Mysterious discovery made in Dorking caves

Mysterious buried pottery has been discovered buried deep under Dorking.

The caves under South Street have proven a cornucopia of ceramics after a collection of pottery, including Chinese porcelain, were found there.

The artefacts, which range between the 17th and 19th centuries, include ‘onion’ style wine bottles dating from the late 17th century - when the caves were first excavated.

But the most unusual discovery was 18th century hand-painted porcelain imported from China.

Kevin Fryer, the keeper of glass and ceramics at Guildford Museum, has been studying the pieces and said: “This would have been extremely expensive top of the range aspirational crockery.

“It is curious to find such high status porcelain deep in Dorking’s caves.”

The South Street caves will be made open to the public on the second Sunday of each month between March to November starting on March 8.

Councillor Chris Hunt, portfolio holder for planning at Mole Valley District Council, is encouraging people to visit the caves saying: “These caves are an important feature of Dorking and are one of Surrey’s best-kept secrets.”

Tours start at 11am, noon, 2pm and 3pm. Private tours can be arranged for groups.

To book a tour contact the Visitor Information Centre on 01306 879327 or email visitor.information@molevalley.gov.uk