Godalming

Godalming is full of narrow streets and interesting buildings, but often bypassed by car. Situated in the valleys of the Rivers Wey and Ock, it is first mentioned in the will of King Alfred, about 880 AD. By Doomsday in 1086, the village was relatively wealthy. It prospered as a market area during the Middle Ages and progressed into a centre for the wool and cloth trade by the 16th century. When the main road from London to Portsmouth opened in 1749, Godalming was 'en-route'. In 1881, it became the first town in the world to have a public electricity supply.

The PepperPot, in the High Street, was once the Town Hall around 1814 and opposite it is a timbered building, formerly a coaching inn, dating from 1570. Walking around Godalming, many such buildings and others of interest are to be found, especially in Mill Lane, Mint Street, Church Street, the High Street and Westbrook Road. The church of St. Peter and Paul, with its twisted spire, is in Church Street. The tower was built over a Saxon chancel but the church was altered a great deal in the 19th century. On the north side of the churchyard, towards the river, is the Phillips Memorial Cloisters - commemorating the wireless operator on the Titanic, J.G. Phillips.

Across the River Wey from the town are meadows known as the Lammaslands. Above the town stands the Charterhouse School. Founded in Finsbury in 1611, it moved here in 1872. Old Carthusians include Thackeray, John Wesley and R. Vaughan Williams.

Slightly out of town, following the river to the north, is the Catteshall Lock and Farncombe Boat House. All types of boats can be hired here including the traditional narrow boat. A tea room run by the National Trust can also be found here.

To the south-east of Godalming lies Hascombe with its church of St. Peter. Built in 1864 by Woodyer, in a late 13th century style, the interior has much to offer the visitor. An old drinking trough can be seen on the road through the village.

Nearby is Winkworth Arboretum, owned by the National Trust. It houses many rare trees and has impressive seasonal displays of plants and shrubs and has two lakes. Another place to visit near Godalming is Busbridge Lakes. Only open on set days, it is home to 120 different species of waterfowl, pheasants and other birds. Set in 40 acres, it has three lakes, gardens, a nature trail and a 'home-made tea' room.