On the western side of the centre of Guildford, sits a diverse array of historic and contemporary landmarks in British cultural history. The University of Surrey, which sits 4th in the UK league tables, and the modern Guildhood Cathedral built in the mid-twentieth century. Located on the western side of the River Wey, this area is abundant with cultural landmarks, a varied housing stock, and a long historied presence.

The history of the Guildford Cathedral is unusual, given as it was proposed by Sir Edward Maufe in 1936. Being a contemporary cathedral, rather than one rooted in a long Anglican history, the cathedral suffered due the onslaught of WWII, which halted the construction. In 1954, the legendary Buy a Brick fundraising campaign was started in order to re-new construction for the cathedral, and over 200,000 ordinary civilians donated bricks to aid in the completion of the cathedral! The inside of the cathedral was also helped with a large act of public support and generosity, with over 1500 kneelers being hand-made, which are still in the cathedral today. This has led to the cathedral being known as the ‘People’s Cathedral’, and is a landmark in the cultural memory of West Guildford, and an example of great community spirit.

The unique history of the Guildford Cathedral is in itself a piece of social history, connected deeply with WWII. However, it is also the site of a great piece of cultural history. The 1976 horror cult classic ‘The Omen’, directed by Richard Donner, has one of its most memorable scenes shot within Guildford Cathedral! Due to the mid-century construction of the cathedral, nestled in between swathes of suburban housing and sparse dottings of trees; the film pictures the cathedral as isolated and towering religious entity.

Given this modern twentieth century history, and proximity to the central rail station and the University of Surrey campus, properties in this area range from detached to semi-detached homes and centrally located flats, with a large-scale price range. However, an enormous housing £150 million housing project is underway near the rail station. This high-rise project is aiming to develop over 400 new homes, a new station building, and a new central public plaza!