Guildford Celebrates Lewis Carroll's Legacy: Exhibition Unveils Rare Artifacts and Whimsical Family Activities

October 12, 2025
Guildford Celebrates Lewis Carroll's Legacy: Exhibition Unveils Rare Artifacts and Whimsical Family Activities
  • Numerous memorials to Carroll exist in Guildford today, including his burial site at Mount Cemetery and Wonderland-themed statues at the castle and along the River Wey.

  • Carroll wrote some of his most famous works in Guildford, including 'The Hunting of the Snark' and the final touches to 'Alice Through the Looking Glass,' inspired by local walks.

  • He frequently visited Guildford, especially during Christmas and family occasions, enjoying walks on the North Downs.

  • The exact reasons for Carroll’s preference for Guildford remain somewhat mysterious, but its proximity to Oxford and connections with local clergymen likely influenced his visits.

  • An exhibition at the Surrey History Centre in October celebrates the 160th anniversary of 'Alice in Wonderland,' displaying rare items from Carroll’s family collection, including childhood drawings and personal belongings.

  • An exhibition showcases Carroll's private life through original childhood games, school reports, reading spectacles, and personal items like his purse.

  • During half-term, special family activities like mask-making, top hat crafting, and a card soldier workshop will engage visitors with Carroll's whimsical world.

  • Guildford has a strong historical connection to Lewis Carroll, who spent significant time in the town after moving his family there in 1868 following his father's death.

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