Day Trip Diaries | Marlow

If you follow the lazy, winding splendour of the Thames, you'll find many charming, quintessential villages dotted along its banks. However, there are almost none so picturesque as Marlow. From the bustling high street to the verdant surrounding hills and countryside, it's a pleasure to spend a day, or a lifetime, in this beautiful part of the world. This scenic town in Buckinghamshire, home to one of our largest Sahara boutiques, is a treasure trove of timeless appeal and natural beauty. Whether you're seeking riverside charm, delectable dining, or a touch of history, Marlow has it all.

 

The Thames Path, a national trail following the river for 187 miles from the Cotswolds to the heart of London, also passes through Marlow; join the path in the town centre and head southwest (upstream) to Henley-on-Thames or downstream towards bustling Maidenhead. 

Marlow is a gastronomic haven; no visit is complete without indulging in its culinary delights. Here, Michelin-starred restaurants coexist harmoniously with quaint tearooms and packed pubs. Head to one of the town's renowned eateries, like The Hand & Flowers, The Coach, and The Butcher's Tap, all owned by the celebrated Chef Tom Kerridge. The Hand & Flowers is the UK's only two-Michelin-star pub. Enjoy exquisite dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients.

Marlow is also home to the creations of Atul Kochar, a two-Michelin-star chef behind Vaasu on Chapel Street and Sindhu, which you can find at the Compleat Angler, a Marlow riverside institution. For grand vistas alongside delicious food, Cliveden Dining Room at Cliveden House, a three-AA-Rosette restaurant overlooking a topiary-filled formal garden, has sweeping views of the Buckinghamshire countryside. Choose the three-course à la carte menu or seven-course tasting menu.

 

With so many in decline, walking up the very much alive and bustling Marlow high street is heartwarming. This charming hub runs from the gothic riverside beauty of All Saints Church and up through town and is filled with thriving shops and pubs. Alongside our own Sahara boutique, you can explore unique finds, from fashion and homeware to art and antiques. With three art galleries now lining the pavement, Hayden Fine Art, Nova Fine Art, and Clarendon Fine Art, it’s clear that Marlow remains a destination for art enthusiasts as well as discerning shoppers.

If you're feeling more adventurous, you can hire a rowing boat or paddleboard and take to the river. Experience Marlow from a different perspective as you glide along its tranquil waters. For those who prefer to travel by waterway rather than on foot, you can mirror the route of the Thames Path by boat. Salter's Steamers runs a service between Marlow and Henley, of Royal Regatta renown, that captures the beauty of both towns and their long history with the iconic waterway. 

For a relaxing afternoon, head to Higginson Park. Sit by the riverbank, enjoy a picnic, or simply soak up the natural beauty. It's an ideal spot for unwinding and soaking in the lush greenery of central Marlow. Keep an eye out for information on the regular events at the park. Often host to concerts, fairs, and open-air cinema, it's well worth checking the line-up of upcoming activities before a visit to the area. 

The historic Danesfield House Hotel and Spa stands amidst 65 acres of formal gardens with outstanding vistas over the River Thames and Chiltern Hills. Enjoy the bird's eye view of Marlow while playing croquet on the lawn or enjoying a delightful Afternoon Tea in The Orangery. Just a short drive from the town centre, Danesfield House also boasts a full-service spa, with packages available for those passing through as well as for overnight guests at the hotel.