Guildford serves as the practical gateway to the stunning Surrey Hills while offering its own blend of history and modern amenities. As Surrey's county town, this compact city combines medieval architecture with contemporary shopping and sports facilities, making it an ideal base for both day-trippers and those seeking a longer escape from London. Offering a diverse range of activities such as historical sites, beautiful green spaces, shopping and dining, as well as wonderful day trip options, it can be the perfect place to spend a few days. Hopefully I will be able to persuade you to add Guildford to your list.
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History
The historic town of Guildford goes as far back as the Saxon period. The town's name derives from "gold" and "ford," referring to the golden flowers that grew near the crossing point of the River Wey, or the golden sands of the river bank.
The town gained strategic importance after the Norman Conquest in 1066. Guildford Castle, whose ruins still stand today, was built shortly after to help control this crucial point on the road between London and the south coast. During the medieval period, Guildford flourished as a center of the wool trade, with its merchants becoming wealthy through the production and sale of blue-dyed cloth known as "Guildford Blue." The town's High Street, which features a distinctive steep cobbled hill, has been a center of commerce since medieval times.
The building of the Wey Navigation in the 17th century (a canal system including locks linking to the river Thames) further enhanced Guildford's prosperity by connecting it to London via waterway, allowing for increased trade and commerce.
The town suffered during World War II, most notably from the Baedeker raids, but has since developed into a thriving modern town while preserving much of its historical character through its numerous listed buildings and medieval architecture.
In more recent history, Guildford has evolved into an important educational and cultural center. The University of Surrey was established in the town in 1966, though its roots trace back to the Battersea Polytechnic Institute in 1891.
Probably the most famous person with ties to the town is author Lewis Carroll. Using the pen name of Charles Lutwidge Dodgson, he had significant ties to Guildford where he spent much of his later life. In 1868, he purchased "The Chestnuts," a house for his six unmarried sisters to live in, located on Castle Hill in Guildford. Carroll frequently visited them there and wrote parts of "Through the Looking-Glass" during these stays. Tragically, it was during one such visit in January 1898 that he contracted influenza and died at The Chestnuts, at the age of 65. His connection to the town is commemorated by a memorial sculpture in Guildford Castle Gardens depicting Alice with characters from his famous works.
How to Get There
Guildford is situated in the county of Surrey in southeast England, approximately 27 miles (43 kilometers) southwest of central London. The town is located on the edge of the picturesque surrey hills. It sits in a gap in the North Downs where the River Wey cuts through the chalk hills.
Getting to Guildford by train is straightforward, with regular direct services running from London Waterloo station. The journey typically takes around 35-40 minutes on the fastest services, with trains running frequently throughout the day (usually 4-6 times per hour). By car, the main route from London is via the A3, which connects directly to Guildford. The journey typically takes around an hour, depending on traffic conditions. Drivers can also access Guildford via the M25 (London's orbital motorway), exiting at Junction 10 and following the A3 southbound. The town is also well-connected to other major routes, with the A31 providing access to Winchester and the south coast, and the A25 connecting to other Surrey and Kent towns.
The town's location makes it particularly popular choice with commuters working in London, as it offers a balance of countryside living with easy access to the capital. Its position also makes it a convenient base for exploring other parts of southern England, being within easy reach of both the South Downs National Park and the coast.
Activities in Guildford
Cultural and Historical Attractions in Guildford
Castle
Guildford's historic heart centers around its magnificent medieval castle, originally built shortly after the Norman Conquest either by William the Conqueror or one of his Barons. While the castle's stone keep is now partially ruined, visitors can explore the beautifully maintained gardens and climb the tower for panoramic views across the town. The adjacent Castle Grounds host outdoor theater performances and concerts during summer months, which is fun for the whole family.
High Street
The cobbled High Street in the town centre, is one of England's finest historic shopping thoroughfares and features the iconic Guildhall with its prominent overhanging clock. It was built in 1683 and remains one of the town's most recognizable landmarks. High street showcases an impressive collection of historic buildings, including timber-framed Tudor structures that now house a mix of independent shops and traditional businesses. The Tunsgate Arch, dating from 1818, stands as an example of the town's Georgian architectural heritage.
Theaters
Guildford has a few theaters offering live theater and concerts. The Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, situated alongside the River Wey, presents a varied program of professional productions, from West End shows to new works. The Electric Theatre, housed in a converted electricity works, offers a more intimate venue for local productions and music events and the G Live, the town's modern entertainment venue, hosts major touring acts, comedy shows, and classical concerts.
