Guildford Then and Now

St Catherine’s Chapel, located in Guildford, stands as a significant historical landmark with roots tracing back to the early 14th century. Established by Richard de Wauncey, the chapel was constructed from local Bargate stone and served as an important stop for pilgrims travelling between Winchester and Canterbury until its decline in the 16th century, a consequence of the English Reformation. The comparison between the early 20th-century photograph featuring three elegantly dressed girls and the present view highlights the enduring presence of this atmospheric Gothic structure. Now a Scheduled Ancient Monument, the chapel continues to evoke interest, having inspired notable artists like J.M.W. Turner. Its preservation allows visitors to appreciate its historical and architectural significance.