history

Explore Guildford Castle

Ruth Carrick-Forrester

Oct 25, 2024 — 3 min read

Guildford Castle: A Journey Through History

Guildford Castle is one of Surrey’s most iconic historical landmarks, standing proudly in the town center and offering a glimpse into England’s medieval past. With a history that stretches back nearly a thousand years, the castle has played a significant role in Guildford’s development, from a defensive fortification to a royal residence, and now as a popular tourist attraction.

The Early History of Guildford Castle

Guildford Castle was built shortly after the Norman Conquest of 1066, likely as part of William the Conqueror’s strategy to establish control over the region. The castle began as a motte-and-bailey structure, a common Norman design, with a wooden keep set on top of a man-made hill (motte), surrounded by a defensive courtyard (bailey). Its location on a hill provided strategic advantages, overseeing the River Wey and the surrounding countryside.

By the mid-12th century, the wooden structure was replaced by the stone keep that still stands today. The castle became an important administrative and military stronghold, as well as a royal residence for the monarchy. It played a crucial role in overseeing the surrounding lands and ensuring the crown’s control over the region.

Guildford Castle in the Middle Ages

Throughout the 12th and 13th centuries, Guildford Castle saw regular use by England’s royalty, especially under King Henry III, who was known to have used the castle as a residence. Improvements were made to the structure during this time, including the addition of apartments for the royal family and an improved defensive curtain wall.

However, by the 14th century, the castle’s importance began to decline. Newer, more fortified castles took over its role, and by the late Middle Ages, it had fallen into disrepair. Records show that by the 16th century, parts of the castle were being used as a prison and a private residence, but much of the building had been abandoned.

Guildford Castle Today

Today, Guildford Castle is a partially restored ruin, but it remains a focal point of the town. Visitors can explore the well-preserved castle grounds, which have been transformed into beautiful castle gardens featuring vibrant seasonal flower displays, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The gardens include a bowling green, where people often enjoy relaxing during lunch breaks, adding to the tranquil atmosphere of the area.

One of the most unique features of the castle gardens is a statue of Lewis Carroll, who had strong ties to Guildford. Carroll, the author of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, spent much of his later life in the town. The gardens include a memorial to him, along with a statue titled "Alice Through the Looking Glass", featuring Alice peering through a large mirror—a nod to Carroll's famous work.

While the castle keep remains in ruins, visitors can climb to the top of the tower for stunning panoramic views of Guildford and the surrounding Surrey Hills. Inside the keep, displays offer insights into the castle’s history and the broader development of the town over the centuries.

Best of all, it’s free to walk around the castle grounds and enjoy the peaceful gardens. For a small fee, you can also explore the keep and climb the tower to take in the breathtaking views.

The Future of Guildford Castle

As one of Guildford’s most cherished landmarks, there are ongoing plans to further develop the castle site, making it an even more significant educational and historical resource. Conservation efforts are continuously in place to protect the structure from the wear and tear of time, while also enhancing visitor experiences with improved facilities and interactive exhibits.

The possibility of expanding the interpretive displays to include more on Guildford’s medieval history, its role in regional governance, and its royal connections could attract even more visitors to the site. There is also potential for more events and educational programs aimed at engaging the local community and tourists alike.

As Guildford continues to grow, the castle will remain an essential part of the town’s identity, bridging the past and the present. Its future development will ensure that it continues to educate and inspire future generations, while retaining its role as a beloved historical site.

Visiting Guildford Castle

Guildford Castle is open to the public year-round, and visiting the gardens is free. The castle keep itself has a small entrance fee, but the experience of climbing to the top and enjoying the view is well worth it. Guided tours are available, offering detailed insights into the castle’s rich history and its role in the development of Guildford.

For more information about events, opening times, and special exhibitions, visitors can check the Guildford Castle website or stop by the nearby Guildford Museum, which also offers a wealth of information about the town’s history and the castle’s significance.

Key Facts:

Date of construction: After 1066 (Norman period).
Current status: Restored ruin and gardens.
Key features: Stone keep, castle gardens, bowling green, panoramic views.
Historical significance: Norman fortification, royal residence, administrative center, connection to Lewis Carroll.