SurreyGUILDFORDGuildfordCathedral(richardaugustCC-BY-SA2.0)1 RichardAugust

Guildford Cathedral

Open to all, the cathedral is a place to explore and learn, a modern cathedral with a truly remarkable story.

Guildford, Surrey

Opening times

The Cathedral is open 365 days a year.
Monday to Friday: 8.10am to 6.15pm.
Saturday: 8.40am to 5pm.
Sunday: 8am to 7.30pm.

Address

Stag Hill
Guildford
Surrey
GU2 7UP

Building work on the cathedral started in 1936, to a design by Sir Edward Maufe. But work was stopped by the Second World War and its devastating aftermath. Despite enormous setbacks, regular services were held in the Crypt Chapel (the current choir practice room) from 1947.

When building restrictions were lifted and materials were available again, there was a renewed sense of determination in the local community to complete the cathedral. But there were very limited funds.

Eventually, through the Buy a Brick fundraising campaign, work restarted again in 1954. More than 200,000 ordinary people became brick givers. Their generosity helped ensure the completion of what they thought of as 'their Cathedral'. It was an extraordinary act of public support, a demonstration of modern community spirit.

With a resilient and make do and mend approach, the inside of the cathedral was furnished. Again, much of this was done with the assistance of local people. For example hand making the 1500 kneelers, which remain in place today.

The cathedral 'The People's Cathedral' was consecrated on 17th May 1961 by Bishop George Reindorp in the presence of HM The Queen, HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, the Archbishop of Canterbury and a packed congregation from all parts of the diocese.

  • Wildlife haven

  • Spectacular stained glass

  • Social heritage stories

  • National heritage here

  • Magnificent memorials

  • Glorious furnishings

  • Fascinating churchyard

  • Famous connections

  • Enchanting atmosphere

  • Captivating architecture

  • Walkers & cyclists welcome

  • Space to secure your bike

  • Parking within 250m

  • On street parking at church

  • Non-accessible toilets in church

  • Level access to the main areas

  • Dog friendly

  • Café within 500m

  • Bus stop within 100m

  • Accessible toilets nearby

  • Accessible toilets in church

  • Church of England

Contact information

Other nearby churches

Guildford URC

Guildford, Surrey

An excellent example of good 1960s architecture with a large central octagonal sanctuary, a beautiful internal wooden roof and possibly the best views over the town.

St Mary

Guildford, Surrey

The oldest church in Guildford, built around 1040 using local chalk with a flint jacket.

Watts Chapel

Compton, Surrey

Landscape, art and remembrance are beautifully blended together in the Grade I listed Watts Chapel.