Guildford Castle - a Royal Residence, Fortress and Prison

Built by William the Conquerer a few years after his sack of Guildford, the castle served as a private apartment for the King.

It was constantly upgraded and expanded by its royal inhabitants, especially when serving as a fortress during the civil war under King Stephen, and the revolt of the King’s sons under Henry II.

Later on, with mainland castles beginning to fall out of use in defence, Guildford Castle began to fall into disrepair. Despite continuing to be used as a public gaol, the King’s apartments began to decay. During the Victorian era, the tower was renovated, and the gardens around restored, opening up to the public as pleasure gardens to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee.