While many fans might pass through Dorking on match day, those in the know are starting to treat the town as a destination, not just a stop on the way.
Whether you are a Dorking Wanderers fan or following your team into town by making the trip to Meadowbank Stadium, one thing is for sure, you’re in for more than just 90 minutes of football.
Dorking packs in plenty of character, great pubs, and places to grab a pre-match bite or post-match pint. Here is how to make the most of your day in Dorking!
Pre and Post Match Pints & Pub Grub
Dorking’s Town Centre is less than a five-minute walk from the stadium and packed with proper pubs and great food. Here are a few worth your time:
Dene Street
- The White Hart – Just a stone’s throw from the High Street, The White Hart rewards you with great history, pints and sporting action. Its cellars are built into local caves, which can be seen at the back of the pub and there is a pool table, three big screen TVs showing all major sporting events, and a well of fine spring water.
- Arrack – If you want to celebrate your team’s win then you can make a night of it at Arrack. Sri Lankan Food, interactive darts and a karaoke room will give you a unique Saturday evening experience.
High Street
- The White Horse – A 13th-century coaching inn turned stylish gastropub. Expect open fireplaces, hearty mains, and a great pint. It is ideal for a sit-down meal before or after the game, and the perfect place to start if you are making a day of it.
- The Surrey Yeoman – Serving up classic British dishes, refreshing drinks, and a cosy atmosphere, The Surrey Yeoman is all about creating a welcoming atmosphere where people feel at home. Each dish is prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients so whether you’re craving a hearty pie or a plate of fish and chips, they’ve got you covered.
- Swirl Wine Bar – Bringing you the finest wines from around the globe, cocktails, charcuterie and hearty South African cuisine, you’ll often fine live music at Swirl on a Saturday too. Plus you can enjoy the stunning view of the Wathen Road Gap from your table along with specially curated art exhibitions.
- Knox – Knox serves a blend of top DJ’s, cocktails and special offers, and also has Sky and TNT sport so you can make sure you don’t miss any of the sporting action.
South Street
- The Bull’s Head – A traditional football pub where you’ll find fans chatting tactics over pints. Great beer, pub banter, and a few match previews on the TVs.
- The Spotted Dog – From their central location they offer stunning views of Ranmore from their rear garden which has both a lawn and covered deck, and inside you’ll be welcomed with a choice of premium lagers, real ales, spirits and soft drinks.
- The Cricketers – Recently named one of the Top 500 Pubs in England by The Telegraph, for their charm, atmosphere, service and award-winning drinks, The Cricketers is just the place for a relaxed pre or post-match pint.
- The Queen’s Head – The Queen’s Head pub blends modern and rustic styles, providing a relaxed, atmospheric setting for lunch, dinner and drinks. Perfect for a pub meal after working an appetite up on the terraces.
West Street
- The King’s Arms – Built in 1405, it’s believed Charles II once stayed at the pub during its days as a coaching inn, while another famous Charles – Mr Dickens, no less – even wrote about the place in his novel Little Dorrit. A royal welcome awaits you at The King’s Arms pub in Dorking, where food and drink fit for a King is served up in historic surroundings.
- The Star – The Star is a community pub that prides itself on offering great company and entertainment through their open mic nights and pub art competitions, as well as a fantastic bar selection.
- The Old House at Home – The Old House offers a Pub and Dining experience that aims to be a home from home. With fine beers, wines and spirits our customers can expect a warm welcome in a timber framed building with some parts that may date back as far as the 14th century.
At the Ground: Food, Drink & Fan Vibes
- Meadowbank Stadium – Centrally located and easy to reach, Meadowbank is one of the most accessible stadiums in non-league football. It’s compact, modern, and sits right in the middle of town – no long walks through industrial estates here.
- The Lounge – Inside the stadium, The Lounge offers a smart, comfortable place to grab a drink, watch the early kick-off on TV, and soak in the pre-match buzz. There is a broad selection of beers, soft drinks, and snacks – all with views of the Surrey Hills in the distance.
- FanZone – Want something more casual? Head to the FanZone by the away turnstile for burgers, hot dogs, beers, and a buzzing match day atmosphere. Opens two hours before kick-off and stays open during and after the game.
Make Dorking a Destination — Not Just a Stop
A lot of away fans arrive just before kick-off and leave straight after. But Dorking is one of those places where, if you give it a little time, it rewards you. Here’s how to turn your match day into a full day out:
- Explore the Town Centre – Antique shops, record stores, indie cafés, Dorking’s High Street has more charm than you might expect. Stop in for a proper coffee or grab some local food to take home.
- Take a stroll – Meadowbank Stadium sits on the edge of Meadowbank Park and is perfect for a calming stroll before a match.
- Climb new heights – Visit nearby Box Hill on your way to the match for great scenic walks and stunning views.
Getting here and away
- Dorking boasts 3 train stations, Dorking Main, Dorking Deepdene and Dorking West with connections from London, Reading, Guildford and Gatwick. Plan your train journey here.
- There are plenty of car parks a few minutes walk from the stadium the nearest being St Martin’s Walk. Find details of all car parks here.
Hello Dorking would like to wish Dorking Wanderers the best of luck with the 2025/2026 season!
