Guildford Cathedral is a modern cathedral with an amazing story. It is one of only two Anglican cathedrals to be built on entirely new sites since medieval times. Unusually for a cathedral, it was designed by one man, the architect Sir Edward Maufe. Building work began in 1936 but was interrupted by the devastation and aftermath of the Second World War. And yet in an extraordinary demonstration of modern community spirit, 'The People's Cathedral' was consecrated by 1961 – uniquely funded through the generosity of more than 200,000 ordinary people, who 'bought a brick'. (Echoes of the public appeal in Chichester for the community to contribute to the cost of 'their' theatre.)
On arrival, we will have tea/coffee and biscuits, followed by a 'Coffee Concert' with the talented singer, songwriter and choral director Em Bollon (see the Cathedral's website for clips). The concerts are held once a month as part of the Cathedral's outreach activities; no charge is made, but the Cathedral welcomes donations.
After the concert we will have a sandwich buffet lunch at Seasons Café, then divide into two groups for a guided tour of the Cathedral and its treasures. For the fearless, there is also a wonderful view from the top of the tower (249 steps to climb!).
Our coach will then take us across town to The Spike in Charlotteville, a 'hidden secret' that remains one of the best-preserved examples of an Edwardian workhouse casual ward. Once the preserve of vagrants and casual workers, today it is a heritage centre and museum whose walls and cells tell us about the Poor Law system of the early 20th century. The awful conditions at The Spike in Guildford are recorded by George Orwell in his book 'Down and Out in Paris and London', for which the author went undercover to draw attention to the plight of the poorest of the poor.
After a guided tour, we will finish the day with a cream tea, before returning to Horsham.
You can find out more about the Cathedral on their website here and their YouTube channel here.
The Spike also has a website, with lots of information here.
Please note: the Spike is an historic building and is cold, dark and damp in places, and very atmospheric in November. Visitors are advised to dress up warm and wear practical shoes.
Plan for the day (all times are guidelines only)
9.00: Depart Hop Oast
10.15: Arrive Guildford Cathedral
10.30 – 11.10: Complimentary tea/coffee + biscuits
11.15: Live 'coffee concert' with Em Bollon begins
12.00: Sandwich buffet at Seasons Café on the Cathedral site
13.15: Guided tour of the Cathedral (2 groups)
14.20: Coach departs for The Spike
14.45 Arrive at The Spike, guided tour
Followed by: Cream tea at The Spike
16.30: Coach departs for home
17.30: Arrive Horsham
Cost: £55.00 pp. Trip includes coach with gratuities, a sandwich buffet and a guided tour of the Cathedral plus a guided tour of The Spike and a cream tea to round off the day.
