Guildford

Perched atop the chalk ridge of the Surrey hills, Guildford Cathedral is an imposing modern building, and is well worth a visit, especially as a contrast to the older cathedrals of England.

Guildford Castle dates back to Saxon times, and the bustling high street  contains many historic buildings and sections of cobblestones. Specific buildings worth the visitor’s attention include the Guildhall, its Stuart clock overhanging the street, and St Catherine’s Chapel – reached by a short walk along the River Wey.

Organised trips run along the river, and boats and canoes can be hired here, while for the less energetic a seat by the river is a peacful way to while away the hours. Festivals drawing the visitor to Guildford include a festivals of books and music, and Farnborough International Airshow is held nearby, an extravaganza not to be missed for anyone with a passing interest in flight. The city runs guided tours, covering legends, ghosts and historical areas.

The RHS Wisley Gardens are a pleasure to visit, with many interesting plants and trees for those who like the outdoor life, and there are many other parks and National Trust properties in the locale, with views across the rolling Surrey countryside.

Guildford Cathedral, Stag Hill, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7UP (01483) 547860
Guildford Cathedral is quite unusual in the fact that it was built during the early to mid 20th Century.

Finally consecrated in 1961 in the presence of the HM Queen Elizabeth II and HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, Guildford Cathedral and the Diocese of Guildford now covers some 500 square miles of Surrey, Hampshire and parts of West Sussex.

Guildford House Gallery, 155 High Street, Guildford, Surrey GU1 3AJ (01483) 444742
Guildford Borough’s collection of fine pastel portraits and other works of art are housed in Guildford House; a 17th Century Grade I listed building.

Built in 1660 for the then Mayor of Guildford, John Child, it was opened as an art gallery in 1959.
Now exhibiting paintings by 19th Century artists such as Henry Prosser; the gallery also commissions a number of temporary exhibitions throughout the year.