A weekend in Guildford: The ultimate guide for 48 hours of adventure

Just a stone’s throw away from London, down the A30 lies the vibrant town of Guildford. Nestled within the rolling Surrey Hills, this picturesque area is steeped with history and culture and certainly shouldn’t be dismissed as just another sleepy commuter spot to dash by on the train! 

Whether it be a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of the capital, to celebrate an anniversary or just because, this Surrey town is the perfect place to spend 48 hours – or move to more permanently too! 

So, our local Seymours team have come up with the ultimate guide to a weekend in Guildford. All of our team live in the town themselves so certainly have an insight into life in the area! 

Why not try out a few of their suggestions for yourself this weekend? Even if you’re local, you might well discover a new spot that’s well worth the visit. So, mix it up and discover a weekend itinerary with a difference. Without further ado then, here’s our perfect 48 hours in Guildford… 

For the family

Start your weekend off with a bang as you take a trip to the wild side! The Treetop Adventure in Guildford is fun for all the family and will see you swinging away like a monkey through stunning woodlands. It’s certain to put a smile on your face, just be sure to bring your camera to capture these fun-filled moments. And, after working up a sweat you can head over to Guildford Lido. 

The Lido still features it’s impressive 1930’s art deco styling so, not only are you getting to splash around and cool off but you can also take a dip into history. Whilst you’re here, why not treat yourselves to a delish burrito, taco or classic ice cream from the Burrito Loco Shack. Get ready for the rest of your weekend in Guildford with a fantastic meal out in town, there are hundreds of family-friendly options available. If you still have the energy, be sure to check out the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre too with a variety of performances available. 

Start your Sunday with a sweet treat from microbakery Lekito, there’s something to suit every family member! Once properly fuelled, meander through the town towards Guildford Castle. Knights and princesses will rejoice! Take in some of the stunning views as you climb to the very top of the historic spot for incredible views of the town.

Pack a picnic and enjoy the largest, award-winning park in the area: Stoke Park. There are 27 hectares of unspoiled grassland with views across Guildford for the little ones to run around in! Plus, a skatepark, Japanese garden and minigolf on site too. Of course, Sunday wouldn’t be complete without a roast and we love The Horse & Groom for a warm, intimate setting where all the family will feel welcomed.

For the couple

Escape to the country for a date you certainly won’t forget! Take a trek with the Surrey Hills Llamas, enjoying the picturesque, rolling views and bond over this unique experience. The calming creatures will have you enchanted and are certainly a talking point – don’t remember to bring your camera for a selfie or two too. 

After working up an appetite, head to the Tea Terrace and treat yourselves to a fairytale afternoon tea. After all, you’ve found your Prince Charming or Cinderella! Make it extra special with some bubbles and enjoy delicate sandwiches and cakes.Then, head towards G Live or the Boilerroom for a live performance – from gigs to comedy, there’s something for every couple. 

Get a little R&R at Guildford HarSPA and make your weekend in Guildford one you’ll look back at fondly. With couple massages available, it’s the perfect way to recover after a big Saturday adventure. Hope you’re hungry! Meander down the highstreet towards the cute, cosy Italian Positano. Romance at its very finest, the eatery is consistently highly reviewed and offers plenty of Latin charm to get the sparks flying between you. Finish your evening with a little cheese and wine at Greyfriars and release your inner wine connoisseurs!

For the solo traveller

Explore Watts Gallery and discover stunning art, losing yourself in paintworks by the renowned artist. And, why not book onto a lesson to release your inner artist? Create a piece of art to remember the occasion and meet like-minded locals and travellers in the area. Of course, whilst in this historic spot, you’ll also want to pay a visit to the Watts Cemetery too, admiring some of the stunning architecture on display. Next, wander to the River Tillingbourne, just outside the town centre. 

In excellent condition, you can explore the mill’s machinery, like the drive shafts, pit wheel and oat crusher. Plus, walk through the stunning wildflower fields and lose yourself in nature before heading back to the town centre for a delicious bite to eat. Timed correctly, you might be able to catch the regular farmers market, and take away a treat to fuel the rest of your weekend in Guildford. 

A little further afield, why not take a trip to RHS Wisley for you Sunday, enjoying a spot of cake. If timed correctly, the butterfly house can see you while away hours. Or, spend a few hours shopping at some of Guildford’s unique boutiques, finding gems none of your friends back home will have seen before. For dinner, why not try the top-rated Indian in town – the welcoming team are sure to make you feel right at home as you spice things up with the flavourful, authentic dishes. Can you handle the heat?

Purple flag award: A weekend in Guildford is for everyone

Awarded every year since 2014, Guildford has retained its purple flag status seeing it recognised as an area with a diverse mix of dining, entertainment and culture. Towns given the award must provide a safe, vibrant and varied day or night out. 

Guildford is the only town in the county – and, one of just 70 in the UK to hold the award. So certainly, the area is an exciting spot to visit whether you be with family, friends or solo! Whilst you may consider it only to be a commuter town, there’s much more than meets the eye. 

This varied lifestyle is what has seen Guildford become such a popular choice for those looking to live outside the capital. Of course, the quick train ride taking you into London is a fantastic bonus but, the independent cafes, stunning landscape and community spirit have seen the spot become renowned it it’s own right.

Craving more than 48 hours? Why not move to the area with Seymours?

Perhaps a weekend isn’t quite enough for you. We certainly think 48 hours provides you with just a taste of what life in Guildford is really like. So, why not move to the area and embrace the Surrey lifestyle in this vibrant, ever changing town. With a lively events calendar throughout the year, there really is something for everyone. Those who move to the area will soon feel the community spirit we so know and love as locals ourselves!

Explore our top 10 Guildford shops. 

Our Seymours team have nearly 30 years of experience selling properties within the Surrey area and can provide you with property peace of mind with a service you can rely upon. Our dedicated, passionate team will be on hand to offer you support and reassurance whenever you need it and we guarantee a proactive approach to guarantee you the best possible price for your home. Marketing correctly in the Guildford area is key to ensure your successfully sell your property – whether it be the nearest transport links, the best spot for a family roast or intimate date night location, we’ve got you covered. 

If you’d like free market advice or need an instant property valuation you can trust, get in touch with the team at Seymours Guildford on 01483 576833 or email us directly here.