Guildford Festival of the Arts Returns 1–4 October 2026 Four days of exhibitions, workshops and collaborative art projects to bring Guildford town centre to life
Following its successful launch in 2025, the Guildford Festival of the Arts returns to Guildford town centre from 1–4 October 2026, once again showcasing the talent of local artists and inviting residents and visitors to take part in a town-wide celebration of creativity.
The festival's mission is to rejuvenate the local art scene by bringing together independent shops, arts venues and other creative spaces across the town in a collaborative, community-focused programme. Over four days, the public will have the chance to meet artists, explore a wide range of artistic disciplines, and get hands-on with collaborative projects, all with the aim of establishing Guildford as a genuine hub for the arts and strengthening its creative industries for the long term.
Highlights for 2026 include:
● A community mural project with local artist Nathalie Beauvillain Scott
● Drawing Music Live, an afternoon collaboration with Guildford Jazz and local artists Andrew Curtis and Ronny Ireland at the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre
● A drop-in pottery workshop at the Guildhall hosted by Watts Gallery
● Drop-in screen printing and textile workshops at the Britannia pub
● The return of the art trail map with new venues and a free drink at the Star Inn or Britannia pub for all who complete it, courtesy of sponsors Shepherd Neame
● Open Call exhibitions at the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, Abbots Hospital and New House Arts Space.
The festival is our way of shining a spotlight on the creative spaces in the town and helping people discover them,’ says Co-founder and Festival Director Charlie Cluff.
‘It also creates new opportunities for aspiring artists of any age.
The Guildford Festival of the Arts runs from 1–4 October 2026 across venues throughout Guildford town centre. Full programme details can be found at https://www.guildfordfestivalofthearts.co.uk . For further information, images, or to arrange interviews, please email: contact@guildfestivalofthearts.co.uk
