Guildford pub guide - information about pubs and bars in Guildford # beerintheevening.com

Guildford pub and bar guide

Here's a guide to the pubs and bars of Guildford - good or bad, we bring you the most talked about venues and the places you have to visit at least once. We've included a few user reviews, to give you an idea of what to expect when you get there. Or you can follow the links to see full details and all reviews for each pub.

The William Bray , Shere Guildford Surrey

Address: Shere Lane , Shere , Guildford , Surrey , GU5 9HS
Phone: 01483 20 20 44
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Reviews by BITE users:

Having been to this pub again, I have to change my mind about what I said previously, I must have been on a good night last time. Completely different standard of service and food. Perhaps they have become complacent.

3 Feb 2010 12:47

Came here on a Sunday as refugees from the White horse Inn down the road. Food a bit pretentious and quite expensive. Risotto was fine but could have done with a bigger helping or maybe two helpings. They have a different bar-type menu for weekdays/Saturdays. Had Doombar on which was OK, not great. Also had Shere drop & Ranmore ale on from Surrey hills brewery.

24 Jan 2010 19:20

A gastro pub its certainly not a village pub, it is what it is nothing special quite expensive,a couple of real ales on Doombar being one,food was ok agin nothing to write home about. 5/10
Got to say it looks like the staff get on this site (dace331 fot one )

6 Dec 2009 20:25

The Royal Oak, Guildford

Address: 15 Trinity Churchyard, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 3RR [map]
Phone: 01483301988‎
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Nearest train stations: London Road - Guildford (0.4 miles), Guildford (0.5 miles), Shalford (1.7 miles)

Reviews by BITE users:

Popped in for a quick one as the icy conditions continued to trouble the town.

Quick service which was to my surprise then again it was hardly packed, indeed very empty for a late afternoon.

On tap were three ales - Pride, HSB and Jack Frost. The Jack Frost was excellent.

Also this pub has a warm and homely feel and there is said to be live music at weekends, while the jukebox adds to the atmosphere.

In general a great pub, if a little small for when it gets busy and thus I shall give it a 9/10.

7 Jan 2010 17:57

If the staff could cheer up this would be a great pub. It has everything required such as a fine ale selection, as well as being situated on a graveyard and selling good food. Darts board as well which is rare these days.

23 Dec 2009 14:10

This is a great pub and the Jukebox is cool. The currys are tasty.

18 Oct 2009 13:56

The Jolly Farmer, Bramley

Address: High St, Bramley, Guildford, Surrey, GU5 0HB [map]
Phone: 01483 893355
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Nearest train stations: Shalford (1.5 miles), Chilworth (2 miles), Farncombe (2.2 miles)

Reviews by BITE users:

....... speechless !! ... I am a happy chappy and will also give that gas fire some considerable thought.

13 Jan 2010 13:53

Still a great (continuously changing) range of ales including draught Belgians, and excellent cellermanship. What can I say? It rings my bell when the thirst is upon me.

9 Jan 2010 20:14

Very traditional atmosphere with two drinking areas either side of the front door with a real fire making it a cosy place to sup ale .L shaped bar has at least six real ales available ,generally from small micros including the close by Hogs Back Brewery.Ale quality is high.Beyond the bar is a spacious restaurant area in what looks like an old barn and the food is very well cooked,authentic pub grub and worth the slight premium pricing.My only small gripe is that the gas effect fire in the restaurant seems out of place but otherwise this is a top establishment with great service and remarkably clean loos.A must visit.

4 Jan 2010 11:29

Britannia, Guildford

Address: 9 Millmead, Guildford, Surrey, GU2 4BE [map]
Phone: 01483 572160
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Nearest train stations: Guildford (0.3 miles), London Road - Guildford (0.7 miles), Shalford (1.5 miles)

Reviews by BITE users:

All change here since my last visit (and review) in March 2009. What was an unbranded Pubco pub is now a Shepherd Neame pub. SN have also bought the Star in Guildford, so that makes a slightly worrying trend: the Kent pub scene is (in my view) the poorer for the dominance of SN; let's hope Surrey doesn't go that way too. What has improved here is the look of the pub: I visited after the refurb and it's looking a lot smarter than it used to. I suspect SN are trying to move this to being more of a foodie's pub, as most of the pub looked liked it was aimed at a dining crowd. This should be a decent pub given the location, and I wish SN well with it.

30 Dec 2009 14:26

Good to see this pub open again,its had a mixed few years (up and down) I do hope your right Trev and its on the way up again, as this used to be one of the better pubs in Guildford. Will be in to sup its finest shortly.
I wish the new guys all the best.
ps coolbreeze go take a dip in the Wey.

