When autumn hits Surrey, Guildford comes alive in shades of gold, amber, and deep crimson. The air turns crisp, coffee smells sweeter, and walking becomes a genuine pleasure.
For residents of Guildford Plaza, you’re right at the centre of it all. Perfectly positioned on Bury Street, you’re moments from the River Wey and a short drive (using our Car Club) or cycle from the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It’s the kind of location that makes getting outside effortless, and that’s exactly what Habito Co-Living is all about: living well, working smart, and exploring freely.
Why autumn in Guildford is made for walking.
Guildford sits at the meeting point of urban convenience and countryside calm. That’s why it’s a favourite with young professionals who want balance, easy access to London, but space to breathe and unwind.
From the tranquil banks of the River Wey to the rolling views of St Martha’s Hill and Newlands Corner, every route offers a slice of serenity just steps from your studio. And because Guildford Plaza is a car-free development, walking and cycling become second nature; greener, healthier, and refreshingly simple.
Riverside Calm: Walks along the River Wey.
Start local. The River Wey towpath runs right through the heart of Guildford, offering peaceful walking routes where the only sounds are ducks, oars, and the soft crunch of leaves underfoot.
- Guildford to Godalming Towpath (5.4 miles): A scenic stretch that winds through meadows, locks, and tree-lined banks. Stop for a coffee at the White House pub on your way back.
- Guildford Riverside Loop (2.5 miles): A shorter circular route ideal for lunch breaks or evening strolls. Start at Millmead Lock, follow the river past Dapdune Wharf, and loop back through town.
- Dapdune Wharf Boat Path: Begin your walk at the National Trust’s Dapdune Wharf, just a 15-minute walk from Guildford Plaza, and watch narrowboats drift by.
💡 Why we love it: The riverside is a year-round favourite, but in autumn, the light over the water is unreal perfect for those “I actually live here” moments.
Walks worth staying local for.
Not every walk has to be an expedition. Some of the best are right in town.
- Guildford Castle Grounds: Just 10 minutes from Guildford Plaza, the gardens glow with autumn colour. Grab a takeaway coffee, wander through the lawns, and take in the view from the Castle Keep.
- Stoke Park: The largest green space in Guildford, with tree-lined paths, tennis courts, and open space to unwind.
- Guildford Lido Loop: Combine a morning swim with a walk through the nearby parkland — it’s one of the town’s hidden gems.
💡Why we love it: You can walk straight from your front door at Guildford Plaza, be in a green space in under 10 minutes, and still make it back in time for lunch.
Into the Surrey Hills: Walks with a view.
When you’re craving big skies and sweeping views, the Surrey Hills are calling. A 15-minute drive or a scenic cycle from Guildford Plaza gets you to trailheads that feel worlds away from city life.
- Newlands Corner & St Martha’s Hill (6 miles): Just outside town, this loop mixes forest paths, open ridges, and church-top views that stretch across the North Downs.
- Box Hill via Shere (8 miles): A classic Surrey Hills route, ideal for a half-day hike and a pub lunch stop in the village.
- Leith Hill Tower Trail (7 miles): Surrey’s highest point, and yes, there’s a tower at the top. The autumn views here? Unreal.
All of these routes link to the North Downs Way, a long-distance path that slices through some of Surrey’s most scenic countryside.
💡 These trails are perfect for weekend resets — the kind of quiet that clears your head after a busy week of co-working and city commuting.
Autumn walking tips from the Guildford Plaza team.
- Dress smart: Layers, waterproofs, and walking shoes.
- Bring a flask: There’s something about tea in the open air.
- Start small: The River Wey towpath is perfect for beginners.
- Walk with friends: It’s social, safer, and just more fun.
- Catch the sunset: Autumn light over the Wey is one of Guildford’s best-kept secrets.
Why Co-Living at Guildford Plaza makes exploring easy.
When you live at Guildford Plaza, exploring Guildford isn’t a weekend luxury — it’s your everyday.
- Central location: Just a 5-minute walk from the train station and Guildford High Street.
- Car-free and connected: Access to a car club for weekend trips, and bike storage for local rides.
- Flexible living: Whether you’re here for 3, 6, 9 or 12 months, it’s living that adapts to your lifestyle.
- Community: Join a running club, explore trails with neighbours, or plan a hiking weekend together.
Guildford Plaza makes it easy to blend work, rest, and play. You can spend your morning in the co-working space, your afternoon on the hills, and your evening in the lounge or dining room with friends.
💡 That’s what Habito Co-Living is all about: effortless living, with adventure built in.
Step out. Explore more. Come home to Guildford Plaza.
Whether you’re heading to Surrey Research Park, commuting to London, or simply craving balance in your life, Guildford Plaza is the perfect base. From riverside paths to countryside climbs, autumn is your season to get out there and your home here makes it effortless.
Book a viewing today and see why Guildford Plaza is the home for modern living, smart working, and everyday exploring.
