Surrey Cultural Forum 2026

On Friday 30 January we welcomed over 120 colleagues to Guildford’s Yvonne Arnaud Theatre for the fourth edition of our annual Surrey Cultural Forum.

Keynote speakers Sir Tristram Hunt, Director, V&A and Hazel Edwards, South East Area Director, Arts Council England, shared insight into the vital role of the cultural sector in placemaking, and the importance of collaboration.  Dr James Kennell, Head of Surrey Hospitality & Tourism Management, University of Surrey and Board Director of Visit Surrey, provided data on the significant value of cultural tourism, and artist Heather Ackroyd spoke about the inspiring practice of internationally acclaimed Surrey artists Ackroyd & Harvey.

In our breakout groups, we discussed what it is that makes Surrey unique as a cultural county, and looked ahead to how, together, we can attract new audiences.

Commenting, Marilyn Scott, Co-chair, Surrey Cultural Partnership, said: “The Forum is our major event, and we were thrilled with the response we received.  On behalf of all colleagues, thank you to our speakers for such inspiring and insightful talks, and also thank you to our sponsor, Visit Surrey, and to the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre for supporting this event.”

“Following the introduction of the Surrey Heritage for All Fund in 2025 which, supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and in partnership with the Community Foundation for Surrey (CFSurrey), has awarded grants to 22 Surrey projects, we were delighted to announce the Creative Wellbeing Fund at this year’s Forum." 

In partnership with CFSurrey, the new Fund will support arts and culture organisations in Surrey that are providing creative activities benefitting the health, wellbeing and quality of life of people in need in our county.  We are grateful to everyone who is making this possible.”

Karl Newman, Co-chair, Surrey Cultural Partnership, said: “At this year’s Forum we set out to raise hope, by celebrating the many arts, culture and heritage organisations, incredible artists and visionary supporters who make magic happen here, and by inspiring ideas and opportunities that will enable more people to take part in more arts and culture in our county.   Thank you to everyone who joined us, and thank you for being part of this journey.”