The first Dorking Walking Festival 2025

Self Guided Walk – The Vaughan Williams Trail

As part of Dorking’s Walking Festival, Hello Dorking and Dorking Museum and Heritage Centre are delighted to share a fascinating self-guided town centre walk inspired by the composer Ralph Vaughan Williams.

Hello Dorking Walking Festival Launch with Live Music

11:00am–3:00pm – St Martin’s Walk

Surrey Striders – Nordic Walking Taster

10:00am – 10:45am (second session at 11:00am – 11:45am if there is demand).

Nordic walking is a great full-body workout suitable for all ages and abilities. It uses specially designed poles to engage more muscles than normal walking. Join Surrey Striders for a free taster session and learn the basics of this brilliant form of exercise.

• Meeting point: Near the playpark in Meadowbank Park (///gentle.weeks.reward)
• Booking required: vicky@surreystriders.co.uk
• Dogs allowed: No
• Cost: £10

Dorking Museum – Historic Pub Walk

6:00pm – 7:30pm

In the heyday of coach travel, Dorking boasted over 40 inns and hostelries. Learn about the rise and fall of the town’s pub scene, and hear stories of travellers, drinkers and landlords with a knowledgeable museum guide. The walk finishes with a drink in one of the remaining pubs.

• Note: This walk follows a paved route in the town centre, but there are kerbs and uneven paving.
• Meeting point: The Old Foundry, 62 West Street
• Booking required: dorkingmuseum.org.uk
• Dogs allowed: Yes
• Cost: Free

Mole Valley Ramblers – The hidden green spaces of Dorking and a local brewery

10:30am – 2:30pm

Mole Valley Ramblers welcomes visiting adults of any age who would like to join this 5.5-mile walk, exploring hidden green spaces, alleyways and woodland to the south of the town centre. Our destination is a brewery on Punchbowl Lane where drinks and freshly made pizzas can be purchased. We shall return by a different route over Deepdene Terrace, with magnificent views in all directions. The walk is not ideal for dogs given that much is on pavements and some lane walking. There are some hilly sections, which will be taken at a pace to accommodate all.

• Meeting point: At the front of Dorking Halls, Reigate Road (free parking available behind the Halls on a Sunday)
• Booking required: fiona.s@molevalleyramblers.org.uk
• Dogs allowed: Yes, though the route includes pavements and lane walking, so it may not be ideal for dogs.
• Cost: Free

Dorking Camera Club – Dorking Town Walk

10:30am – 12:30pm

The Town Walk starts at St Martin’s Church in the centre of the town, exploring a route down through some of the small back roads to the Old Water Works, along West Street, cutting back up to South Street, along the raised walkway above the war memorial, and into Rose Hill, then back down to the High Street, looking at several points of interest along the way. Up Heath Hill to Cotmandene, and past the Almshouses, then to Dorking Halls and the statues of Ralph Vaughan Williams and Thomas Cubitt, onto the distinctive Pippbrook buildings, and back across Meadowbank, where there are striking views of the town looking across the water. The route returns to St Martin’s Church through St Martin’s Centre, where refreshments can be found.

We will be looking out for some great views, and non-photographers are very welcome. The route is on roads and footpaths. In places there are some gradients to walk up or down, and there will be a few areas where there are flights of steps. The main road through Dorking will be crossed at pedestrian crossing points; crossing some of the smaller roads will require the usual level of care.

• Meeting point: St Martin’s Church, in the churchyard by the Christian Centre (///shout.jacket.faded)
• Booking required: Booking form can be found at www.dorkingcameraclub.co.uk
• Dogs allowed: No
• Cost: Free

Friends of Dorking – Quiz Walk

2:00pm – 5:00pm

Enjoy a leisurely walk around the streets and alleys of Dorking, solving clues as you go. Discover parts of the town you never knew existed. Free fun for all ages!

• Start point: The Surrey Yeoman, 220–222 High Street, Dorking RH4 1QR
• Book here: simonfedmands@gmail.com or 07753 821964
• Dogs allowed: Yes
• Cost: Free

Surrey Coalition of Disabled People – Surrey Coalition’s St Martin’s Stroll

10:30am – 11:30am

A short, sociable, accessible walk and wheel through Meadowbank, St Martin’s, and the High Street. Suitable for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility. Generally level paving or tarmac path throughout, with two short, gentle slopes (one uphill and one downhill). There are opportunities to stop and rest during the walk, and we will be travelling at a gentle pace.

Accessible toilets available at the start/finish and along the route.

• Meeting point: Burgundy and Black Café, 12 St Martin’s Mews, Dorking, RH4 1OP
• Book here: involvement@surreycoalition.org.uk or 01483 456558
• Dogs allowed: No
• Cost: Free

MVDC Voluntary Ramblers Walking – Mole Gap and Denbies Circular

9:45am – 12:30pm (Introduction and briefing at 9:45am. Walk starts at 10:00am.)

