Stoke next Guildford War Memorial

Stoke next Guildford War Memorial is a Celtic cross in the Stoke district of Guildford, Surrey, honouring local people who died in the First World War. It has been a Grade II listed structure since 2014.

What will you see?

The memorial takes the form of a Celtic cross with a granite shaft. It rests on a three-stepped base of rough-hewn Bargate stone, a local sandstone found throughout historic Guildford buildings. Names of the fallen are carved in Portland stone beneath the cross. The Imperial War Museums register records 177 names, all of them people who died in the war.

It is a compact open-air monument with no ticket or booking. A visit takes a few minutes, so it pairs well with a stroll around the neighbourhood.

What is its history?

The memorial dates from around 1922 and was paid for by subscriptions raised among the parishioners of Stoke next Guildford. In 1989 it was moved from its first position, north of St John's Church, and re-erected on its present site. Historic England added it to the National Heritage List for England on 2 October 2014 (list entry 1421067) as a First World War memorial.

How do you get there?

The cross stands close to St John's Church, around the junction of Stoke Road with Stocton Road and Lido Road, near Guildford College. Coordinates are roughly 51.2463 N, 0.5715 W. It lies a short distance from Guildford town centre, so you can walk, drive or take a local bus. Check current timetables with the local operator before you travel.

When is the best time to visit?

The memorial is accessible all year. The atmosphere is most striking around Remembrance Sunday, the second Sunday of November, when communities across Britain hold services at local memorials and lay poppy wreaths. At other times of year it is usually quiet.

What else is nearby?

St John's Church is close by, and Guildford itself has several other listed buildings, including the town's main war memorial. The Stoke cross suits visitors interested in local history and British commemoration traditions.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entrance fee?

No. It is an open-air memorial and needs no ticket.

What is its heritage status?

It is Grade II listed, Historic England list entry 1421067, designated on 2 October 2014.

How many names are recorded?

The IWM War Memorials Register (record 23328) lists 177 people commemorated, all of whom died in the First World War.

Is it still in its original position?

No. In 1989 it was moved from the north side of St John's Church to its current spot near the same church.