Liam Cook has been the manager at The Watermill in Dorking since November 2022. The gastropub sits at the base of Box Hill and has fabulous views over the rolling Surrey Hills from a pretty summer terrace. Food at The Watermill is versatile and interesting, and progressively changes through the seasons. It’s designed to offer choice, whether that’s a quick bite with a drink, tapas dining or a traditional three courses.

Running a buzzy gastropub is a busy job, but Liam wouldn’t have it any other way. Here are some of the highs, the lows and some of his favourite things.

Liam Cook, general manager at The Watermill in Dorking. — Liam Cook, general manager at The Watermill just outside Dorking.

Your first job (in hospitality)?

I worked as a cocktail bartender at a Mexican restaurant.

Career highlight?

My career highlight was when I was given the Outstanding Contribution Award at Crafted Pubs in 2024.

Most memorable moment at work?

Meeting my wife!

Ever served anyone famous?

King Charles poured a pint behind my bar, so technically he served himself.

Your biggest mistake at work?

I dropped four tills down two flights of stairs at the end of the night after a busy shift – it took me hours to pick all the money up and then reconcile it all. Not fun!

The Watermill in Dorking, Surrey — The Watermill, just outside Dorking.

Give us a brief day in the life of? What time does your day start and end?

I rise early 6am and enjoy a coffee and half an hour of yoga stretches. I like to arrive at work for 8am so that I can complete an hour of admin.

Following that, I like to set up the pub and restaurant with the team so it is looking sharp for when we open for guests at 10am and then head into hosting our lunch service alongside the team. Mid-afternoon is typically when my meetings take place, before early evening service starts. I then head off home to enjoy a glass of wine and supper, probably followed with a little more admin time.

Favourite type of cuisine?

It would have to be Italian food.

Favourite tipple… beer, wine or spirits? Or do you prefer a soft drink?

Red wine – a decent Burgundy is always a favourite.

Favourite place to eat out?

Il Bordello Wapping – it’s the best Italian in London in my opinion.

Your three favourite markets and suppliers?

Kirkgate Market in Leeds, Borough Market at London Bridge, and The Grande Buffet in Narbonne, France.

Favourite things to eat when you’re on holiday?

I always enjoy local tapas or a great paella.

Most over-rated pub dish?

Pies! I don’t like any of them

What makes The Watermill special?

Our team – they are completely focused on creating a brilliant atmosphere for our guests. The pub also happens to have the most incredible view from our terrace overlooking Box Hill, so pop down and join us for a drink to see for yourselves.

Want more? Read our review of The Watermill.

The Watermill, Reigate Road, Dorking, RH4 1NN. Tel: 01306 883248

What’s cooking? Liam Cook, GM at The Watermill in Dorking

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