Tucked away at the corner of Millbrook car park, just outside the heart of Guildford, lies The Boathouse—a charming, family-run restaurant and co-working space with stunning views of the River Wey. With its small yet perfectly curated seasonal menu, The Boathouse is a true hidden gem, offering a delightful escape from the bustle of the town
Zoe and I began our meal with two enticing starters: the Crab, featuring fresh crab meat atop a toasted crumpet, complemented by chilli, coriander, cucumber, and a zesty lime finish (£14). The King Prawn starter offered a refreshing combination of succulent prawns, fresh tomato and avocado salsa, chilli, and coriander (£12). Both dishes were a delightful start, showcasing fresh, vibrant flavours that hinted at the quality of what was to come.
For the main course, we tried the Market Fish of the Day, a beautifully cooked hake accompanied by herb new potatoes, glazed asparagus, peas, and a vibrant salsa verde (market price). The standout was the corn-fed chicken (£24), tender and flavourful, served with sweetcorn puree, fondant potato, spinach, and a rich wild mushroom sauce—comfort food with a refined twist.
To end on a sweet note, we couldn’t resist the Apple Tart served with ‘Marshfield Farm’ vanilla ice cream (£8). The flaky pastry and creamy ice cream were the perfect duo. The Local Cheese Board (£13), boasting a selection of locally sourced cheeses accompanied by port jelly and biscuits, provided a savoury end to the meal.
The wine list at The Boathouse is concise yet well-chosen, with highlights including a smooth French Merlot and a crisp New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, both of which paired beautifully with our meal.
The Boathouse is more than just a restaurant; set in a deceptively spacious building, nestled on the banks of the river, it also houses Soulspace—a chic two-story co-working area tastefully decorated with natural elements, creating a serene, homey vibe. The restaurant, The Boathouse Café, continues this theme with tableware from Grayshott Pottery and a feature wall made of reconditioned oars, paying homage to the site’s history. The open kitchen adds a dynamic touch, allowing diners to watch the talented chefs in action.
General Manager Justyna greeted us with enthusiasm, offering a pre-dining tour of the space. Downstairs, three versatile meeting rooms double as private dining areas, each thoughtfully decorated with concealed technology, ensuring a cosy, home-like atmosphere rather than a sterile office feel. The co-working spaces, set over two further floors, continue to set a high end yet peaceful scene from downstairs, well equipped with tasteful kitchenettes as well as break-out rooms. This independent members’ club offers flexible membership options, ranging from a permanent desk to drop-in space, Soulspace fosters a collaborative environment with a year-round calendar of events, all within The Boathouse’s charming setting.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxed lunch, a productive co-working spot, or an elegant private dining experience, The Boathouse delivers on all fronts. With its picturesque setting, attentive service, and thoughtfully crafted dishes, it’s a must-visit for anyone in the Guildford area. Eleanor Stanley
theboathousecafeguildford.co.uk
