Armistice Day commemorations in Cranleigh

As a long-established estate agent at the heart of our community, we are always keen to support the local initiatives which make this part of Surrey such a special place.

One such initiative has been two years in the planning, and will finally be unveiled this month as part of Cranleigh’s programme of events to commemorate the signing of the Armistice at the end of the First World War. A tranquil ‘Centenary Garden’ has been created to honour those from Cranleigh and the surrounding villages who have lost their lives in conflicts since 1914. A total of 415 have died, both military and civilian, and a steel poppy sculpture in the centre of the garden will symbolise each lost soul.

The garden, at Snoxhall Fields off Knowle Lane, will be officially opened on Saturday 10th November at 11am. This is sure to be a well-attended event and a fitting tribute to the fallen. The garden is only possible thanks to an amazing response from volunteers and businesses; we’re proud to be among the local companies to have offered support.

On Sunday 11th November – Remembrance Day - there will be a parade through the village and a service at the war memorial on Cranleigh High Street, led by St Nicolas Church. Timings are from 10.30am until midday.

Arts events in Cranleigh to commemorate the end of the Great War

We’re lucky to have a thriving arts scene in our village, and Cranleigh Arts Centre is at the hub of so much creativity in the form of music, theatre, film, dance, art and crafts. This November, the centre is putting on a series of events to mark the centenary of Armistice Day, including a fascinating film night on Wednesday 14th November called ‘Surrey on Film 1914 – 1953: A Community in Peace and War’. During the evening, Surrey archivist Sarah Gray will show a compilation of rare moving images depicting Surrey in the first half of the twentieth century.

On Friday 16th November there is a Remembrance Day-themed spoken word night at the arts centre, where everyone is invited to share favourite poems on the subject of remembrance, as well as listen to readings of well-known Great War poetry.

This is sure to be a poignant month in many ways - a time to remember the sacrifices of soldiers and civilians in this area, and also a time to feel thankful for the community spirit we are able to enjoy today.

If you would like any more information on the Centenary Garden, visit the Cranleigh ParishCouncil website, and to find out more about local arts events visit Cranleigh Arts Centre.

Thinking of moving to Cranleigh?

As local experts with firm roots in the area, we’re always happy to answer any questions you might have about Cranleigh and the surrounding villages including Ewhurst, Alfold, Dunsfold, Shamley Green, Wonersh, Forest Green, Rudgwick, Loxwood, Ifold and Kirdford.

To get in touch, call us on 01483 268555, drop us an email, or pop into our office on Cranleigh High Street.