Guildford House Gallery
For art enthusiasts, the Guildford House Gallery showcases changing exhibitions in a 17th-century townhouse, while the Watts Gallery in nearby Compton celebrates the works of Victorian artist G.F. Watts and his wife Mary Watts. The gallery's Artists' Village provides insight into the artistic heritage of the area.
St. Marys Church
St. Mary's Church, at the foot of High Street in Guildford, is the town's oldest place of worship, with parts dating back to Saxon times. This Grade I listed building features an imposing square tower, beautiful medieval stained glass, and a remarkable mix of architectural styles reflecting its evolution through the centuries. The church houses several notable historical treasures, including a painted medieval panel depicting a "Doom" or Last Judgment, rare 17th-century "maiden's garlands," and ancient wall paintings. Its picturesque position near the River Wey and cobbled streets surrounding it creates a postcard-perfect scene that transports visitors back through centuries of Guildford's history. Despite its age, St. Mary's remains an active parish church serving the local community with regular services and events.
Guildford Museum
The Guildford Museum, housed in a charming medieval gatehouse adjacent to Guildford Castle, offers visitors a compact but insightful journey through the town's history. The collection spans archaeological finds from prehistoric times through the Roman and Saxon periods, with particularly strong exhibits on Guildford's industrial heritage in wool trade and needlemaking. Notable features include the Lewis Carroll display, honoring the author's connection to the town, and a collection of items from the Surrey Archaeological Society. While modest in size, the museum provides an accessible introduction to local history with informative displays and artifacts that effectively illustrate how Guildford evolved from a Saxon settlement to the vibrant county town it is today. There are also temporary exhibitions. The museum is free but it is only open from Wednesdays through Saturdays.
Guildford Cathedral
Guildford Cathedral, officially the Cathedral Church of the Holy Spirit, stands as a striking landmark on Stag Hill overlooking the town. Completed in 1961, it represents one of Britain's most significant 20th-century ecclesiastical buildings, with its distinctive red brick exterior and soaring white interior. The cathedral's modern Gothic design by Sir Edward Maufe offers a unique blend of traditional cathedral elements with clean, contemporary lines. Inside, visitors are drawn to the impressive height of the nave, the beautiful stained glass windows, and the remarkable Seasons of Life sculpture. The cathedral's acoustic properties make it an exceptional venue for choral performances, while its peaceful grounds provide a serene retreat from the bustle of town life below.
Shopping and Dining
The town center offers a diverse shopping experience, from the modern Friary Centre to independent boutiques along the High Street and cobbled side streets. The Bear Garden is a favorite shop with their high end teddy bears and collectible dolls. The North Street market, operating every Friday and Saturday, brings local produce and crafts to the town center. The area around Chapel Street and Phoenix Court has developed into a hub for independent retailers and cafes making it one of the best places to enjoy lunch and some shopping.
You will find many great places for a meal in town. Guildford's dining scene spans traditional English pubs like The Angel on the High Street to contemporary restaurants offering international cuisine. The town is particularly known for its historic inns, many dating back several centuries, which combine traditional architecture with modern gastro-pub menus. One of my favorite things to is to ask the local people, such as a shopkeeper where the best food in town is. They rarely steer you wrong.
Outdoor Activities and Natural Attractions
The River Wey Navigation, winding through the heart of Guildford, offers visitors a serene escape from urban life with its picturesque towpaths and historic waterway. Constructed in the 17th century as one of England's first navigable waterways, it now provides idyllic walking and cycling routes along tree-lined banks where herons and kingfishers can often be spotted. Visitors can rent canoes, kayaks, or narrowboats to explore the gentle waters, stop at waterside pubs like The Anchor, or visit the fascinating National Trust exhibition at Dapdune Wharf, which tells the story of the river's industrial heritage.
Stoke Park, Guildford's largest and most popular green space, spans 52 acres of verdant lawns, mature woodland, and ornamental gardens just a short walk from the town center. It features a boating lake, children's playground, skate park, and mini-golf course, making it a wonderful outdoor experience for all ages. There are also walking trails, sports facilities and a high ropes course called Wild Wood Adventure that is suitable for different age groups. The park plays host to numerous community events throughout the year, including the Surrey County Show, Guildford's spectacular fireworks display and the Guildford Cricket Festival. With its mixture of formal landscaping and natural areas teeming with wildlife, Stoke Park provides a crucial green lung for the town where residents and visitors alike can enjoy outdoor pursuits or simply relax amid beautiful surroundings.
