Learn, create and be entertained with The Guildford Institute’s new events programme

The Guildford Institute is a local charity providing cultural education. Its new April to September programme is packed full with 140 activities – choose from courses, talks, music nights, visits, film screenings and more! Based in its Grade II listed building in the town centre on Ward Street, discover what’s on offer at the Institute’s welcoming community hub.

There is something for everyone, with over 100 courses on offer, ranging from art history and visual arts to languages and music appreciation. Learn something new with 21 fascinating afternoon talks, explore new places with 3 coach visits and be entertained with 9 exciting events.

Welcome the arrival of spring with a flower arranging workshop! Join Cynthia Bromwich, Chair of Guildford Flower Club, and craft two beautiful spring bouquets to take home.

Wine tasting returns to the programme, led by wine educator Charlie Goblet D’Alviella who has over 25 years of experience. First up, enjoy sampling wonderful wines handpicked for summer. Then as autumn approaches, discover a match made in heaven – cheese and wine - and how to create the perfect pairing!

Unwind at a new, gentle yoga class for beginners; through movement, breath and guided practices, build self-awareness, clarity and emotional balance.

Get creative with the opportunity to paint your own pottery with Carol Clutton from Popolo Ceramico. Perfect for all ages – from 4 to 100! Experiment with unique materials at two abstract art workshops with Aska Gough; create a dazzling geode masterpiece using crystals, minerals and more, or make your very own mixed media and resin coasters! For those who prefer more traditional art forms, enjoy a relaxing afternoon at a still life drawing workshop with Kate Alger.

The Institute’s intimate Music Lounge will continue to host regular weekend performances. Catch Polly Morris, a whirlwind of entertainment who performs laugh-out-loud funny and parody songs but also heartbreakingly poignant songs. Barb Jungr, one of the most extraordinary British performers of her generation, will sing Bob Dylan & Leonard Cohen, accompanied by Simon Wallace. The Institute’s music events are kindly sponsored by Andertons Music.

Step back in time with Guildford rock ‘n’ roll music legends Mick Douglas and John Kelly, along with fellow musician and local history expert David Rose, for another concert of classic songs from the 1950s and 60s. Join Jane Glennie, actress and historian, for an entertaining afternoon at her ‘tea party’, as she humorously addresses etiquette during the end of rationing in 1953.

Local abstract artist Pilita Bryant is the Institute’s brochure cover artist with her stunning work Garden Jewels. Inspired by her emotional response to the world, Pilita’s intuitive work blurs the boundaries between abstraction and realism.

Amy Rice, Institute Manager, says: “If you haven’t visited our welcoming community hub, now is the perfect time! Our new programme is full of variety, with shorter and longer activities available, taking place during the day, evening and weekends. Feel inspired to try something new and meet other like-minded individuals”.

The Institute’s programme is generously sponsored by Experience Guildford and will run from 7 April to 30 September 2026. Advance booking for all paid Institute activities is essential. View the Institute’s brochure online via www.guildford-institute.org.uk or pick up a copy from the building.