm environment with year-round interest
• Accessibility: Mobility scooters available and level paths
• Facilities: Cafés, accessible parking, and rest areas

Spending time outdoors like this can support wellbeing, especially alongside live-in care that helps maintain daily routines.

3. Wander around Painshill Park, Cobham

Painshill is an 18th-century landscaped garden designed around scenic viewpoints, including a crystal grotto, bridges, and a large lake.

It is typically quieter than larger attractions, which can make the visit more relaxing.

• Why go: Peaceful setting with varied features along the route
• Accessibility: Some uneven terrain, but shorter routes are available
• Tip: Focus on one section to keep the walk manageable

4. Walk at Claremont Landscape Garden, Esher

Claremont is a National Trust garden designed for gentle exploration, with winding paths around a central lake.

There are frequent benches and shaded areas, making it easy to rest and enjoy the surroundings.

• Why go: Calm and structured layout
• Accessibility: Gentle gradients and circular routes
• Tip: Best suited to a shorter visit of one to two hours

Maintaining mobility is important. Our guide to elderly mobility and independence offers helpful advice.

5. Explore Nower Wood, Leatherhead

Nower Wood is a quieter woodland reserve managed by the Surrey Wildlife Trust.

It offers a more natural environment with wildlife, birds, and shaded walking paths.

• Why go: Peaceful and less crowded than formal attractions
• Accessibility: Uneven woodland terrain, best for short walks
• Tip: Choose dry weather for easier walking

Indoor and low-effort activities

6. Discover Brooklands Museum, Weybridge

Brooklands is a historic site featuring vintage aircraft, racing cars, and interactive displays.

You can explore at your own pace and focus on one section at a time.

• Why go: Engaging and nostalgic without being overwhelming
• Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly areas and indoor exhibits
• Tip: The aircraft hangars are ideal for a shorter visit

7. Visit Watts Gallery – Artists’ Village, Compton

Watts Gallery sits in a quiet rural setting near Guildford and offers a calm cultural experience.

The site includes exhibitions, sculpture, and a café, making it easy to combine art with a relaxed break.

• Why go: Quiet and reflective atmosphere
• Accessibility: Step-free areas and seating
• Tip: Combine the visit with a café stop

Creative outings like this can support wellbeing, especially when exploring dementia-friendly activities.

8. Visit The Lightbox, Woking

The Lightbox is a modern gallery with a mix of art, history, and local exhibitions.

Its compact size makes it manageable for shorter visits.

• Why go: Calm indoor environment
• Accessibility: Fully step-free with lifts
• Tip: Visit midweek for a quieter experience

9. Enjoy a café at Squires Garden Centres

Squires Garden Centres provide a relaxed environment with wide aisles, seating, and cafés.

You can browse plants, enjoy a meal, and take breaks as needed.

• Why go: Simple, low-pressure outing
• Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly layout and facilities
• Tip: Weekday mornings are usually quieter

Social and community activities

10. Browse Ripley Farmers’ Market

Ripley Farmers’ Market offers local produce, baked goods, and crafts in a friendly village setting.

• Why go: Gentle social activity
• Accessibility: Flat layout and nearby parking
• Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds

Social interaction is important for wellbeing. Learn more about loneliness in older adults.

11. Join activities with Age UK Surrey

Age UK Surrey runs a range of local groups including tea clubs, lunch groups, and gentle exercise sessions.

These activities provide routine and social connection.

• Why go: Regular opportunities to meet others
• Best for: Older adults who enjoy group settings

If attending groups becomes difficult, companionship care at home can provide similar support.

Flexible and low-energy ideas

12. Take a scenic drive through the Surrey Hills

The Surrey Hills offer countryside views across areas such as Box Hill, Dorking, and Newlands Corner.

This is ideal when walking is not practical.

• Why go: Minimal physical effort required
• Tip: Plan short stops at cafés or viewpoints

13. Visit Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham

Polesden Lacey is a National Trust estate with gardens, a historic house, and wide views over the Surrey Hills.

• Why go: Flexible experience with indoor and outdoor options
• Accessibility: Shuttle buggy and accessible paths
• Tip: The terrace offers views without much walking

If you are supporting a parent more regularly, this guide to caring for an elderly parent may help.

14. Explore The Sculpture Park, Farnham

The Sculpture Park features hundreds of sculptures set across woodland and lakes.

You can choose shorter routes depending on energy levels.

• Why go: Visually engaging and varied
• Accessibility: Uneven terrain, best for moderate mobility
• Tip: Plan a shorter route rather than the full trail

15. Plan a memory day at home

Not every meaningful activity requires going out. Time at home can be just as valuable.

Looking through photo albums, listening to music, or cooking favourite meals can create meaningful moments together.

• Best for: Dementia, reduced mobility, or low-energy days

For more ideas, see dementia activities to try at home.

Choosing the right activity

When planning a day out with elderly parents, consider:

• Energy levels: Keep outings flexible and manageable
• Mobility: Choose locations with seating and step-free access
• Cognitive needs: Prioritise calm and familiar environments
• Weather: Have an indoor backup option

If you are unsure what support is needed, this guide to types of elderly care can help.

Need extra support?

If getting out and about is becoming more difficult, the right support can make all the difference.

Explore home care in Surrey with Elder to help your loved one stay active and engaged.