Every year in July, the UK celebrates Independent Business Month to emphasize the crucial roles that small, local independent businesses play in our community. As part of this celebration we will be highlighting the town's unique array of independent businesses. Follow us on social media to find out more! @experiencegford
The Fallen Angel is Guildford's only cabaret club and is almost exactly two years old. Both directors, Nick, and Charlotte Wyschna are experienced performers, with numerous theatre, and TV appearances, Charlotte is also a much sought after, and highly qualified choreographer and director.
The bar hosts numerous acts including drag, burlesque, live music and dinner theatre. Set inside the 13th century Angel Hotel it's like walking back in time as you pass through the hotel corridors and then walk into the speakeasy, cabaret style bar.
Opening Fallen Angel has provided the opportunity to support the arts in our home town, giving performers a platform, and adding a much needed, and previously absent in Guildford, venue to celebrate diversity, in all its forms.
We are proud of our association with organisations like Pride in Surrey, and numerous charities, and believe that Fallen Angel is a venue for everyone, with something for everyone.
Growlers and Cans was launched in 2019 and offers a wide selection of craft beers on tap and in our fridges together with premium spirits, fine wines and soft drinks.
We host jazz gigs and exhibit local artists and have a great basement for private events and parties.
Misty and Claridge first opened its doors on Chapel Street in 2021 and focuses only on the latest season's new fashions. This gem of a boutique has become the destination for discerning fashionistas seeking to elevate their personal style and find pieces not seen anywhere else.
Bens Collectors Records has been trading at 5 Tunsgate Guildford for over 30 years so why not pop into Bens this Summer for a bargain priced ever changing selection of records tapes cds & dvds.
If you have any unwanted discs drop them off for a quote or contact Ben on 01483 301165 or [email protected]
Biddles is an independent stationer in Ward Street, Guildford and have been trading since 1885. We specialise in stationery, office furniture, and printer inks both for walk in customers and local businesses and charities, recently adding art products to our range of products.
Having rescued the company from closure during the pandemic, with the help of our wonderful customers, we are proud to be Guildford’s oldest independent stationer. Next time you’re in Guildford, pay us a visit and we’re sure you’ll be surprised.
Discover the charm of our family-run wine bar at Journeys Wine and Delicatessen - a dream turned reality just 14 months ago! A cozy spot where we celebrate wines from around the globe, including a selection of local produce.
Pair your glass with our exquisite Portuguese tapas, crafted with love and tradition as well as our cheese boards. Join us and become a part of our growing family, where every sip and bite tells a story. Cheers to shared dreams and memorable evenings!
Cavenders are the independent residential property experts in the Guildford and the surrounding area.
With a focus on delivering a service above and beyond other estate agents, our experience of the property industry and excellent customer service has made us the first choice of estate agent to find properties in the Guildford, Godalming and surrounding areas.
Why not take our 6 week challenge? If we do not sell or let your property within 6 weeks of coming to the market, we will halve our fee.
Jones & Tomlin has specialised in selling the finest range of premium beds, mattresses and bedding since 1946.
Our World of Sleep is built on trust, and, as an independent family business, our dedication to improving your sleep and delivering 5-star customer service is unwavering. We simplify the bed buying process, provide unbiased expert advice and deliver the bed or mattress of your dreams – all without any hard sell.
We’re a pocket-sprung mattress specialist, and our hand-picked brands use traditional techniques and luxurious natural fillings (including wool, cotton, horsehair, alpaca and silk) to deliver blissful comfort and support.
Our Summer Sale starts on the 15th July, so it’s the perfect time to visit and get incredible savings on the finest collection of hand-crafted beds in the South-East!
There’s free delivery to most UK postcodes (for orders over £29), 0% finance options and if you live locally, we’ll even recycle your old bed and mattress free of charge.
The Bear Garden Tucked away in Guildford town centre, you will find one of the world’s leading specialist teddy bear and soft toy shops! The Bear Garden was founded in 1992. From world-famous teddy bear manufacturer Steiff to the pure joy of Jellycat, you will find something that appeals to everyone!
If you cannot make it to this award-winning shop, then pay a visit to their incredible website www.beargarden.co.uk, which features their entire range.
KOKO Hair is an independent hair salon nestled just off Guildford High Street, offering a unique and personalised hair care experience. Renowned for its cozy and inviting atmosphere, KOKO Hair stands out with its commitment to individualised service and attention to detail. The salon boasts a team of talented and passionate stylists who specialise in a variety of services, from precision haircuts and vibrant colouring to bespoke styling and treatments. Emphasising the use of premium products and the latest techniques, Coco Hair ensures that every client receives top-notch care tailored to their specific needs. Ideal for those seeking a distinctive and high-quality hair salon, Coco Hair provides a refreshing retreat from the busy town centre, making every visit a delightful experience.
