Guildford is a historic country town with cobblestone streets, manicured gardens, and a vibrant dining and nightlife scene. This laid-back town is also dotted with cathedrals, castles, museums, parks and art galleries.
Things to do in Guildford
Guildford Castle features medieval architecture with a square tower and spectacular gardens. Don’t miss the statue of “Alice Through the Looking Glass”, a memorial to author Lewis Carroll who lived nearby. You can also join a walking tour of Guildford Mount Cemetery where Carroll is buried.
Visit Guildford Cathedral, an inspirational gathering place and former film location for “The Omen” horror movie. Explore Guildford Museum to find history exhibitions, crafts and textile collections, then stop by The Guildhall, a former courthouse housing oil paintings and rare items, such as the Guildford Clock and Civic Plate.
Nestled within picturesque woodlands and gardens, the Watts Gallery Artists’ Village features Victorian paintings and sculptures along with a contemporary gallery and Compton Pottery exhibitions. Wind your way through yew-tree paths to reach Watts Chapel, a stunning redbrick masterpiece with intricately carved ceilings, portraits, frescoes and sculptures.
Learn about stream-train travel and vintage carriages at The Cathedrals Express, then enjoy classic British high tea with scones and sponges at The Tea Terrace. In the evening, indulge in Spanish tapas and paella at Las Casita, before visiting the Boileroom for live music and creative arts.
Getting around Guildford
Buses and taxis offer transportation in Guildford, with a bus regularly circling the city centre. You can pick up a rental car at Heathrow Airport, about a 40-minute drive away.