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Nestled serenely on a pretty stretch of the  River Thames, Marlow has long been a firm favourite of those looking to swap the hustle and bustle of the capital for a little peace and quiet.

Indeed, the tranquil surroundings were noted by novelist and Frankenstein author Mary Shelley who, upon moving to the town in 1817 with her poet husband Percy Bysshe Shelley, described her new home as 'among woody hills…green fields and this delightful river'.

Of course, much has changed in the 200 years or so since the Shelleys were here but the appeal of the countryside and a slower pace of life endures.

Today, this historic market town and nearby villages such as the Cookhams and Taplow offer buyers a haven for foodies, families and fashionistas alike.

Ticking the post-pandemic desire for somewhere close to London surrounded by glorious open space, house prices have risen by 11.6 per cent in the last two years according to Savills Research. Our Marlow office traded close to double the normal amount of properties in 2021 compared with 2019, with buyer demand up 115 per cent.

Large detached homes with outside space have been most coveted. Properties on the river are rare to the market and – perhaps somewhat unsurprisingly – command a premium price, while in and around town you will find everything from pretty cottages and Victorian terraces to private apartments and new build family homes. 

Strong levels of activity have continued into 2022 with the proximity to the capital – and the recent opening of the Elizabeth Line in particular – remaining a big draw for would-be homeowners. Of the 50 most popular stations in London’s commuter zone, nearby Maidenhead has one of the fastest commuter times of just 18 minutes for its quickest service into Paddington.

But Marlow offers so much more than just a swift journey to work. During the pandemic, the thriving high street was named one of the best in the country, with an eclectic mix of local, national and independent retailers. 

In recent years the town has also become something of a magnet for food lovers, with a selection of outstanding pubs and restaurants, including three owned by renowned chef Tom Kerridge. While the two-Michelin-starred The Hand & Flowers often takes the spotlight, The Butcher’s Tap and Grill and The Coach should not be missed. 

A fine selection of high performing schools makes it a popular choice for those raising a family. Primaries such as Spinfield, Marlow C of E Infants and Marlow Bottom are all well regarded, as are the secondaries of Sir William Borlase grammar and Great Marlow School. 

The town also offers plenty of choice to those looking for some well-deserved R&R. Higginson Park – complete with statue of arguably Marlow’s most famous son, rowing gold medallist Sir Steve Redgrave – is a firm favourite of those wanting a scenic stroll in a peaceful setting with river views. 

The historic Marlow Lock is a great place to take in the local sights and, during the summer, catch a boat cruise along the river. Grade I listed Marlow Bridge (pictured top) – which links with the neighbouring village of Bisham – is another popular walking spot, with the river path eventually opening out to glorious rolling countryside and a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

If all that isn’t enough there is also an abundance of rowing, golf, football, cricket, rugby and hockey clubs to enjoy.

The popularity of Marlow as a place to work, rest and play shows no sign of abating. Easy on the eye, with a close knit community that’s within striking distance of the capital – the town and its surrounds will continue to attract buyers from London and beyond as it has for generations.

Further information

Contact Richard Maby or Tom Hyde

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