River Wey and Godalming Navigations and Dapdune Wharf

The Wey was one of the first British rivers to be made navigable, and opened to barge traffic in 1653.

This 15-mile waterway linked Guildford to Weybridge on the Thames, and then to London. The Godalming Navigation, opened in 1764, enabled barges to work a further four miles upriver.

The award-winning visitor centre at Dapdune Wharf in Guildford tells the story of the navigations and the people who lived and worked on them.

Visitors can see where the huge Wey barges were built and climb aboard 'Reliance', one of three surviving barges.

The River Wey Navigations can provide a truly unique learning environment for your group, boasting nearly 20 miles of river, a beautiful 18th century water mill and well equipped visitor centre, Dapdune Wharf.

Our multi-disciplinary workshops make the most of our location and resources and are tailored, through discussion with our Learning Officer, to create a bespoke itinerary for your group. A preliminary visit is offered to teachers to enable them to explore the site and decide on the best programme for their students.

All bookings must be made through the Navigations Office. Visits take place Monday to Friday, March to November.

Our unique location means that you can arrange to arrive on foot, by boat, by rail (plus 10-minute walk) or by road. The learning team has devised a wide range of activities, each lasting an hour, to provide teachers and learners with an enjoyable, educational and stimulating experience.