The Best Pubs in Guildford: Where to Eat, Drink, and Unwind

Ruth Carrick-Forrester

Oct 23, 2024 — 4 min read

Guildford is home to a fantastic selection of pubs, ranging from historic inns with centuries of history to modern gastropubs serving up craft beers and creative dishes. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot for a Sunday roast, a lively venue for a night out, or somewhere to catch live music, Guildford’s pub scene has something to offer everyone. Below is a guide to some of the best pubs in Guildford, complete with reviews, ratings, walkable distances, and events.

1. The Star Inn

Google Rating: 4.3/5 (800+ reviews)
Location: Quarry Street, GU1 3TY
Walking Distance: 5 mins from Guildford High Street
Events: Live music venue upstairs, regular gigs, open mic nights.

One of Guildford’s oldest pubs, The Star Inn is steeped in history, dating back to the 16th century. This traditional pub is popular for its live music scene, often featuring up-and-coming local bands and established acts alike. With a cozy interior and a range of local ales, it’s the perfect spot for music lovers.

What People Love: The intimate live music venue, historical atmosphere, friendly staff.
Best For: Music lovers and those looking for a traditional pub with a vibrant events calendar.

2. The Weyside

Google Rating: 4.4/5 (1,000+ reviews)
Location: Millbrook, GU1 3XJ
Walking Distance: 8 mins from Guildford High Street
Events: Quiz nights, summer BBQs, riverside events.

Located along the banks of the River Wey, The Weyside is a picturesque pub with an inviting riverside terrace, perfect for sunny days. The pub offers a selection of craft beers, wines, and a menu packed with seasonal British dishes. Popular with locals and visitors alike, it’s a fantastic spot to relax by the water.

What People Love: Riverside views, great food, relaxed atmosphere.
Best For: A laid-back evening or sunny afternoons by the river.

3. The Drummond

Google Rating: 4.3/5 (700+ reviews)
Location: Woodbridge Road, GU1 4RF
Walking Distance: 10 mins from Guildford High Street
Events: Sports screenings, quiz nights, live DJ sets.

A popular pub for sports fans, The Drummond is known for its lively atmosphere, large outdoor garden, and showing of major sporting events on big screens. With a wide range of ales and a classic pub menu featuring burgers, fish and chips, and more, it’s a great place for a relaxed evening with friends.

What People Love: Large beer garden, good selection of beers, friendly atmosphere.
Best For: Sports fans, casual evenings with friends.

4. The Britannia

Google Rating: 4.1/5 (500+ reviews)
Location: Millmead, GU2 4BE
Walking Distance: 6 mins from Guildford High Street
Events: Regular quiz nights, live sports, BBQs in summer.

Nestled by the River Wey and close to Guildford’s Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, The Britannia offers a warm and friendly atmosphere, complete with riverside seating. It’s a traditional pub that’s perfect for a pre-theatre drink or a casual meal with friends. With a menu focused on British pub classics, it’s a solid choice for hearty meals and pints.

What People Love: Riverside setting, friendly staff, cosy atmosphere.
Best For: Pre-theatre drinks or a quiet pint by the river.

5. The King’s Head

Google Rating: 4.5/5 (250+ reviews)
Location: Quarry Street, GU1 3XQ
Walking Distance: 4 mins from Guildford High Street
Events: Occasional live music, seasonal events.

A hidden gem in the heart of Guildford, The King’s Head is known for its friendly service, cosy ambiance, and well-kept ales. This small but charming pub is great for a quiet drink, and its intimate feel makes it a favourite among locals.

What People Love: Cosy vibe, welcoming staff, great ales.
Best For: A quieter, more intimate drinking experience.

6. The Royal Oak

Google Rating: 4.2/5 (600+ reviews)
Location: Trinity Churchyard, GU1 3RR
Walking Distance: 3 mins from Guildford High Street
Events: Quiz nights, live music, themed parties.

Situated in the heart of Guildford near the Tunsgate Arch, The Royal Oak is a lively pub with a large outdoor area that’s especially popular in the summer. The menu features traditional pub favourites, and the events calendar is filled with live music, quizzes, and themed parties throughout the year.

What People Love: Great location, buzzing atmosphere, large outdoor seating area.
Best For: Outdoor drinks in summer, lively weekends.

7. The Stoke

Google Rating: 4.1/5 (1,000+ reviews)
Location: Stoke Road, GU1 4JN
Walking Distance: 15 mins from Guildford High Street
Events: Live DJ sets, themed events, quiz nights.

Just outside the town centre, The Stoke is a popular spot for students and locals alike. With an expansive beer garden, regular DJ nights, and a laid-back vibe, this pub is ideal for anyone looking for a fun night out. The pub also serves up wood-fired pizzas alongside its wide range of drinks.

What People Love: Large garden, relaxed vibe, pizza.
Best For: A casual night out with friends or a weekend party atmosphere.

8. The White House

Google Rating: 4.3/5 (700+ reviews)
Location: High Street, GU1 3JL
Walking Distance: 8 mins from Guildford High Street
Events: Regular pub quizzes, occasional live music, beer festivals.

Located just a stone’s throw from the River Wey, The White House is a bright and airy pub with a modern feel. It’s a favourite for both its riverside terrace and its wide selection of cask ales and craft beers. With a menu offering seasonal, locally sourced dishes, it’s a great choice for a meal with a view.

What People Love: Riverside terrace, great beer selection, modern decor.
Best For: A casual drink in stylish surroundings.

9. The Three Pigeons

Google Rating: 4.4/5 (500+ reviews)
Location: High Street, GU1 3JL
Walking Distance: 5 mins from Guildford High Street
Events: Quiz nights, live music.

Located at the top of Guildford’s High Street, The Three Pigeons is a traditional pub with a historic feel, featuring a roaring fireplace in the winter and a lively outdoor seating area in the warmer months. The pub offers a great selection of ales and wines, and their Sunday roasts are especially popular.

What People Love: Cosy interior, great location, friendly service.
Best For: A cosy pub experience right in the centre of town.

Conclusion

Guildford’s pubs offer a variety of atmospheres, events, and food and drink options, making it easy to find the perfect spot for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for live music, a quiet drink by the river, or a lively night out, this historic town has it all. Be sure to check out some of these top-rated pubs during your visit!