From breathtaking architecture to Michelin-starred pubs and boutique shops, it’s no surprise this quintessential gem is often described as one of Britain’s best kept secrets
Swap the soaring skyscrapers for riverside charm in this stunningly quaint town. Touted as one of the UK’s ‘coolest’ places to live, and often dubbed Britain’s ‘best kept secret’ – Marlow needs to be on your tourist radar (if it isn’t already).
Snuggled between rich meadows and woodlands, the historic market town feels world’s away from city life – despite being a stone’s throw from central London. Boasting a vibrant high street filled with boutique shops, Michelin-starred restaurants, and cosy pubs – Marlow is famous for its pristine streets, fierce community spirit, and celebrity roots.
The town’s most iconic landmark has to be the suspension bridge which spans the River Thames and connects the counties of Buckinghamshire and Berkshire. Designed by William Tierney Clark, the architectural masterpiece first opened in 1832 – and is believed to have acted as a prototype for the world-famous Széchenyi Chain Bridge in Budapest.
“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,” hailed Visit Thames, the area’s official tourist board. “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.”
Watch out for A-listers such as comedian Ricky Gervais and actor Chris Evans, who both call this slice of paradise home. Of course, chef and restaurateur Tom Kerridge may also make an appearance, especially if you dine at one of his four eateries in the area.
“The two Michelin-starred Hand & Flowers – a cosy, unassuming pub opened by Kerridge 20 years ago – is still the star of the show,” explained the Telegraph. “Though The Coach (another, more affordable Michelin-starred pub), private dining room The Shed, and The Butcher’s Tap (a traditional butcher’s with, no surprise, another pub) have helped to cement Kerridge’s influence.”
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Marlow is some 3- miles from London, meaning you can drive to the hotspot in around one hour and four minutes. However, direct train routes to Maidenhead slash the journey time down to just 22 minutes. From here, you’ll then just need to take a 13-minute taxi ride over to Marlow. Depending on your flexibility, you can grab single adult fares for as little as £16.
Accommodation in Marlow itself is limited, meaning prices can be high. For example, a weekend’s stay (Friday, June 20-22) at the Palm Cottage Marlow – a two-bedroom holiday home – will set you back an eye-watering £711.
However, staying slightly outside the town can help bring the budget down. Staying at the Olde Bell, located 2.3 miles from the centre of Marlow, on the exact same dates would cost £262 – which is almost three times cheaper.
*Prices based on Trainline and Booking.com listings at the time of writing.
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