Godalming, High Street 1895

More about this scene

Here we have a splendidly detailed view of Godalming's High Street towards the end of the Victorian era. At number 69, Luxford's vegetable and fruiterer's shop boasts a colourful assortment of local produce, including bunches of grapes. Next door is the overhanging 16th-century frontage of the White Hart Inn, with its impressive arch leading into the stable yard. The hotel was closed and converted into shops in the early 1930s. The barber's shop with its prominent shaving sign dated back to the 18th century. On the opposite side of the street were Ballard's Stores standing next to the Angel Commercial Hotel, operated at this time by John Jasper Taylor. He advertised his facilities as being 'replete with every accommodation and comfort', and would even arrange for 'flys to meet trains if required'.