This historic market town in Surrey houses Britain's oldest brewery and sits 27 miles from London. Its streets are lined with antique shops and local restaurants.
Guildford sits 27 miles from London in Surrey, with its medieval High Street lined with stone setts leading up to the 11th-century castle. Watch a play at the Tudor-style Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, climb 100 steps up the castle tower for views across Surrey, or walk past working locks on the River Wey Navigation. The surrounding Surrey Hills contain walking paths to St Martha's Hill and three local vineyards.
Getting to and Around Guildford
Trains depart London Waterloo every 15 minutes, reaching Guildford in 35 minutes. Direct trains also run to Portsmouth and Alton throughout the day. Cyclists can follow National Cycle Routes 22 and 223 into town, linking to London and the south coast. The Friary bus station has regular connections to Surrey villages and towns, including Box Hill and Dorking.
Along the High Street
The High Street climbs uphill from the River Wey, lined with buildings from the 15th to 19th centuries. Look up to see the 17th-century Guildhall clock hanging over the street and Tudor buildings with their distinctive overhanging upper floors, now containing shops and cafes. Market traders set up stalls on Fridays and Saturdays (8am-4pm) selling clothes, produce, and crafts. Local farmers bring seasonal vegetables, meats, and prepared foods on the first Tuesday monthly (dawn-3pm).
River and Parks
The River Wey Navigation dates to 1653, with its original locks still working today. Walk or cycle the towpath for miles past narrow boats and riverside pubs. Stoke Park's 52 acres include tennis courts, a skate park, and sports fields. Come here for summer concerts and autumn fairs, or bring children to the playground and weekend model railway.
Cultural Venues
The Yvonne Arnaud Theatre stages drama, comedy, and musicals year-round. Inside a converted 1913 electricity works, The Electric Theatre hosts community shows, concerts, and films. The eight-screen Odeon made history in 2007 as the world's first cinema to show 4K digital films.
University Quarter
The University of Surrey campus covers Stag Hill, alongside Guildford Cathedral. The cathedral, built between 1936 and 1968, has distinctive red brick walls topped by a golden angel weather vane. Walk through the university's lakes and woodland paths, stopping at campus cafes or art exhibitions in the main buildings.
Beyond the Town
Walking paths lead into the Surrey Hills, climbing to St Martha's Hill and Newlands Corner. Visit three vineyards within five miles of town for tours and wine tastings from spring through autumn. Between April and September, tour guides at West Horsley Place and Loseley Park explain these manor houses' Tudor and Stuart histories while you explore their rooms and gardens.
