Guildford Borough Council : Explore Hidden Treasures On Your Doorstep
Guildford Borough Council : Explore Hidden Treasures On Your Doorstep
Historic buildings, idyllic landscapes and vibrant parks and gardens. Visit Guildford as part of the annual Heritage Open Days celebration this September.
Heritage Open Days is England’s largest festival of history and culture. It allows everyone a chance to explore exciting, hidden places and learn about local architecture and culture for free.
Kindly sponsored by Charles Stanley Wealth Managers, Guildford’s Heritage Open Days take place from Friday 8 to Sunday 10 September.
Discover the beautiful architecture of our historic High Street. Tour Guildford Museum’s historic buildings dating back to 1256. Visit the attic at the Grade 1 listed townhouse, Guildford House, which dates back to 1660. Step inside the 17th century County Club built on the site of a 12th century inn. Or take part in the free family trail on Saturday around the town centre.
Delve deep underneath Guildford Cathedral to see its original chapel. Visit the beautiful setting of Albury and the Saxon Church and dozens of others across the borough.
There is also the 14th Century Great Barn of Wanborough. One of the oldest timber structures in South East England. Or explore Watts Gallery, Compton with its unique insight into the life and work of ‘England’s Michelangelo’ George Frederic Watts and the designer and artist Mary Watts.
All the locations with events over the Heritage Open Days weekend offer free entry. Many of these allowing free access to areas usually closed to the public.
This diverse programme of events offers something for everyone including:
- walks and talks by the award winning Guildford Town Guides
- museums and churches
- educational institutions
- galleries
- historic buildings
- a free family trail in town
Lead Councillor for Commercial Services, Cllr Catherine Houston said:
“We know how much people love to visit our borough. Heritage Open Days is a fantastic free opportunity to learn about our history and culture. There is plenty to do and explore. Guildford offers so much to visitors and residents alike. I would urge everyone to take advantage of these wonderful Heritage Open Days events and make a day out of visiting our fabulous town.
“I am so grateful that we have the support of so many enthusiastic volunteers including the Guildford Society, Guildford Heritage Forum, Guildford Town Guides and Friends of Guildford Museum without whom this event wouldn’t be the same.”
Established in 1994, Heritage Open Days has become the country’s largest community heritage festival and we are proud to be a part of it. This year, Guildford’s Heritage Open Days has received £1,000 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Find all the exciting information you need about the Guildford venues and events at the Heritage Open Days website.