Guildford Castle
This section provides information about Guildford Castle which has a long and facinating history.
Guildford Castle started out as a Norman motte and bailey castle, built soon after 1066.
The wooden defences were replaced by stone during the 12th century, and the motte acquired first a shell keep and then the strong but not very large tower keep that survives today.
The only royal castle in Surrey, it became the centre for administration and justice, with the keep converted to use as the county gaol.
The royal apartments were moved to a palace in the bailey below, which under Henry III became one of the most luxurious royal residences in England.
After Henry III's death in 1272 the castle fell into ruin and in 1885 the ruins were bought by Guildford Borough Council who turned the castle into a park.
Factfile
Contact details
- Guildford Castle
Castle Street
Guildford
GU1 3TU - Tel: 01483 444718
Opening Times
Grounds open from 7.30am until dusk daily.
No access to the castle keep.
Useful websites
Reigate & Banstead Borough Council
Town Hall
Castlefield Road
Reigate
RH2 0SH
01737 276000
Sports centres
Sports, swimming, keep fit workouts and children's parties - all happening in the Borough's sports centres.
Pubs, bars and restaurants
Looking for a local for a drink, or perhaps a bite to eat? See our directory of places to eat and drink.
Cinemas, galleries and museums
See the wide range of cultural opportunities which are available for residents of the Borough.
Quick links
Reigate and Banstead Borough Council is not responsible for the content of external sites.
