Things To Do
in Dorking

Dorking is a charming market town located in Surrey, England, known for its picturesque countryside and historic architecture. The town features a blend of traditional and modern influences, with a vibrant high street filled with shops and eateries. Dorking serves as a gateway to the Surrey Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, making it a popular spot for outdoor activities.

The town is also rich in history, with notable attractions such as the Dorking Museum and the iconic Leith Hill Tower.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Dorking
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then visit the Dorking Museum to learn about the town's history.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely stroll through the high street, exploring the unique shops and boutiques, followed by lunch at a local pub.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a renowned restaurant, followed by a stroll to the Dorking Halls for a local performance or movie.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin with a hearty breakfast, then head to Leith Hill for hiking and panoramic views of the countryside.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at the top, then explore the surrounding trails or visit nearby Denbies Wine Estate for a tour.

evening
:

Return to Dorking for dinner at a cozy restaurant, followed by drinks at a local pub with live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🥪Lunch at a café$15
🍺Pint of beer at a pub$6
🍽️Dinner at a restaurant$30
🏨Hotel night stay$120
🚌Public transport ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful countryside and outdoor activities.
  • Rich history and cultural heritage.
  • Charming local shops and restaurants.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may be less frequent in the evenings.
  • Some attractions may have entry fees.

Places to Visit in Dorking

Visit one of these nice places.

Leith Hill Tower

Offers stunning panoramic views of the Surrey Hills, perfect for landscape photography.

Dorking High Street

Features historic buildings and charming storefronts, ideal for capturing the town's character.

Denbies Wine Estate

The vineyards provide a picturesque backdrop for photography, especially during sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Dorking

Dorking offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects its rich heritage and local produce. Visitors can enjoy traditional British cuisine alongside contemporary dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

Dorking Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Beef and Ale Pie

A hearty pie filled with tender beef slow-cooked in ale, served with seasonal vegetables.

Must-Try!

Surrey Hills Lamb

Locally sourced lamb, traditionally roasted and served with mint sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Dorking Farmers' Market

Held monthly, offering fresh produce, artisan bread, and locally made goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Dorking experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures drop to around 1°C to 8°C (34°F to 46°F). Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, making waterproof attire advisable.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Queuing

Always queue patiently; it's considered polite to wait your turn.

Politeness

Using 'please' and 'thank you' is highly appreciated in conversations.

Personal Space

Respect personal space and maintain an appropriate distance during conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Dorking is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, standard safety precautions apply, such as being aware of your surroundings and not leaving valuables unattended. Emergency services can be contacted via 999.

Tipping in Dorking

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants; check if service charge is included.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is less commonly used but still available.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Enjoy blooming flowers and mild weather, perfect for outdoor activities and hiking.

Summer

Warm weather attracts visitors to local events and outdoor dining, making it a vibrant time to explore.

Autumn

Experience stunning fall foliage, especially in the Surrey Hills, ideal for scenic walks.

Winter

Expect colder temperatures and occasional snow, transforming the town into a winter wonderland.

Nightlife Guide

Dorking at Night

Dorking has a relaxed nightlife scene with several pubs, bars, and restaurants offering live music and entertainment. The Dorking Halls frequently host performances and events, while local pubs such as The Old House provide a laid-back atmosphere for enjoying drinks with friends. The nightlife is family-friendly, with options suitable for all ages.

Hiking in Dorking

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Box Hill Circular Walk

A scenic 7-mile circular hike with stunning views of the Surrey Hills, suitable for all skill levels.

Leith Hill Trail

A challenging yet rewarding hike leading to the highest point in South East England, with breathtaking panoramas.

Airports

How to reach Dorking by plane.

Gatwick Airport

Located approximately 13 miles from Dorking, Gatwick is the nearest major airport, offering both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Dorking is a highly walkable town, with many attractions, shops, and eateries located within close proximity. The town center is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and walking paths lead to nearby parks and trails.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

Many young professionals live in Dorking due to its proximity to London and attractive countryside.

Retirees

The town is home to a significant number of retirees who appreciate the peaceful environment and community amenities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is a popular sport in Dorking, with several local clubs and matches held during the summer.

Rugby

Rugby has a strong following, with local teams participating in regional leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Dorking can be busy during rush hours, especially near the town center. Public transportation includes buses and trains that connect to nearby towns and cities, providing convenient travel options. Walking and cycling are also popular ways to navigate the town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Dorking.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer a variety of vegetarian dishes and are accommodating to dietary restrictions.

Gluten-Free

Many establishments provide gluten-free options, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Dorking is provided through several local medical centers and pharmacies. The Dorking Community Hospital offers emergency services, while the NHS provides general healthcare needs. It's advisable to have health insurance when traveling.

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