Car Hire Marlow

This delightful Georgian market town of approximately 14,000 residents sits perfectly positioned on the Thames with excellent access via the A4155 through the town centre, while the A404 lies just one mile east and the M40 and M4 motorways provide wider regional connections. Marlow enjoys a temperate maritime climate with warm summers averaging 19-23°C and mild winters, while rainfall remains fairly consistent throughout the year, making it an appealing destination regardless of the season.

Attractions In Marlow

Find Thames-side dining and regatta heritage in this elegant town, featuring riverside restaurants, historic rowing traditions and charming streets lined with independent shops and galleries.

Higginson Park

Located on High Street, this stunning riverside park opens every day and serves as Marlow’s crown jewel, earning an impressive 4.6-star rating from over 2,500 delighted visitors. You’ll discover why this 23-acre green space captivates families with its perfect combination of Thames frontage and beautifully updated children’s playground featuring climbing frames and swings. The secure fencing around the play area provides peace of mind for parents, while expansive grassy areas offer ideal spots for picnics and relaxation. We recommend visiting the on-site café for refreshments, though parking can become challenging during busy periods.

Marlow Riverside

Marlow’s gorgeous stretch of Thames riverbank centres around Higginson Park, twenty-three acres of Green Flag-winning parkland that slopes right down to the water. The park’s been public since 1926 when locals clubbed together to save it from developers. These days it’s brilliant for riverside strolling along the Thames Path, watching boats navigate the lock or feeding swans. There’s boat hire if you fancy getting on the water yourself, plus playground, skate park, cafés and even a brick maze. The iconic suspension bridge designed by William Tierney Clark dominates views. Million visits a year, apparently.

For convenient access to nearby locations, consider these car hire options:

• Bourne End
• High Wycombe
• Beaconsfield
• Coleshill
• Gerrards Cross
• Chalfont St Peter
• Amersham
• Princes Risborough

Marlow Bridge

This magnificent Grade I listed suspension bridge spanning between High Street and Bisham represents one of Britain’s most historically significant Thames crossings, designed by William Tierney Clark and opened in 1832. We often marvel at its architectural beauty, particularly during evening hours when traffic creates brilliant light trails across the timeless stonework. The bridge connects Buckinghamshire and Berkshire while offering spectacular photography opportunities from various vantage points. Its historical importance dates back to 1227 and the current structure influenced the famous Széchenyi Chain Bridge in Budapest, making it essential viewing for architecture enthusiasts.

Marlow Lock

Working Thames lock just downstream of that famous suspension bridge, reached via short footpath off Mill Lane. First proper pound lock went up here in 1773, though there’s been some kind of weir arrangement since Domesday times. The weir itself stretches hundreds of yards upstream looking rather spectacular. Popular spot for watching pleasure boats navigate through, especially busy during regatta season. Percy Shelley used to muck about in his skiff above the lock when he lived in town, supposedly composing The Revolt of Islam. Pretty traditional lock house still standing.

Boating At Marlow

Operating daily from 10 AM to 5 PM at Marlow Bridge in Bisham, this delightful waterside attraction provides perfect family entertainment with boat rental services and excellent walking opportunities along the scenic Thames Path. The location offers wonderful perspectives of the historic town and surrounding countryside from the water, creating memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.

The May Balfour Garden

Tucked-away walled garden on Institute Road, right opposite the library and near the High Street. This ornamental spot’s got lovely herbaceous borders, annual bedding and the impressive Akeler Sundial created by sculptor Edwin Russell. Through the planting you get cracking views of Marlow Place, which used to be the Royal Military Academy. Popular lunchtime retreat for office workers wanting peace away from the town bustle. Ramp provides disabled access. Maintained by Marlow Town Council, with local schoolkids sometimes lending a hand planting bulbs and tidying up.

Marlow Museum

Open Sundays from 2 PM until 4 PM in Court Garden on Pound Lane, this delightful local history museum showcases fascinating artefacts from Marlow’s rich past alongside special exhibitions celebrating the town’s literary heritage. You’ll discover historical objects that tell the story of Marlow’s development through the centuries, while learning about famous residents, including the authors of Frankenstein and renowned murder mystery writers. The compact size ensures an engaging visit without overwhelming detail, making it perfect for those interested in understanding the area’s cultural significance and historical evolution.

Gossmore Recreation Ground

Marlow’s traditional rec ground down Gossmore Lane, where generations of local kids have played football. Several pitches spread across the playing fields, plus open space for mucking about. The car park gives handy access to Thames Path, with routes running upstream towards town centre via Pergola Field or downstream through Riverwoods to Bourne End. Public toilets near Gossmore Lane including disabled facilities. Ownership’s split between Buckinghamshire Council and Marlow Town Council. Still serves same purpose as when it first opened.

Statue Of Sir Steve Redgrave

This inspiring bronze monument celebrates one of Britain’s greatest Olympic rowing champions, commemorating his extraordinary achievements in competitive rowing. Located in the heart of Marlow, the statue honours Sir Steve’s connection to the famous Marlow Rowing Club, which has produced num erous Olympic athletes throughout its distinguished history. You’ll appreciate the tribute to sporting excellence while understanding Marlow’s significant contribution to British rowing success. The statue serves as a reminder of the town’s continuing tradition of athletic achievement and community pride.

Marlow Obelisk

Grade II listed waypoint marker plonked on the roundabout at top of Marlow High Street since 1822 originally helping travelling coaches find their way. Built from Portland limestone with sandstone topping, it had got properly tatty over the years with whole chunks of engraved lettering dropping off. Marlow Society banged on about getting it fixed from 2012 and restoration finally happened in 2018 with overnight work to avoid traffic chaos. They cleaned it, repaired the stonework, re-engraved the lettering and sorted drainage issues round the plinth. Turns out there’s still an old public water well underneath from when a pump stood here.

The Rookery Park

This lovely green space on Chapel Street at Rookery Lodge offers peaceful relaxation opportunities where you can enjoy the company of the local dog-walking community or simply appreciate the tranquil natural setting. The park provides a welcome respite from urban activity while maintaining easy accessibility from the town centre. You’ll find the informal atmosphere particularly appealing for casual recreation and strolls. The location demonstrates Marlow’s commitment to preserving green spaces that enhance residents’ quality of life and provide visitors with authentic local experiences.