As the festive season approaches, Guildford transforms into a winter wonderland filled with twinkling lights, carol singers, mulled wine, and the comforting aroma of roasted chestnuts. Nestled in the heart of Surrey, this charming market town blends historic elegance with a vibrant community spirit. During Christmas, it comes alive with some of the most atmospheric and memorable markets and Christmas venues in the region.

In this guide, we explore the can’t-miss Christmas markets in Guildford — from the grand halls of the cathedral to the bustling High Street — and offer tips to help you make the most of your visit. Whether you’re shopping for handmade gifts, seeking festive food, or just enjoying the ambience, Guildford has something special for everyone.

1. Guildford Cathedral Christmas Market and Fair

Dates: Late November (usually third weekend)
Location: Guildford Cathedral, Stag Hill, GU2 7UP

Guildford Cathedral hosts one of the town’s most elegant Christmas events. This indoor market features over 50 handpicked stallholders offering a rich array of festive goods. Think handmade jewellery, luxury candles, gourmet preserves, seasonal decorations, and winter accessories.

The cathedral’s soaring interior creates a peaceful and majestic atmosphere, ideal for a relaxed afternoon of browsing. Stalls are spread throughout the nave and adjoining rooms, and there’s always a refreshment area serving cakes, coffee, and mulled wine.

In addition to shopping, the market often includes live performances from local choirs, children’s craft corners, and even a few surprises like Christmas storytelling or festive workshops. Entry is typically under £5 and often supports cathedral restoration funds or local charities.

Why go?

• Beautiful indoor venue

• Curated selection of gifts

• Ideal for early Christmas shopping

• Live music and family-friendly activities

2. Etsy Guildford Christmas Market

Dates: Late November – early December
Location: Guildford Cathedral & Tunsgate Quarter

Run by a collective of independent designers and makers, the Etsy Guildford Christmas Market is a highlight for fans of local craftsmanship. The market usually takes place on a Saturday near the end of November at Guildford Cathedral, then returns in mid-December at the stylish Tunsgate Quarter.

Expect more than 50 sellers, each offering something unique — from hand-thrown pottery and natural skincare to letterpress cards and hand-knitted scarves. This market is a treasure trove for anyone seeking one-of-a-kind gifts.

The December editions at Tunsgate Quarter are particularly festive. With sparkling lights, upbeat music, and a central location between High Street and the Castle Grounds, it’s a brilliant place to browse after doing a bit of traditional shopping.

Why go?

• Unique, handmade gifts

• Support local creators

• Stylish venues with great atmosphere

• Free to enter

3. Guildford High Street Christmas Markets

Dates: Throughout December
Location: Guildford High Street

The historic High Street — with its iconic cobbles, clock tower, and sweeping views — serves as a lively backdrop to a series of smaller Christmas-themed markets. Every Saturday and some Sundays in December, local traders set up festive stalls offering street food, warm drinks, crafts, toys, winterwear, and more.

The Saturday markets are often complemented by buskers playing carols, brass bands, or local school choirs bringing an extra layer of cheer. In the evenings, Guildford’s Christmas lights cast a warm glow, and nearby shops stay open later, offering discounts and festive-themed events.

The highlight is usually mid-December when a special “Festive Makers Market” takes over the High Street with extended trading hours and added family entertainment, such as stilt walkers, face painting, or snow machines.

Why go?

• Central and easy to access

• Weekly entertainment and music

• Great for picking up stocking fillers

• Historic charm and festive lights

4. Guildford Farmers’ Market (Festive Edition)

Dates: First Tuesday of December
Location: Guildford High Street

The regular monthly Farmers’ Market on Guildford’s High Street receives a festive twist each December. It brings together over 40 local producers selling everything from organic meats and handmade cheeses to festive bakes and traditional puddings.

The December edition always includes Christmas hampers, gift-ready food packages, and stalls featuring drinks like hot cider, gin infusions, and craft beer. There’s also a warming sense of community here, with regulars mingling with Christmas shoppers and stallholders offering tasters to passersby.

If you’re hosting Christmas at home or just enjoy food-centric gifts, this market is well worth the visit.

Why go?

