Marlow offers plenty of things to do, making it a great starting point for exploring the Chilterns. The town’s iconic suspension bridge, connects Marlow to the opposite bank of the Thames. You can walk along the Thames Path, take a boat trip, or head into the woodlands of Marlow Common.
Beyond the river, you’ll find, cosy cafés, and fantastic restaurants, including Michelin-starred dining and traditional pubs. Meanwhile, the High Street is perfect for shopping, with a mix of boutique stores, independent bookshops, and stylish homeware shops.
Also read: 15 Best Things To Do In The Chilterns, England
Best Things To Do in Marlow
Walk in Higginson Park & Along the Thames
Higginson Park is one of the best places to start your visit to Marlow. Located right by the River Thames, this beautiful green space offers a scenic riverside walk, and open meadows. During spring and summer you’ll also find plenty of people out on a picnic here.
Inside the park you also find a playground, a war memorial, and the Marlow Museum, making it a popular place for both visitors and locals.
From Higginson Park, you can follow the Thames Path, a well-maintained walking route that takes you along the river. As you stroll, you’ll see boats passing by, historic houses lining the banks, and plenty of birdlife. The path is flat and easy to follow, making it perfect for a leisurely walk, a morning run, or even a bike ride.
However, if it has rained in the past few days, parts of the path can become very wet and muddy. Waterproof shoes or wellies are a good idea, especially in autumn and winter.
Cross Marlow Bridge & Enjoy the Thames Views
Marlow Bridge is one of the town’s most recognisable landmarks, spanning the River Thames and connecting Marlow to Bisham.
Designed by William Tierney Clark, this suspension bridge was completed in 1832. Interestingly, it served as the blueprint for Budapest’s Chain Bridge, which was built later using a similar design.
Walking across the bridge, you’ll get fantastic views of the river, Higginson Park, and All Saints Church. Once you cross to the other side, you can continue your walk along the Thames Path, heading towards Bisham or looping back into Marlow for a coffee stop.
Visit All Saints Church
Standing right by the River Thames, All Saints Church is one of Marlow’s most recognisable landmarks. Although the current Gothic Revival structure dates back to the 19th century, a church has stood on this site for over 1,000 years.
Inside, the church features beautiful stained-glass windows, intricate woodwork, and a peaceful atmosphere. If it’s open, step inside to admire the architecture and learn about its long history. Since it’s located near Marlow Bridge and Higginson Park, it’s easy to visit while exploring the town.
Explore Marlow High Street
Marlow’s High Street and Spittal Street are filled with independent shops, charming cafés, and historic buildings, making them a great place to explore. The town’s timber-framed architecture and eclectic mix of shops give it a unique character.
Some shops worth mentioning include:
- Marlow Bookshop | A fantastic independent bookshop with a carefully curated selection.
- Biggie Best | A great spot for home décor, gifts, and stylish interiors.
- Sara Hughes | A must-visit if you love rustic furniture and vintage-style homeware.
Marlow is also home to two excellent art galleries I want to mention:
- Nova Fine Art Gallery | A contemporary gallery showcasing modern art from both emerging and established artists.
- Leighton Fine Art Gallery | Specialising in fine art paintings, with a collection featuring 19th and 20th-century works.
When you need a coffee break, The Cedar Coffee Shop and Satollo both serve excellent coffee in a cosy setting. If you’re visiting in the morning, these cafés are great places to start your day before exploring the town.
Take a Boat Trip on the Thames
Exploring Marlow from the water offers a unique perspective of this picturesque town. Several operators provide boat trips and rentals, so check out their websites:
- Salter’s Steamers Ltd | A family-run company with over 150 years of history on the Thames. They offer scheduled public trips between Marlow and Henley, from early July to early September.
- Moose Canoe & SUP Hire | If you prefer to a self-guided adventure, check these goys out. They provide a range of equipment, including canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddle-boards, and water bikes.
Seasonal Considerations: Check availability and operating hours in advance, especially during the off-peak seasons.
Enjoy Marlow Lock & The Thames Path
Marlow Lock is a picturesque spot along the Thames, just a short walk from the town centre. It’s a great place to watch boats passing through the lock, as the water levels adjust to allow them to continue along the river. On a sunny day, you’ll often see rowers, paddleboarders, and small boats navigating the water.
From here, you can follow the Thames Path, a well-maintained walking route that runs alongside the river. Heading towards Bourne End, the path takes you through peaceful countryside, with stunning river views and plenty of birdlife.
Alternatively, you can walk in the opposite direction towards Henley-on-Thames, a longer but rewarding route that passes villages and open meadows.
Tip: If it has rained recently, the path can become muddy in certain sections, so waterproof shoes are a good idea.
Visit Rebellion Brewery
If you enjoy craft beer, a visit to Rebellion Brewery is a must while in Marlow. This independent brewery, located just outside the town centre, has been producing high-quality ales and lagers since 1993. Known for its traditional brewing methods and local ingredients, Rebellion has built a strong reputation across the Chilterns and beyond.
One of the highlights of visiting is the brewery shop, where you can pick up freshly brewed beers, including seasonal specials and classic favourites. They also offer a self-serve beer station, where you can pour your own pint to enjoy on-site.
For a deeper dive into their brewing process, check out their Brewery Open Nights. These events offer tastings, food pairings, and live music, making for a fun and relaxed evening. Since it’s a popular spot, booking ahead is recommended, especially for special events.
Attend Pub in the Park (Seasonal Event)
Every summer, Marlow hosts Pub in the Park, a food and music festival created by Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge. Bringing together top chefs, great live music, and fantastic food, the event has become one of the town’s biggest annual highlights.
