Guildford's Hidden Gems
Guildford is a lovely town in Surrey, England, that has a lot to offer to visitors. You can find history, culture, nature, and shopping in Guildford, and have a great time exploring its attractions and activities. In this complete travel guide, I will tell you about some of the secret spots of Guildford that you might not see in other guides. These are the places that make Guildford special and unforgettable, and that will make you want to visit again and again.
One of the hidden gems of Guildford is the Guildford Castle. This ancient castle was built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century and was used as a royal home until the 14th century. The castle is now a museum that shows the history of Guildford and its people, as well as a lovely garden that has a wonderful view of the town. You can go up the tower to see the original Norman keep and enjoy the colourful flowers and sculptures in the garden.
Another gem of Guildford is the Guildford Museum. This museum is in an old building that was once the gatehouse of the castle, and has a collection of things and displays related to the local history, archaeology, art, and culture. You can learn about how Guildford started, its role in the English Civil War, its famous people such as Lewis Carroll and Alan Turing, and its industries such as brewing and papermaking. The museum also has temporary displays and events all year round.
A third secret spot of Guildford is the River Wey. This river goes through the centre of Guildford, and has a lot of activities and scenery for visitors. You can take a boat ride along the river, and see the old buildings, bridges, and locks along the way. You can also walk or cycle along the towpath, and enjoy the quiet nature and wildlife. The river is also where some of Guildford's landmarks are, such as the Town Mill, the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, and the Electric Theatre.
Guildford Castle grounds
Loseley Park is another hidden gem of Guildford. This park is a stunning estate that dates back to the 16th century, and is still owned by the same family that built it. The park features a magnificent Tudor mansion that is open to visitors, and a beautiful garden that is divided into themed sections such as the rose garden, the herb garden, and the white garden. You can also explore the parkland, which covers 1,400 acres of fields, woods, and lakes.
Finally, I have to mention the Watts Gallery - Artists' Village. This gallery is dedicated to the works of George Frederic Watts, a Victorian painter and sculptor who lived in Compton, a village near Guildford. The gallery displays his paintings, sculptures, drawings, and personal items, as well as temporary exhibitions of other artists. You can also visit his home, studio, chapel, and cemetery in the Artists' Village, which is a unique example of Arts and Crafts architecture and design.
These are just some of the hidden gems of Guildford that you can discover on your next trip. Guildford is a town that has a lot to offer for travellers who are looking for something different and authentic.
Watch my video about the Guildford town centre & Guildford Cathedral
If you spend a weekend in Guildford UK, especially in November to December, don't forget to visit Guildford Cathedral, a beautiful Anglican cathedral in Surrey, England. It hosts a Christmas market every year, where visitors can enjoy a variety of stalls selling handmade gifts, decorations, food and drinks. The market is held inside the cathedral, which offers a stunning view of the surrounding countryside.
Take a walking and river tour through Guildford's history to discover the people who shaped the town's current state, check out the Guildford Walking and River Tour.
Guildford Theatre is a popular destination for theatre lovers in Surrey and beyond, it's also a perfect place to go in rainy days. It offers a variety of shows, from musicals and comedies to dramas and classics, that cater to different tastes and preferences. The theatre also has a rich history, dating back to 1935, when it was opened as a cinema. It was converted into a theatre in 1962, and has since hosted many famous actors and actresses, such as Judi Dench, Ian McKellen, and Emma Thompson. Guildford Theatre is worth visiting for its high-quality productions, comfortable seating, and friendly staff.
If you need a private (one way or round trip) transfer from Heathrow Airport to Guildford, check out this link here.
Whether you are looking for a fun night out, a cultural experience, or a gift for someone special, Guildford Theatre has something for everyone.
Surrey Hill village Shere and Cranleigh high street
My video about the Surrey Hill Villages below
If you love nature and are looking for a picturesque, tranquil and diverse destination, you should consider visiting Surrey Hill and villages. This area is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) that covers over a quarter of the county of Surrey. It offers some of the best walking trails in southern England, as well as stunning views, wildlife, woodland and historic market towns. Some of the famous beauty spots include **Box Hill**, **Leith Hill** and **The Devil’s Punchbowl**. You can also explore the unique culture and heritage of the villages and hamlets that nestle within the hills. Surrey Hill and villages is a perfect place to enjoy nature, relax and discover something new, and they are within easy reach of Guildford.
Shere: Shere is a picturesque village with walkers, and also the favourite film location for the films Bridget Jones, The Edge of Reason, and The Holiday.
Cranleigh is arguably the largest village in England, theHigh Street has independent shops, tea shops, and restaurants. Its main attractions include Cranleigh Festival, Carnival and Fun Day, Classic Car Show, Artisan Markets, Cranleigh Arts with live music, comedy, and films
Surrey Hills is an Area of Outstanding Beauty and the surroundings are the perfect place for walking, cycling, and riding.
I hope you enjoyed this comprehensive travel guide on discovering the hidden gems of Guildford and Surrey Hill areas. If you liked this post, please share it with your friends and family who might be interested in visiting Guildford.
Thank you for reading!
