The district of Mole Valley sits in the heart of Surrey, dominated by the wooded slopes and chalk escarpments of the North Downs. It takes its name from the meandering River Mole and includes market towns such as Dorking and Leatherhead, together with a scattering of attractive villages and commons.
Landscape and heritage are a big part of the area’s appeal: Box Hill is a famous viewpoint and cycling route that featured in the 2012 Olympic road race, while estates like Polesden Lacey and the vineyard at Denbies draw walkers and visitors. Dorking still has a lively market town feel, with independent shops, galleries and regular local events that reflect a strong countryside culture.
Economically the district is a mix of commuter suburbs with fast rail links into London, local retail and professional services, light industry and a healthy tourism sector. Socially it combines prosperous commuter communities and long‑standing rural households, with active voluntary groups and a visible arts and leisure scene centred on town halls and rural hubs.