Guildford Celebrates Lewis Carroll's Legacy: Exhibition Unveils Rare Artifacts and Whimsical Family Activities
October 12, 2025
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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Surrey Live • Oct 11, 2025
The Guildford sites that inspired one of the world's most famous books