Marlow lies along a beautiful stretch of the Thames. During a stay, you can explore the riverside, architectural history and town life in different ways: the suspension bridge and historic townscape offer a cultural focus, while Higginson Park provides access to the Thames Path. Marlow Museum complements a visit with local history and a permanent exhibition on lace-making; Marlow Market adds a regular monthly event to your plans. There are also riverside walks and other activities on the water.
Bridge and townscape
Marlow Bridge is a suspension bridge spanning the Thames between Marlow in Buckinghamshire and Bisham in Windsor and Maidenhead. William Tierney Clark built it between 1831 and 1836. The bridge is notable both as a crossing over the river and for its specifically documented construction history, including its dates and designer.
Marlow’s historic character is also reflected in its Georgian and Victorian architecture. The bridge is a precisely dated structure over the Thames; the two architectural periods shape the townscape in a different way. Together, they offer different starting points for exploring Marlow’s history and appearance.
Park, riverside and trails
Higginson Park is Marlow’s main public green space, covering about 23 acres. Its size sets it apart from a single stretch of riverside, while access to the Thames Path provides a specific starting point for walks. Marlow also offers peaceful riverside walks.
Another walking route, Marlow Lock and Weir, can be reached from the main gate at St Peter’s Church via a route of about half a mile. The Midsomer Murders Trail from Marlow is on a different scale: it is 17 miles long and leads to filming locations used in the television series Midsomer Murders. This means a named walking route and a much longer themed trail offer two distinct options.
You can also plan your arrival around the park: Marlow railway station is a five-minute walk from Higginson Park. Buses and trains run from High Wycombe, Maidenhead and Reading to Marlow town centre. Check the specific service for your travel date when planning your arrival.
More activities and local history
Longridge Activity Centre is situated on the banks of the Thames near Marlow. Activities include kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding and climbing. These activities include both water sports and climbing, offering a different focus from the walking routes and trails.
Marlow Museum tells the story of the town through engaging exhibitions, interactive displays and family-friendly activities. A permanent exhibition is devoted to the history of lace-making in Marlow. This specific local craft is featured alongside the broader history of the town. The museum also maintains information boards for the Centenary Heritage Trail in Higginson Park; QR codes provide additional information. The museum exhibitions and trail boards therefore offer different ways to discover the town’s history.
Plan around market dates
Marlow Market offers arts and crafts, food and crafts. It takes place on the first and third Saturday of every month from 10 am to 3 pm; in January, it is held only on the third Saturday. If you’d like to include the market in your stay, choose the right Saturday and check the date before you travel.
Discover more destinations: Gerrards Cross, Aylesbury, Easington, Chalfont St Giles, Little Horwood, Waddesdon, Pitstone, Ivinghoe.
For the broader travel overview: Buckinghamshire.
