After 16 years as the Albany, the pub reverted to its former name of the Rats Castle in September 2022 following a refurbishment and rebranding. The focus is on televised sport with beer and pizza takeaway and delivery offered.
Historic Interest
In 1865, James Smith purchased the site of the Rats Castle from Dr. Sells and having built the public house and two cottages adjoining, sold them in 1869 to Joseph Williams of Farncombe. Williams let the Rats Castle to Messrs. Taunton of the Cannon Brewery, Guildford, which passed under the control of the Friary Brewery in 1874. The origin of the innsign remains a mystery although a number of possible explanations can be made. There was a building shown as the Rats Castle, opposite the present Sanford Arms in Epsom Road on a map of proposed Borough boundaries. (Source: Charlotteville Jubilee Trust Website)
Rats Castle, Guildford