Guildford

A bustling market town since Saxon times, Guildford has a fascinating history. You are standing in one of the oldest boroughs in England. Guildford derives its name from the golden sands on the banks of the River Wey or perhaps from the golden flowers that grew by the riverside. The High Street you see before you was laid out around 900AD. It was a key stop on the ancient drove road and pilgrim route running from Winchester to Canterbury. Guildford also played an important role on the historic route from Portsmouth to London. Guildford’s Norman Castle is another testament to the town’s long history. Built soon after the Norman Conquest in 1066, it was the only royal castle in Surrey. It served as a base for the Sheriff who governed in the King’s name, complete with a county court. In the 13th century, the Castle was expanded, becoming one of the country’s most luxurious and modern royal palaces. It hosted notable figures like Henry III, Queen Eleanor, and King John. In 1257, Henry III granted Guildford a charter, confirming its status as the county town of Surrey. This significant event was marked by a visit from Queen Elizabeth II 700 years later in 1957. Queen Eleanor, Henry’s widow, founded a Dominican Friary in the town in 1275. Centuries later, its legacy lives on in the name of the Friary Shopping Centre, built on the site. A visit to the National Trust’s Dapdune Wharf reveals the vital role played by the River Wey and its navigations in Guildford’s development. You can even enjoy a leisurely boat trip from here. For a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the less fortunate during the Victorian era, head to The Spike. This former workhouse offers a stark reminder of the challenging conditions faced by the poorest in society. Guildford is a town where history is not confined to dusty museums. The streets themselves are a living testament to its rich past.