If you’ve just a day to spend with us, make sure you spend it wisely. Begin by downloading the Dorking LoyalFree for our ‘Local Guide’ — which gives you access to events, tours and trails, itineraries, our business directory, special offers and discounts, and then get ready to explore!
Families with young children
Start your day by heading to Dorking Museum (now exhibiting at the Library after having suffered a fire) — the small ones will love the dinosaur bones and fancy-dress hats and you can learn about the town’s history through some beautifully curated local artefacts.
Once you’ve an appetite, continue the historic tour by heading to Mullins Coffee Shop, the only remaining Pilgrim Home in the whole of the UK. Or head for a hearty lunch at the Old House at Home, the Queen’s Head, Holmestores, Cosy Moose or Two Many Cooks – all within walking distance of the Library.
Ready for a run around? Meadowbank Playpark is a safe and friendly spot, with a state-of-the-art outdoor playground themed around local landmarks. There is a fabulous, brand new soft play that has reopened and we are thrilled to share it.
Shopper’s delight
Pull out your biggest tote because you’re going to need it! In Dorking we have the most glorious independent boutiques, stocking exclusive brands as well as unique and hand-made, locally sourced products that you just can’t find elsewhere.
Victoria’s Little Bra shop — a teeny, tiny, perfectly formed, lingerie boutique with the most divine chemises, luxury swimwear and sets.
Martha Russell Dorking — stop by for some beautifully sustainable fluid jersey investment pieces for your perfect capsule wardrobe. The collection changes seasonally and you will literally want to buy everything in the shop. Caroline has started a partnership with Liberty of London and you’ll fall in love with the prints.
Mia Strada London – Award-winning, sustainable and eco friendly fashion with lines from Desigual and Cara and the Sky. They also offer sustainable, ethical options for the gents too as well as homewares.
Aya Boutique — the impossibly stylish Deborah will guide you through her fab selection of European clothes and seriously cool accessories. Her service, style, and approach to fashion is impeccable.
Westdaw Menswear – women love to steal their man’s shirts (shh!), and who can resist a little stylish something to gift later on? You’ll find an elegant, sporty and excellent selection of menswear and accessories from Barbour, Gant and Matinique, as well as the quirky stock of Happy Socks!
Dorking is also a dream when it comes to the upcycling revolution. You’ll find fabulous options when it comes to redefining style. Circular Clothing Collective has partnered with EcoBe Zero Waste Shop and are offering clothing on consignment in the premises in St Martin’s Walk and a pop up shop during Christmas.
It’s now got to be lunchtime.
When you’re ready for a warming tea break, or fancy something a bit more filling,The Lounge at Dorking Wanderers Football Club and Cafe Rialto are nearby and they both offer all manner of family options – the former offers a range of cocktails too. We also have Roosters Kitchen for Mediterranean flair, Arto Restaurant offering weekly specials made from locally sourced ingredients, and the award-winning Queen’s Head Dorking.
It’s your call!
After lunch, might we suggest a little light loop along West Street and South Street?
The shops of West Street will make you reconsider your home décor just to fit in one of their pieces. The street’s reputation in the industry is renowned, attracting interest from antiques dealers from around the world. If antique furniture or objet d’art are your thing, this street is a must see.
And if you are still standing, pop on over to Indigo Grey Interiors and Lifestyle Store for some scandi chic inspo. Jen is a dream and knows her stuff as a professional interior designer. Harman’s tailor-made furniture is where you can peruse the handmade British furniture and accessories, and you really don’t want to miss the multi-award winning Philippa McFarlane at Sandrock House, along with her business partner Rebecca (at this Wild House) where you can put the finishing touches to your newly (mentally) redecorated home. West Street is full of fabulous interior design, antiques and award-winning independent shops to inspire and delight. Find them all in our directory.
Image credits: Dorking Camera Club
