I live in a quaint riverside town 28 miles from London, packed with independent shops. The town boasts independent shops, an outstanding food scene, and easy London commuter links.
From Cotswolds villages to coastal retreats, the UK offers many breathtaking locations. While I enjoy discovering them, settling in one for a long time means it must truly meet my criteria. After spending several years in Windsor, I was hesitant to move. Yet this overlooked gem just beyond London's borders is considerably calmer and more tranquil.
Roughly 28 miles from central London, Marlow sits along a picturesque stretch of the River Thames, nestled among the gently rolling countryside of the Chiltern Hills. Its characterful high street and charming surroundings draw visitors from across the nation, while still remaining relatively unhurried compared to neighboring towns such as Henley-on-Thames. The town was featured in the Domesday Book as an established settlement, prized for its fertile land and river access.
It subsequently flourished as a river crossing and trading hub before gaining a reputation for malting and brewing. During the 19th century, the construction of the bridge strengthened connections across the Thames, while the later arrival of the railway further enhanced accessibility and spurred growth.
Marlow Today
Today, it stands as a prosperous residential and leisure destination, celebrated for its riverside charm, vibrant high street, and exceptional dining scene. It consistently ranks among the finest places to live in the UK.
There's plenty to keep visitors entertained, from hiring a rowing boat and enjoying a picnic in Higginson Park to browsing the local market.
The charming high street is brimming with independent shops and dining spots, including The Cheese Shed, The Marlow Bookshop, and The Dresser. Laurent's, an Italian café and deli serving mouth-watering sandwiches and coffee, is also a personal favorite.
Marlow regularly hosts markets where visitors can discover locally sourced produce, including delicious homemade gelato from Agosti Gelato and refreshing drinks from Marlow Juices.
Food Scene
The town has earned a strong reputation for its culinary scene, boasting award-winning pubs and Michelin-starred dining.
The Hand and Flowers is arguably the town's most celebrated dining establishment, having been the first pub in the nation to receive two Michelin stars, an accolade it proudly retains to this day. Owned by celebrity chef Tom Kerridge, it takes classic British fare to new heights through refined techniques and bold flavors. However, such excellence comes at a price: a set Sunday lunch costs around £195.
Property and Living Costs
Property and living costs tend to exceed the national average, reflecting the town's popularity and its appeal to commuters. According to Rightmove, the average house price in Marlow over the past year was just shy of £700,000 — more than double the UK's current average of £290,000, as reported by the Office for National Statistics.
The town also sits within easy reach of nearby villages and towns such as Bourne End, Cookham, and Bray, while Cliveden, a stunning National Trust estate, remains a personal favorite weekend retreat.
