Explore the Surrey Hills, uncover hidden history and experience the best of Dorking’s great outdoors this September.
Walking enthusiasts, families and anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors are invited to pull on their walking boots this September as Dorking Walking Week returns with its biggest and most varied programme yet.
Taking place from 19–27 September 2026 as part of Hello Dorking’s Good Living Festival, Walking Week features more than 25 guided walks and outdoor experiences, celebrating the spectacular landscapes, fascinating heritage and vibrant community that make Dorking one of the South East’s premier walking destinations.
From gentle town trails and family-friendly adventures to countryside hikes through the Surrey Hills National Landscape, there is something for every age, ability and interest. Most walks are free to join, with many led by local experts, community organisations and passionate volunteers.
The programme includes scenic countryside walks, heritage tours, photography walks, wildlife experiences, forest bathing, wellbeing walks, railway history walks, family quiz trails and even ‘Netwalking’, combining fresh air with business networking.
Visitors can discover hidden green spaces with Mole Valley Ramblers, explore Dorking’s rich past with Dorking Museum, experience the calming benefits of Forest Bathing with Harmony in Nature, take part in a community litter pick with Hello Dorking, enjoy a family quiz walk with Friends of Dorking, or join local photographers in capturing some of the area’s most beautiful landscapes. The programme also includes walks hosted by Dorking Men’s Shed, Mums on the Move, Surrey Hills Society, Southeast Communities Rail Partnership and many other local organisations.
Many walks begin or end in Dorking town centre, encouraging visitors to spend time exploring the town’s independent shops, cafés, pubs and restaurants before or after their walk, making it easy to combine a day in the countryside with everything the town has to offer.
Jo McGowan of Hello Dorking said:
“Few towns are as perfectly placed for walking as Dorking. Within minutes you can be exploring the Surrey Hills, enjoying spectacular views across the North Downs, wandering through vineyards, discovering fascinating history or relaxing in beautiful green spaces before returning to our wonderful independent cafés, pubs and shops.
“Walking Week is about much more than exercise. It’s about discovering new places, improving wellbeing, meeting new people and celebrating the incredible landscape that surrounds Dorking. Whether you’re an experienced walker or simply fancy a leisurely stroll, there’s something for everyone.”
Walking Week forms part of the wider Good Living Festival, which runs from 12–27 September and brings together more than 50 local businesses for over 75 events, experiences and exclusive offers celebrating food, drink, creativity, wellbeing and the outdoors.
The full Walking Week programme, including booking information, is available at:
www.hellodorking.com/dorking-walking-festival-surrey-2026