A guide to Godalming

Did you know?

  • 1.
    In the 18th Century Godalming was an important stopping off point for stage coaches traveling between Portsmouth and London.
  • 2.
    Peter the Great stayed in Godalming in one of the inns in 1689.
  • 3.
    In 1881 Godalming was the first town in Britain with a public electricity supply.

Godalming Area

Godalming itself has many popular schools in both the independent and state sector, as well as the very popular Godalming Sixth Form College. The well-known Charterhouse School, originally founded in London in 1611, has been a fixture in Godalming since 1872. A visit to the Godalming Museum is well worth a trip, with plenty to learn about some of its local famous residents, including Edwin Lutyens, Gertrude Jekyll, and Jack Phillips, who stayed at his post, sending the last SOS messages from the sinking Titanic.

Surrounding Villages

  • Shalford
    Shalford has fantastic village amenities including pubs, cafes, shops, a Post Office and a village green. In addition is boasts a secret beach (with golden sand) and the historic National Trust Shalford Mill.
  • Bramley
    Bramley includes many village delights including a thriving cricket club, and many social activities centred on the village hall. There is a disused but pretty train station and thanks to the Beeching Cuts, a delightful cycle route connects with Cranleigh. It boasts a wide variety of shops, pubs, a petrol station and even a prestige car dealer. Integral to the village is the highly regarded St Catherine’s School (for girls). Also of note, Gertrude Jekyll spent much of her childhood in the village.
  • Compton
    Compton a small but important village with convenient road links to the A3. Astonishingly it boasts 31 listed buildings, including Loseley Park with its manor house and extensive grounds. The very well -known 16th Century public house, The Withies, is also located in the village with its low beams and roaring fires. It is also home to Watts Gallery, the Artists Village with its gallery, café and gardens.

Lifestyle

  • Shopping

    There are a variety of bespoke and high street retailers in the town.

    On the outskirts of Godalming lies Milford with its train station and Secretts Farm Shop and Garden Centre, Godalming boasts an eclectic mix of independent traders as well as large established shops such as Waitrose.

  • Eating

    Acorn Restaurant

    An excellent place to eat-out with friends and family, offering a Spanish fusion menu as well as an oyster and tapas bar.

    Roost

    This local community minded cafe that offers a varied healthy menu that includes gluten free and dairy free options. You can also buy their homemade sauces and oils to take home.

    Godalming Tandoori

    Located in what was once the Anchor Pub, Godalming Tandoori offers a delicious menu offering classic indian meals and more traditional cooking.

  • Drinking

    The Refectory

    A picturesque pub located within a converted barn with an interesting history. The Refectory boasts an excellent food and drink menu.

    The Star Inn

    Built in the 1700's the Star Inn is now a lively community pub with weekly live music.

    The Stag on The River

    A chic pub and B&B that offers al fresco riverside dining and comfortable stylish rooms.

    The Rose & Crown Bar

    A friendly local pub and inn boasting cosy interiors, a Miami themed garden and lovely guest rooms.