The Best Hotels in Guildford

Guildford Hotels

One of Surrey’s most diverse towns, Guildford has an enviable position right on the edge of the picturesque Surrey Hills, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This is the ideal outdoor escape for elite cyclists, with the Olympic site of Box Hill located here. The town itself is steeped in history, with centuries-old architecture and charming cobbled streets. It’s not all about the past though, with a vibrant shopping scene and a popular leisure complex to keep things lively.

Things to see

A wander through Guildford’s city centre is a tour through history, starting with the eye-catching Tudor-era Guildhall, which features an ornate golden clock jutting out over the High Street. The rest of the buildings along this wide, paved street are just as characterful, and house numerous shops and cafes. Just off the High Street, you’ll find another of Guildford’s most famous buildings: the Norman castle, built on the orders of William the Conqueror. The 11th century castle keep still stands proudly on its motte, which, in the spring and summer, is surrounded by blooming floral gardens. If you’re visiting with children, one of the best days out is at Guildford Spectrum, a swish, modern leisure complex offering ice skating, bowling and swimming. If you prefer your activity to be outdoors, then head out into the Surrey Hills where you can hike or bike in one of Britain’s most beautiful landscapes.

Hotels in Guildford

From Tudor Inns to Edwardian manor houses, Guildford hotels boast character, history and beauty; ideal for a romantic getaway. In the luxury hotels, period features, such as fireplaces, combine with modern elements to provide a very comfortable stay. In the spacious rooms and suites, you’ll be pampered with Egyptian cotton sheets, flat-screen TVs and 24-hour room service. Full spa services are at your disposal. If you’re looking for a discount hotel, one of the boutique inns can pack in historical character on a smaller budget. Here, rooms will be cosy and simply furnished, additionally providing free WiFi and coffee makers.

Where to stay

If it’s a cultural city break you’re after, stay in the centre of Guildford. There is a choice of accommodation here, from luxury hotels to simple guesthouses. You’ll have easy access to the city’s main historical attractions, as well as the family entertainment of Guildford Spectrum and plenty of shops, restaurants and bars. If you’d rather have a more secluded getaway with plenty of outdoor adventure, stay in one of the beautiful period hotels or inns located in the Surrey Hills. You can cycle, hike and just enjoy the pace of rural village life, and Guildford is within easy reach.

How to get to Guildford

Located southwest of London, Guildford is almost equidistant between the country’s 2 largest international airports, Heathrow and Gatwick. Each is less than 20 miles away, so reaching Guildford from anywhere in the world is easy. If you are planning to use public transport, Gatwick is the more convenient airport, as there are direct trains to Guildford, with a journey time of 40 minutes. From Heathrow, you will need to change in central London. There are direct trains from London Waterloo, with a journey time of about half an hour. Airport shuttles and bus services are also available at both airports.