Experience in Guildford, UK

What is it like to live in Guildford? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Relatively quiet compared to other university cities. Lots of options for food and drink, with very good links to London. Can be slightly pricey due to its location but there's always something to do.

What is the student lifestyle like in Guildford?

Most of the student lifestyle is centred around campus or the sports park, but there are a few clubs/bars in the centre of Guildford that are well used by the students.

How much does it cost to live in Guildford?

Depends on the area - closer to town is more expensive with the area behind the big Tesco supermarket being slightly cheaper. Rent probably ranges from £350-£550 per month. Other amenities are similar to other areas of the UK.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Guildford? Is there any advice you can give?

Generally quite easy to find accommodation, there's always something available. Going through the University can give you extra security but it can also be done through independent letting agents. Always make sure you view a property before agreeing to let it, and ask as many questions as possible!

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Food is very varied, with two large supermarkets on either end of town there's plenty of options. Town also has a range of restaurants to choose from for either a hangover cure or when you have visitors.

What places would you recommend visiting in Guildford?

The sports park always has something available - competitive or social. There's also an ice rink and a bowling alley further out of the centre of town. The main high street is also a good attraction with lots of little back streets that can be explored.

Is it good to eat out in Guildford? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Lots of restaurants to choose from that range from cheap to quite expensive depending on what you want. Nandos is always a good choice, mostly chicken and not very expensive! Gourmet Burger Kitchen is also a really good one, not very expensive either.

Is the nightlife good in Guildford? Where is good to go?

Nightlife is alright: there's the student union on campus that puts on some themed nights, there's 'Casino' in town and a few other bars such as Wetherspoons that can be good for a bar crawl, however it is sometimes over-priced to get into some places so you have to be prepared to go a bit earlier to pay a little less!

What advice would you give future students heading to Guildford?

Don't expect a super nightlife as some other Universities offer, but the sports facilities are amazing with no shortage of competitive and social activities to keep you busy. With good links to London as well, there's always something to do but there isn't always the need to stray too far from the main campus.