About
Welcome to The Rats Castle, a beloved pub nestled in the heart of Guildford, located at 80 Sydenham Rd. This hidden gem captures the essence of a traditional British pub while infusing it with a modern twist. Known for its lively atmosphere and friendly crowd, The Rats Castle is the perfect destination whether you’re seeking a casual drink, a hearty meal, or a thrilling sports experience.
The charm of The Rats Castle is palpable the moment you step through the door. The interior strikes a balance between cozy and contemporary, inviting you to relax with friends or watch the game on one of the multiple large screens. The pub boasts an impressive selection of craft beers, ales, and cocktails, ensuring that every palate is catered for. The knowledgeable staff adds to the experience, ready to recommend the perfect beverage to accompany your meal.
Speaking of meals, the food at The Rats Castle is something to rave about. The menu features an array of gourmet burgers that will tempt any taste bud: from the spicy Bangkok Bad Boy to the indulgent Hair Of The Dog. Each burger is crafted with care, ensuring quality and flavor in every bite. But it doesn’t stop at burgers; the variety of sides is equally enticing. Crisp and cheesy garlic bread and diverse sides like mozzarella sticks and spicy jalapeño cheese poppers make for excellent companions to your main dish.
For those with a sweet tooth, The Rats Castle doesn’t disappoint. Dive into the dessert offerings that include enticing cookie dough creations and sumptuous waffles. Indulge in the Oreo Explosion or the luxurious Fat Desserts Supreme – these are not just desserts; they are delights that extend your dining experience into a delectable finale.
The vibe here is not just about the food; it’s also about connection and community. Locals have dubbed it the best pub in Guildford, praising its warm atmosphere and the sense of belonging it cultivates. Whether you're hitting the pool tables or simply soaking in the laughter and camaraderie, every visit feels like returning home.
In a world filled with dining options, The Rats Castle stands out not only for its quality offerings but also for its heart. A perfect stop for pre-show drinks, post-performance hangouts, or casual gatherings, this pub truly encompasses the spirit of Guildford. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience one of Guildford’s finest establishments—your taste buds and your spirit will thank you!
“ The Best Pub in Guildford – Perfect for Sports, Games, and Pre-Show Drinks If you’re looking for the ultimate pub experience in Guildford, look no further than this gem just steps away from the G Live theatre. Conveniently located for a pre-show drink or a post-performance hangout, this pub combines a lively atmosphere with all the essentials for a great night out. The interior strikes the perfect balance between a traditional pub vibe and a modern sports bar. With multiple large screens showing live sports, it’s a go-to spot for catching a game with friends. For those who enjoy a bit of competition themselves, the pool tables are a standout feature—well-maintained and perfect for a friendly match while enjoying your pint. The drink selection is impressive, with a wide variety of beers, ales, and cocktails to suit all tastes. The staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and quick to serve, even during busy hours. The food menu also offers hearty pub classics, making it a great spot for a meal or a quick bite before heading to the theatre. Whether you’re a sports fan, a pool enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a vibrant and welcoming pub near G Live, this place truly has it all. It’s easily the best pub in Guildford, and once you visit, you’ll see why it’s such a local favorite. ”
“ The Rats Castle – Guildford’s Hidden Gem If you’re after a top-notch pub experience in Guildford, The Rats Castle is hard to beat. Whether you’re popping in for a chilled drink, keen for a few rounds of pool (they’ve got more than one table, which is a big plus), or craving a surprisingly good slice of pizza, this place has you covered. Prices are very reasonable for the quality you get—both in food and drinks. The Rats Castle gets all the basics right: tasty food, a fun vibe, and a friendly crowd. Definitely worth a visit. ”
“ Certainly! Here’s a review you could use: The Rats Castle Pub is hands down one of my favorite spots! It’s such a friendly and inviting atmosphere, and every visit feels like coming home. The owner is absolutely fantastic—always welcoming, making sure you feel comfortable, and creating a warm, community vibe. I go here often, and it’s never a disappointment. Whether you’re just popping in for a pint or spending the evening with friends, it’s always a great experience. Highly recommend it to anyone looking for pub with a great atmosphere or if you are wanting to watch the game! ”
“ Fantastic pub, serving a great selection of beer and craft ales. An extremely knowledgeable patron will help you select the right beverage for you. Also shows whatever sport you fancy watching. Rats Castle also sounds like a name dreamt up in the 90s chain pub craze but apparently it's the original name, so kudos for that! Pizzas look amazing.... ”
“ Great pub just near the center of town. Friendly bar-keep and very good pizza. Worth the short walk if you’re parked in the Castle parking garage. ”
“ This bar is one of my favorite places in all of Guildford. Amazing drinks, amazing staff and fantastic atmosphere. Coming here with friends you’re bound to have a great time and meet some great people. Shoutout to the really cool bartender, Noor who provided me with some of the best service I’ve ever experienced in a bar. ”
“ Best pub in Guildford. We went to Rats for quiz night and we loved it. Best quiz in town. Great beer selection. Very good location, behind high street. 2 minutes walk from G Live for pre-show drinks. Good event, nice ambient and nice staff. You have the possibility to have two different atmospheres. You can either be outside on the terrace, which is air-conditioned, or you can be inside. Either way it was a very pleasant experience, and I would repeat without a moment's hesitation. It was very nice and good night for me in the pub. ”
“ One of the most welcoming and well kept pub in the region! Snuggly placed in a location thats close to the town as well as to the beautiful guildford hilly area. They have got a variety of taps to choose from unlike most other pubs. Cherry on the cake is Abhi and team who are very welcoming and treat you like you have known them for years! You will very soon feel like listing it as your go to place and I'm definitely gonna come back here more frequently! 4 stars for food only because I'm yet to try their main menu. Had to settle for the curlie chips this time. ”