Charles Raspin checks out the best shows, sport and music at Guildford's Summer Festival from June 12 – August 8
Such is the scale of the Guildford Summer Festival that it's almost impossible to tackle without just churning out a list of all the activities on offer.
There's something here for everyone, whether you're looking to learn about the town's history, race through it on a bicycle, or enjoy drama staged around its theatres (not to mention the natural drama of the festival).
You can download the full brochure here, but in the meantime, have a quick peek at some of the highlights on offer!
Craft & Country
The festival kicks off (as always) with a Town Centre Craft Market from June 12-20, packed with great stalls. Guildford's Town Guides provide free guided walks, with a special focus on Alan Turing on July 21 and August 14, while local National Trust parks are hosting great Craft Workshops throughout the event.
Cycling
The Guildford Town Centre Cycle Race hits the streets on July 8 for a frenetic contest between the country's top cyclists around winding cobbled streets. Those looking for a more leisurely journey might want to get on their bike a bit earlier, for the Round the Hogs Back Cycle Ride on June 21.
Sports & Hobbies
The Guildford Cricket Festival 2015 is on at Guildford Cricket Club from June 15-18, with matches between a number of Surrey clubs. There's a Summer of Sport at Surrey Sports Park, with kids' clubs and camps running through the festival, and you should look out for the Rugby World Cup Trophy Tour on August 30.
Family
There'll be an Urban Beach outside Guildford's Electric Theatre from August 14-16, with sand, deckchairs, and beachside entertainment. National Armed Forces Week is from June 22-27, with Guildford as the hub of celebrations.
Culture
Yvonne Arnaud Arts is a free summer exhibition running at the Mill Studio of the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre from July 8-23. Guildford's also playing host to a number of celebrations for the Magna Carta's 800th anniversary across the period of the festival.
Theatre
Wind in the Willows is a classic production surrounded by natural beauty at the Watts Gallery Gardens from June 11-27 - check out our review here. There's Shakespearean drama at Guildford Castle Grounds with Much Ado About Nothing from July 10-18. Guildford's Fringe Festival brings the arts to Guildford from July 1-26, ahead of the Edinburgh Fringe.
You can find more details on the Guildford Borough Council website, or download the brochure
