Guildford Cathedral

Guildford Cathedral is one of the town’s iconic landmarks and a unique twentieth century Grade II* listed building. Reaching skywards, the Cathedral stands on a commanding spot on Stag Hill, just moments from main transport routes and fifteen minutes’ walk from the town centre. The interior is in complete contrast to its exterior, and well worth a visit for your fix of awe and wonder.

About this building

From its commanding hilltop position, Guildford Cathedral is an imposing landmark. The angel on the top of the tower is a sign of homecoming for the town’s residents. A grade II* listed building it is one of England's youngest cathedrals, designed in the twentieth century by Sir Edward Maufe. It was consecrated in 1961 following its ‘Buy a Brick’ campaign in the aftermath of World War Two. Beneath the gilded angel the graceful interior is one of elegance, light and peace. It is here that you will get your fix of awe and wonder – a stark contrast to the exterior of the building. You are welcome to explore the building and grounds using the leaflets available, or enquire from the knowledgeable volunteer Guides. Many take the time simply to enjoy the tranquillity and space for contemplation and reflection, or to light a candle or write a prayer for our prayer tree. There are services on each day of the week, from morning prayer to evensong. On Sundays the Cathedral Eucharist at 9.45am is a celebration of music, prayer and liturgy: all are welcome. Across the weeks and months the Cathedral offers a varied programme of family-friendly activities, outreach for the elderly, schools visits and workshops, art exhibitions, events and volunteering opportunities. Our Shop stocks a wide range of gifts, greetings cards, toys and souvenirs, with plenty to browse through. Seasons Café & Kitchen offers a wonderful space to catch up with friends or meet with colleagues, with a fabulous menu of meals and tasty snacks.

Key Features

  • Architecture
  • Interior features
  • Atmosphere / quiet space
  • Social heritage

Visitors information

  • Level access to the main areas
  • Car park at the building
  • Parking within 250m
  • Accessible toilets nearby
  • Café within 500m
  • Space to secure your bike
  • Building shop or souvenirs

Other nearby buildings

Nigel Turner/Flickr

Watts Chapel

Landscape, art and remembrance are beautifully blended together in the Grade I listed Watts Chapel. Described as ‘stunning and quirky' and a must-see for Arts & Crafts enthusiasts, the Chapel's extraordinary design, a fusion of Celtic influences and Arts & Crafts architecture, fascinates and overwhelms all who venture up the winding yew tree paths to visit. Visit the grave of Aldous Huxley and enjoy stunning views over the Surrey Hills.

Martin/Flickr

Christ Church

Christ Church is set on the brow of a hill, in the centre of the parish, but on the edge of the village, surrounded by the old and new well kept churchyard and by farmland. The village War Memorial is near the church porch.

Roy Reed/Flickr

St Peter

An unusually complete Victorian interior with a breathtakingly elaborate chancel, featuring cusped and gilded roof rafters.