Marlow, a picturesque market town in Buckinghamshire, has been named the UK's best high street by estate agent Knight Frank, drawing London commuters seeking a quieter life with independent shops and riverside walks along the Thames.
Location and Landmarks
Situated along the River Thames, Marlow offers a peaceful alternative to Richmond or Cambridge, with rowing boats and self-driving boats available for hire. Its iconic suspension bridge, which opened in 1832, connects Buckinghamshire to Berkshire and helped the town grow as an inland port.
High Street Recognition
Knight Frank assessed high streets for charm and desirability among home buyers, naming Marlow as the top spot. Matt Davies, partner at Knight Frank, said: "We tend to see a slightly younger buyer base in Marlow, driven in large part by its outstanding educational institutions, including grammar schools such as Sir William Borlase’s." The high street features historic listed buildings, independent boutiques, cafes, and bistros.
Unique Shops and Dining
Standout shops include Twenty Three Living, The Marlow Bookshop, URU Home, and Saddle Safari. Marlow is also a food destination, home to Michelin-star cuisine. Chef Tom Kerridge runs The Hand and Flowers pub near the high street, the only UK pub with two Michelin stars. A TripAdvisor customer described their experience: "Service was excellent from the minute we arrived, and the atmosphere in the restaurant was great. We’d highly recommend!" The high street also hosts The Ivy, Zizi, and other chains alongside traditional pubs.