Here at Mandolay we positively delight in our independent status, it’s what makes us unique, and has inspired the style and spirit that has helped to make us the highest accredited hotel in Guildford.
In awarding us our 4 Stars, AA inspectors often comment on the very special atmosphere at Mandolay, mentioning the quality and friendliness of our service, and the genuine difference that our personal touches make to every visit.
Afternoon Tea at Mandolay is a Guildford tradition, with so many styles to choose from, including sweet, savoury, and children’s menus. Our scones, cakes, pastries and even our jams are all made in our own kitchens by Chef David and his team, a special place where attention to detail is everything.
The bar at Mandolay is at once, cool and inviting, serving a range of premium drinks and cocktails that can be taken at table, or on our terrace, the choice, as with everything at Mandolay, is yours.
Our bedrooms typify our independent style, individually decorated using Osborne and Little furnishings, Egyptian cotton sheets, and featuring complimentary Molton Brown toiletries. Everything at Mandolay bears the stamp of independence, a spirit of indulgence, and a commitment to being the best.
Retreat, Connect and Find Your Hideaway
The Hideaway, a hidden cafe with a big heart, is a social enterprise supporting young people through on-the-job training and skill development.. Every purchase empowers them to build their futures!
Relaxing Atmosphere & Delightful Eats: Unwind and connect with friends over our expertly brewed coffee and delicious summer menu. From toasted bagels to classic ploughman's lunches, we have something for everyone.
Cool down with a summer special: 3 for 2 on Beechdean ice cream!
Find Your Escape in the Heart of Guildford! Located in Allen House Grounds, next to York Road Car Park. More than just a cafe, The Hideaway offers a chance to give back while you retreat and refuel.
Art & Grind is a cafe that welcomes everyone to experience art by participating in our weekly themes (so far we have done watercolours, clay, drawing, creative writing, acrylics, spyrographs and collage) or simply doodling/colouring at the tables over your favourite cuppa and something from our full bakery case.
We also have easels you can work at and art supplies you can buy. We are also a gallery, representing local artists by helping them display and sell their work on the High Street as well as live demonstrations in our front windows to build their presence. We are a self-funded independent venture working and partnering with as many independents as possible.
Local bakers, collaborating with other independents, supporting local groups like schools, Guildford Shakespeare Company, and Autism Friendly events, and of course our local coffee roaster (Copper Coffee in Cobham) who we think has a pretty amazing roasted bean!
Babylon is an independent retailer specialising in eclectic and exceptional home interiors and giftware.
There's a choice of unique occasional furniture, stylish wall art, beautiful handmade silver jewellery, wonderful gift ideas, luxurious home textiles and lighting.
Babylon was formed in 2008 by husband and wife team Mike and Miri Allen, who have 26 years experience in buying and sourcing. The aim has always been to offer something different to your usual High St. retailers, whilst providing quality and value. To this day, this philosophy remains, the Babylon stores in Guildford offers a vast, eclectic range of lifestyle products and giftware all carefully selected to create an individual style. This year Babylon will be focusing on increasing UK made ranges and environmentally friendly products.
The store in Guildford is located in White Lion Walk, which can be entered via the High street (next to Starbucks Coffee).
Kallums Bathrooms Guildford will open on Saturday 27th July 2024 and warmly invites all Surrey residents to their grand opening. Enjoy complimentary cake and prosecco while exploring the finest in luxury bathrooms.
Distinguished retailer Kallums Bathrooms has expanded with a new showroom in Guildford, promising an unparalleled luxury bathroom experience. Opening on 27th July 2024, the showroom will feature premium products from leading brands in opulent displays curated by their expert designers.
Founded in 2013 by Matthew Kallum, Kallums Bathrooms is a family-run business known for creating bespoke bathrooms. They offer a vast collection of premium products in traditional, modern, and cutting-edge styles, emphasizing exceptional quality and personalized service. Matthew Kallum and his team bring years of experience and a passion for crafting stunning, functional bathroom spaces.
Kallums Bathrooms Summer Sale, offering up to 60% off Luxury Bathrooms, is on until 31st July!
The independently run, riverside restaurant, The Boathouse Cafe has officially launched its summer menu - created by their new Head Chef, Rafal Milarski, with the restaurant now reopen for dinner.
While soaking up the atmosphere from the restaurant’s riverside terrace, guests can expect to enjoy a delicious and fresh summer menu, which focuses on British fare with a twist. The new all-day menu is inspired by local, seasonal produce, offering an array of mouth watering dishes including crab and prawn plates, cod 'schnitzel', poke bowl, primavera tagliatelle, and premium 'Surrey Hills' ribeye steak.
