Henley and Marlow Travel Guide: Thames Walks, Riverside Pubs and a Polished Day Trip from London

Katerina Galkina · EN · 04/10/2026

Introduction

Henley and Marlow are two of the nicest Thames-side escapes from London when you want a polished, low-stress day: river walks, handsome streets, good pubs, boaty atmosphere and food that can be as casual or as special as you want.

Choose Henley for rowing heritage and a classic riverside feel. Choose Marlow for restaurants, boutique energy and a slightly more foodie day.

Quick Facts

Place · Best for · From London ·

Henley-on-Thames · Rowing, river walks, classic Thames day · Train via Twyford ·

Marlow · Food, riverside pubs, boutique town · Train via Maidenhead/Bourne End routes ·

Maps

Henley map ↗ Marlow map ↗

Best Things to Do

Henley Riverside

⭐ Best free walk ⏱ 1-2 hours Map: Henley Riverside ↗

River & Rowing Museum

⭐ Good cultural stop Website: River & Rowing Museum ↗ Map: River & Rowing Museum ↗

Marlow Bridge and Riverside

⭐ Best Marlow walk Map: Marlow Bridge ↗

Where to Eat

The Angel on the Bridge, Henley: website ↗ The Hand and Flowers, Marlow: website ↗ The Coach, Marlow: website ↗

Where to Stay

Hotel du Vin Henley: website ↗ Compleat Angler Marlow: website ↗

One-Day Ideas

Henley: train, riverside walk, museum, pub lunch, town shops, train home. Marlow: train/taxi logistics, riverside walk, lunch, boutique shops, evening drink.

How to Get There

Use National Rail ↗ and check changes carefully. Henley is usually easier by train than Marlow, but both need a little planning.

FAQ

Henley or Marlow? Henley for classic river day; Marlow for food. Can I do both in one day? Possible by car/taxi, but better to choose one. Is it good for couples? Very.