Moving to Guildford: Area Guide
Guildford is a town with a rich history and a dynamic present, as a contemporary hub for great culinary and retail experiences.
The beautiful Surrey countryside is a major perk of Guildford and the surrounding area, offering a perfect balance between town and country living.
If you’re thinking of moving to Guildford, we’ve put this guide together with everything you need to know.
Where is Guildford?
Guildford is a town in Surrey, England. It’s located midway between Portsmouth and London.
A brief history of Guildford
Guildford has a rich and varied industrial, economic and social history, with roots dating back to the Celtic Bronze Age.
Guildford was the location of the Royal Mint from 978 until the reign of William the Conqueror.
The town is perhaps most famous for its Norman castle, built by order of William the Conqueror and later used as a hunting lodge.
A town hall was built in the 14th century, which is still a notable Guildford landmark today.
Guilford greatly prospered in 1653, with the completion of the Wey Navigation, allowing access to the Thames by boat. Throughout the Industrial Revolution, the river was key for gunpowder works and the property market.
In 1901, the Dennis brothers built the first purpose-built car factory in England, today known as the Rodboro Buildings.
Later in the 19th century, numerous railways connected Guilford to the nearby cities including London.
Today, the town retains a strong sense of history, evident in its many historical buildings, tourist attractions and picturesque cobbled High Street.
An in-depth look at Guildford
Who lives there?
With a population of around 150,000, Guildford is home to a mix of families, professionals and London commuters.
Types of property in Guildford
As one of the most expensive areas to buy in the UK, Guildford has a wide range of properties that would satisfy any tastes, including numerous new apartment developments, and detached and semi-detached houses.
If you’re planning on moving to Guildford, you can expect to pay around £800 per month for a one-bedroom flat, and around £1,000 for a one-bedroom house.
Two-bedroom properties typically range from £1,200 to £1,350 per month, although they can reach upwards of £1,800 for more luxurious properties.
Properties with three or more bedrooms usually enter the market between £1,500 and £2,500 per month.
Guildford transport
Guildford has two railway stations. The main station, Guildford railway station, is on the Portsmouth direct line to London Waterloo; fast services to London take around 40 minutes. The station also offers direct links to Ascot, Reading, Gatwick Airport and more.
Guildford’s second station, London Road, is served by stopping services between Guildford and London Waterloo.
Buses and coaches also operate in and around Guildford to London, Portsmouth, Heathrow Airport.
Restaurants and shopping
Guildford boasts a fantastic range of restaurants and shops, perfect for window browsing or gourmet delights.
Amor Amora
This tranquil, independent café offers an idyllic experience of organic and locally sourced products. Its minimal aesthetic is thanks to the renowned Greek designer, Marianna Prassinou. Head to Amor Amora for a stylish brunch or a romantic dinner.
Babylon
Babylon is an independent, eclectic retailer, with exceptional home interiors and giftware, as well as environmentally friendly products. From luxurious home textiles and stylish wall art to clothing and jewellery, you’re sure to be inspired by this shop.
Thai Terrace
This chic Thai rooftop restaurant has the best views of Guildford and the North Downs. Thai Terrace offers a delicious contemporary Thai menu, a bar and a palm terrace.
Tudor Antiques
Tudor Antiques is a late-night speakeasy, hidden behind the closed doors of an Antique Shop. By day, the venue serves as an exclusive, members-only cafe, but by night it becomes a quirky cocktail bar.
Art in Guildford
Guildford Castle, built around 1066, is made of Bargate stone in the Normal style. Kings, queens and barons regularly stayed in the castle until the 14th century, when it became a private residence. Today, the castle is open for visitors; climb up to the roof for panoramic views across Guilford and the surrounding Surrey countryside.
Socialising in Guildford
Experience the town’s local attractions, including beautiful parks and artsy locations and theatres; there’s plenty on offer in Guildford.
- Watch a show at Yvonne Arnaud Theatre
- Experience Thirty3Hz, one of the UK’s most iconic house venues
- Have a relaxing walk in Stoke Park, Guildford’s largest park
- Visit Guildford Cathedral, a modern feat of architecture built between 1936 and 1961
- Jump around at the Air Hop Trampoline Park
- Explore a Tudor manor house in Loseley Park
Moving to Guildford
As a sought-after independent town, Guildford offers the perfect balance between beautiful greenspaces and urban activities.
If you like the sound of living in a nature-filled neighbourhood, with a strong sense of community, it’s time to find a home in Guildford.
