The Best Pubs in Guildford
Nestled in the historic town of Guildford, just 27 miles southwest of London along the River Wey, the pub scene offers a remarkable blend of centuries old inns and modern hangouts. Here, you can settle into a 400 year old riverside country inn with a real fire, catch live music in a venue where legendary bands first played, or try axe throwing alongside a pint of Kentish ale. From dog friendly gardens and Sunday roasts to craft breweries and cozy locals’ spots, the variety ensures every taste is met. Discover why this vibrant scene is a true highlight of Surrey by exploring the best pubs in Guildford.


1. Ye Olde Ship Inn
Portsmouth Rd, Guildford GU2 4EB, UK
Nestled along the River Wey, this 400-year-old country inn is a true gem for walkers and locals alike! You can cozy up by the open fire in one of the little snugs, or enjoy the covered, heated garden all year round with your four-legged friend. They serve a fantastic selection of ales, fine wines, and cocktails, but their massive, freshly-made stonebaked pizzas are the real star of the show. It’s a wonderfully dog-friendly spot perfect for groups, with a reputation for friendly service that makes every visit feel special.
Photo by Alex McGregor — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


2. The March Hare, A Heartwood Inn
2-4 South Hill, Guildford GU1 3SY, UK
Tucked away on South Hill, The March Hare is a wonderfully welcoming pub that truly lives up to its name with a lively, characterful spirit! With a light and colourful dining area, a sunny conservatory, and a private upstairs room for special occasions, there’s a perfect spot for everyone whether you’re gathering with friends or enjoying a quiet meal. The menu is a celebration of fresh, seasonal flavours, from legendary Sunday roasts with bottomless trimmings to a fantastic selection of perfectly poured pints, expertly chosen wines, and creative cocktails. It’s a dog friendly haven where your four legged friend gets water and treats on the house, and the outdoor seating makes it ideal for sunny afternoons. A true home from home with great energy and reasonable prices, this is a gem you’ll want to return to again and again.


3. The Percy Arms
75 Dorking Rd, Chilworth, Guildford GU4 8NP, UK
Set in the picturesque village of Chilworth in the heart of the Surrey Hills, The Percy Arms is an elegant country pub and grillhouse with a fantastic South African twist! You can enjoy a superb selection of beer, wine, and cocktails in the uniquely styled colonial hunting lodge interior, or soak up the fresh air on the outdoor seating. It’s wonderfully dog friendly and perfect for groups, with an absolutely exceptional steak night and a legendary carvery that keeps guests coming back for more. The service is genuinely warm and next level, making every visit feel truly special.
Photo by David Howard — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


4. The Britannia
9 Millmead, Guildford GU2 4BE, UK
Perched right on the banks of the River Wey, this award winning pub is a true gem for a proper pint of Kentish ale and delicious food! The spacious outdoor deck is perfect for alfresco gatherings, with cosy blankets to keep the evening going, while the lively diary of live music and events ensures there’s always something happening. It’s wonderfully dog friendly and great for groups, with a dedicated kids menu and high chairs making it a top spot for families too. The team here is incredibly welcoming, and the menu’s standout fish and chips and Sunday roasts are absolutely superb. A brilliant choice for any occasion
Photo by Ian Capper — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


5. Grantley Arms
The Street, Wonersh, Wonersh, Guildford GU5 0PE, UK
Just a short stroll from the Surrey Hills, The Grantley Arms is a beautifully restored old bakery that has become a much loved local gem and true community hub. You can settle in with a superb pint of real ale, a carefully chosen wine, or a creative cocktail, and their seasonal British menu offers something for every appetite. The charming courtyard garden is perfect for lazy afternoons with friends and your four legged companion, while the characterful private dining room provides an intimate space for special celebrations. With great energy, friendly service, and a fantastic drinks selection, it’s the ideal spot for a relaxed lunch, a lively group gathering, or a memorable evening out.
Photo by Colin Smith — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


6. The Drummond
Surrey, 55-56 Woodbridge Rd, Guildford GU1 4RF, UK
The Drummond is the kind of pub that makes every visit feel like a celebration, from impromptu family lunches to lively group parties! Their Sunday roast sharing platters are a joy, and the kitchen team brilliantly handles everything from a quick kiddie meal swap to a perfectly timed multi course Christmas dinner for a whole crowd. With a fantastic selection of beer, wine, and cocktails, it’s a wonderfully dog friendly and welcoming spot where the service is always quick, efficient, and delivered with a smile. Whether you’re catching the rugby with friends or showing off a special local find to family, you’ll leave already planning your return.
Photo by Colin Smith — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


7. The Kings Head
Quarry St, Guildford GU1 3XQ, UK
Step into the legendary Kings Head, Guildford’s oldest and most characterful pub, built in the late 1500s right beside the castle! This vibrant town centre favourite serves up delicious home cooked food, four real ales, great wines, and a fantastic selection of cocktails. With a spacious two level outdoor seating area that is wonderfully dog friendly and perfect for groups, it’s the ideal spot to soak up centuries of history. Head on over for a lively Monday quiz or simply to enjoy the warm, welcoming buzz of a true local gem.
Photo by Colin Smith — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


8. The Withies Inn
Withies Ln, Compton, Guildford GU3 1JA, UK
For a truly special escape, The Withies Inn is a 16th century freehouse that masterfully blends old world charm with modern luxury. You can settle into a cosy spot by the roaring log fire with a superb pint, a fine wine, or a creative cocktail, then explore the enchanting fairytale garden. The first class restaurant serves beautifully prepared dishes like a legendary beef Wellington, and the Sunday roast is an exquisite, seasonal tradition. It is wonderfully dog friendly and perfect for groups, with elegant en suite bedrooms for the ultimate countryside sleepover.
Photo by Rob Farrow — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


9. Star Inn
2 Quarry St, Guildford GU1 3TY, UK
With a history stretching back over 400 years, The Star Inn is a legendary local where brilliant bands and beautiful beer have always been the main attraction. This is the very place where The Stranglers played their first gig, and today it remains Guildford’s longest running live music venue, offering a superb selection of Kentish cask ales, wines, and cocktails. Spread across three floors with a real fire, snug corners, and an intimate courtyard garden, it’s the perfect spot to relax with friends or enjoy a flawless lunch of fish and chips. Whether you’re catching live music, sipping a pint in the outdoor seating area, or celebrating with a group, this historic gem delivers a wonderfully welcoming and reasonably priced experience every time.
Photo by Ben Sutherland — CC BY 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons


10. Holroyd Arms
36 Aldershot Rd, Guildford GU2 8AF, UK
The Holroyd Arms completely redefines the pub experience, blending traditional charm with thrilling modern adventures like axe throwing and a rage room! You can enjoy a fantastic selection of beer, wine, and cocktails from the outside bar, then head inside to the fully refurbished venue for incredible live music or a digital darts match. The spacious garden is perfect for groups, and the food from Smokey Joe’s offers delicious, traditional pub fare. Whether you’re here to smash some stress or catch a spectacular gig, this is a genuinely unforgettable spot.




