Surrey is crossed by the Wey, the Mole and the Thames, so a table by the water is never far away. Here are five pubs we would point a friend towards, four on the Wey and one on the Thames, with a note on what each suits.
On the Wey
The Weyside, Guildford: for a pre-theatre supper
The Weyside is a Young's pub at Millbrook, south of the town centre, next door to the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre and a short walk from the shops. The large terrace steps down to the river, and there is a conservatory with a wood-burning stove in winter. CAMRA lists real ale, and Berkeley Group's guide to Surrey's riverside dining mentions a spacious beer garden, heated huts and its popularity for pre-theatre meals. It is dog- and family-friendly, according to Surrey Live. Go before a show, or on a dry afternoon when the terrace is at its best.
The Britannia, Guildford: for a drink beside the castle
At 9 Millmead, the Britannia sits on the banks of the Wey in central Guildford, a short walk from the High Street and Guildford Castle. CAMRA lists three regular Shepherd Neame ales and one changing beer, a decked front terrace, a sheltered rear patio and food all day. Tripadvisor describes it as family- and dog-friendly, with live music and a riverside deck. Shepherd Neame spent £300,000 on a refurbishment that began in January 2025, and the brewery held an official reopening celebration on Monday 24 February. It suits a town-centre stop between sightseeing and the train.
The Stag on the River, Eashing, near Godalming: for a weekend away
On Lower Eashing Lane, the Stag calls itself a riverside pub, restaurant and boutique B&B on the banks of the Wey. It is a historic inn, though sources differ on whether it dates from the 17th or 18th century, so we will say only that it is old. It is just off the A3, leaving at the Eashing junction, with the pub and car park on the right after a small bridge. Berkeley Group points to Winkworth Arboretum, Loseley Park and Thursley National Nature Reserve nearby, which makes it a sensible base for a night away with walks built in. See the pub's own site for rooms.
The Anchor, Pyrford Lock, Wisley: for a towpath walk
The Anchor is a Hall & Woodhouse pub at Pyrford Lock, on the towpath of the Wey Navigation. CAMRA describes it as food-led and dog-friendly, and warns that it can get very busy on summer evenings and at weekends. RHS Wisley is close, and Surrey Live has called it a gorgeous-looking pub on the scenic route there. Arrive early on a sunny weekend, or pick a weekday. More at Hall & Woodhouse.
On the Thames
The Albany, Thames Ditton: for a view of Hampton Court
The Albany is at the end of Queens Road, Thames Ditton, on the river opposite the Hampton Court Palace grounds, with a patio and restaurant. CAMRA says the pub dates to 1886, when it was home to a West End theatrical company, and lists Mitchells & Butlers as operator. Surrey Live has called it a stylish riverside pub with a terrace for alfresco dining. It suits a long lunch after a walk by the water. See the CAMRA entry.
Choosing between them
Theatre or shopping: the Weyside, Guildford.
Castle and High Street: the Britannia, Guildford.
A night away: the Stag on the River, Eashing.
Dogs and a towpath: the Anchor, Pyrford Lock.
Palace views: the Albany, Thames Ditton.
Opening hours and menus change, so check with the pub before you set out, particularly for the busy summer weekends.
