Car Hire Dorking

Dorking doesn’t push for attention—but give it a little time and it opens up. Set between the North Downs and the Greensand Ridge, this old market town with 11,000 residents is easily reached via the A24 and just off the M25. While driving in from Leatherhead, the urban edge fades fast into fields, trails and vineyard slopes. Expect changeable weather—dry days are golden but paths get muddy after rain. Spring and early autumn bring the best walking conditions, especially along Deepdene or the Mole. During a visit to Albury, we found time to revisit Dorking’s South Street Caves—and ended up staying longer than planned.

Attractions In Dorking

Dorking blends the familiar with the quietly unexpected. You might stumble upon a hilltop folly after a pub lunch or uncover a local museum that opens just three afternoons a week. It’s the kind of place where getting slightly lost is half the fun.

Dorking Museum & Heritage Centre

Tucked along West Street, the museum offers a grounded, well-curated view into local history—from Roman remains to wartime tales. We especially liked the section on Dorking’s role in the poultry trade. Open Thursdays to Saturdays, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and Fridays from 1:00 pm.

Dorking South Street Caves

Hidden beneath an unassuming door at 33 South Street lies one of the town’s most surprising features—a labyrinth of hand-dug caves, used over centuries for everything from wine storage to air raid shelters. Guided tours add a sense of drama and discovery. Book ahead if you’re visiting on a weekend.

The Deepdene Trail

Starting near Deepdene Avenue, the trail winds through formal gardens, woodlands and the remains of grand estates. The route is peppered with storytelling signs and restored follies. Coady the Lion—carved from stone and seated mid-trail—is a curious and oddly charismatic highlight. Open all day, with free Sunday parking.

Stepping Stones Walk

Crossing the River Mole on foot-sized stones might seem simple but there’s something timeless about the experience. The surrounding landscape—open fields and Box Hill rising in the background—is picture-perfect. Best done in dry weather, when the river runs clear and the stones are less slippery.

Broadwood’s Tower

This 19th-century tower sits quietly among the trees, offering a viewpoint that’s both peaceful and atmospheric. Built as a memorial by piano-maker Thomas Broadwood, it’s an unexpected reward after a short climb. We brought a flask and stayed longer than planned.

National Trust – Denbies Hillside

Ranmore Common offers open skies, chalk grassland, and—if you’re lucky—rare butterflies along the trails. During a visit to Reigate, we made a detour here and lingered longer than planned. Paths vary from gentle to steep, with picnic spots tucked into the hillside. No entry fee, open from dawn until dusk.

The Nower

A local favourite—more wild than manicured. Trails wind through woods and up onto ridges with views across Dorking. It’s less polished than the National Trust sites but no less charming. A short trip from Bookham makes it a handy nature fix if you’re short on time. Bring sturdy shoes—it gets muddy quickly.

Pippbrook House

Standing just off Reigate Road, this Gothic Revival building once housed the town’s library. Though currently awaiting restoration, its ivy-covered turrets and grand façade remain a striking sight. We peeked through the railings and found the faded grandeur oddly moving.

National Trust – Box Hill

A popular option with those based in Redhill, Box Hill offers sweeping views, hidden valleys and a mix of family-friendly and rugged trails. The Salomons Memorial viewpoint is especially good at sunset and there’s a handy café nearby. Open daily, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Betchworth Castle

The castle is mostly ruins now but it wears its decay well. A short walk from Castle Gardens leads to the remains of what was once a fortified manor, now embraced by trees and ivy. We stopped here en route to Cranleigh and were surprised by how quiet and atmospheric it was. Open 24 hours.

Winding Down In Dorking

Dorking has a modest but well-fed high street—cafés are frequent and mostly independent, with plenty of chances for good coffee and a homemade bake. Shops tend to skew towards antiques and artisan finds. Accommodation ranges from functional hotels near the station to quieter B&Bs tucked behind greenery, especially closer to Leigh. For a wider stay option, we’ve heard good things from friends passing through Ashtead—not far and a calm base if you’re heading back north.