The White Horse in the pretty market down of Dorking is much more than a gastropub with rooms (though it’s a gorgeous one at that!). The 13th century coaching house – where Charles Dickens wrote his first novel The Pickwick Papers in the mid 19th century – has been taken over by the award-winning Heartwood Collection and restored with love and flair.

What’s emerged is a welcoming pub with beautiful rooms, featuring a stylish bar with a cosy fireplace, several stylish dining areas with cute nooks and crannies, and a hidden courtyard. There are also 56 charming boutique bedrooms which range from the cosy Snug Bedrooms to the decadent and delightful Really Fancy Rooms.

The vibe at The White Horse in Dorking is sophisticated and stylish with playful touches. Each space is individually styled to bring out the character of this Grade II listed building. It’s brimming with character – with beautiful fireplaces, oak beamed ceilings and polished timber floors – so sink back into that velvet chair and relax with a glass of red after that epic Sunday roast with all the trimmings.

Eat, drink, relax

The menu focuses on seasonal and sustainably sourced dishes with fresh and vibrant flavours. As well as the seasonal à la carte menu, there’s a Young Heart’s menu for children. On Sundays, the Sunday roast is served with bottomless roast potatoes, giant Yorkshires and rich gravy, plus seasonal vegetables and creamy cauliflower cheese.

There’s a snazzy cocktail menu as well as an extensive curated wine list.

Staying the night? The bedrooms have all been beautifully styled, and whether you’re in the mood for a Really Fancy Room with a roll-top bathtub or a cosy Snug Bedroom they come thoughtful finishing touches like home-baked goodies on arrival, Roberts radios, and luxury Bramley toiletries.

Four-legged furries are welcome too. There are dog friendly rooms, each with a dog bed and gift pack that comes with shampoo and treats.  There’s also a dedicated dog menu, a dog shower to freshen up your pooch and a stick library to keep them entertained.

In a word, dreamy!