Page 16 - Wills & Smerdon

page 16 • willsandsmerdon.co.uk • East Horsley: 01483 284141 • Ripley: 01483 224343
Serving proudly as the county town of Surrey, bustling Guildford offers history and heritage against the picturesque background of the Surrey Hills.
Considered one of the prettiest high streets in the south of England, the quaint cobbled stones and historic buildings of the town centre offers an excellent shopping experience; from quirky independents and chic boutiques to cool designer brands and luxury retailers. Those seeking respite from a day of retail therapy can spoil themselves further at a local hidden gem- favourites from those ‘in the know’ include the exquisite Afternoon Tea at Hilly’s Tea Shop, or the artisan Esquire’s Coffee. Eating out of an evening is an equally easy affair- with plenty of options to choose from, the hardest decision is likely deciding where. An array
of exceptional cuisines can be enjoyed, from Asian, Mediterranean, Lebanese, Italian to hearty gastropubs serving the best of British.
Guildford is an ideal location for families- with many “outstanding” Ofsted rated primary and comprehensive schools, plus renowned private schools servicing this desirable area. Weekends can be spent exploring the vast selection of local attractions and events on offer throughout the year; from experiencing history first- hand in the medieval Guildford Castle, to stirring a splash or skating the day away in the Spectrum Leisure Centre.
The nearby Surrey Hills guarantee boundless opportunities to run off energy, enjoy a family picnic or simply enjoy the tranquillity of the awe-inspiring views. Similarly, Stoke Park, Guildford’s largest park- and recipient of a Green Flag award- has acres of beautiful parkland to discover on summer afternoons and lazy Sundays. Newlands Corner is a particularly wonderful nature reserve; well worth the visit on a good day when it offers some of the best views of the Surrey landscape.
For lovers of culture, Guildford offers a number of venues for live music and comedy, with plenty of touring artists and comedians regularly ensuring a date in the area; whilst The Yvonne Arnaud Theatre is one of the country’s leading regional producing theatres, with the highest quality entertainment scheduled throughout the year. There’s a thriving and growing art scene within the town, especially pleasing considering Guildford’s long and well-developed association with fine arts.
Given its proximity to London and vast amenities, Guildford is unsurprisingly popular with commuters and families alike, with a train service offering transport to Waterloo station in 35 minutes. By car, there’s ample routes to the A3 and A35; meaning cities and towns further afield like Reading, Southampton and Portsmouth are easily accessed. However, despite its urban efficiencies, Guildford still retains a charm and warmth rarely experienced within growing commuter hotspots; making the town successful in enabling modern, vibrant living yet remaining sympathetic to its rich historical tapestry.
Guildford