Guildford’s history has shaped the character of its communal spaces and venues. From its origins as an Anglo-Saxon ‘golden ford’ to its development as a thriving medieval market town and its expansion during the Victorian era, the city’s architecture tells a story. Here, you'll find venues within structures that once served different purposes, traditional inns standing for centuries, or contemporary establishments carefully integrated into historic streetscapes. This sense of place means a modern cafe might occupy a building with ancient foundations, or a performance space could echo the grandeur of an earlier civic hall.
Exploring these venues takes you across the city's distinct areas. In the Town Centre, the high street’s frontages frame a range of establishments, reflecting a continuity of commerce and gathering. Further into the Medieval Town Center, along cobbled paths, smaller venues hint at the area's enduring heritage. Meanwhile, a different atmosphere emerges at the Watt Gallery Artist Village, where the buildings themselves are part of a curated experience, offering spaces for contemplation and creativity. Our directory provides a window into this evolving local life, with listings continuously reflecting the current offerings and spirit of Guildford’s dynamic scene.
Featured places are selected local venues we recommend or that partner with The City Brief.
Catering Event / Pop-up Restaurant
Chai in the Barn - Mandira's KitchenChai in the Barn - Mandira's Kitchen is a Catering Event / Pop-Up Restaurant serving Indian cuisine. Situated on Shere Road in the Surrey Hills, it offers a rural, lively setting in this part of Guildford. The venue is known for its Indian barbecue and award-winning samosas, attracting visitors from across the region.
View Info →Pub
The Inn At MayburyThe Inn At Maybury is a traditional pub on Maybury Hill in Guildford. This part of Surrey offers a relaxed atmosphere, removed from the town centre’s bustle. It’s known for local ales and classic pub food, creating a welcoming environment.
View Info →Nightlife & Music
The BritanniaThe Britannia, on Millbrook in Guildford, offers a relaxed atmosphere despite being in a residential area. This pub is known for its selection of real ales and casual environment. Locals and visitors alike go to The Britannia for evening drinks or to catch events, enjoying its laid-back vibe.
View Info →Coffee Shop
Heartwork Coffee BarHeartwork Coffee Bar is a coffee shop on Pasture Wood Road in Holmbury St Mary, a rural escape just outside Guildford. It’s become known for its single-origin espresso and relaxed atmosphere. Locals and visitors enjoy this space for a quiet coffee or a simple lunch.
View Info →Pub
The Three PigeonsThe Three Pigeons is a pub on Guildford High Street, in a lively part of town. This building, dating back to the 18th century, is known for its local ale and pub grub. People visit The Three Pigeons to watch sports, socialize with friends, or enjoy a casual meal.
View Info →Food & Drink
Dolce ItaliaDolce Italia is an Italian restaurant on North Street in Guildford. Its location means it's easily reached from the town’s shopping and entertainment areas, adding to the evening atmosphere. Dolce Italia Guildford is known for its pizzas and pasta.
View Info →439 total places
Coffee Shop
Heartwork Coffee BarHeartwork Coffee Bar is a coffee shop on Pasture Wood Road in Holmbury St Mary, a rural escape just outside Guildford.
View Info →Dolce Italia is an Italian restaurant on North Street in Guildford.
View Info →Frimley Kebab Centre is a fast-food spot on Frimley Road, offering a convenient dining option.
View Info →Fish And Chips Shop
Kims PlaiceKim's Plaice is a Fish and Chips Shop offering a classic takeaway experience in Guildford.
View Info →East West is a bar located on North Street in Guildford.
View Info →Restaurant
The Gormet OrientalThe Gormet Oriental is a fast food restaurant on Farm Road in Surrey Heath.
View Info →71 total places
Catering Event / Pop-up Restaurant
Chai in the Barn - Mandira's KitchenChai in the Barn - Mandira's Kitchen is a Catering Event / Pop-Up Restaurant serving Indian cuisine.
View Info →Theatre
The New Victoria TheatreThe New Victoria Theatre is a large theatre connected to the Peacocks shopping centre in Guildford.
View Info →196 total places
Pub
The Inn At MayburyThe Inn At Maybury is a traditional pub on Maybury Hill in Guildford.
View Info →The Britannia, on Millbrook in Guildford, offers a relaxed atmosphere despite being in a residential area.
View Info →Pub
The Three PigeonsThe Three Pigeons is a pub on Guildford High Street, in a lively part of town.
View Info →The Queen Stage is a pub on North Street in Guildford, a key spot in the town’s commercial district.
View Info →Bar
All Bar OneAll Bar One Guildford is a bar on North Street, in Guildford’s High Street.
View Info →Pub
The SwanThe Swan is a traditional pub on Petworth Road in Guildford.
View Info →98 total places
Fitness Center
Anytime FitnessAnytime Fitness Guildford is a fitness center on Chertsey Road in Woking.
View Info →Sports Centre
Blue SpiderBlue Spider is a climbing gym on Moorfield Road within the Slyfield Industrial Estate.
View Info →Fitness Center
Snap FitnessSnap Fitness is a fitness center on High Street in Guildford.
View Info →Pilates Studio
Cobham PilatesCobham Pilates is a Pilates studio on Cobham High Street, creating a calm atmosphere in this Surrey neighbourhood.
View Info →Fitness Center
CrossFitCrossFit & Hyrox Classes in the Heart of Guildford Town Centre is a Fitness Center located on Bottom of Guildford High Street.
View Info →Sports Facility
Woking SportsboxWoking Sportsbox is a sports facility offering leisure and fitness options in Guildford.
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