17 Dec 2009 16:01

Yes it's reopened. They've kept the best features: cheaply priced home cooked food available all day, good range of ales, friendly staff. And they've improved things that needed improving, like it's brighter and smarter without being modern or less pub-like. Evidently the reason for all this was a change of ownership; well I'd say the new owners have got off to a good start.

16 Dec 2009 19:33

The Keep, Guildford

Address: 29-30, Castle Street, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 3UW [map]
Phone: 01483 450600
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Nearest train stations: Guildford (0.4 miles), London Road - Guildford (0.5 miles), Shalford (1.6 miles)

Reviews by BITE users:

Took the short walk away from the town centre on the strength of the entry in the Good Beer Guide which states that the pub offers Surrey Hills beers plus a guest ale from a local micro. The only beer on offer on Saturday was the ubiquitous Doombar. Disappointing.

4 Jan 2010 10:56

Visited for a spot of lunch and it was pleasant going. Nicely home cooked food so they clearly make an effort here. The only complaint was a hair in the food but it happens! The music was not belting out which made for a relaxing time and the spot of Surrey Hills was definitely on the money. Good work!

19 Dec 2009 14:32

A one room pub with a bit of a modern feel. The entrance door is glass with a large metal handle, a bit like entering Boots, once inside, some traditional seating, functional wooden bar, a couple of fire places but not sure if used. There is some sort of Laurel & Hardy theme with model statuettes in a few areas including a fire hearth. Wooden floor, a rear courtyard, tonight they were setting up for a private party, but we were made welcome and didn't feel chased out.
Three pumps served Surrey Hills Shere Drop, Skinners Betty Stogs plus an Addlestones cider.
The very friendly landlady was apologetic about the party closure and tried to direct our group to local pubs serving decent real ale but also explained that Guildford is not great for real ale drinkers.

14 Nov 2009 22:00

The Albany, Guildford

Address: 80 Sydenham Rd, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 3SA [map]
Phone: 01483 572410
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Nearest train stations: London Road - Guildford (0.3 miles), Guildford (0.6 miles), Shalford (1.7 miles)

Reviews by BITE users:

Full of people who mummy n daddy spoilt from an early age, was far more fun when it was the rats castle !

8 Dec 2009 17:18

Its alright here, I dont mind some of these more modern places and I think I saw it says live music every Tuesday.

18 Oct 2009 13:54

Contunies to ofeer good bee r at affordable prcs this is a gr8 pubb

3 Oct 2009 01:10

The Keystone, Guildford

Address: 3 Portsmouth Rd, Guildford, Surrey, GU2 4BL [map]
Phone: 01483 575089
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Nearest train stations: Guildford (0.2 miles), London Road - Guildford (0.7 miles), Shalford (1.7 miles)

Reviews by BITE users:

Great 'town pub' tucked away from the main drag. Beer is excellent, the Black Sheep and most recently the very delicious Exmoor Gold. Perfect condition.

22 Dec 2009 20:41

Came in here because the White House did not look inviting! Perhaps it was a one-off but this certainly made up for that. There appeared to be some real ales on, although just a couple. 6X was one of them. Decided on a bottle of Becks which was £3. Quite expensive, but that is probably the case everywhere. Serves me right for not drinking real ale! Plenty of space, although quite noisy as it was a Friday night.

19 Dec 2009 14:36

Good little pub, worth that extra few minutes walk from town!

Jonny

8 Dec 2009 17:24

The Stoke, Guildford

Address: 103 Stoke Road, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 4JN [map]
Phone: 01483 504296
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Nearest train stations: London Road - Guildford (0.3 miles), Guildford (0.6 miles), Shalford (2.2 miles)

Reviews by BITE users:

Nicely run place. Food is good and also excelent value. Pizza I had was top-notch and ale was well kept and (something of a rarity) was a good temperature aswell. Good place to watch the match and there are a couple of pool tables I noticed. Haven't seen the comedy night but heard really positive reviews. Previous comments true though..men's toilet needs a bit of sparkle. 8/10

17 Dec 2009 18:40

This happens to be one of the best pubs in town. There is something going on most nights of the week at the Stoke.

On Monday nights there is a 2 for 1 pizza offer. While once a month on Wednesdays some of the best comedians shall be performing.

Beer on offer tends to be London Pride and Old Speckled Hen, with guest ales also frequently available.

Only gripe would be the gentlemen's room which has seen better days. Used to be a pub quiz on a Tuesday but not running anymore.

11 Oct 2009 16:09

Does a rather disappointing pub quiz on the Tuesday but a good pub for Real Ale and a Game of Pool nontheless.

