The beautiful UK town boasts a historic high street and riverside setting
‘Quiet’ UK town with one of the best high streets – but house prices are sky-high(Image: stevegeer via Getty Images)
From quaint Cotswold hamlets to coastal retreats, Britain boasts an array of beautiful towns. England harbours some of the nation’s most enchanting villages alongside numerous riverside treasures, including Marlow.
Situated in Buckinghamshire on London’s doorstep, Marlow’s characterful high street and charming location draw visitors nationwide, whilst retaining a peaceful atmosphere.
Nestled along a picturesque stretch of the Thames and embraced by the undulating Chiltern Hills, the town is recorded in the Domesday Book as an established community, prized for its rich soil and river access.
Subsequently, as a crossroads and commercial hub, it flourished and gained recognition for its malting and brewing industries.
During the 19th century, bridge construction enhanced Thames crossings, whilst the later arrival of rail links strengthened connectivity and spurred expansion, reports the Express.
Today, it stands as a prosperous residential and recreational haven celebrated for its waterside location, rowing traditions and exceptional culinary offerings.
Visitors will find abundant attractions and activities, from hiring rowing boats to picnicking at Higginson Park to admiring the distinctive Marlow Bridge.
The high street proves equally popular, drawing crowds with its delightful independent boutiques, art galleries and specialist retailers. Notable shops include Mint Velvet, Whistles, The White Company, Space NK, Waterstones, plus independent favourites such as The Cheese Shed, The Marlow Bookshop, and The Dresser. The Marlow Regatta and rowing traditions form the backbone of local life, with competitive rowing firmly embedded in the town’s sporting DNA.
Marlow also hosts regular markets where shoppers can discover local produce, including mouth-watering ice cream and artisan sourdough bread.
The town has earned a strong reputation for its culinary offerings, boasting award-winning pubs and Michelin-starred restaurants.
The Hand and Flowers stands as the town’s most renowned eatery, having made history as the first pub in Britain to secure two Michelin stars – an accolade it maintains to this day.
Run by celebrity chef Tom Kerridge, it transforms traditional British fare through sophisticated techniques and punchy flavours within a laid-back, upmarket gastropub atmosphere. That said, eating here requires deep pockets, with set Sunday lunch prices hovering around £195.
Property and living expenses typically exceed the national average, mirroring its appeal and convenient commuter location.
Average house prices in Marlow have reached £735,793 over the past year. Most properties changing hands in the town during this period were detached houses, fetching an average of £952,833.
Currently, more than 200 properties are available for purchase in the town, with the priciest listing commanding an eye-watering £11 million.
The town also benefits from proximity to Maidenhead and Bourne End, with excellent transport connections.
In TripAdvisor reviews highlighting the town’s top attractions, numerous visitors recommended a riverside walk along the suspension bridge. One user 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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