Meander around Marvellous Marlow

A Buckinghamshire gem on the Thames, marvellous Marlow is perfect for exploring the Chiltern Hills and culinary delights of Michelin-rated pubs and buzzy cafes. 

This weekend I made a spontaneous trip to visit my good friend who lives in Henley-on-Thames for a long walk in the countryside. There are so many fantastic country walks and riverside towns to visit in the Home Counties. But we opted to spend the day in Marlow. And it was indeed marvellous!

Marvellous Marlow is incredibly scenic and charming thanks to its enviable riverside position on the River Thames. Home to a number of celebrities such as Ricky Gervais and Chris Evans, Marlow is filled with upscale boutiques, outdoor cafes, and Michelin-rated pubs. The beautiful riverfront Higginson Park hosts celebrity chef Tom Kerridge’s annual food and music festival “Pub in the Park.” The atmosphere was lively in Marlow with people enjoying the glorious sunshine. 

The plan was to conquer the Marlow Circular Walk and catch up on life. With my furborn Buddy in tow, we met my friend at Marlow station and set off for a meander around marvellous Marlow.

Marlow Circular Walk

This easy 6.4 miles Marlow circular walk starts at one of Marlow’s famous sites: the 19th century Marlow Suspension Bridge. On both sides of the river bank is flanked by rowing and canoe clubs, all  gearing up for the Marlow Town Regatta & Festival in a few weeks. My friend and I followed the towpath along the River Thames passing Higginson Park and all the way to Temple Lock. It was nice to spend the day outside of London for some fresh country air. 

Near Danesfield School, we stumbled upon a small farmers market where we stopped to pick up some fresh fruit. Then we make our way into the edge of the Chiltern Hill into Rassler Wood for a bit of respite. We continue into Marlow Common before coming back into Marlow via Spinfield Lane, marvelling at the enchanting woodlands. 

Back on Henley Road, we find one of Marlow’s finest culinary delights –  Hand and Flowers gastropub. Further along, there are well-known upmarket chains such as The Botanist, The Ivy, Cote, GAIL’s Bakery, and Megan’s at Liston Court. If you’re hungry after a long ramble in the Chiltern Hills, there is no shortage of excellent eateries in Marlow. 

A Lovely Sunny Day

Having clocked 20K steps, we worked up an appetite. For lunch, we settled in at Fego Cafe right in the middle of the High Street.  It is a hip cafe with a beautiful conservatory although no dogs allowed except in the front. We grabbed an outdoor table and enjoyed our late lunch of chicken wrap and ‘superfood’ salad. Near the roundabout, Amorino ice cream was heaving with families enjoying yummy gelato and the afternoon sun. 

At last, it was time for us to say goodbye to this beautiful riverside village. We jumped on the train, enjoying the lovely countryside views before parting ways at Maidenhead back to London Paddington. It was wonderful to spend the day with my friend and meander around marvellous Marlow.