St Catherine's Chapel Guildford
A 14th-century ruined chapel on a hilltop, offering historical insights and scenic views over Guildford.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Tranquil hike, beautiful light
St Catherine's Chapel Guildford
Best Time
Tranquil hike, beautiful light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 14th-century ruined chapel on a hilltop, offering historical insights and scenic views over Guildford.
"A 'found gem' offering a peaceful historical detour with great views over Guildford."
🚶♀️ Riverside Walk
Combine your visit with a walk along the River Wey path for a lovely day out.
🧗♂️ Hillside Access
Climb the sandy hillside from the river to reach the chapel ruins, even with the fence.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ruined Chapel Ruins
Hilltop overlooking Guildford
Explore the atmospheric remnants of a 14th-century chapel, a peaceful historical site.
Panoramic Guildford Views
Hilltop location
Enjoy scenic vistas of Guildford town, including the castle, from this elevated spot.
Waterside Path Walk
River Wey path
An interesting diversion while walking the scenic path from Guildford to Shalford.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
A Glimpse of History
Access and Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Riverside Walk
Combine your visit with a walk along the River Wey path for a lovely day out.
🧗♂️ Hillside Access
Climb the sandy hillside from the river to reach the chapel ruins, even with the fence.
Best parks, historical places and hidden gems to visit in Surrey?
ℹ️ History Boards
Read the information boards for a deeper understanding of the chapel's past.
🅿️ Parking Info
Park at the bottom of the hill; note Mon-Sat restrictions (8:30 am - 6:00 pm, 2 hours).
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Riverside Walk
Combine your visit with a walk along the River Wey path for a lovely day out.
🧗♂️ Hillside Access
Climb the sandy hillside from the river to reach the chapel ruins, even with the fence.
ℹ️ History Boards
Read the information boards for a deeper understanding of the chapel's past.
🅿️ Parking Info
Park at the bottom of the hill; note Mon-Sat restrictions (8:30 am - 6:00 pm, 2 hours).
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find St. Catherine's Chapel to be a peaceful and historically interesting ruin with lovely views over Guildford. It's appreciated as a free, easily accessible 'hidden gem,' especially when combined with a walk along the River Wey. Some note the fencing around the ruins, but access is still possible.
"Lovely old chapel ruins with a panoramic view down towards Guildford. The chapel is mostly complete but lacks a roof. There’s an info board explaining the history. There is no parking at the site so you’ll need to walk a bit to get here. It’s just off the pilgrims way. You can’t go inside the ruin as it’s all gated, barred and fenced off."
Chris Gledhill
"Ruined chapel dating back to the 14th century, built as a chapel of ease to the church of St Nicholas, Guildford. The hilltop location has good views over Guildford, including the castle. An annual 5 day fair was hosted here in the 14th century. Now the chapel makes an interesting diversion while walking the waterside path from Guildford to Shalford. The chapel itself is surrounded by railings, with an information board provided outlining its history."
Andrew Thomas
"Ruined mediæval chapel on a hill top a short walk south of Guildford. I had heard that a new fence had been erected which spoils the view which is somewhat true but I was pleased to find out that you can still access the chapel by climbing up the sandy hillside from the river below.
Nice place to go when around Guildford or walking along the river."
PH
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Catherine's Chapel is located on a hilltop south of Guildford. You can access it via a walk along the River Wey path from Guildford to Shalford. Parking is available at the bottom of the hill, but be mindful of time restrictions.
Yes, parking is available at the bottom of the hill. However, it's restricted to Mon-Sat, 8:30 am - 6:00 pm, with a 2-hour limit and no return within 1 hour.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk, especially along the River Wey path. The chapel is a short detour from this route, making it an ideal stop for walkers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, St. Catherine's Chapel is free to visit. It's a historical ruin that can be explored without any admission cost.
As a historical ruin, St. Catherine's Chapel does not have set opening hours. You can visit it at any time, though daylight hours are recommended for safety and enjoyment.
The chapel ruins are fenced, but you can access them by climbing the sandy hillside from the river. The climb might be challenging for some.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see the ruins of a 14th-century chapel, information boards detailing its history, and enjoy good views over Guildford. It's a peaceful spot for historical reflection.
Yes, the hilltop location offers nice views over Guildford, including glimpses of the castle. It's particularly lovely during sunset.
While the chapel itself is surrounded by railings, you can still get close and explore the area around the ruins. Information boards provide historical context.
Absolutely. It's a 'found gem' that can be easily incorporated into a walk or a short excursion, offering a quick dose of history and scenic views.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a pub nearby that can serve as a convenient rest stop after your visit or walk.
📸 📸 Photography
The ruins themselves offer atmospheric shots, and the hilltop location provides scenic backdrops of Guildford. Sunset can be particularly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the climb up the sandy hillside might require some assistance for younger children, the information boards can spark curiosity about the past. The nearby pub also offers a convenient break if needed.
🚶♀️ Walkers and Hikers
The hilltop location provides a rewarding view after your walk, and the nearby pub is perfect for a post-hike refreshment. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely exploration of Surrey's countryside.
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
While the ruins are not extensive, their preservation and the panoramic views contribute to a strong sense of historical atmosphere. It's a site that invites contemplation on the lives of those who worshipped and gathered here centuries ago.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Walk Through History
The chapel's hilltop location offers more than just historical interest; it provides commanding views over Guildford, including the iconic castle. While the ruins are now enclosed by railings, visitors can still appreciate the historical significance and the panoramic scenery. Information boards on-site offer insights into the chapel's history, making it an educational stop for those interested in local heritage.
Many visitors find St. Catherine's Chapel to be a 'found gem,' a peaceful diversion, especially when combined with a walk along the nearby River Wey path. The ability to access the site by climbing the sandy hillside from the river adds to the sense of discovery, even with the fencing. It's a place that resonates with history and offers a tranquil escape.
Exploring the Surroundings
For those looking for a brief respite, a pub is located nearby, providing a convenient spot to rest, refresh, and perhaps enjoy a meal or drink. This makes the visit to St. Catherine's Chapel a well-rounded outing, combining historical discovery with natural beauty and local amenities. The combination of the historical ruins, the expansive views, and the accessible walking paths makes it a worthwhile destination for a relaxed day out.
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