18 Sep 2009 17:06

Rodboro Buildings, Guildford

Address: Rodboro Building 1-10, Bridge St, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 4RY [map]
Phone: 01483 306366
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Nearest train stations: Guildford (0.1 miles), London Road - Guildford (0.6 miles), Shalford (1.8 miles)

Reviews by BITE users:

A pretty good spoons, but i've found it can be a problem place to come especially for food since the place can get busy, not exactly steaming with customers just the staff all seem stressed out and the tables are genereally a tip. It is pretty disgusting having to sit at tables for 20 minutes with old food plates. Unloved in many ways, but having said that i'd be back as the ale is good and reasonably priced.

18 Dec 2009 13:31

Not quite sure why this is branded as a Lloyds No. 1 as it has much more of a regular 'spoons look and feel to the place. A large two-level, L-shaped layout with a least three bar areas; however, each of these seems quite small which I guess accounts for the difficulties mentioned below about getting served during busy periods. A large number of handpumps, but many duplicates so the real ale choice isn't quite as large as it first appears. However, overall this is one of the better ones (and is handy for a quick pint if changing trains at the nearby station).

21 Nov 2009 10:24

The wife & I, being retired, tend to avoid the busy night times, but find it a pleasant watering hole. Good selection cheap beers, good service, friendly staff and cheap food which for the price we consider good value for money.

18 Nov 2009 19:54

The Five and Lime, Guildford

Address: 3, Leapale Rd, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 4JX [map]
Phone: 01483 568979
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Nearest train stations: Guildford (0.3 miles), London Road - Guildford (0.4 miles), Shalford (1.8 miles)

Reviews by BITE users:

It is far from my choice of a pub I have to say, but I suppose I should have realised with the greens lights. This is definitely a younger persons place to visit. No real ale whatsoever but that was hardly a surprise I must say. Given the limited choice I stuck with Becks Vier - which was tasteless and poor. The Guinness may have been better. I feel this is actually a Bar and not a Pub and will rate it low.

23 Dec 2009 13:25

Cramped and cliquey on Wednesday nights. Popped in here yesterday (18 Nov) when looking for some one amongst the youngish crowd present (mainly 25 and under I say). If you are, however, looking for lively atmosphere in Guildford town centre on a Wednesday night – a rarity in itself – then this is the probably the only place to go. I understand that selected drinks are relatively cheaper here as well.

19 Nov 2009 11:53

Hardly a drinkers paradise, more of a young persons place it must be said. If you wanna spend well over 3 quid for just a regular beer then i''d recomment this estabilishemtn but generally this pub is a bit of an over rated place and its not exactly cool on the music front either.. go 2 royal oak instead.

13 Nov 2009 01:17

The Kings Head, Guildford

Address: Kings Road, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 4JW [map]
Phone: 01483 568957
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Nearest train stations: London Road - Guildford (0.3 miles), Guildford (0.6 miles), Shalford (2.2 miles)

Reviews by BITE users:

This is in very man ways an excellent and warm pub. Excellent place to go for the winter as it does feel pretty comfortable. The Pride was on fine form during a recent visit and the place did seem fairly popular with the locals. Staff were efficent, apart from one member! But it is nearly Christmas.

21 Dec 2009 10:34

Good old fashioned boozer with cosy atmosphere. As a habit I always make my first pint Pride in Fuller's pubs, because if they can't get that right....happy to say fine pint, didn't eat but all in all nice visit. Smoking area heated if that's your thing and car-park aswell so rather tempting to leave the car and have another pint! Definately recommend, and will go back to try food. Loads of locals/regulars who were all welcoming not intimidating which was nice. Telly aswell though don't know if they show sport. 8/10

17 Dec 2009 18:49

visited today - ate here and also sampled some of Fullers' finest! Really nice warm atmosphere - the coal fires had been stoked up and made it look and feel even better than it was! Outside area looked great - even in the rain - and the Xmas decs were subtle and non too imposing. Good mixed crowd - and very helpful, polite and friendly team. Want to visit again soon to see how the Quiz Night is and maybe Gavin with his guitar on Dec 19th too!

3 Dec 2009 21:13

The Percy Arms, Chilworth

Address: 75 Dorking Road, Chilworth, Guildford, Surrey, GU4 8NP [map]
Phone: 01483 561765
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Nearest train stations: Chilworth (0.2 miles), Shalford (1.9 miles), London Road - Guildford (2.6 miles)

Reviews by BITE users:

Used to be great for food but now it's like a Berni Inn. Needs a good lick of paint too. 5/10 is generous.

26 Jan 2010 12:41

Visited 12/12/09. Food up to usual high standard. Service slow to start, but improved until a change of staff. It may have been her first night on the job or the last, but she needs (re)training in the art of food service. Had a pint of Rocking Rudolph which was shocking.

10/10 for food. 7/10 for service. 3/10 for Rocking Rudolph.

