Celebrate Guildford's culture, community and hidden history at Heritage Open Days 2025

Residents and visitors can explore Guildford's history and culture through an exciting programme of Heritage Open Days events. Venues across the borough will host free activities for all the family from Friday 12 to Sunday 21 September. 

Guildford's Heritage Open Days programme includes: 

• vintage bus rides  
• a display of 13th and 14th Century life, including combat displays, leather work and crafts in the Castle Grounds 
• pre-war Dennis vehicles and heritage fire engines in the High Street 
• a new sculpture of the sun by artist Luke Jerram at National Trust Clandon Park 
• entertainment and music from local groups including Guildford Jazz 
• a talk at Guildford Institute to mark 120 years of the railway in the town 
• tours of Guildford Cathedral, and church events in West Horsley, Shere, Albury, Shalford and Wanborough 
• a chance to see inside the iconic Guildhall 
• a celebration of 110 years of the Women's Institute 
• tours of Yvonne Arnaud Theatre and Mill Studio 
• an opportunity to visit the trig point at Henley Fort 
• the opening of buildings that are usually closed to the public, including the Royal Grammar School and Abbots Hospital 
• The Little People children's trail of events around the town - collect the guide from our Tourist Information Centre. 

Heritage Open Days is England's largest community led festival of history and culture. Run by the National Trust, the celebration will bring together local organisations and volunteers to showcase the historic beauty of our borough. 

Cllr Tom Hunt, Deputy Leader and Lead Councillor for Economy and Place, says:

"Heritage Open Days will offer residents and visitors a chance to see Guildford's hidden treasures and try out new experiences - all for free. From architecture to music, and children's activities to guided tours, the weekend of events includes something for everyone." 

A highlight of the local programme is St Mary's Church in Quarry Street - Guildford's oldest church dating back to Saxon times. The tower is the oldest building in the town, and the pulpit is where Lewis Carroll preached. Following its recent restoration, the church is now a flexible space for worship, community events and cultural activities. 

During Heritage Open Days, the church will host 'Our Time 2', a special exhibition of original artworks by women prisoners. The exhibition is thanks to a partnership between Watts Gallery Trust, the Michael Varah Memorial Fund and HMP Send, and a selection of artworks will be available to buy.  

Sally Varah, Chair of the Michael Varah Memorial Fund explains:

"This pioneering project encourages prisoners to develop their artistic talents through weekly tutored sessions. The group itself organise an annual in-prison exhibition for invited guests, learning transferable skills in design, marketing, budgeting, time management, and public speaking.  

"We're excited to bring their artwork to the wider public through St Mary's Church and Heritage Open Days. The event will showcase the historic beauty of this welcoming place of worship, the importance of the creative arts in rehabilitation, and the inclusive work going on in the Guildford community." 

Cllr Hunt adds:

"Thank you to the many partners, volunteers and local organisations who make Heritage Open Days possible - we look forward to joining their teams and visitors at venues and events across the borough." 

To find out more about the programme of events in Guildford, visit the Heritage Open Days website. 

Published on 22 August 2025.