Shalford Park

Shalford Park is a 20-acre public park on the edge of Guildford, in Surrey, a short walk from the town centre. It is a wide, open expanse of grass used mostly for sport and everyday recreation, with a long history behind it.

What is Shalford Park?

The park is run by Guildford Borough Council and is one of the town's green spaces for local residents and visitors. Its character is simple: broad lawns, open sky and plenty of room to move. It is not a formal garden or a themed attraction, but a place for football, dog walks, jogging and relaxed afternoons outdoors.

What is the history of the park?

Shalford Park once formed the grounds of Shalford House, an estate owned by Harvey Haversham Godwin-Austen. In 1886 the land hosted a cyclists' camp, and races were held at the nearby cricket ground, which gives the site a place in the early history of cycling in the area. Shalford House was sold in 1888. Guildford Borough Council later acquired the grounds, which protected the land from development. The house itself was demolished in 1955, yet the twenty acres of parkland remain in public use today.

What can you do in Shalford Park?

Sport is the main draw. The park has four full-size, 11-a-side grass football pitches and a training grid, so it is busy with matches and practice sessions. There is also a pavilion, which is available to sports hirers only, and public toilets. A trim trail has opened in the park as well, adding simple outdoor fitness stations for people who want a workout without going to a gym.

Outside organised sport, the open grass suits walking, picnics, playing with children and exercising dogs. Because the park is flat and uncluttered, it is easy to cross at any pace.

Is Shalford Park on a walking route?

Yes. The North Downs Way, the long-distance trail running across southern England, passes through Shalford Park. This makes the park a convenient stop or starting point for walkers heading along the trail.

Close by is St Catherine's Hill. The ruins of St Catherine's Chapel stand on it, built in the early 14th century by the rector of St Nicolas church. The hill is a short walk from the park, so the two can easily be combined in one outing.

How do you get there?

Shalford Park lies close to the centre of Guildford, so reaching it on foot from the town is realistic. The location also suits visitors who are following the North Downs Way or exploring the nearby hill and chapel ruins.

Frequently asked questions

How big is Shalford Park? The park covers about 20 acres.

Can I book the pavilion? The council states the pavilion is available to sports hirers only. For booking, contact Guildford Borough Council.

Are there toilets? Yes, the council lists public toilets at the park.

Can I play football there? The park has four full-size grass pitches with a training grid. Organised use is arranged through the council.

Does the North Downs Way pass through the park? Yes, the trail crosses Shalford Park.

Who owned the land before it became a park? It was part of the Shalford House estate, owned by Harvey Haversham Godwin-Austen, before the council acquired it.

Why visit?

Shalford Park combines practical green space with real local history: a former country-house estate, a cyclists' camp from the 1880s, and a position on a national walking trail. Visitors who like open, uncomplicated parks and want to stretch their legs close to Guildford will find it a straightforward and pleasant stop, especially when paired with a climb up St Catherine's Hill.