14 Dec 2009 20:28

My husband and I went to the Percy Arms for a wedding anniversary treat as it was highly recommended by some colleagues. After reading the reviews I was slightly dubious but thought we'd still give it a go! We were the only ones in there as we had a 6.30 booking so the service was very punctual as you'd expect,the waitress did get my wine order wrong but corrected her mistake immediately.The food was superbly cooked,a decent size plate of food (we both had steak),yes-it was pricey but as it was a special occasion I thought it was acceptable for a treat.The dessert I asked for was unavailable so that was disappointing hence the 9/10 but overall we had a beautiful meal and exceptional evening.

20 Oct 2009 14:56

The Kings Head, Guildford

Address: Quarry Street, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 3XQ [map]
Phone: 01483 575004
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Nearest train stations: Guildford (0.5 miles), London Road - Guildford (0.7 miles), Shalford (1.4 miles)

Reviews by BITE users:

This pub looks great and serves some decent beer. The outdoor area is good enough for summer but it can get very busy.

I've had a couple of dodgy Hobgoblins in here before - cloudy and overly bitter - but generally it's ok. Bar staff are a mixed bag but generally ok. The food isn't bad either.

I remember some really great nights testing the bar staff with their internet jukebox - they routinely censored what could be played and you had to really battle it out to get your quid back. I don't know if it's still there, but try Sleep's "Jerusalem" and count the seconds. They must have some pretty strict rules in there. Either that or they don't like Sleep, I guess...

Very studenty, but all in all you get a wide mix of people and it's a decent pub. Much better than some other local alternatives, and it's close to the station, taxis, restaurants, etc.

25 Jan 2010 16:43

Terrific Guildfordian pub situated in a great spot hidden away from town centre.

I frequented this pub having thought about entering The Star, however was put off by a group of youngsters!

This place had a cosy and comfortable feel and the people at the bar seemed friendly.

Only one real ale on, which being the Hobgoblin, however it was on form which suggests this is a pub which cares about real ale.

Worthy of a visit any time. 10/10.

5 Jan 2010 18:11

A timber framed building dating from the 16th century, the interior has low beamed ceilings, exposed brickwork, some stone flagged floors. All one space but the long layout allows for a feel of seperate areas. The front carpeted area has a large fireplace. Several framed news clippings on the walls are of interest, particularly the details of the partial collapse of the building in 1995. It has been sympathetically restored using substantially the original beams etc although a couple of newer posts are evident (and rather necessary I imagine!)
Four hand pumps served at the time Deuchers IPA, Courage Best, Wychwood Hobgoblin and my choice Hogs Back Advent Ale, a pleasant seasonal fairly dark brew.
The burger and chips were only a fiver, but to be honest although the burgers were home made and passable the chips buns and salad were not great.

4 Jan 2010 17:10

The Royal Oak, Wood Street

Address: 89 Oak Hill, Wood Street Village, Guildford, Surrey, GU3 3DA [map]
Phone: 01483 235137
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Nearest train stations: Wanborough (2 miles), Guildford (2.3 miles), London Road - Guildford (2.9 miles)

Reviews by BITE users:

Just to let people know this pub doesn't serve food on Sundays, didn't stay to taste the beer as a result

13 Oct 2009 12:05

Excellent little local pub, the kind that I wish I had in my village.

6 real ales on, the lunch was good and proper homecooked stuff (don't go there expecting anything fancy).

Older clientele but I like that at a lunchtime. Landlord chatty, and knowledgable and enthusiastic about beers.

I will be returning.

27 Jul 2009 11:09

Agree with all the other comments cosy village in with excellent beer selection and a relaxed atmosphere only bad point i had about this place was the music was being played rather loud but maybe it was my disliking to Queen that made me feel like this. Worth the visit if your in the surrounding area as theres not much other pubs as good as this in the area

9 Jul 2009 21:39

The Grantley Arms, Wonersh

Address: The Street, Wonersh, Guildford, Surrey, GU5 0PE [map]
Phone: 01483 893351
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Nearest train stations: Chilworth (1.5 miles), Shalford (1.5 miles), Farncombe (2.8 miles)

Reviews by BITE users:

Dropped by at Christmas when a barrel was being changed. I've never ever seen anybody take so much trouble to purge the lines in order to get the beer through in good nick. Most impressed. Despite my thirst it was worth the wait. A pub that takes beer seriously and favours the darker less modern ales.

2 Jan 2010 20:30

just moved into the area from not so sunny egham,great pub with great ale,only been in twice and already know a few of the regulars

16 Nov 2009 11:48

I popped in here only very briefly, and on a night when I was taking a rest from ale. It looked like I had cause to regret that, as six handpumps dispensed three or four real ales here, including Horsham bitter and a guest from the Stonehenge brewery. What with various bottled ales behind the bar, it looked like the pub takes it beer seriously. Like many country pubs, the pub obviously had an eating-focus and the food smelt good. I liked this, and would return.

30 Aug 2009 09:06

More information

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