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Guildford

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About Guildford

The county of Surrey has a reputation for being pretty and well-heeled, but Guildford is its only Royal Town, a charming spot on the edge of the Surrey Hills, with a medieval castle used by the English kings in the 15th century. It’s probably Guildford’s position on the route between London and the docks of Portsmouth that lead to its original popularity, more than the picturesque Surrey Hills, and some of the best places to stay in Guildford still include historic coaching inns, and updated village inns. We have also tracked down a number of country house hotels in the area. 

Guildford’s castle is one of the main sights, as well as the cathedral, The Spike Workhouse, and ‘Chestnuts’, the home of Lewis Carroll. Just outside town, within a short and charming drive, are a number of National Trust properties, including Clandon Park, the Italianate home of the Earls of Onslow, Hatchlands Park and Leith Hill. Wisley Gardens is also local to Guildford, and the Denbies Vineyards.

The best places to stay in Guildford are also an easy weekend jaunt from London, only around half an hour by fast train, so it’s worth considering if you need a bit of a countryside break from the bustle of the capital. On weekdays this is a big commuter town, so don’t attempt to travel the other way during rush hour!

The Best Places to Stay in Guildford

For Families

  • The Barnett Hill Hotel is a beautifully renovated mansion just outside Guildford in the Surrey Hills, offering the best of both worlds when it comes to easy to access locations, and picturesque surroundings. Amongst the 56 rooms and suites there are a number of great family-sized configurations, and all the rooms are chic and spacious. As with all the best country house hotels in England, this one serves an excellent afternoon tea, and offers a fine dining experience in its restaurant — with a kids' menu courtesy of the GM’s kids! Four-legged family members are also welcome.

For Walkers

  • The Percy Arms is another great hotel just outside of Guildford proper. This one is in Chilworth, a little village on the outskirts of town. There are just five rooms in this charming inn, decorated with a luxe, colonial safari theme, evidenced by being named after the ‘big five’ safari animals. Expect pampering in-room bath tubs, plush and plump furnishings, and lots of space. The restaurant has a south African theme too, even at breakfast.

For Great Value

  • The Angel Hotel is an historic inn on Guildford High Street, which is the very heart of town. The pub bit has now closed, making space for more rooms, and now there are 22, ranging in size and style, but all traditionally decorated, but with contemporary comforts and simplicity. Though if you fancy a four-poster bed you can book a room with one. 

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

  • If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Guildford is well served by London's airports, and is an easy, hour long train journey from London too. Depending on your staring point, it’s about an hour by car or bus from central London. If you’re coming straight from the airport, Gatwick is the one to opt for, it’s about 45 minutes by train, and just a little less by car. The other airports involve a train journey into central London and out again. Heathrow is about half an hour away by car, London City Airport is about an hour, and London Stansted is an hour and a half.
  • If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
  • Guildford is a year round destination, but the surrounding countryside is at its best on a crisp sunny day, which could happen any time between about March and October.

Still not sure where to stay?

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Best Hotels in Guildford

  • Barnett Hill Hotel Guildford 56 rooms from €196

    Exclusive offer  -  40% OFF
    Country Escape  -  A country mansion boasting a secluded spot with easy access to the beautiful Surrey Hills.
    Families  -  A chic family friendly stay, with easy access to theme parks in the vicinity
    Great walks  -  Find some of the best walking routes in the south of England starting straight from the property.
    Restaurant  -  The Oak Room Restaurant has been awarded 2 AA Rosettes for its stylish modern British cuisine
    RestaurantGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking

    A beautifully renovated mansion set in acres of picturesque parkland. No expense has been spared on the interiors, from luxurious suites to indulgent single rooms, all are contemporary and stylish. A champagne high-tea and fine-dining restaurant are the icing on this indulgent cake. See More

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  • The Angel Hotel, Guildford Guildford 22 rooms from €75

    Local exploring  -  Located in the heart of Guildford giving easy access to the town and surrounding countryside.
    Great walks  -  Stroll through the beautifully manicured RHS garden at Wisley.
    Sights nearby  -  Take a tour of the ruins of Guildford Castle.
    Four poster beds  -  For romantics.
    No pets

    A historic building set in the heart of Guildford on the High Street. Rooms range from spacious suites to simple doubles. All are traditionally dressed with rich hues, antique furniture and luxurious bathrooms - the best have four posters. A charming spot from which to explore the region. See More

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  • The Percy Arms, Guildford Guildford (Chilworth) 5 rooms from €108

    Country Escape  -  Set in a pretty village with excellent access to fantastic hiking and cycling trails.
    Great walks  -  Explore the picturesque walking trails running across St Martha-on-the-Hill.
    Sights nearby  -  Take a tour of the historic, beautiful house and gardens of Loseley Park.
    Fishing  -  Find the best of both lake and stream fishing at Albury Estate.
    RestaurantGardenParkingNo pets

    A chic and unique village inn comprising of five subtly colonial styled rooms all named after one of the 'big five'. South African themed throughout - even in the restaurant - breakfasts come with some of the country's delicacies. Surrounded by great walking this country retreat is worthy of a stay. See More

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