Situated on the banks of the River Test in the heart of rural Hampshire, Whitchurch Silk Mill is a magnificent Grade II-listed building and the oldest silk mill in the UK still working in its original building. On arrival we will be greeted with tea/coffee and biscuits, followed by a guided tour of the Victorian winding and warping machinery and water wheel. There are also beautiful gardens and a shop. A sandwich buffet lunch is included in the price of the outing.
We will then proceed to Laverstoke Mill, which sits astride the River Test and can trace its history back to the Domesday Book. It is now the home of the the Bombay Sapphire gin distillery. Gin-making is a fascinating and complicated process and you will be able to explore the distillery in your own time with an interactive map. There is also a 15-minute guided tour through the Still House and a complimentary cocktail/soft drink in the Mill Bar is included in the visit.
As drinks and a sandwich lunch are included in the price, you can just relax and enjoy the whole day.
PLEASE NOTE: Because both the silk mill and the distillery are industrial working environments, you will be allowed entry only if you are wearing sensible shoes – no open toes or high heels!
We expect to leave at about 4pm.
Cost: £54
| Coach departure places and times | |
| 8.30am | Brockham: Middle Street near junction with Oakdene Road |
| 8.40am | Dorking: outside Dorking Halls |
| 8.45am | Dorking: opposite Waitrose |
| 8.50am | Dorking: Horsham Rd bus stop between Harrow Rd East and Tower Hill Rd |