The vibrant Georgian market town of Marlow is comprised of historic streets and an abundance of boutique shops, restaurants, cafes and bistros, all adding to the town’s unique charm. The town’s most famous landmark is the suspension bridge which spans the River Thames and joins the counties of Buckinghamshire and Berkshire. The bridge was designed by William Tierney Clark and first opened in 1832.
Without a doubt, Marlow is one of the most enchanting locations along the River Thames and is definitely worth a visit. With a wide range of independent shops, cafes and restaurants, Marlow is ideal for any foodies out there.
Chef Tom Kerridge now has 3 food spots in Marlow town centre, Michelin Star restaurant The Hand and Flowers, The Coach and The Butchers Tap. All aiming to create unique atmospheres to match their unique flavours but, all being exceptional.
As an alternative to lunch at a local restaurant or cafe, how about taking a private river cruise along the River Thames and enjoying a delicious afternoon tea or sit-down lunch on board.
Marlow has always been known as a fashionable riverside resort and attracted many famous people to the area. Residents of the town have included Thomas Love Peacock, Jerome K. Jerome, T.S. Eliot and Mary Shelley, who finished her gothic masterpiece Frankenstein while living in the town. Marlow is also home to one of Britain’s most premier rowing clubs which has produced many Olympic oarsmen, including Sir Steve Redgrave whose statue stands in Higginson Park and skulls medalist Zac Purchase.
Founded in 1855, Marlow Town Regatta and Festival takes place annually at the beginning of June, just a few weeks before Henley Royal Regatta. Although not as big an event as Henley Royal Regatta, it is definitely worth going to watch the boats race and embrace the buzzing atmosphere of the town coming alive with visitors from near and far.
As you set off you will cruise under the Grade I listed Marlow Bridge designed by William Tierney-Clark before passing Marlow itself on your right. Take in the views of spectacular private houses and the open space of Higginson Park. Then along past Bisham Abbey, a Grade I listed manor house and home to a National Sports Centre within its grounds.
Continuing upstream past the village of Temple you will soon be at Temple Lock, continuing up through the lock, and passing the prestigious Harleyford Estate on your right before approaching Hurley Lock. A delightful village nestled in the English countryside, Hurley is home to the world-famous Peter Freebody boatyard – on a summer's day, you will likely see some of the most beautiful (and expensive!) boats on the river here.
Once up through Hurley Lock the long reach to Hambleden is ahead of you. Here the countryside is abundant, enjoy the peace before you reach Henley, home to the world-renowned Henley Regatta. Henley has an attractive waterfront with many moored boats and resident swans. Henley is a fine market town and the main street runs down to the River Thames. The famous Henley Regatta is held here and the River and Rowing Museum exhibits the world's oldest rowing boats.
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