10 Things to Do with an Elderly Parent in Woking

Woking is a handy place for a relaxed day out, particularly if you don’t want to travel too far. There are parks, galleries, shops, theatres and the canal, so you can choose something based on how your parent is feeling that day. And that’s really the secret – don’t plan as though every day will be the same, because some days you’ll manage a long walk while on other days, coffee and cake will be enough.

We’ve collated a list of ten things we think would make for a fun day out with an elderly parent in Woking:

Enjoy a Peaceful Walk Around Woking Park

Woking Park is a straightforward choice for some fresh air. Take a gentle walk around the park, find somewhere to sit and enjoy being outside. If your parent is comfortable walking, you can explore a little further. If not, there’s no reason to push it. A short walk is still a walk and great mental and physical exercise.

Explore RHS Garden Wisley for a Relaxed Day Out

For parents who love gardening, RHS Garden Wisley is an excellent day out. There’s plenty to see, but don’t feel you have to cover every corner. Choose the areas your parent is most interested in and take regular breaks. Gardens are particularly good for this because sitting and looking around is part of the experience.

Visit The Lightbox Museum and Gallery at a Gentle Pace

The Lightbox is a good indoor option for a quieter afternoon. Explore the exhibitions together and see what catches your parent’s eye. Art can be a surprisingly good conversation starter, particularly when you completely disagree about whether something is actually any good.

Take a Calm Stroll Along the Basingstoke Canal in Woking

The canal is ideal for a slow stroll. Watch the boats, look out for wildlife and take your time. You don’t need a destination, simply walking alongside the water can be a delight in itself. Plonk yourselves on a bench when you fancy and enjoy a chat or even just sit in reflective silence together.

Enjoy Afternoon Tea in Woking Town Centre

Find somewhere comfortable for afternoon tea and settle in. If your parent enjoys traditional treats, this could be a real highlight. And if they don’t fancy the full afternoon tea, there’s nothing wrong with ordering tea and a slice of cake or scones instead.

Browse Wolsey Place and Victoria Place Shopping Centres

Shopping centres give you a relatively easy way to spend a few hours without worrying too much about the weather. Browse the shops, look for something you probably don’t need and stop for refreshments. If your parent enjoys shopping, let them choose where to go. And if the shops fail you, you can always make a café your destination.

Attend a Performance at New Victoria Theatre

A theatre trip can be a lovely treat. Check what’s showing and choose something your parent will enjoy. Matinees can be particularly useful if evenings are tiring. There’s something nice about dressing up a little and going out for a show, even if it’s just for a couple of hours. Those are the sorts of occasions that can create truly timeless memories.

Visit Goldsworth Park Lake for a Quiet Waterside Walk

Goldsworth Park Lake is a peaceful place to spend some time outdoors. Take a gentle stroll around part of the lake or find somewhere to sit and watch the water. It’s a particularly good choice when you want to get outside without making the outing feel like a major expedition.

Spend a Relaxed Day at Home with Simple Pastimes Together

Quality time together doesn’t always have to involve going somewhere or doing something. Staying at home can be equally fun – whether you’re making lunch together, baking, doing a puzzle, looking through old photo albums or simply chatting over a cuppa. Just being with your parent will mean the world to them.

Stop Off at Friendly Local Cafés Around Woking

A café can be the perfect final stop after any of these activities. Find somewhere cosy, order your parent’s favourite drink and give yourselves time to sit down. It’s often the conversation over a pot of tea that becomes the best part of the day.