Every month we take a look at something, or somebody that is loved by Guildfordians and hopefully, visitors alike.
This month we take a look at the rich and varied history of our beautiful town, focussing on just a few of the iconic buildings just a short stroll from Mandolay.
Guildford House Gallery is a remarkable Grade 1 listed town house sitting at the top end of the ‘cobbled’ part of the main High Street. We say ‘cobbled’, but as any local will tell you, the stones are actually called setts, not cobbles. The gallery is home to the last remaining Tourist Information Centre in Surrey, and it’s a great place to start any day of exploration.
In addition to the well-informed TiC team, there is also a lovely little shop where you can stock up on Guildford themed gifts as well as maps and leaflets…but as Jimmy Cricket used to say ‘there’s more’. The place is also home to three floors of exhibition space, with changing displays highlighting the heritage, and artistic history of the town and its environs.
Next on the High Street is the astonishing George Abbot’s hospital. Built in 1619, it is not a hospital in the traditional sense, it is permanent home to some 30 or so residents, all looked after wonderful in private apartments. The hospital is great to look at from the outside, or take a peek through the imposing front doors, and if you are lucky enough, enjoy a tour of the buildings.
Just off the bottom end of the High Street is Guildford Museum, this wonderful stroll through the history of our town is free to visit, with exhibits charting events and artefacts from the middle ages to the present day.
Just a well-aimed trebuchet shot from the museum is Guildford Castle, built shortly after the French invasion of England in 1066, the Great Tower offers visitors a glimpse of life in the 11th century, and spectacular views of the town and beyond.
But what we love, love, love most about the castle are the stunning grounds, and as spring arrives they will soon be ablaze with colourful displays, a real ‘town treasure’ that we are all very proud of.
We have kept the best for last, because Guildford Town Guides offer themed and guided walks throughout the year, including interactive encounter walks like the Alan Turing experience, which features Mandolay thanks to the fact that our building was once home to the Turing family.
There is so much history in Guildford, our top tip is to cast your eyes upwards next time you are on the High Street, you might be surprised what you might see just one level up from the shops and restaurants.
Happy hunting !