Weekend River Escape

Two days exploring the heart of the Wey Valley

The perfect weekend break for those wanting to fully immerse themselves in the River Wey. Stay in Guildford and spend two days exploring the navigation, visiting attractions, enjoying riverside pubs, and discovering the beauty of this hidden corner of Surrey. Covers all the highlights with time to relax and enjoy the pace of waterway life.

weekend couples first-time-visitors groups autumn spring summer

Timeline

  1. Day 1 - 10:00 · Dapdune Wharf and boat trip (Guildford)
    Start your weekend at the National Trust visitor centre. Take the boat trip to experience the navigation.
    Cost: £16 adult (entry + boat)
  2. Day 1 - 12:00 · Lunch at The Britannia (Guildford)
    Riverside pub lunch. Sit outside if weather permits.
    Cost: £18-25 pp
  3. Day 1 - 13:30 · Guildford Castle, High Street, and shopping (Guildford)
    Explore the castle, climb the tower for views, browse the cobbled High Street.
    Cost: £5 castle
  4. Day 1 - 16:00 · Walk to St Catherine's and Shalford Mill (Shalford)
    Beautiful towpath walk. Option to climb St Catherine's Hill for sunset views.
    Cost: Free
  5. Day 1 - 18:30 · Dinner in Guildford (Guildford)
    Excellent restaurant choice in town. Book ahead for weekends.
    Cost: £35-55 pp
  6. Day 2 - 09:30 · Drive to Pyrford Lock for breakfast (Pyrford)
    Coffee and breakfast by the prettiest lock. Watch the boats.
    Cost: £10-15 pp
  7. Day 2 - 10:30 · Walk to Newark Priory (Ripley)
    Lovely towpath walk to view the atmospheric priory ruins.
    Cost: Free
  8. Day 2 - 12:00 · Lunch at The Anchor (Pyrford)
    Return to Pyrford for a relaxed lunch.
    Cost: £18-25 pp
  9. Day 2 - 13:30 · RHS Garden Wisley (Wisley)
    Spend the afternoon in the world-famous gardens. Don't miss the plant centre.
    Cost: £16.90 adult
  10. Day 2 - 17:00 · Afternoon tea at Wisley (Wisley)
    Perfect end to the weekend before heading home.
    Cost: £15-20 pp

Route map

Practical info

Parking: Guildford town centre parking for Day 1. Pyrford Lock Lane and RHS Wisley for Day 2.

Booking required

  • Accommodation in Guildford
  • Dinner reservations
  • The Anchor (weekends)
  • RHS Wisley (peak times)

Estimated cost

  • Budget: £120-150 per person (excluding accommodation)
  • Mid-range: £180-220 per person (excluding accommodation)
  • Luxury: £280+ per person (excluding accommodation)