Things To Do
in Guildford
Guildford is a historic town located in Surrey, England, known for its picturesque streets and medieval architecture. The town is home to Guildford Castle, a well-preserved structure dating back to the 11th century. In addition to its historical attractions, Guildford boasts a vibrant cultural scene with theaters, art galleries, and music venues.
The town also offers plenty of green spaces, including the expansive Stoke Park and the scenic River Wey.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Guildford Castle, exploring its beautiful grounds and climbing the tower for stunning views. Grab a coffee at a nearby cafe afterward.
Stroll along the cobbled streets of the High Street, checking out local shops and boutiques. Stop for lunch at one of the charming eateries in the area.
End your day with a relaxing walk along the River Wey. Enjoy dinner at a riverside pub, soaking in the picturesque surroundings.
Begin with a visit to the Guildford Museum to learn about the town's rich history. Don't miss the beautiful gardens surrounding the museum for a peaceful morning walk.
Head to the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre to catch a matinee show. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local bistro offering traditional British fare.
Explore the nightlife in Guildford with some options for live music. Grab dinner at a trendy restaurant downtown.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful surrounding countryside and scenic views
- Good transport links to London and other areas
- High-quality schools and educational institutions
- Rich history and cultural attractions
- Vibrant town center with shops, restaurants, and cafes
- High cost of living and property prices
- Potentially heavy traffic congestion during peak hours
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
- Weather can be unpredictable and rainy
- Some areas may feel crowded, especially during tourist seasons
Best Activities in Guildford
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historic castle grounds and enjoy a leisurely walk among the beautiful gardens.
Embark on scenic hikes or cycling adventures in the picturesque Surrey Hills area.
Enjoy a relaxing day out with family and friends, complete with picnic spots and gentle walking trails.
Tours
Uncover the best of Guildford with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Guildford
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Guildford and the surrounding countryside
Scenic park with a lake providing picturesque views for photography
Scenic viewpoint overlooking the Surrey Hills and the North Downs
Food in Guildford
Guildford Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A luxurious dish, often served with game chips, seasonal vegetables, and a rich, flavorful sauce, showcasing the local bounty of the Surrey countryside. Recommended at The March Hare.
Must-Try!
Produced in the nearby vineyards, this crisp and elegant wine is a must-try for wine enthusiasts. Visit Albury Vineyard for a tasting experience.
A classic British dessert, featuring a buttery pastry base filled with sweet, sticky treacle. Sample this indulgent treat at The Drummond.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Guildford better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held on the first Tuesday of every month, this market offers a variety of fresh produce, local meats, artisanal cheeses, and homemade baked goods. It's a great place to explore regional flavours and support local producers.
A vibrant hub of international cuisines, from Thai street food and wood-fired pizzas to gourmet burgers and vegan treats. Perfect for a quick, flavoursome bite while exploring the town.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Guildford, it is customary to greet people with a handshake or a simple 'hello' when meeting them for the first time. It is also considered polite to maintain eye contact during conversations.
The British are known for their love of queuing, and this is no different in Guildford. Always respect queues and wait your turn in shops, public transport, and other public places.
Politeness is highly valued in the UK, and Guildford is no exception. Saying 'please' and 'thank you' is important in all interactions, whether it's in a restaurant, store, or simply asking for directions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Guildford with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Guildford
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Guildford, United Kingdom is generally not expected, as a service charge is often included in the bill at restaurants and cafes. However, if you receive exceptional service, it is appreciated to leave a small tip, typically around 10% of the total bill.
In Guildford, United Kingdom, payment is commonly made using credit or debit cards, and contactless payment methods are widely accepted. Cash is also a viable option for smaller transactions, but many establishments prefer card payments. It's essential to check if a minimum spending amount is required for card payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Guildford.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Guildford, as the weather starts to warm up and the beautiful flowers begin to bloom. It's also a good time to explore the countryside and enjoy outdoor activities.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Guildford, with long, sunny days perfect for outdoor excursions. The town comes alive with festivals, events, and outdoor markets during this time.
Autumn brings a stunning display of fall foliage to Guildford, making it a picturesque time to visit. The weather remains mild, and it's a great time for countryside walks and exploring historic sites.
Winter brings a festive atmosphere to Guildford, with Christmas markets and holiday events. While the weather is colder, it's a magical time to visit, especially if you enjoy seasonal activities and cozy pubs.
Guildford at Night
Hiking in Guildford
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area with rolling hills and panoramic views, perfect for hiking and wildlife watching.
A park with various trails and beautiful countryside views, ideal for leisurely hikes.
Offers numerous walking paths through heathland and woodlands, showcasing the natural beauty of Surrey.
Famous for its stunning views of the Surrey Hills, Box Hill features several trails suitable for different skill levels.
A designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with a variety of trails, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.
A historic site offering pleasant walking routes along the River Tillingbourne and through woodlands.
Aiports
How to reach Guildford by plane.
Located approximately 24 miles northeast of Guildford, Heathrow is the busiest airport in the UK and one of the largest international airports in the world.
Situated around 28 miles south of Guildford, Gatwick is the second busiest airport in London and serves numerous international destinations.
About 36 miles northeast of Guildford, London City Airport primarily serves business travelers and offers flights to various European cities.
Located approximately 56 miles northeast of Guildford, Stansted primarily serves low-cost airlines and offers a range of international flights.
Around 60 miles north of Guildford, Luton serves many low-cost and charter airlines, connecting to various destinations across Europe and beyond.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, including British, Irish, Gypsy or Irish Traveller, and other White backgrounds.
Includes Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Chinese, and other Asian backgrounds.
Includes African, Caribbean, and other Black backgrounds.
Comprises Mixed White and Black Caribbean, Mixed White and Black African, Mixed White and Asian, and other Mixed backgrounds.
Includes Arab and any other ethnic groups not covered by the previous categories.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Guildford, with several local clubs and leagues for all ages and skill levels.
Rugby has a strong following in Guildford, with clubs like Guildford Rugby Club offering competitive opportunities and a vibrant community.
Cricket is widely played in Guildford, with local teams participating in various leagues during the summer months.
Tennis is popular in Guildford, with numerous parks and sports clubs providing facilities for both recreational and competitive play.
The River Wey offers opportunities for rowing, with clubs like Guildford Rowing Club supporting both novice and experienced rowers.
Cycling is a favored activity due to the scenic routes and trails around Guildford, attracting both leisure cyclists and competitive racers.
Swimming is enjoyed by many in Guildford, with local pools and swim clubs offering lessons and competitive events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Guildford.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants and cafes in Guildford offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, with many highlighting locally sourced produce in their menus. Standout options include The White House and The Keep.
Visitors with gluten restrictions will find numerous eateries accommodating their needs. From gluten-free afternoon teas at The Tea Terrace to the extensive gluten-free menu at Côte Brasserie, there are plenty of delicious options available.