Tucked away in the rolling countryside of southern England lies Surrey – a county steeped in centuries of history and dotted with grand estates, storybook castles, and charming heritage attractions. Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of stately homes, or just fancy a Sunday outing that pairs well with a pub lunch, Surrey delivers.
In this guide, we’ll take you on a gentle meander through some of the best historic places Surrey has to offer, including castles near Guildford and heritage attractions near Pirbright. Think sweeping gardens, ornate drawing rooms, and the occasional ghost story. Well, it is England after all.
1. Loseley Park – Guildford’s Grandest Manor
Just outside Guildford, Loseley Park is a fine example of Elizabethan architecture at its most splendid. Built in the 1560s and still owned by the same family, this stately home has hosted Queen Elizabeth I and countless dignitaries since.
Take a wander through the walled garden, a kaleidoscope of colour and scent, then step inside to see period furnishings, portraits, and an oak-panelled great hall that wouldn’t look out of place in a period drama. Tours run seasonally, and the tearoom is as quaint as you’d expect.
Local tip: Pair your visit with a meal at The Cricketers on the Green, just 20 minutes away in Pirbright – the perfect spot for a pint and a plate of seasonal British fare.
2. Guildford Castle – A Towering Tribute to the Normans
Looking for castles near Guildford? The obvious choice is right in the town centre. Guildford Castle, built shortly after the Norman Conquest, offers both historical intrigue and panoramic views from the top of its Great Tower.
While much of the original structure is now in ruins, the grounds are impeccably maintained. In spring and summer, the floral displays are nothing short of spectacular, and the atmosphere feels more garden party than medieval battleground.
Don’t miss the small exhibition inside the tower, which gives a digestible overview of the castle’s past – complete with a model of how it once looked in its heyday.
3. Waverley Abbey – Surrey’s Atmospheric Ruins
For those drawn to the romanticism of ruins, Waverley Abbey ticks all the right boxes. Set on the banks of the River Wey, near Farnham, the abbey was founded in 1128 and was the very first Cistercian abbey in England.
Now managed by English Heritage, Waverley is wonderfully raw – no ropes, no glass cases, just arched stone walls and an eerie stillness. It’s a perfect stop for those interested in heritage attractions near Pirbright, and ideal for photographers or anyone with an eye for detail.
4. Polesden Lacey – Glamour and Gossip in the Surrey Hills
(Image source: https://thegardenstrust.org/polesden-lacey-surrey/)
Once the home of socialite Margaret Greville, Polesden Lacey is a gem in the National Trust crown. Tucked into the North Downs, this Edwardian retreat boasts grand interiors and stunning terraces that look out over the Surrey countryside.
You’ll find lavish rooms, hidden passages, and stories of royal visits and political intrigue. The gardens are open year-round and are particularly magical in late spring, when the roses are in full bloom.
5. Brookwood Cemetery – A Different Kind of Historic Landmark
Slightly unconventional, yes – but no list of historic places in Surrey would be complete without Brookwood Cemetery. Once the largest cemetery in the world, it’s a hauntingly beautiful expanse of Victorian headstones, woodland walks and hidden chapels.
It’s peaceful, moving, and surprisingly full of stories. A guided tour is well worth your time, especially if you’re interested in the social history of the area.
Make a Day of It
After your historical wanderings, head back to Pirbright for a well-earned meal at The Cricketers on the Green. Whether it’s a Sunday roast, a classic fish pie, or a seasonal special, there’s nothing like a hearty dish in a historic pub to round off a day steeped in the past.
