Marlow Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Marlow, Buckinghamshire with our detailed travel guide to discover the best of the town's attractions, natural beauty, activities, culture, and more.


Introduction to Marlow

Marlow is a charming riverside town in Buckinghamshire, located in South East England, UK. It is situated on the banks of the River Thames and offers an idyllic setting that is perfect for a relaxing escape or an adventure-filled getaway. With its scenic beauty, rich history, and excellent food and drink scene, Marlow is a must-visit destination for any travel enthusiast.

List of Places to Visit in Marlow

Here are some of the top attractions in Marlow that visitors should not miss out on:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Marlow Museum: Explore the history of Marlow through its collections of photographs, artifacts, and documents. You can learn about the town’s connections to famous figures like T.S. Eliot, Mary Shelley, and more.
  • All Saints’ Church: A beautiful and historic church that dates back to the 12th century. Don’t miss the stunning stained glass windows and the tomb of Thomas Love Peacock, an English novelist and poet.
  • Bisham Abbey: A Grade I listed manor house that has served as both a royal residence and a monastery. You can take a guided tour to learn about its fascinating history.

Natural Attractions of Marlow: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Higginson Park: A popular riverside park that offers stunning views of the Thames, a playground, and plenty of space for a picnic or a game of frisbee.
  • Marlow Lock: Located near Higginson Park, the lock is a great spot to watch the boats go by and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
  • Chiltern Hills: A range of hills that provides some of the most beautiful countryside views in the UK. You can go hiking, cycling, or driving to explore the area’s natural beauty.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Marlow

Marlow boasts numerous picturesque routes for both hiking and cycling. Here are some of the top trails to explore:

  • The Thames Path: This easy-going walking and cycling trail along the River Thames offers an excellent opportunity to discover the towns along the river.
  • The Chiltern Way: A 134-mile circular trail that offers a variety of landscapes, from beech woodlands to rolling hills. The trail passes through Marlow, so make sure to stop by the town center to explore.

Best Things to Do in Marlow: Activities and Tours

Marlow has countless fun things to do, from exploring its waters to discovering its historical sites. Here are a few must-do activities:

  • Take a Boat Trip on the Thames: Discover Marlow’s stunning surroundings by boat. There is a range of options available, from a short river cruise to self-driven boats.
  • Visit a Vineyard: Buckinghamshire has an up-and-coming wine industry, and Marlow is home to some notable wineries. Take a tour of the vineyards, taste their produce, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
  • Take a Walking Tour: There are several guided walking tours available that will take you through Marlow’s historic lanes, buildings, and bridges.

Week-Long Itinerary for Marlow

Here’s a suggested itinerary to make the most out of your week in Marlow:

Day Activity
1 Boat trip on the Thames in Marlow
2 Visit All Saints’ Church and Bisham Abbey
3 Take a cycling or walking tour of Marlow’s countryside
4 Go wine tasting at a local vineyard
5 Spend the day exploring The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre
6 Take a day trip to Oxford
7 Relax and enjoy a picnic at Higginson Park or Marlow Lock

Food and Drink Scene of Marlow

Marlow has a fantastic food and drink scene, with many great restaurants, pubs, and cafes to choose from. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Marlow Bottom Sausages: A delicious local specialty made from fresh ingredients and herbs.
  • Marlow Donkey: A refreshing cocktail made of ginger ale, ginger beer, and lime juice.

Local Beverages

  • Marlow Brewery Ales: Sample a wide range of locally brewed ales that cater to all tastes and preferences.
  • Bucks Fizz Cocktails: This refreshing cocktail is a mix of Champagne and orange juice, a perfect daytime drink.

Where to Stay in Marlow: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Marlow has a range of accommodation options for travelers of all budgets, from luxury hotels to simple guesthouses. Here are some top picks:

  • Bisham Abbey: A historic manor house turned luxury hotel with a scenic location and excellent amenities.
  • The Chequers Marlow: An affordable yet stylish guesthouse located in the heart of Marlow.

What to Buy in Marlow: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Marlow offers a range of beautiful souvenirs and gifts to bring home, from artisanal products to luxury items. Here are some suggestions:

  • Marlow Cheese: Made from locally sourced milk and sold at the Marlow Cheese Company, this cheese is a must-try for food enthusiasts.
  • Handmade Jewelry: Marlow has several independent jewelry stores that offer bespoke and beautiful pieces.

Local Culture and Customs of Marlow

Marlow has a rich cultural history with traditions that are still honored today. Here are some customs and traditions to familiarize yourself with before visiting:

  • May Fayre: A yearly festival that celebrates the arrival of spring. Expect live music, food, and drink stalls, and carnival rides.
  • Marlow Regatta: A two-day rowing event that draws crowds from all over the UK. The regatta takes place in June and is an exciting event with plenty of food, drink, and entertainment.

Best Time to Visit Marlow

Marlow is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is from April to October when the weather is mild, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Visiting during the Christmas season is also a great idea, with the town’s holiday lights and decorations.

Do’s and Don’ts of Marlow

Here are a few things to keep in mind while visiting Marlow:

Do:

  • Try the local specialties and products.
  • Take a boat ride on the Thames.
  • Respect the countryside and the natural environment.

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave the natural surroundings untidy.
  • Disrespect the local customs and traditions.
  • Be loud and disruptive in quiet residential areas.

Safety and Health

Here are a few things to consider when it comes to safety and health while visiting Marlow:

Safety in Marlow

Marlow is generally a safe town, but it is advisable to take caution while traveling. Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas and take care when crossing roads.

Health in Marlow

Marlow has several excellent health facilities, and there is no need to worry about medical care during your stay. However, be sure to bring any necessary medications with you as they may not be readily available.

Getting to Marlow: Transportation Options and Logistics

Marlow is easily accessible and well connected by train, bus, or car. Here are the best options to consider:

Airports Near Marlow

  • Heathrow Airport: The closest international airport to Marlow, located 24 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Marlow

  • Marlow Bus Station: Located in the town center with connections to nearby destinations.

Other Options

  • Train: Marlow has no direct train connections. The closest station is Maidenhead, and you can take a bus or taxi from there.
  • Car: Marlow is located near major motorways, making it easily accessible by car.

How to Get Around in Marlow

Marlow is a small town that is best explored on foot or by bike. There are several taxi services available if you need to travel further afield.

Where to Go Next from Marlow: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Marlow is located in a beautiful and historic area of England, and there are several nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Windsor Castle: A short drive from Marlow, Windsor Castle is an impressive royal residence that dates back to the 11th century.
  • Oxford: A historic city that is home to one of the top universities in the world. Oxford has a rich cultural heritage and excellent shopping and dining options.

Conclusion

Marlow is an excellent destination for anyone who wants to experience the best in British culture, food, and natural beauty. With its rich history, excellent food and drink scene, and endless outdoor activities, Marlow is a must-visit destination that is sure to delight any traveler.

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