Location: Dorking
Top Things to do in Dorking
What to do and see in Dorking, England: The Best Free Things to do
Dorking /ˈdɔːr.kɪŋ/ is a market town in Surrey, England between Ranmore Common in the North Downs range of hills and Leith Hill in the Greensand Ridge, centred 21 miles (34 km) from London.
Restaurants in Dorking
1. Leith Hill
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 447 reviews
Reviewed By JanineW264 - Addlestone, United Kingdom
We parked in the Windy Car Park, which I believe is the closest car park, but not necessarily the easiest way to Leith Hill Tower. It was approximately 1/4 of a mile up very steep (and slippery steps, because of the inclement weather), and I would add, that if you have a lung condition, you would need to stop every few seconds to regain your breath - however, it took me about 20 minutes and I was very glad I did as the views are spectacular - 360 degrees from the top of the tower, which is free to National Trust Members. There are areas to stop off on the way up and there are picnic areas at the summit, as well as hot and cold drinks etc. There are easy to follow signposts to get one up and down the hill. I chatted with a very nice lady serving the drinks who recommended the Starveall car park as being the gentler, albeit slightly longer climb. One can also access Leith Hill from Ranmore Common and there were plenty of youth (probably doing their DofE) stopping to rest, have a drink and take in the views! My husband climbed the tower, which I attempted, but it really was a very tight, circular, and at times unlit stair case, so I came back down, but he said that at the top of the tower there is a table of what you are looking at view-wise. I would really welcome the National Trust placing such tables outside the tower for those who are unable/don't choose to climb the tower. It's truly a beautiful part of the North Downs and I would highly recommend it, despite the rainfall we endured!
2. Box Hill
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 710 reviews
Reviewed By pastordavid2018 - Dorking, United Kingdom
Well worth the drive up, the viewing platform gives a unique vistas, and the NT Cafe have good refreshments
3. Denbies Hillside
4. The Kings Arms
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 29 reviews
Reviewed By pointmanphil - Dorking, United Kingdom
Great food, selection of ales and friendly pub atmosphere. Best pub on the High St by far. Recommend!
5. St Martin's Church
6. The Deepdene Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 47 reviews
Reviewed By AlisonoBrighton - Brighton, United Kingdom
We had a free guided tour as part of the Heritage Open Weekend. Once our tour guide introduced himself to us after we had wandered around one of the many golf club car parks looking lost he took us along some beautiful tree lined paths with fabulous views of the surrounding countryside. Our guide was very friendly, full of relevant facts and made the tour very interesting indeed. Getting to see inside the mausoleum was an added bonus, albeit in a small mask wearing group due to the current covid 19 restrictions. An unusual and very pleasant way to spend a sunny Saturday afternoon.
7. The Holly & Laurel Emporium
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 23 reviews
Reviewed By W4231LNemilyg
Great place to find hidden treasures, lots of variety and very friendly, knowledgeable staff! Also has a lovely cafe to unwind in...with amazing slabs of cake!
8. The Parrot
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 74 reviews
Reviewed By KatieMcD5 - Guildford, United Kingdom
Click and Collect : Brilliant! used this new take out service for the first time last night. The ordering on the web site is really easy and the whole experience was superb. The food was fantastic! We had the Steak Burger the chicken pie and the fish cakes. Everything was very fresh and just as good as it would be in the pub restaurant with excellent presentation and was piping hot. The little touches were great too such as condiments, sauces etc.We were able to order and pick up within 20 mins but you can book your collection slot for whenever you wish and its brought out to you so you don't even need to get out of the car! Also really liked the packaging as all recycles no plastic. Will definitely be using again. Highly recommend!
9. Village Greens Farm Shop
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 11 reviews
Village Greens Farm Shop is a local independent food shop selling local produce sourced locally where possible. From everyday essentials to artisan food ingredients we sell a large variety of products. From cook from scratch meal ingredients to gourmet treats we aim to provide a complete shopping experience. Local cheeses, sour dough breads, charcuterie, ready meals plus local wines, beers and spirits too! Our founding ethos is local, natural and ethical and one we have stuck to rigidly over the last 12 years. We have two shops one in Coles Lane Ockley and the other at Denbies Wine Estate. We also host food fairs during the year a full list of these can be found on our website.
Reviewed By 368jennied
Visited today. I've bought lovely fresh fruit and veg, ham & cheeses for Christmas and some really lovely gifts. Had to resist the beautiful Christmas cake (I already have one!), but was tempted by the takeaway coffee and mince pies.
10. The Old House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 28 reviews
Reviewed By Hugs761 - Wolverhampton, United Kingdom
We visited this gorgeous pub when visiting my sister who lives in Dorking. The food was just gorgeous, lovely staff giving excellent service. Loved the quirkiness of this place, lovely atmosphere too.
