Dorking - Mill Pond, Halls & Heath

Navigating The Route

This is a circular Treasure Hunt around Dorking’s mill pond, historic streets, churchyard and heath, with Explorers following a trail of clues to uncover the hidden location of the Dorking Chicken’s legendary golden nuggets.

The quest covers approximately 1.7 miles and should take around 2+ hours to complete. Most of the route follows pavements and clear footpaths, with generally level walking through the town and around the pond. However, there is a short steep climb to the top of the heath at the end. This Trail is scenic and great for dogs, but it is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.

⚠️ Important: Explorers will need to take care near the water around the pond, use several road crossings, tackle a short section with a very narrow pavement, and climb steadily up to the heath near the finish. Keep younger adventurers and canine companions close, especially near roads, water and the petrol station on the return route.

Getting There

Time to gather your expedition crew and begin the hunt for those golden eggs:

By car: The adventure begins in front of the entrance to Dorking Halls (RH4 1SG). Suggested parking can be found behind Dorking Halls in Reigate Road Car Park (RH4 1SD).

By public transport: Dorking and Dorking Deepdene train stations are both within reach of the start. From either station, it is a short bus ride or around an 8-12 minute walk to Dorking Halls.

Need the Loo?

Even the boldest Explorers need a pit stop during a treasure quest. Public toilets can be found at the start in Dorking Halls, at the sports centre between Clues 06 and 07, and at Waitrose around Clue 15.

Bring Your Furry Sidekicks

Four-legged Explorers are very welcome on this quest 🐾

This Trail is great for dogs, with pond-side paths, town pavements and a heathland finish to sniff out. Keep leads handy near roads, the water’s edge, narrow pavements, the churchyard and busier town sections, and check individual shops or refreshment stops before taking dogs inside.

Food & Drink Stops

Treasure hunting can make even the hardiest adventurer feel peckish!

There are plenty of snack stops while the route is in town, especially around Clues 12-18. If you have packed your own provisions, the park with a playground near Clue 05 and the heath at the end both make good picnic spots. Or should that be peck-nic spots?

Want to Make a Day of It?

Dorking Mill Pond

The early part of the Trail explores the mill pond area, with waterside paths, bridges and green spaces giving the quest a scenic start. It is a lovely spot for younger Explorers to stretch their legs, but keep a careful eye near the water.

The Park and Playground

Around Clue 05, the route passes through a park with a playground, making it a handy pause point for families. It is also a good place to regroup before the adventure heads towards the church and town centre.

St Martin’s Church

Part of the quest takes you through the churchyard of St Martin’s Church. Its spire rises to 210 feet, making it one of the tallest in England, so it is hard to miss as you track down your next clues.

West Street and Dorking Museum

West Street is known for its many antique shops, making it a fitting place for a treasure map mystery. The route also passes Dorking Museum, so Explorers who enjoy local history may want to return for a closer look.

Dorking Caves

The entrance to Dorking Caves appears along the route, tied neatly into the legend of the golden egg-laying Dorking Chicken. Beneath the town lies a hidden web of caves and tunnels, once used for everything from shady smuggling to storing materials.

Cotmandene and the Heath

The final stretch climbs towards the heath, where Explorers can sit down, enjoy the view and savour the last moments of the quest. Cotmandene also has a sporting past, with cricket and an old Shrove Tuesday football game once linked to this part of Dorking.