Located in Buckinghamshire, the town boasts a historic high street, Michelin-starred dining and a stunning riverside setting on the Thames
From Cotswold hamlets to coastal communities, the UK boasts an array of beautiful towns. England is home to some of Britain’s most charming villages alongside several waterside treasures, including Marlow.
Situated in Buckinghamshire, just beyond London, Marlow’s historic high street and idyllic location draw visitors from across the country, though it stays relatively peaceful.
It’s positioned on a picturesque section of the River Thames and encircled by the undulating countryside of the Chiltern Hills. The town was documented in the Domesday Book as an established settlement, prized for its productive land and river access.
It subsequently evolved as a river crossing and commercial hub before gaining recognition for malting and brewing.
During the 19th century, the construction of the bridge started to enhance connections across the Thames, and the arrival of the railway later that century further increased accessibility and expansion, reports the Express.
Today, it’s a prosperous residential and recreational destination renowned for its riverside location, rowing tradition and exceptional dining scene.
There’s plenty to do and experience in the town, from hiring a rowing boat to visiting Higginson Park for a picnic or admiring the iconic Marlow Bridge.
The high street also draws numerous visitors thanks to its delightful independent boutiques, galleries and specialist shops.
Retailers include Mint Velvet, Whistles, The White Company, Space NK, Waterstones, and some independent establishments such as The Cheese Shed, The Marlow Bookshop, and The Dresser. The Marlow Regatta and rowing traditions are integral to the community, with competitive rowing firmly embedded in the town’s sporting legacy.
Marlow also regularly hosts markets where visitors can discover local produce, including scrumptious ice cream and sourdough bread.
The town is highly esteemed for its culinary scene, boasting award-winning pubs and Michelin-starred restaurants.
Perhaps the most acclaimed eatery in town is The Hand and Flowers, which holds the distinction of being the first pub in the country to be awarded two Michelin stars, a feat it maintains to this day.
Owned by renowned chef Tom Kerridge, it takes classic British dishes to new heights, elevating them with sophisticated techniques and robust flavours in a laid-back, upscale gastropub environment. However, dining here isn’t inexpensive, with a set Sunday lunch priced around £195.
Housing and living expenses tend to exceed the national average, reflecting its appeal and commuter-friendly location.
Over the past year, house prices in Marlow have averaged £735,793. Detached homes made up the majority of properties sold in the town over the last year, fetching an average price of £952,833.
At the time of writing, there are over 200 properties listed for sale in the town, with the priciest on offer for a staggering £11 million.
The town also enjoys proximity to Maidenhead and Bourne End, boasting excellent transport links.
Many TripAdvisor users recommend taking a leisurely walk along the river by the suspension bridge as one of the top activities in the town.
One visitor commented: “It’s so peaceful and relaxing. There’s even an ice cream van in the summer months.”
Another shared: “We go here all the time in summer. Lots to do and I’d recommend the Compleat Angler pub.”
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