Guildford's got it going on (Guildford in General)

Member Name: magenta23

Product:	Guildford in General
Date:	15/03/09 (149 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: A good looking town with lots to offer

Disadvantages: Some rough night spots

I live about a twenty minute train ride from Guildford and have friends that work there, so visit often. Guildford is one of Surrey's biggest towns. It's a pretty town by day, sometimes no so pretty by night! For a twenty something like me it has a lot to offer. Here's my twentysomething's guide to Guildford...

SHOPPING- Not the cheapest shopping venue, but a pleasant one. The Friary Centre is the main shopping centre, which features the usual suspects, Topshop, Dorothy Perkins, HMV etc.. The high street is lovely though, if it a bit hilly! It really is quite steep, avoid if you don't like a climb. It's a good looking high street though, well kept with some real gems of little independant shops. Main department stores are Debenhams at the bottom of the town and House of Fraser. If you are going shopping for good jewellery, Guilford has lots of gorgeous little jewellers, both modern and traditional. The main supermarket is a not very big Sainsbury's.

COLLEGE - Guildford college has a good reputation and many of my friends have been there, it's in a lovely location, not too far out of town. Of course where there's students theres...

NIGHTLIFE - Guildford has a lot to offer nightlife wise. Harpers is the tarty option, playing R n B and dance rubbish, famously where Cheryl (then Tweedy) hit a toilet attendant (although it's name's changed since then). Sums up the place really.

Time is the next option, a little bit further downtown, it isn't quite as upmarket, and does attract trouble. The last time I went my drink was spiked. The music is a real mix and they do some bargain offers during the week, but be careful.

My place to be is Flares, the cheesiest place in town. Prides itself on it's strictly seventies theme. The place is decorated with a multicoloured brush and the atmosphere is brillant. Great cocktails too.

There also a lot of bars and more laid back pubs if clubbing isn't your thing. Guildford also has some great live music, The Electric Theatre and Civic has some top bands on from time to time. It also boasts a big cinema for film fans.

EATING OUT - All the high street chains are here - Nandos, Frankie and Benny's etc. TGI Friday I think it the big pull for most foodies flocking to Guildford but there is also some great little cafes for the day time. Also, are you one of those people who gets the munchies after a night out? Shock horror, Guildford does not have kebab shop! Instead it has a Burger King that stays open super late, but the best find is the Pizza Shop. This little shop is cafe by day and turns itself into a pizzeria by night and these pizzas are gorgeous, and hits the spot about 3.30am!

SPORT - Guilford Spectrum is the place to visit if you fancy getting active. Set next to Stoke Park, it has an Olympic size ice rink, Gym, Bowling alley, and 4 swimming pools..with waterslides and fountains!

FESTIVAL - Guildford has one of the UK's best festivals every year. It's named the best family festival because the atmosphere is just so good and there's something for all ages. Held in the beautiful Stoke Park, it's minutes from the town. Guilfest is on every July and has in the past featured some great line ups, including Paul Weller, Madness, Embrace, Blondie and Billy Idol. I've been there three years and every year beats the previous. Don't miss Hayseed Dixie if they're playing!

Overall, if you've not visited Guildford before, I suggest it's worth a look if you're down this way. One of the gems of Surrey.

Summary: A place to check out