History & Heritage Trail

500 years of history along the waterway

Explore the rich history of Britain's oldest working canal, from medieval priory ruins to Victorian engineering. Visit historic locks, learn about the navigation's 17th-century origins, and discover the stories of the people who lived and worked along the Wey. Perfect for history enthusiasts and those curious about industrial heritage.

full-day heritage-enthusiasts history-lovers photographers autumn spring summer winter

Timeline

  1. 09:30 · Dapdune Wharf - Navigation History (Guildford)
    Learn about the Wey Navigation's history. See the last surviving Wey barge, Reliance. Exhibitions on 17th-century origins.
    Cost: £8 adult / £4 child
  2. 11:00 · Walk to Millmead Lock (Guildford)
    See one of the original 17th-century locks. Nearby is Millmead House, once home to the navigation manager.
    Cost: Free
  3. 11:45 · Guildford Castle & Museum (Guildford)
    Norman castle ruins with excellent views. Museum covers prehistoric to present local history.
    Cost: £5 castle, Museum free
  4. 12:45 · Lunch at historic Guildford pub (Guildford)
    Many historic pubs to choose from. The Angel Gate has medieval origins.
    Cost: £15-22 pp
  5. 14:00 · Drive to Shalford Mill (Shalford)
    Short drive to this National Trust watermill.
    Cost: Free
  6. 14:30 · Shalford Mill and St Catherine's area (Shalford)
    Beautiful 18th-century watermill. Walk to St Catherine's Lock, junction of the navigations.
    Cost: Free
  7. 15:30 · Drive to Newark Priory viewpoint (Ripley)
    12th-century Augustinian priory ruins visible across the meadows.
    Cost: Free
  8. 16:15 · Walk to view Newark Priory from Newark Lock (Ripley)
    Atmospheric ruins on private land - view from towpath. Information boards tell the priory's story.
    Cost: Free
  9. 17:00 · St Nicholas Church, Pyrford (Pyrford)
    Norman church with remarkable medieval wall paintings. Peaceful churchyard.
    Cost: Free (donations welcome)
  10. 17:30 · Tea and dinner at The Anchor, Pyrford (Pyrford)
    End the day at this characterful pub by the prettiest lock on the navigation.
    Cost: £25-40 pp

Route map

Practical info

Parking: Dapdune Wharf, Shalford Park, Lock Lane Pyrford all have parking.

Booking required

  • Dinner at The Anchor (weekends)

Estimated cost

  • Budget: £45-55 per person
  • Mid-range: £65-85 per person
  • Luxury: £100+ per person