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Guildford’s Parks and Events Celebrate a Record-Breaking 2024

Published on: 30 Jan, 2025
Updated on: 3 Feb, 2025

Spring bedding in the Castle Grounds. Photo: Sally Astles, Guildford Borough Council’s parks projects officer.

Guildford Borough Council has hailed 2024 as a landmark year for events across the town. The town’s parks and open spaces draw record numbers of visitors and contribute to its vibrant community life.

The council’s parks and countryside venues played host to 136 events across 27 locations, attracting an impressive 258,753 visitors. These events ranged from large-scale festivals to intimate community gatherings, generating over £90,000 in venue hire fees – a reflection of Guildford’s growing appeal to organisers and attendees.

Cllr Catherine Houston

Cllr Catherine Houston (Lib Dem, Shalford), lead councillor for Commercial Services, expressed her pride in the borough’s achievements:

“We’re delighted by the incredible success of our event bookings service over the past year. The wide variety of activities showcased the diversity and vibrancy of our parks and countryside open spaces and venues. From community and charity initiatives to commercial and cultural highlights, these events have brought our community together.”

Highlights of 2024

The year was filled with unforgettable moments, including:

  • Illuminate Guildford: A magical winter light trail that transformed the Castle grounds into an enchanting wonderland.
  • Guilfest: The return of this much-loved festival to Stoke Park, evoking nostalgia and joy for the local community.
  • Guildford Shakespeare Company’s Romeo & Juliet: Celebrating 18 years of theatre, this open-air performance captivated audiences with a timeless classic.

GSC’s Romeo & Juliet 2024

  • Foodies Festival: A vibrant showcase of local food, drink, and live music that brought flavour and fun to attendees.
  • Pride in Surrey: A lively celebration of diversity, beginning with a colourful town parade and culminating in a festival at Stoke Park.
  • Summer Bandstand Performances: Free live music throughout the summer in the picturesque Castle Grounds.

Surrey Police Band in the Castle Grounds.

Cllr Houston commended the behind-the-scenes work of the council’s event team, whose efforts ensured the venues remained safe, accessible, and inclusive:

“These events align with our commitment to making Guildford a more inclusive and prosperous borough. I’m delighted we’ve been able to facilitate them and look forward to another exciting programme of events in 2025.”

What’s Next for Guildford?

With such a strong foundation, Guildford Borough Council is now planning for 2025, promising another year filled with cultural, community, and commercial events that will continue to bring people together and celebrate the best of Guildford.

Whether it’s another breathtaking light display, a theatre performance under the stars, or a bustling food festival, there’s something for everyone to look forward to.

Stay tuned for announcements about upcoming events and how you can get involved in making Guildford’s 2025 another record-breaking year.

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