Food & Drink in Guildford

With over 100 restaurants in the town, there’s plenty of choice when it comes to eating out or grabbing a coffee whether for business or pleasure; from award-winning local coffee houses or family-run Italian trattorias with over 20 years’ trading under their belt. The Ivy Brasserie, Castle View is a hugely popular luxury venue and such has been its success that the firm is opening a second brand – The Ivy Asia.

Other well-known brands include Guildford Townhouse Coppa Club, Bill’s, Pizza Express, Wagamamas, Franca Manca and Zizzi’s appealing to a range of budgets and complementing a good number of independents. In addition to the many cultural events on offer, there are plentiful pubs and cocktail bars as well as three nightclubs which attract the younger generation and further justify its Purple Flag accreditation. 

Café pavement culture imbues the streets of Guildford with added vibrancy with coffee shops spilling onto the streets from early morning onwards.

Homemade food using local ingredients can be found - and wash it down with a locally brewed beer or wine.  Do not miss a pint of world renowned Hogs Back  TEA, or a local sparkling wine from Albury Vineyard, High Clandon Estate Vineyard or Greyfriars Vineyard.   

Browse a full list of restaurants and eateries in Guildford

Many restaurants have areas available for private dining, family celebrations, christenings, wakes and other private functions. 

Guildford has a vibrant and safe night-time economy and has been awarded Purple Flag. Purple flag is an award for night-time like blue flag is for beaches and green flag is for parks.  Guildford is the only town in Surrey with this award, and one of only 70 in the country.  So, you can be assured of a safe and enjoyable night out 

Thinking of sampling a local tipple  or two and looking for a taxi? Take a look at Experience Guildford's website

Spotlight on | Silent Pool Distillery

Silent Pool Distillery

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This project is part-funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a central pillar of the UK government’s Levelling Up agenda and provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills. For more information, visit UK Shared Prosperity Fund Prospectus.