Guildford campsites

Whether you’re on the hunt for history and culture or simply want to find good shops and eateries, Surrey’s county town of Guildford has it all. The town is both pretty and charming, set across the banks of a canal and packed with independent shops. Hire a boat for a day and get to know the real heart of Guildford, or allow yourself to be tempted with lovely trinkets in the local shops.

The town has a great many claims to fame, being home to The Stranglers, the birthplace of Lewis Carol and the home of 'Ford' in the Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy.

Popular with visitors is the charming art deco gem, Watts Chapel, perched in the sleepy village of Compton, just outside Guildford. Take in the picturesque cherubs lining this tranquil space and then picnic on the hillside.

National Trust properties in the area stand tall in their splendour with Polesden Lacey’s golden saloon, and Hatchlands Park offering vibrant gardens and 400 acres of rolling parkland to get lost in.

Other historical landmarks include the beautiful Losely Park, and the 18th century mansion Clandon Park which was the brainchild of a Venetian architect. At Dapdune Wharf you'll find long peaceful waterways, along with the story of the navigations and the people who lived and worked on them.

Film buffs will want to explore Guildford Cathedral, where scenes from The Omen were filmed.

Families with active little ones should make time for Guildford House, which is currently a gallery and museum and Stoke Park for ball games and wildlife spotting. Next up, the short drive to Mercedes-Benz World at Brooklands is the ultimate chance for young and old to test their skills in some of the world’s hottest cars.

The enormous shopping centre in town, The Friary Centre, will give shopaholics a run for their money, and Guildford museum is perfect for when the English summer lets you down. Entrance is free and you can also explore the creepy undercroft, a medieval cellar that lies hidden beneath the bustling high street of Guildford.

Guildford boasts a leisure centre, a golf club and a lido too.

The natural beauty of the Surrey Hills makes for perfect for walking and hiking, so take the opportunity to find all the sculptures by the artist Walter Bailey dotted across this heritage site.

For day trips, both Hampton Court Palace and Wisley Garden are within easy reach.