Welcome To Marlow.

Marlow is a town rich in history and this is reflected in the architectural character and quality of buildings; in the medieval layout of the town and in Marlow bridge and Marlow lock and weir.

Quite rightly all this is heavily protected as a Conservation Area. The community takes an active interest in the environmental well-being of the Town.

This pleasant Georgian town is situated on a beautiful stretch of the River Thames midway between Reading and Windsor and is surrounded by the lovely countryside of the Chiltern Hills which are designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The High Street has a modern vibrancy with plenty of shops, offering something a little different. It is also the perfect place to while away the day in a tearoom, restaurant, pub or inn. The High Street is always an attractive area enhanced by the colourful sponsored flower beds and displays by retailers.

The spectacular white-painted suspension bridge spans the river. It competes for attention with the dominating spire of All Saints’ Parish Church on the Bucks side.

The casual day tripper will vow to return to explore the area in more depth and the holidaymaker will be pleased they have a few days to take in the area.

It is justifiably a popular tourist town, with its pretty High Street and attractive Georgian and Victorian buildings (some even older). It is a thriving town with a large business park to the East. Many organisations flourish in the town – for example, the Marlow Society, the Community Association, and the Chamber of Trade & Commerce.

The town is famous for its 19th century suspension bridge built in 1832, designed by Tierney Clarke who also built the similar bridge over the River Danube at Budapest.

The town has strong links with the people of Budapest because of this association and the Hungarian Ambassador unveiled a plaque on the bridge this in 1999. This strong link has culminated in Marlow twinning with District 1, Budapest.

Marlow Lock is well known for being the last port of call for the Queen’s Swan Marker as they progress along the River Thames and stay overnight before setting off the next day for Hurley.

We do hope that those who visit Marlow will enjoy the experience and take home a picture of a beautiful town that leaves a lasting impression on its visitors.

Of further interest to historians is that Mary Shelley wrote Frankenstein whilst living in West Street Marlow, near what is now Sir William Borlase School.

The Town Council offices are at Court Garden House, situated in the stunning surroundings of Higginson Park.

Higginson Park was named after General Sir George Higginson, one of Marlow’s most famous residents, a former Crimean war veteran and father of the Brigade of Guards.

Apart from the Town Council Offices and the old Court Garden House, which is now available for letting for meetings and functions, there is also a Leisure Centre.

 
Our thanks go to The Chiltern Society Photogroup for their kind permission to use members photographs.