The Everyday Histories of Mole Valley's vineyards over the last 2000 years
United Reformed Church, 53 West Street, Dorking, Surrey, RH4 1BS
The Mole Valley Geological Society has researched the geology of Mole Valley and Wealden vineyards for many years. Everyday drinking of local wine has been common in Mole Valley for two millennia. Vineyards were widespread across Roman Britain. Clear evidence of viticulture has recently been discovered at Abinger Roman villa and oral history tells of another at Bagden. A vineyard flourished for 75 years at Deepdene.
Modern vineyards include Thorncroft Manor and the famous Denbies estate - founded on the research of the MVGS President. During the last 2000 years UK viticulture was closely related to climatic variations, though Deepdene vineyard was one of several that flourished during the Little Ice Age in Mole Valley and the surrounding country.
Viticulture is also impacted by geology. Abinger and Deepdene were planted on Lower Greensand, Thorncroft on alluvium, and Denbies on chalk. The curious petrophysical properties of chalk make it an ideal rock for viticulture in a climate with cool wet winters and hot dry summers.
The talks on the history and geology of Mole Valley everyday viticulture are separated by a tasting of Mole Valley wine. To avoid disappointment the MVGS committee gives advance notice that only modern wine will be available.
Timings
- Saturday 19 September:
- 17.00 - 19.30
Location & directions
United Reformed Church, 53 West Street, Dorking, Surrey, RH4 1BS
- Directions:
- The talk is organised by the Mole Valley Geological Society (www.mvgs.org.uk). It will take place in the Follett Hall of Dorking United Reformed Church. Access from both West Street and Church Street. Ample local parking. See www.dorkingurc.org.uk
- Contact on day:
- Richard Selley
- Telephone number:
- +447714490725
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking required
- Booking conditions:
- Book via Dorking Halls Box Office
- Booking contact name:
- Dorking Halls Box Office
- Booking telephone number:
- +441306881717
- Booking email:
- [email protected]
- Booking website:
- https://www.dorkinghalls.co.uk/
- Booking opens:
- 30 Jun 2026 10:00 AM
- Booking closes:
- 17 Sep 2026 04:00 PM
Additional information
Full details on the website of the Mole Valley Geological Society www.mvgs.org.uk
- Max number of people:
- 60
- Estimated duration:
- 2 hour(s) 30 minute(s)
