Things to do in Guildford
For many visitors, their first glimpse of Guildford is its striking red-brick cathedral, a 20th-century landmark crowned with a golden angel weather vane. Perched atop Stag Hill, the cathedral overlooks the town and university campus, commanding a prominent place in the surrounding landscape.
Nestled on the banks of the River Wey, Guildford occupies a natural gap in the North Downs, offering excellent road and rail links across the South East of England. Once a vital trade route, the Wey Navigation and its connection to the Basingstoke Canal provided Guildford with access to England’s extensive canal network, reaching as far as London and beyond. While the wharfs and warehouses are no longer in operation, preserved sections of the waterfront stand as a reminder of the town’s industrious past.
Strategically located midway between London and Portsmouth, Guildford historically served as a key staging post for travelers, both civilian and military. It also held local prominence as a regional market town, an occasional seat of the County Assizes, and home to a Royal hunting lodge.
Today, Guildford continues to thrive as a vibrant market town and communication hub. The town boasts a modern cathedral, a prestigious university, world-class sports facilities, and an extensive array of shopping and commercial developments—all contributing to its unique blend of heritage and contemporary charm.
Explore Guildford
Guildford is a town steeped in history, offering fascinating attractions that cater to visitors of all ages. From a castle with origins dating back to 1066 to a striking cathedral built in 1927, where bricks once cost just 12.5 pence, and a museum showcasing everything from archaeology to local art, Guildford offers a wealth of experiences. These attractions are open to the public, often with little to no cost for entry.
Explore Guildford Castle, climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic views, admire the modernist architecture of Guildford Cathedral, and delve into the lives of past Guildford residents at the Guildford Museum. Whether you’re a visitor seeking to uncover the history of this Surrey town or a local looking to explore your heritage, there’s something for everyone in Guildford.
Guildford Castle
The partly restored Norman keep is a must-visit, open seasonally from March to October (check opening times before your visit). Ascend to the top for spectacular views of the town and the surrounding countryside. The castle grounds are beautifully maintained, featuring a pond, a bowling green, and vibrant ornamental gardens.
Guildford Cathedral
Located on Stag Hill next to the university campus, Guildford Cathedral is a striking example of modern design. The bright, airy interior is illuminated by natural light streaming through its plain glass windows, a departure from traditional stained glass. The cathedral is open daily with free admission, and personal photography is welcome.
Guildford Museum
The Guildford Museum offers a deep dive into the town’s history, from prehistoric times to the 20th century. With over 75,000 exhibits, the museum covers a wide range of topics, including archaeology, local history, needlework, and art. Open Monday to Saturday with no admission fee, it’s an educational and enjoyable destination for the whole family.
For Adults & Families
Guildford is a dynamic and vibrant town in southwest England, making it an ideal destination for a family weekend getaway or a relaxing break during a business trip. Boasting a wide array of restaurants, entertainment venues, and sports facilities, Guildford offers something for everyone.
Known for its lively atmosphere and safe environment, Guildford is a welcoming destination for solo travelers, couples, and groups alike. With a population exceeding 150,000, this charming town strikes a perfect balance between rural tranquility and urban convenience, offering visitors a taste of the diverse landscapes of Surrey.
Guildford Spectrum Leisure Complex
Guildford Spectrum is a premier leisure destination offering an exciting mix of activities, including swimming, ice-skating, bowling, and fitness classes. Catering to visitors of all ages, it’s perfect for family outings or team-building experiences.
The complex features an Olympic-sized ice rink with activities such as wheelchair-on-ice and ice-skating lessons. It also hosts sports clubs for football, squash, gymnastics, and dance. For a more relaxed experience, enjoy a game of ten-pin bowling for as little as £12, with food and drinks available on-site. Themed nights and special games make it an engaging activity for all.
For water enthusiasts, the Spectrum offers four differently sized swimming pools, each supervised by lifeguards, ensuring a fun and safe environment for everyone.
The Mount
Located just a 7-minute walk from Guildford’s town center, The Mount is part of the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It’s a must-visit destination for those seeking a tranquil escape into nature.
A hike to the top of the hill rewards visitors with breathtaking views of Guildford and beyond. The Mount is particularly popular in the warmer months, offering a peaceful retreat filled with fresh air, sunlight, and even the chance to spot skylarks along the way. This natural haven is perfect for stress relief and outdoor enjoyment.
Guildford Cathedral
Perched on Stag Hill next to the University of Surrey campus, Guildford Cathedral is an architectural marvel. Built between 1936 and 1961, its modern design incorporates clear glass windows instead of traditional stained glass, creating a bright and welcoming interior illuminated by natural light.
The cathedral houses stunning artworks, including three glass angels by renowned artist John Hutton, whose works are also featured at Coventry Cathedral and the Shakespeare Centre. Beyond its beauty, the cathedral regularly hosts art exhibitions, movie screenings, and family-friendly events, making it a cultural hub for visitors and locals alike.
G Live
Conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from the town center, G Live is Guildford’s premier entertainment venue. It hosts a variety of events, including live music, theater productions, comedy shows, and dance performances.
Whether you’re in the mood for a nostalgic night of 90s hits or a relaxing screening of a classic film like Casablanca, G Live offers something for everyone. This versatile venue is a top choice for enjoying a lively evening in Guildford.
Stoke Park
Stoke Park is Guildford’s largest and most iconic park, covering 52 hectares of beautifully maintained land. It offers panoramic views of the town, a restored Japanese garden, and a refreshing paddling pool for hot summer days.
This award-winning Green Flag park caters to all ages with activities like skateboarding and mini-golf, which costs £4.75 for adults and £13.45 for families. It’s an affordable option for visitors seeking outdoor fun, whether they’re families, couples, or business travelers.
With two kiosks offering food and ice cream, as well as a scenic model boating pond, Stoke Park is a delightful spot for relaxation and recreation.
Guildford is a town that seamlessly blends history, modernity, and natural beauty, offering endless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment. From its diverse attractions to its welcoming atmosphere, Guildford is a destination that leaves a lasting impression on every visitor.