Guildford, the historic county town of Surrey, is a haven for cricket enthusiasts. Nestled in the heart of one of England’s most cricket-loving counties, this charming town offers a variety of venues to catch the latest matches. From traditional pubs to modern sports bars, and from local cricket clubs to picturesque parks, Guildford has something for every cricket fan. This guide will help you discover the best places to watch cricket in Guildford, ensuring you never miss a moment of the action.

Where To Watch The Cricket In Guildford

Why Guildford is a great place for cricket fans: Guildford’s cricketing heritage is deeply rooted in its history, with the town being home to Guildford Cricket Club since 1866. Surrey County Cricket Club regularly plays matches at Woodbridge Road, bringing top-level cricket to the town. The combination of historic venues, modern facilities, and the town’s passion for the sport makes Guildford an ideal destination for cricket lovers.

Pubs and bars showing cricket:

1. Sixes Social Cricket in Guildford offers an exciting and modern cricket experience for all ages. Enjoy batting challenges in high-tech nets, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for group outings, parties, or casual fun, it’s the ultimate destination to experience cricket in a unique and social setting (BOOK YOUR NETS NOW).
2. The Britannia: This traditional pub on Millmead offers a warm atmosphere and reliable cricket coverage. With its riverside location, it’s a perfect spot to enjoy a match on a summer’s day.
3. The Star Inn: Located in the town center, The Star Inn is known for its excellent selection of ales and dedication to showing live sports, including cricket.
4. The Royal Oak: Situated on Trinity Churchyard, this historic pub provides a cozy setting to watch cricket matches, complete with a good selection of beers and pub grub.
5. The Kings Head: A lively pub on Kings Road, The Kings Head is popular among locals for its sports coverage and friendly atmosphere.

Dedicated sports bars:

1. Sixes Social Cricket in Guildford provides a thrilling cricket experience with high-tech batting nets, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere. Ideal for parties, group outings, or casual fun, it’s a fantastic place to enjoy cricket in a social setting, perfect for all ages and skill levels (BOOK YOUR NETS NOW).
2. Guildford Tup: This modern bar on Chertsey Street is equipped with multiple screens, making it an excellent choice for watching cricket matches with a group of friends.
3. Pews Bar: Located in the heart of Guildford, Pews Bar offers a spacious setting with several large screens, perfect for major cricket events.
4. The Guildford Harbour Hotel: While not exclusively a sports bar, their bar area often shows important cricket matches and offers a more upscale viewing experience. See more about Guildford Hotels here.

Cricket clubs and grounds:

1. Guildford Cricket Club: Based at Woodbridge Road, this is the epicenter of cricket in Guildford. The ground hosts Surrey CCC matches and is an excellent place to watch high-quality cricket in person.
2. Stoke Park: Home to Guildford City Cricket Club, this public park offers a more relaxed setting to watch local cricket matches.
3. Merrow Cricket Club: A friendly local club that welcomes spectators to their matches, providing a grassroots cricket experience.

Parks and outdoor spaces for casual viewing:

1. Stoke Park: This expansive park is perfect for setting up a picnic and following matches on portable devices or radios.
2. Shalford Park: Another beautiful green space where cricket fans can gather to enjoy matches in a relaxed outdoor setting.
3. Riverside Nature Reserve: For those who prefer a quieter environment, this nature reserve along the River Wey offers peaceful spots to follow cricket on personal devices.

Major cricket events and where to watch them:

1. The Ashes: When England faces Australia, pubs like The Britannia and The Star Inn become hotspots for cricket fans.
2. ICC Cricket World Cup: During this global tournament, venues such as Guildford Tup and Pews Bar often organize special viewing events.
3. T20 Blast: For fans of the shorter format, The Kings Head and The Royal Oak are great places to catch these exciting matches.
4. County Championship: Local matches featuring Surrey CCC at Woodbridge Road are not to be missed for true cricket aficionados.

Tips for enjoying cricket in Guildford:

1. Plan ahead: Popular venues can get busy during major tournaments or Surrey home games. Arrive early or book a table when possible.
2. Visit Woodbridge Road: Don’t miss the opportunity to watch live cricket at this historic ground when Surrey CCC is in town.
3. Explore local clubs: Guildford’s cricket clubs often welcome spectators. Check their websites for match schedules and visitor information.
4. Embrace the outdoor options: Guildford’s parks offer beautiful settings for following matches on portable devices while enjoying the surroundings.
5. Combine with other activities: Many cricket-showing venues are near Guildford’s attractions, so you can easily combine match-watching with sightseeing.
6. Use public transport: Parking can be challenging in Guildford, especially during events. Consider using buses or trains to reach your chosen venue.
7. Check for special events: Some pubs and bars organize cricket-themed nights or tournaments during major cricket events.

Conclusion

Guildford’s love for cricket is evident in its diverse range of viewing options, from historic pubs to modern sports bars, and from professional grounds to local club matches. The town’s unique blend of history and contemporary facilities creates an ideal atmosphere for cricket enthusiasts (and let’s not forget about the Guildford nightlife)

Whether you prefer the traditional ambiance of The Britannia, the lively setting of Guildford Tup, or the authentic experience of watching a match at the cricket bar, Sixes, Guildford caters to all cricket-viewing preferences. The town’s green spaces also provide a perfect backdrop for a more relaxed cricket-watching experience, allowing you to combine your love of the sport with the beauty of Surrey’s countryside.

Remember to plan ahead for major events, be open to exploring different venues, and don’t hesitate to engage with the local cricket community. Whether you’re a dedicated fan or a casual observer, watching cricket in Guildford offers a chance to immerse yourself in the rich cricketing culture of Surrey.

So, grab a pint, find your preferred spot, and get ready to enjoy the gentlemen’s game in one of England’s most charming towns. In Guildford, cricket is more than just a sport – it’s a cherished part of the local culture, waiting to be experienced in settings that range from the traditional to the picturesque.