The walk starts from and returns to St Martin’s Market area. It then heads north on a path (part of the Mole Gap Trail). After a short walk along Ashcombe Road, we will continue with a gentle climb northwards into Denbies Wine Estate.

With a moderate climb, we will reach the “Radius Seat” and the North Downs Way. After a short rest to take in the view of Dorking and its surrounding countryside, we will descend gently on the NDW to pass Denbies Winery.

We will then continue towards, and beneath, the railway where we turn right to follow a footpath between the railway and the vines to a railway footbridge. We will then return to the start by passing the A24 Esso Garage and following the Pipp Brook Pond to St Martins.

Finish with refreshments at a nearby pub.

• NB: Toilets at start and finish, and at Denbies Winery.
• Meeting point: Meet at 9:45pm outside Millets / Burgundy & Black at St Martin’s Market area, Dorking
• Postcode: RH4 1DP (///scan.cost.bikes)
• Book here: Pre-booking is required. Contact via mobile / WhatsApp: 077750 20314
• Dogs allowed: Yes
• Cost: Free

Hello Dorking & Mole Valley Chambers – Netwalking

5:45pm – 6:45pm

Meet at the Old House at Home, West Street, Dorking for a circular walk encompassing the town centre and adjacent countryside. We’ll return to the pub after an hour. It’s the perfect chance to unwind after the working day and connect with other local business owners.

• Meeting point: The Old House Pub, West Street, Dorking
• Book here: https://www.hellodorking.com/event/hello-dorking-mole-valley-chamber-netwalking-tuesday-23rd-september-545pm/
• Dogs allowed: Yes
• Cost: Free

Dorking Museum & Heritage Centre – The Deepdene Trail

10:00am – 11:45am

Explore the gardens and learn the history of the great Deepdene Mansion on the edge of the town with a Museum guide. This walk gives access to the Grade II* listed Hope Mausoleum. Ground conditions are uneven, on reclaimed paths with some steps and steep slopes, and the terrain can be muddy. Sensible footwear is advised.

• Meeting point: The clubhouse to Dorking Golf Club, Deepdene Avenue, RH4 1BX (Parking is available at the golf club)
• Booking required: dorkingmuseum.org.uk/guided-walks-around-dorking/
• Dogs allowed: Yes
• Cost: £5. Under 12’s Free

Surrey Hills Society – Exploring the North Downs Way around Denbies Vineyard

2:00pm – 4:00pm

Join the President of the Surrey Hills Society, Chris Howard DL, on this informative walk to explore Surrey’s National Trail (North Downs Way) and the surrounding area amongst the vineyards of Denbies. The route does include a steep climb up to the North Downs, but you will be rewarded by a sensational view over to Box Hill. The route starts and finishes in the town centre and we will finish the walk with a drink in the King’s Arms pub.

Learn more about this ancient pilgrim route and also our thriving wine industry, as well as other interesting facts and gossip about the Surrey Hills National Landscape. This 4-mile ‘Moderate’ walk is designed for fit walkers due to the steep inclines and slopes on this walk, but we will take it at a leisurely pace, with plenty of stops to catch your breath.

• Meeting point: Kings Arms, 45 West St, Dorking RH4 1BU
  what3words: ///career.dent.loose
  Grid Ref: TQ162493
• Booking required: https://www.surreyhillssociety.org/events/ or call 07879 841000
• Dogs allowed: Yes
• Cost: Free

girls ALIVE – Evening Hill Hike (Ladies Only)

7:30pm – 9:00pm

Join girls ALIVE for a welcoming and sociable 5km evening walk, open to women of all fitness levels. Expect great company, gentle encouragement, and a hill or two to keep things interesting!

• Meeting point: St Martin’s Walk Car Park, located in Dorking, RH4 1DX (///niece.modest.note)
• Website: https://www.girlsalive.org.uk
• Booking Required by Email: enquiries@girlsalive.org.uk for a free trial membership and to sign up for the Walking Festival
• Dogs allowed: Yes
• Cost: Free

Hello Dorking – Litter Pick

10:00am – 1:00pm

Join us to help make our town shine. We’ll provide the high-vis and litter-pick equipment — you just need to show up with a willingness to make the town a better place.

• Meet point: South Street Gardens
• Let us know you’re coming: info@hellodorking.com

Southeast Communities Rail Partnership – Railway History Walk

2:00pm – 4:00pm

This walk will explore the rich history of the railways coming to Dorking. We will meet at Dorking West Station where Sara Grisewood from Southeast Communities Rail Partnership will give a short talk about Dorking’s railway history. Then we will walk through the town centre to Dorking Museum for a look at their railway history exhibits. From there, the walk continues to Dorking Deepdene Station, with chat along the way about how the railways changed people’s lives.

