Our new What’s On Programme: October 2026 to March 2027 is now live. Enjoy inspiring talks, hands-on workshops, live music, visits, events and courses at The GI

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Discover a Full and Varied Programme of Events

With more than 100 talks, workshops, courses, performances and visits, our latest programme is packed with opportunities to learn, create and connect in the heart of Guildford.

Based in our beautiful Grade II listed home on Ward Street, The Guildford Institute has been bringing people together through learning, culture and creativity for generations. As an independent arts education community, we’re passionate about creating welcoming experiences where everyone can discover something new and feel part of a community.

Celebrate the Guildford Festival of the Arts

We’re delighted to be part of the Guildford Festival of the Arts, taking place from 1–4 October 2026, with a series of inspiring talks celebrating creativity and artistic expression.

Discover how the Impressionists changed the course of art history in Impressionist Revolutions with Ronnie Ireland, or explore the powerful stories behind the work of Tracey Emin and Frida Kahlo in Emin and Kahlo: The Pleasure and the Pain, presented by Tammy Ellis.

Explore History Through New Perspectives

If history is your passion, our new programme offers plenty to discover.

One highlight is Two Histories of the Bayeux Tapestry with Roger Price, perfectly timed to coincide with the tapestry’s landmark loan to the British Museum in 2026. The course explores both the remarkable events depicted in the embroidery and the extraordinary story of the tapestry itself.

You’ll also be able to uncover Guildford’s own fascinating past in Guildford and the Postcard Craze with Julian Morgan, featuring stories from The Guildford Institute’s exceptional postcard collection.

Get Creative

Our practical courses provide the perfect opportunity to develop new creative skills or rediscover old ones.

Join Still Life Drawing and Painting with Songül Yilmaz Meier and build confidence in composition, colour and painting techniques while taking inspiration from artists such as Cézanne. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced artist, there’s plenty of room to learn and experiment.

Discover Science, Literature and Big Ideas

Our programme continues to explore a wide range of fascinating topics across science, history, literature and the arts.

Space enthusiasts can join Professor Craig Underwood for Project Apollo (1969–70): Fulfilment, Ennui, Disaster, examining both the triumphs and challenges of NASA’s historic lunar missions.

With expert speakers sharing their knowledge across dozens of subjects, there’s always something new to learn.

Enjoy Days Out and Shared Experiences

Learning doesn’t always happen onsite at The GI.

Our popular coach visits return this season, including a trip to Ham House, the magnificent National Trust property on the River Thames. Enjoy a private guided tour of the gardens before exploring the historic house, collections and beautiful interiors at your own pace.

Looking for something more relaxed? Our Festive Wine Tasting Workshop, hosted by Charlie Goblet D’Alviella from Surrey Wine School, offers the chance to sample carefully selected wines while learning about tasting, food pairing and choosing bottles for seasonal celebrations.

Experience Live Music at the GI Music Lounge

The GI Music Lounge continues to showcase outstanding independent musicians across jazz, folk, acoustic and classical genres.

Our intimate venue offers audiences a unique opportunity to experience live performances up close while supporting emerging artists and established performers alike. Every ticket sold also helps support The Guildford Institute as a charity, enabling us to continue bringing live music to Guildford.

A Welcome from Our Institute Manager

“What makes The Guildford Institute special is the people who walk through our doors- those coming to learn something new, share a passion, enjoy live music, support their wellbeing or simply spend time with others. Our new programme offers so many opportunities to discover new interests, enjoy shared experiences and feel part of a welcoming community. We look forward to welcoming both familiar faces and new visitors over the coming months.”

Amy Rice, Institute Manager

Browse the New Programme

The What’s On: October 2026 to March 2027 is now available, with advance booking recommended for all paid activities. Explore our digital programme and delve into our event listings

You can also pick up a printed brochure from The Guildford Institute on Ward Street, Guildford.

We look forward to welcoming you at The GI very soon.