• Gourmet food and drink gifts

• Local and sustainable products

• Midweek market, perfect for avoiding crowds

• Perfect for festive feast planning

5. Godalming Christmas Festival & Market

Dates: Early December
Location: Godalming High Street (15 mins from Guildford)

While not in Guildford itself, the Godalming Christmas Festival deserves an honourable mention for anyone in the area. This magical event includes over 60 market stalls, a funfair, street entertainers, and a lantern parade.

Held in the quaint riverside town of Godalming — just 15 minutes from Guildford by car or train — this market offers a full day out. Families particularly enjoy the children’s rides, live music, and the visit from Santa in his sleigh.

Why go?

• A complete festive day out

• Larger than most small-town markets

• Easy to access from Guildford

• Lantern parade and Santa’s Grotto

6. Loseley House Christmas Fair

Dates: Early December
Location: Loseley Park, GU3 1HS

Loseley Park, a historic manor on the outskirts of Guildford, hosts a refined and picturesque Christmas fair. The event takes place in a heated marquee on the grounds, with more than 70 artisan and vintage stalls showcasing high-quality items including woodwork, glass, textiles, and antiques.

Visitors can explore festive decorations, gourmet nibbles, designer homeware, and personalised gifts. The location alone — surrounded by formal gardens and rolling hills — is enough to put you in the Christmas spirit.

There’s also a tea room serving mince pies, cream teas, and mulled wine.

Why go?

• Classy countryside setting

• Rare and high-end gifts

• Free parking on site

• Great for couples and older visitors

7. Christmas at Watts Gallery Artists’ Village

Dates: Selected weekends in December
Location: Compton, near Guildford, GU3 1DQ

For something a little different, consider visiting Watts Gallery’s Christmas Market. Located just outside Guildford, the gallery’s historic Victorian buildings are transformed with twinkling lights and local stalls set up in the cloisters.

Crafted gifts, creative workshops, and festive food stalls await. The event also features carol performances, wreath-making classes, and pottery painting. A perfect destination if you prefer artsy, culture-forward events.

Why go?

• Artistic atmosphere

• Gallery exhibits open during market

• Great family workshops

• Picturesque woodland setting

Travel Tips for Visiting Guildford Christmas Markets

Getting There
Guildford is easily accessible by train from London Waterloo (approx. 35 minutes), Reading, Portsmouth, and other towns across Surrey. For those driving, there are several Park & Ride options just outside the town centre, including at Artington and Merrow.

Parking
Town centre parking can be limited in December. Use Park & Ride where possible or arrive early for High Street events. Loseley Park and Watts Gallery both offer free or low-cost parking during their Christmas events.

Accessibility
Most markets, particularly those at Guildford Cathedral and Tunsgate Quarter, are fully accessible. The cobbled High Street can be a challenge for wheelchairs or prams, so plan your route accordingly.

Family-Friendly Options
The Godalming Festival, Cathedral Fair, and Watts Gallery are especially good for children, with scheduled activities like Santa visits, crafting tables, and music.

Weather
December in Guildford tends to be cold and occasionally wet. Dress warmly in layers, bring gloves and a waterproof, and consider carrying a tote bag or rucksack for your shopping.

Local Places to Eat and Warm Up

After a few hours of festive shopping, you’ll want a cosy spot to relax. Here are some local favourites:

• The Ivy Castle View – Elegant brasserie with views of Guildford Castle. Try their festive menu.

• Krema Coffee – Independent café with top-notch hot chocolate and cakes.

• The March Hare – Classic British pub near the river, ideal for mulled wine and hearty fare.

• Pho Guildford – For something warming but different, try their steaming bowls of Vietnamese noodle soup.

• Raviz – Modern Indian with great lunch deals and quick service.

Final Thoughts: Why Christmas Markets in Guildford Shines at Christmas

Guildford might not have a single sprawling city-style market like Manchester or Edinburgh, but it more than makes up for it with a collection of thoughtfully curated, beautifully presented, and community-driven festive events.

The magic of Guildford’s Christmas markets lies in their variety. Whether you’re after handmade crafts, seasonal food, or a sophisticated shopping setting, you’ll find it here — all wrapped up in the town’s historic charm and festive cheer.

Plan your weekends carefully, support local artisans, and give yourself time to stroll, sip, and soak up the atmosphere. The combination of tradition, creativity, and winter magic makes these Guildford Christmas markets impossible to miss.