An easy and accessible walk for anyone with an interest in local history and the railways. It is mainly on the flat, with plenty of opportunities for rest and refreshment stops.

• Meeting point: Dorking West Station, Station Road, Dorking RH4 1EE (Please meet at the outside entrance of the station at the top of Station Road. The entrance path runs through the industrial estate and MOT garage.)
• Booking required: sara@southeastcrp.org
• Dogs allowed: No
• Cost: Free

Mums on the Move Nature Walk

10:00am – 12:00pm

Take a breather, meet other local mums, and enjoy a gentle walk in nature. Whether you’re expecting or have your little one with you, this monthly walk offers connection, fresh air, and a chance to explore a new local green space together.

This months walk will take place on the beautiful surrounds of The Nower in Dorking.

Please bring a sling, carrier or all-terrain buggy—this route includes uneven woodland paths. We’ll take a short loop through The Nower before heading to Holme Stores for a well-earned drink and sweet treat.

Come along for fresh air, light movement, and the chance to connect with a lovely community of mums. Babies, bumps, and furry friends welcome!

Meeting point: Hampstead Lane entrance to The Nower (opposite West Bank) what3words: ///jump.charge.windy
Parking: Available along Hampstead Lane and the surrounding roads
Pre booking preferred: elsahartley.wixsite.com/birthbe/copy-of-nature-walk-booking-2
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Cost: Free

Mole Valley Ramblers – Dorking and the Nower

10:00am – 1:00pm

A 6 mile, moderate walk to enjoy the lovely mix of town and countryside, through open pastures and along woodland trails, passing through the town centre on the way. Mostly level, apart from a short, sharp climb up to the Nower, where we’ll take a short refreshment stop (bring snack and drink) to enjoy the extensive views over Dorking and surrounding countryside.

• Meeting point: Inholms Lane NT car park, RH4 1JH
• Grid reference: TQ170469 (///plug.driven.driver)
• No booking required but enquiries to – 07933 769343 (Pauline)
• Dogs allowed: Yes
• Cost: Free

Surrey Wildlife Trust – Wildlife On Your Doorstep – Dorking Walking Festival

10:30am – 12:30pm

Connect with local nature as we take a leisurely walk around Dorking and find out more about the wildlife that calls this area home. We will meet at Dorking Halls and will visit the nearby greenspace of Meadowbank Park, where we will aim to identify the species that we come across using survey equipment and may even visit some wildlife planters which are looked after by our Youth Action Committee. Families and individuals welcome.

• Meeting point: Ralph Vaughan Williams statue, outside Dorking Halls (///miss.shower.invite)
• Booking required: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/
• Dogs allowed: No
• Cost: Free but donations welcome

Include.org – Stroll and Sign Inclusivity Walk

11:00am – 1:00pm

A fun, accessible walk through Dorking town centre and Meadowbank, learning to sign local landmarks and everyday items along the way. Led by Include.org with support from signing members. Open to all.

• Meeting point: Dorking Sports Centre, Reigate Road, RH4 1SN
• Booking required: anna.smith@include.org
• Dogs allowed: No
• Cost: Free

Paw Wash Charity Dog Walk – Paws and Pause with Paw Wash Dorking

Time: TBC

Join us for a charity dog walk through the Dorking Hills, with fun stops along the High Street and a warm welcome back at St. Martin’s Walk. Expect:

• A free Paw Wash
• Treats, local discounts, and giveaways
• A feel-good day out for you and your pup — all in support of a local charity (TEA)

More details coming soon — but mark your calendars now and get ready for muddy paws, wagging tails, and community vibes!

• Meeting point: St. Martin’s Walk
• Book here: https://paws-and-pause-dorking-charity-do-bc7f2a95.base44.app
• Dogs allowed: Yes
• Cost: Free but charity donations welcome

Surrey Minds Together – Walk for Every Story

10:00am – 12:30pm

Each year, around 92 people in Surrey die by suicide. Behind every number is a person — a story, a family, a friend, a life that mattered.

Walk for Every Story is a walk of remembrance, hope, and action. We walk to honour those we’ve lost. We walk to stand beside those who are struggling. We walk to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and say: every story matters, and every life is worth saving.

This walk will start at Café Connect in Meadowbank Park, taking a medium-difficulty route up into Denbies, walking a loop to finish at The Old House pub in Dorking.

• Meeting point: Café Connect, Meadowbank, Dorking, RH4 1LB
• Book here: https://dorkingminds.academy.io/walk-for-every-story
• Dogs allowed: Yes
• Cost: Free but donations welcome

Dorking Halls presents – Films about Walking!

Dorking Halls are showing two films during our walking festival week that celebrate the power of walking.

Mon 22 Sep, 7.30pm – Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry

Tues 23 Sep, 7.30pm – The Salt Path

Visit dorkinghalls.co.uk for full details and to book.