The Spike Heritage Centre - Guildford

Address: Warren Rd, Guildford GU1 3JH, United Kingdom.
Phone: 1483598420.
Website: guildfordspike.co.uk.
Specialties: Charity, Foundation.
Other points of interest: Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible parking lot.
Opinions: This company has 57 reviews on Google My Business.
Average opinion: 4.8/5.

Location of The Spike Heritage Centre

1483598420

The Spike Heritage Centre, located at Address: Warren Rd, Guildford GU1 3JH, United Kingdom. is a charity and foundation that is worth knowing more about. The centre is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of the Guildford Union Workhouse, which was operational from 1839 to 1929. Today, it serves as a museum and educational center, providing a unique insight into the lives of the poor and destitute in Victorian times.

One of the standout features of The Spike Heritage Centre is its wheelchair accessible entrance and parking lot, making it accessible to people of all abilities. The centre has received 57 reviews on Google My Business, with an average opinion of 4.8/5, highlighting its commitment to providing a high-quality and inclusive experience for all visitors.

The Spike Heritage Centre offers a range of exhibits and displays, including original architectural features of the workhouse, such as the entrance arch and treadwheel. Visitors can also see recreations of workhouse rooms, such as the men's dormitory, women's dormitory, and the infirmary. These exhibits provide a fascinating look at what life was like for the workhouse inmates.

The centre also hosts a variety of events and activities, such as guided tours, workshops, and educational programs. These events are designed to engage visitors of all ages and interests, providing a deeper understanding of the history of the workhouse and the social and economic conditions that led to its creation.

If you are planning a visit to The Spike Heritage Centre, there are a few things to keep in mind. The centre is open on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 11am to 3pm. It is recommended to allow at least 1-2 hours for your visit, to ensure that you have enough time to explore all the exhibits and displays. Admission is free, but donations are gratefully accepted.

Reviews of The Spike Heritage Centre

Sally Kinver

5/5

My friend and I had a few hours to spare in Guildford so went for a tour of the Spike. I found it fascinating and the dedicated and passionate volunteers give you a tour which includes a video and tell you all about the building and the history and heritage.
You were a real highlight, thankyou for our tour!

Angela S

5/5

I came across the Spike Heritage Centre after reading George Orwell's Down and Out in Paris and London. I'm so glad I visited, it was a really interesting experience led by our knowledgeable guide Dennis. This is living history and encourages reflection on one of the most important issues in our society today. Very well preserved and worth a visit

Rosana J

5/5

We went today and we want to give a special thank you to the dedicated staff for the amazing tour! They gave us a good scope of how the centre operated and the living conditions under which the occupants suffered. They also gave us a detailed history of the building it self. It was super interesting, we enjoyed it immensely.

P.A.B. that's all

5/5

You walk through prosperous Guildford and come to this reminder of what was available for "vagrants " early in the 20th Century. Stone breaking, spiking oakum or 2d to stay the night.

Ben Moore

5/5

A great experience all round uncovering a dark, bleak bit of history. Even though most of it was demolished, seeing the casual ward of the old workhouse is still fascinating and enlightening.

I had a great tour delivered by Dennis who was very knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and tolerated me constantly interrupting with questions! An excellent guide with plenty of insights into The Spike.

I also picked up some great little booklets from the shop, and was assisted by Christine who was also lovely. Had a great chat with her as well.

Fascinating place and lovely staff! Would recommend to all, but do take a coat if you're going any time other than Summer. It's chilly!

Allan McMillan

5/5

I have driven past this building for decades, so much history around us that we know nothing about. Thanks for preserving it.

Anne Shannon

5/5

David - and TJ also - went above and beyond to show me this bleak but fascinating place and explain to me its history. This had special significance for me as I have ancestors who, as children, sadly ended up in a workhouse. This place deserves to be much more well known than it is and I highly recommend visiting it. It serves as a reminder of the past and of how far society has come and how much we have to be grateful for.

Erica Sandford

5/5

I've lived in Guildford for a while but had no idea this was here until a friend suggested visiting. We were shown around by a friendly volunteer guide and found it really interesting and quite moving. A real piece of social history I knew nothing about. Well worth a visit - and we were even given a cup of tea and a biscuit!