Guildford Castle and Grounds

Guildfordrinker

Chill out and only 2 mins from the High St. 15th July 2009

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I have been coming to these grounds since I was knee high to a grass hopper.
A lovely place for a stroll or just sit and watch the world go by,the flower beds are a picture in the summer.
They have a bowling green where sometimes you can sit and watch a game.Also there is a band stand not sure if it gets used now it did years ago.
Its such a shame the dungeons were filled in (with leaves) some years ago, what a gem they'd be now,but that's typical of a council with no idea much the same as the lot in power now ( look at the Civic Hall b'''ls up).
This place is well worth a hour of anyones time.

Alwilliams26

Perfect for a picnic 15th September 2008

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Firstly, you have to congratulate Guildford Borough Council and their parks team for keeping the castle grounds not only immaculately clean, but for ensuring that the seasonal planting schemes give perpetual and dramatic colour throughout the seasons.
Based around the Norman keep, which now is a visitors centre in its own right, a series of paths and smaller green spaces are lined by numerous benches providing a great spot for a quick picnic with the kids. Some of the paths are at quite a gradient, but there's enough on the level to be able to avoid these if need be.
Don't forget that there is also lots of space around the adjacent bowling green, and a little walk further there's the peace and tranquility of Racks Close.
It's a must see for visitors, and a great spot of anyone who wants a tranquil break from Guildford's great shopping.

Kaellya

Castle 4th September 2008

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Guildford Castle is a gorgeous place, especially on a sunny day. The grounds are well tended – lots of flower beds and generally well maintained. Lots of patches of grass for lying on, and plenty of benches. There is plenty of meandering pathways through, up to a small bandstand/veranda at the top, and there was a giant outdoor chess board, complete with pieces, at one point and a green for boules, I think. Great place to go lie, picnic, eat, drink, sunbathe. Spent many happy hours here in the grounds. Never been inside the castle though, which is quite an oversight.

traveladdict

A hidden gem in a city 22nd August 2008

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guildford castle is a hidden gem - I never knew it existed until 3 years ago, despite having shopped in Guildford for a while.

It is a short distance walk form the high street and is a remarkable and magic place to visit.

Parking is best in the town centre, then walking.

Lots of grounds so take a picnic!

simwilliams at 27/08/08

I agree - nice grounds and good parking. But GC has little historical relevance. Essentially, it was a jail and compared to numerous/prestigious local sites, it pails into insignificance. NOT a four star rating - in my humble view. SW

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Aleman

Wheely is correct 15th April 2008

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I don't know so much about the history of the Castle grounds but i do remember going there many times about 15 years ago when i was about 8 years old. Its a magical place. From the wonderful pond to the wonderful castle itself, also good for watching a spot of bowls too!

Wheely

Good Day Out 9th March 2008

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Having grown up in and around Guildford, I've lost track of the number of times I (we) have visited this superb old castle and grounds. For accuracy of description, the following is an edited extract from their website:

Just a few minutes walk from Guildford High Street stands Guildford Castle tower keep. It's surrounded by beautiful gardens and was the subject of major conservation work in 2003, costing almost £3/4 million. Henry III made it one of the most luxurious royal residences in England but in later years the castle was allowed to fall into disrepair. The keep is open to the public at certain times and you can climb to the top for magnificent views of the surrounding countryside as well as entering into the first floor chamber for the first time in centuries!

Tourists, The stairs to the top is spiral, narrow and steep. Park up Pewley Hill for free parking but it's a steep walk back to your car ! Best eatery nearby is the Kings Head (pub grub) at the bottom of Castle Street adjoining Quarry Street. Best time to visit the gardens (free) is mid-year and take your camera !

mazphd at 10/03/08

you've just taken me back to my child hood and associated school trips... fabulous!, must re-visit the ye olde castle!

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