The Malthouse, in Mill Lane, closed as a pub in 2008 and is now a youth centre (photo by Peter Trimming)
Wednesday 18 October was a great day for all those members who enjoy a pub! A group of us led by folk from the Dorking Museum were introduced to the fascinating and sometimes rather louche history of Dorking’s pubs, both past and present – an interconnecting tale of doubtful characters, drunken excess, ladies of the night, political intrigue, stressed-out travellers, coaches and stable yards stretching back over 500 years.
Although few of the original pubs still serve a pint, many of the buildings survive and continue to play a vibrant part in the life of the town. At the end of the walk we celebrated in traditional fashion with lunch – at a pub, of course! The Old House in West Street.
The Pub Walk was a great success and may be repeated – so watch this space!