Held in Higginson Park, the festival features pop-up restaurants, cooking demonstrations, and street food stalls, where you have the chance to try dishes from some of the UK’s best chefs. Alongside the food, there’s a lineup of live music, with past performers including Bastille, Kaiser Chiefs, and Craig David.
I haven’t attended Pub in the Park yet, but it’s high on my list for a future visit. From what I’ve heard, it’s an incredible mix of food, fun, and festival vibes, making it a great time to visit Marlow. Have you been? Let me know how it was!
Tip: In 2026 the festival is held 14 – 17 May with performances by Craig David and Razorlight!
Best Walks Around Marlow
Marlow is surrounded by some of the most scenic walking routes in the Chilterns, making it a fantastic destination for both casual walkers and keen hikers. Whether you prefer a riverside stroll or a woodland adventure, there’s certainly a trail you’d enjoy.
Marlow to Bourne End (Thames Path) – 3 Miles
This is one of the most popular and accessible walks from Marlow, following the Thames Path to the nearby village of Bourne End. The route is mostly flat, offering some excellent views of the river, passing through open meadows and woodlands. Once in Bourne End, you can either return the same way, via the Winter Hill, or take the train back to Marlow.
Winter Hill Walk – 4 Miles
For a more elevated walk, head towards Winter Hill, where you’ll get panoramic views over the Thames Valley. This circular route starts near Cookham and follows a mix of woodland trails and open hilltops. On a clear day, the views from the top are stunning.
Marlow to Henley-on-Thames – 9 Miles
For a longer and more rewarding walk, follow the Thames Path from Marlow to Henley-on-Thames. This route takes you through idyllic countryside, past historic lock houses, and alongside quiet stretches of the river. Once in Henley, you can explore the town, grab a meal, and return by train or bus.
Marlow Common & the Chilterns Woodlands – 5 Miles
If you prefer woodland walks, Marlow Common offers a peaceful escape just outside the town. The trails wind through ancient beech woodlands, passing historic landmarks and hidden clearings. This route is particularly beautiful in autumn, when the trees turn golden.
Where to Eat & Drink in Marlow
Marlow has built a reputation as a foodie destination, with everything from Michelin-starred dining to cosy cafés and traditional pubs. Check out my top recommendations below.
Michelin-Starred & Fine Dining
- The Hand & Flowers | Tom Kerridge’s two-Michelin-starred pub, serving elevated British dishes with a comforting, rustic feel.
- The Coach | A one-Michelin-starred gastropub, also by Tom Kerridge, offering small plates and a relaxed atmosphere. Surprisingly affordable for a Michelin-starred spot!
Pubs & Casual Dining
- The Two Brewers | A great place for a pint and some hearty pub grub, right in the centre of town and near the river. They do excellent Sunday Roasts too.
- The Butcher’s Tap & Grill | A butcher shop and pub hybrid, known for its incredible burgers and steaks.
- The Ivy Marlow Garden | A stylish spot for brunch, lunch, or dinner, featuring classic British and European dishes.
Cafés & Bakeries
- The Cedar Coffee Shop | A friendly café serving high-quality coffee and delicious homemade cakes.
- Satollo | A great option for Italian-style coffee and pastries, perfect for a quick stop.
- Gail’s | Located right on the High Street, Gail’s offers freshly baked bread, pastries, and excellent coffee in a warm and welcoming setting.
How to Get to Marlow
Marlow is well-connected and easy to reach from London and other parts of the Chilterns by train, bus, or car.
- By Train | Marlow has a branch line railway station, with services operated by Great Western Railway. Trains run from London Paddington, with a quick change at Maidenhead. Since Maidenhead is also on the Elizabeth Line, you can easily connect from other parts of London.
- By Bus | If you’re already in the Chilterns, the 800/850 Arriva bus runs between High Wycombe and Reading, stopping in Marlow every 30 minutes.
- By Car | Marlow is just off the A404, making it an easy drive from London, Oxford, and the Midlands. Parking in the town centre can be tricky, however we’re always lucky at the Dean Street parking lot, just a few minutes’ walk from the High Street.
Tip: Get your train ticket in advance on thetrainline.com, or in the app.
Where to Stay in Marlow
If you’re planning an overnight stay, Marlow offers a mix of luxury hotels, cosy inns, and boutique guesthouses. Here are some of the best options:
- Macdonald Compleat Angler (Boutique Hotel) | This boutique hotel combines historic charm with modern comfort. It’s centrally located, making it easy to explore the town on foot. The hotel has a restaurant, bar, and beautiful outdoor seating by the Thames.
- The Chequers Marlow (Cosy Pub Stay | If you’d rather stay in the heart of town, The Chequers Marlow offers comfortable rooms above a traditional pub. It’s a great option for those who want a relaxed stay with a local feel.
- The Hand & Flowers Rooms (Michelin-Starred Stay) | For food lovers, The Hand & Flowers offers luxurious boutique rooms attached to Tom Kerridge’s famous Michelin-starred pub. Each room has a unique, rustic decor and offers an exceptional dining experience right on-site.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Marlow
With its riverside charm, historic streets, and excellent food scene, Marlow is one of the most enjoyable towns to visit in the Chilterns. Walk along the Thames, explore independent shops, or dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant. There’s plenty of things to see and do in Marlow.
Beyond the town, you’ll find beautiful countryside walks, scenic boat trips, and great local breweries, making Marlow a great destination for a day trip from London or a perfect weekend getaway.
Have you been to Marlow, or have any questions? Leave a reply below, or reach out to me on Instagram. Also sign up for my newsletter to get the latest travel guides straight to your inbox.
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