Archaeology
Dorking does not have large archaeological sites on the scale of Stonehenge, but there is plenty of evidence of man's influence on the landscape as far back at the Late Neolothic period, 2400 to 1500 BC. To casual observers, what might appear to be an insignificant feature in the landscape could be a Neolithic bowl barrow, of which the Surrey Hills has several examples.
But there are also dramatic archaeological remains, such as the defensive hills forts of Anstiebury near Coldharbour, and Holmbury Hill. Holmbury, south west of Dorking, has stunning views and lovely walks.
Archaeological remains vary hugely in age and variety. There are the significant remains of Roman Stane Street, built between London and Chichester and no doubt partly responsible for the early significance of Dorking as a staging post. A much more recent archaeological example is Betchworth Fort, high up on the Downs. It was built during the 1890s as one of 15 London mobilisation centres to protect London in the wake of threats from France and Russia.
A visit to the Surrey Hills will be rewarded by an understanding of the many relics of past settlement and activity in an area rich in history.
A guide to industrial archaeology is available, entitled 'Industrial Archaeology of Surrey', it is published by the Association for Industrial Archaeology, ISBN 0 9508448 4 5.
For more information visit: http://www.surreyarchaeology.org.uk
