Dorking is beautiful to explore in any type of weather, but when it is pouring with rain you may prefer to discover some of the inside delights of our lovely town. Here’s our top things to do in Dorking on a rainy day.
Photos: James Rowland
Play a board game – Visiting Game N Play on a rainy day is a fab way to turn a grey day into a sunny one. With over 200 plus games to choose from, many games clubs and meet-ups you can join, live music and coffee and food, the hours will fly by.
Dorking Library – Whether you just want to enjoy a leisurely read or you are looking to take part in the many events the library runs you’ll receive a warm welcome at Dorking Library. With their super-access scheme you are no longer restricted to standard opening hours either.
Dorking Museum – Where Dorking’s history is brought to life through children’s activities and loan boxes, gallery talks, guided walks in Dorking and on the Deepdene Trail, and regular tours of Dorking’s South Street Caves.
Dorking Halls – With a fantastic programme of live theatre, music, dance and comedy plus cinema screenings of all the latest blockbusters, you can avoid the showers and grab some culture at the same time.
Learn a new skill or hone an existing one – Many of our businesses also run workshops. Whether you want to become a whizz at upcycling furniture at Westcott and Williams, learn to sew at Tracey’s Sewing Room, paint and sip, flower arrange or attend a book club at Swirl or Harts at the Courtyard, Dorking can most definitely help your creativity flourish.
Get some exercise– whether you choose a family swim at Dorking Sports Centre or decide to get in a workout at Anytime Fitness, you can still stay active on a rainy day
Find a new favourite coffee spot – There is something magical about sitting with your favourite hot drink, in a cosy spot watching the rain trickle down the window. There is a coffee spot to suit your mood in Dorking so discover which one you’ll visit next here.
Take your time to browse – With so many independent boutiques, interiors, gifts and antique shops in Dorking, having the excuse of a rainy day to browse is a treat. You can discover all our amazing retailers here. We are also blessed with some art galleries in the town too.
Enjoy a leisurely pint or glass of wine – We have many pubs steeped in history and some more modern bars too. Whether it’s a locally brewed pint, cheeky cocktail or a glass of vino taking your fancy you are spoilt for choice in Dorking for pubs and bars.
Be pampered – What better way to spend a rainy afternoon than being pampered. Mayflower Spa can treat you to a massage, pregnancy treatments, facials, hair removal, eye treatments, manicures and pedicures, while Si Salon can help you with aesthetics treatments too. We also have many expert hairdressers, barbers and nail salons in the town so why not treat yourself to a pamper on the next rainy day.
Or how about investing in a tan at Dorking Solarium? Or maybe it’s the day to finally get that tattoo at Witchink Tattoo Parlour or Eternal Tattoos.
However, if you like to be outside whatever the weather and believe there is no bad weather just bad choice of clothing, then Dorking has several outdoor shops that can get you kitted out. SC Fuller, Milletts and Mountain Warehouse can all help you stay dry, warm and cosy on your outdoor pursuits.
