Discover Guildford

Guildford is home to one of our English Summer Schools and a great location for young people to visit who want to enjoy a fun-filled summer in the UK. As well as learning English and having the opportunity to take part in a range of exciting activities offered as part of a Summer Centres course, you’ll definitely have no shortage of things to see and do in your free time.

Our Guildford school is set in Surrey’s stunning countryside, but is still just a 40 minute train journey from London, so you’ll be able to take advantage of all of the capital’s sights and attractions as well as those on offer more locally to the school. The South Coast of the UK is also less than an hour away, making Guildford an ideal location if you want to explore all the wonders of South East England.

One of the things we most recommend you do while staying in Guildford is to simply go on a leisurely stroll along the River Wey and take in all of the picturesque scenery the market town has to offer. You could even enjoy a relaxing boat trip and learn about river navigation at the National Trust visitor centre, Dapdune Wharf, through interactive exhibits telling the story of one of Britain’s first navigable rivers.

From the top of the Great Tower at Guildford Castle you will be treated to spectacular panoramic views of Guildford and the surrounding countryside, making this another great reason to visit our Guildford Summer Centre. The castle is believed to have been built late in the 11th century, by William the Conqueror or one of his barons. Although the castle now stands in ruin, inside you can see a model recreating the original castle in all its splendour, and also learn about its history.

Guildford boasts a variety of fascinating and beautiful stately homes. Loseley Park remains almost exactly as it was in the 16^th century, and contains panelling previously used at Henry VIII’s Nonsuch Palace, so its stunning intricate design is no surprise. Its extensive gardens include an award-winning rose garden, and are ideal for a peaceful walk on a sunny day. The equally stunning Clandon Park holds a brilliant collection of 18^th century furniture, and during the First World War was used as a military hospital; to mark the anniversary of the war, a range of exhibits is on display for 2014, and one of the rooms has even been transformed into a wartime operating theatre. Hatchlands Park is set in Repton Park, a wonderful 430 acre park and woodland, which is ideal for a summer picnic.

From Guildford, it is also easy to reach Thorpe Park and Chessington World of Adventures, two famous theme parks in the UK. Both offer something for any age, and rides for both thrill-seekers and those looking for a more relaxed day out. Thorpe Park recently opened an Angry Birds 4D Experience, based on the world-famous game, and the park is also home to the first horror movie-themed ride in the world – SAW. As well as rides at Chessington, you can enjoy Chessington Zoo, where you can see over 1000 animals up close, from lions and tigers to sea lions and penguins.

From relaxing in one of Guildford’s quiet parks or on the river, to facing your fears on a rollercoaster, Guildford promises to keep you thoroughly entertained. Getting out and exploring is of course a great way of practising your English outside of the classroom too!