Located within Stoke Park is Guildford Lido, a beloved summer institution since 1933, stands as one of Britain's few remaining outdoor Art Deco swimming pools. This heated Olympic-sized pool attracts swimmers and sunbathers with its expansive grassy terraces, colorful changing cubicles, and refreshing waters. The Lido offers dedicated lane swimming for serious athletes, splash sessions for families with children, and adults-only evening swims under the stars. Beyond swimming, visitors can enjoy the café, beach volleyball courts, and slide, creating a holiday atmosphere within the town. Despite competition from modern leisure centers, the Lido's nostalgic charm and unique outdoor swimming experience continue to draw crowds during the summer months, embodying a cherished tradition of British leisure culture.
St. Catherine's Hill
St. Catherine's Hill in Guildford, UK, is a distinctive chalk hill located just southeast of the town center, offering panoramic views across the Surrey countryside. This historic landmark features the ruins of a small chapel dedicated to St. Catherine that dates back to the 13th century, though only the stone foundations remain today. The hill has served multiple purposes throughout history, from religious pilgrimage site to strategic military vantage point. Local folklore connects it to pagan traditions, suggesting it was used for ceremonial purposes long before Christianity arrived in the region. Today, St. Catherine's Hill is a popular destination for walkers and nature enthusiasts, with its steep slopes and surrounding woodland providing a peaceful retreat from the bustle of Guildford town.
Surrey Sports Park and Guildford Spectrum
These two sports facilities, while not technically outdoor, offer many different opportunities for families and sports enthusiasts. A 10 minute drive from old town, Surrey Sports Park is a state-of-the-art sports and fitness complex located on the University of Surrey campus in Guildford. Opening its doors in 2010, this world-class facility boasts an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a climbing wall, multiple sports halls, grass and artificial pitches, and comprehensive fitness facilities. The park regularly hosts national and international sporting events and has served as a training base for teams during the London 2012 Olympics. There are some drop-in activities available such as swimming as long as it is during open swim hours. For other activities such as rock climbing, it is best to make a reservation ahead of time.
Guildford Spectrum is another facility that provides many activities. It can be a great option for a rainy day or when your kids need to run off some energy. There is ice skating, swimming, bowling and other sports activities.
Attractions close by/day trips
Guildford is a great home base as there are many close attractions and easy day trips that are worth exploring. Here are some of my favorites.
Hatchlands Park
Located in the heart of Surrey, Hatchlands Park is a magnificent Georgian mansion set within 400 acres of rolling parkland. Built in the 1750s for Admiral Edward Boscawen, the estate features stunning interiors designed by Robert Adam and houses the unique Cobbe Collection of composer-related instruments and paintings. Visitors can explore the historic rooms filled with musical treasures, stroll through beautiful formal gardens featuring seasonal blooms, or wander through ancient woodlands dotted with natural play areas for young children. This is an ideal outdoor escape and the perfect place to spend an afternoon. Throughout the year, Hatchlands hosts classical music recitals that showcase their remarkable collection of keyboards once owned by composers like Chopin and Elgar.
Olympic Site of Box Hill
Box Hill gained international prominence during the London 2012 Olympic Games when it served as the centerpiece of the men's and women's cycling road races. This iconic natural landmark in the designated area of outstanding natural beauty features challenging steep ascents that tested the world's elite cyclists as they completed multiple grueling circuits. The Olympic route, which has now become a popular pilgrimage for cycling enthusiasts, winds through breathtaking landscapes offering views of the beautiful countryside across the Weald to the South Downs. Beyond its Olympic legacy, Box Hill continues to attract visitors with its diverse wildlife habitats, ancient woodland, and the historic Box Hill Fort, combining natural beauty with sporting heritage in this cherished corner of Surrey. Beyond Box Hill, the Surrey Hills provide endless hiking opportunities, for those who prefer two legs to two wheels.
Hampton Court
Hampton Court Palace, located just a short drive from Guildford, stands as one of Britain's most magnificent Tudor treasures an example of the opulence of Henry VIII's reign. This sprawling red-brick palace seamlessly blends Tudor and Baroque architectural styles, reflecting its dual heritage under Henry VIII and later modifications by Sir Christopher Wren for William III and Mary II. Visitors can explore the Great Hall with its spectacular hammer-beam ceiling, lose themselves in the famous hedge maze, and wander through the meticulously maintained formal gardens featuring the world's oldest vine still producing grapes. The palace's historic kitchens offer fascinating insights into Tudor gastronomy, while the haunted gallery supposedly holds the ghost of Catherine Howard, Henry's fifth wife. With its stunning riverside setting along the Thames, Hampton Court provides an immersive journey through 500 years of royal history, showcasing priceless tapestries, renowned artwork, and the astronomical clock that has tracked celestial movements since 1540. I love visiting Hampton Court and especially wandering the gardens!
