Marlow in Buckinghamshire, UK, is a hidden gem, located on the River Thames. If you’re looking for an easy and charming day trip to Marlow with children, this picturesque riverside town is just an hour from London and makes a wonderful city escape. We spent a sunny afternoon exploring the Thames Path, playing in the park, and discovering the prettiest spots, which was the perfect mix of relaxation and family fun.
In this post, I’ll be sharing the best things to do on a family day trip to Marlow, Bucks. So read on!
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How to Get To Marlow, Buckinghamshire
Marlow is an easy and relaxing day trip from London, making it ideal for families with little ones. The journey takes about an hour by train from London Paddington. You need to go to Maidenhead, then change for the short branch line to Marlow.
If you’re driving, it’s around 45 miles from central London, and parking is available at several pay-and-display car parks near the high street and riverside. Our day trip to Marlow was en route from London to The Cotswolds, so we arrived by car. We parked in Marlow Central Car Park, which was a good location and right next to a Sainsbury’s, perfect for families whose children always need a snack! There were also toilets (they weren’t luxurious, but still useful).
We found the town really walkable, so once you arrive, you won’t need to worry about getting around. Everything from the river to the park and cafés is within easy strolling distance!
Things to Do on Your Day Trip to Marlow with Children
Play in Higginson Park
First, we went into Higginson Park, a big green space right by the water. It’s perfect for families as there’s a great playground, open lawns for picnics, and plenty of ducks to spot by the riverbank. In summer, there’s often an ice cream van parked nearby, which makes for the perfect treat before lunch.
It was great for our kids to burn some energy after being in the car!
Walk Along the River Thames
As we left the park, we wandered along the Thames Path, towards Marlow Lock. This is a very scenic walk, the riverside path is wide enough for pushchairs, just make sure to keep children away from the edge of the river!
The views of the Marlow Suspension Bridge and All Saints Church are picture-perfect!
Cross Marlow Bridge
On the walk to Marlow Lock, you’ll pass Marlow Bridge. This is a beautiful bridge. While you don’t need to walk across it to get to the lock, we wanted to for the views.
So, we walked across one side and back across the other before continuing towards the lock.
THE PLAYGROUND IN HIGGINSON PARK | THE VIEW FROM MARLOW BRIDGE
Watch Boats at Marlow Lock
Marlow has a working lock. We were lucky enough to be there at just the right time to see a boat coming through. My kids absolutely loved watching this, and I loved the amazing views and gorgeous houses that surround the lock.
After the lock, we headed back towards the town, via the same way we came.
TOP TIP: If you’re coming for a day trip to Marlow by train, it would be best to see the lock first, then head back towards the park and town!
WATCHING A BOAT SAIL THROUGH MARLOW LOCK | THE VIEW FROM THE LOCK
Explore Marlow Town Centre
Marlow is a beautiful market town, and the old buildings and flag bunting hanging above the roads give it a beautiful charm.
Marlow has a good-sized town with lots of shops, restaurants and cafes. From independent boutiques to chain retailers, there is something to suit everyone’s taste.
After our walk through the town and high street, our day trip to Marlow was complete, and we headed back to the car to continue our journey to The Cotswolds.
BEAUTIFUL MARLOW TOWN CENTRE
Thank you for reading our itinerary and guide on the best things to do during a day trip to Marlow with children. We hope you have a lovely visit to Buckinghamshire!
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Happy Exploring,
A London mum sharing stylish, family-friendly travel guides.
I In our travel guides, I show you that you can still travel as a family and create beautiful memories, even when trips aren’t full of kid-centric activities.
When I’m not planning our next adventure, I also share timeless style inspiration and ideas for living more thoughtfully and sustainably.