Guildford Museum

Guildford Museum is the main museum of Guildford, Surrey, England. It stands on Quarry Street, a narrow lane of cottages built before 1900 that runs just off the pedestrianised High Street. Entry is free, and a visit pairs naturally with a walk around the neighbouring castle.

Where is the museum and what sets it apart?

The main site occupies the gatehouse and annex of Guildford Castle, so the building itself is part of the story the collections tell. The museum is run by Guildford Borough Council, and its staff help look after the castle too. Since 2010 it has operated as part of the borough's Heritage Service.

The location suits visitors well. It is only a few steps from the main shopping street, and the surrounding lanes of Quarry Street and Castle Hill keep the feel of an old English market town.

How did the collection come about?

The collection grew out of the holdings of the Surrey Archaeological Society. Early objects were kept in several places, including London, before settling in Guildford in 1898. The borough council offered historic cottages built on the site of the old castle gatehouse. By around 1912 the museum was funded jointly by the society and the council. A significant part of the collection remains on loan from the society today.

Sources quote different figures, but the total runs to tens of thousands of objects. It is regarded as the principal archaeological collection in Surrey.

What can you see?

The core of the museum is archaeological finds from Surrey, tracing the history of the county across the centuries. It also presents local history and everyday objects from the town's past.

A separate thread is Lewis Carroll, the pen name of Charles Dodgson, author of "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland". In 1868 he leased The Chestnuts on Castle Hill, close to Quarry Street, for his sisters. The museum shows Carroll-related material from the family, including toys and examples of the Looking Glass Box and the Wonderland Stamp Case.

When should you visit?

The museum is open Monday to Saturday, typically from 11am to 4:45pm. It is closed on Sundays and on Christmas Day. Listings sometimes give differing hours, so check current details before you go.

Frequently asked questions

Is Guildford Museum free? Yes, entry is free during opening hours.

Where exactly is it? On Quarry Street in Guildford, in the gatehouse and annex of the castle, just off the High Street.

Who runs it? Guildford Borough Council, working with the local archaeological society that supplied much of the collection.

Is there anything about Lewis Carroll? Yes, the museum displays items linked to the Dodgson family, including toys and objects connected with his writing.

How long should I allow? About an hour is usually enough for a relaxed visit, and many people combine it with the castle.