Charming towns
Within easy reach of Guildford lie several enchanting towns and villages that showcase the quintessential charm of the English countryside. Shere, just a short drive away, captivates visitors with its timber-framed cottages, bubbling stream running through the village center, and the picturesque St. James' Church – all making it a popular filming location for British movies including "The Holiday" and "Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason." The medieval market town of Farnham delights with its Georgian architecture, castle ruins, and craft shops along its cobbled Lion and Lamb Yard. Godalming offers a perfect blend of history and character with its half-timbered buildings, the ancient Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, and peaceful walks along the River Wey. Meanwhile, Dorking enchants with its antique shops, historic coaching inns, and proximity to Box Hill's spectacular views. For those seeking literary connections, the village of Chawton, where Jane Austen wrote many of her famous novels, makes for a delightful excursion with its preserved 17th-century cottage turned museum celebrating the beloved author's life and works.
Winchester
Winchester, the ancient capital of England, stands as a captivating blend of medieval grandeur and charming English heritage just an hour's drive from Guildford. Dominated by its magnificent cathedral, one of Europe's largest Gothic structures, Winchester boasts over 1,000 years of history within its hallowed walls, including the final resting place of Jane Austen and illuminated Winchester Bible. The Great Hall, the only remaining portion of Winchester Castle, houses the iconic Round Table linked to Arthurian legend, its painted surface dating back to the 13th century. Visitors can wander through cobbled streets lined with timber-framed buildings, explore the serene water meadows that inspired Keats' "To Autumn," or stroll along the River Itchen with its crystal-clear chalk stream waters. The city seamlessly blends its historical significance with a vibrant contemporary scene featuring independent boutiques, excellent restaurants highlighting local Hampshire produce, and traditional pubs where visitors can sample local ales while absorbing centuries of English heritage in what was once the seat of Anglo-Saxon and Norman power.
RHS Garden Wisley
RHS Garden Wisley, situated just a short drive from Guildford, stands as the flagship garden of the Royal Horticultural Society and one of Britain's most beloved horticultural treasures. Spanning over 240 acres, this botanical paradise showcases an astonishing diversity of planting styles and garden designs that captivate visitors throughout the changing seasons. The stunning Glasshouse presents exotic flora from across the globe in distinct climatic zones, while the Alpine Houses display delicate mountainous species in meticulously crafted rock gardens. Visitors can meander through the Mixed Borders bursting with colorful perennials and shrubs, explore the peaceful Woodland Garden with its magnificent specimen trees, or find tranquility beside the shimmering lake adorned with water lilies. Wisley's commitment to horticultural excellence extends to its trial fields, where new plant varieties are rigorously tested, and its cutting-edge laboratory conducting vital plant research. With seasonal highlights including spring bulb displays, summer rose gardens, autumn foliage, and winter structure, Wisley offers garden enthusiasts and casual visitors alike an inspirational experience that celebrates the rich diversity and timeless beauty of plants in a setting that harmoniously blends formal design with naturalistic plantings.
Brighton
Brighton, just an hour and a half drive south, offers a delightful seaside escape with its iconic pier, eclectic shops in The Lanes, and the exotic Royal Pavilion with its distinctive Indo-Saracenic architecture. The Royal Pavilion is really impressive inside and I would highly recommend visiting. This vibrant coastal city combines traditional British seaside charm with a bohemian atmosphere, excellent restaurants, and a thriving arts scene, making it perfect for visitors seeking a contrast to Surrey's rural tranquility.
Guildford offers visitors a compelling blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and modern amenities that make it an excellent destination for both day trips and longer stays. With its strategic location in Surrey, the town serves as an ideal base for exploring the wider region's attractions while offering plenty to discover within its own boundaries. From the medieval castle and cobbled High Street to the peaceful River Wey and expansive parks, Guildford balances its heritage with contemporary comforts. The town's excellent transport connections to London and the south coast further enhance its appeal as a visitor destination. Whether you're interested in history, outdoor activities, shopping, or cultural experiences, Guildford delivers a satisfying experience that often exceeds expectations and rewards those willing to explore beyond the obvious landmarks.
Ready to travel to Guildford? Contact me at stefanie@eurotravelsbydesign.com and I will custom create your perfect itinerary.
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