Ri
www.visitbuckinghamshire.org
ver Thames...
The River Thames flows through the heart of
the Chilterns and Thames Valley on its way to
London and the sea. There is something for
everyone by the River – from the rigours of
rowing to the peace and tranquillity of a few
hours on the tow path especially on summer
evenings or a crisp and clear winter weekday.
Marlow
Looking for something more cosmopolitan - fashionable Marlow sits
prettily on the River and there is a tempting array of shops,
restaurants, wine bars and pubs which makes for a town simply
bustling with life. An afternoon can easily be spent browsing the High
Street which offers a mix of the familiar with an interesting variety of
independent shops of distinctive character.
Finding refreshment, or a place for dinner, is never a problem. The
choices range from the traditional tearoom in the High Street to cafés
and restaurants featuring menus from different parts of the world.
In addition, Marlow has a wealth of traditional pubs, many of which
serve excellent food.
The Marlow Regattas
Marlow Town Regatta & Festival takes place in Higginson Park in mid
June. Saturday features competitive rowing on the river, with all the
traditional ambience of a classic regatta. Sunday’s Festival Day is
more informal with dragon-boat racing and family entertainments,
including a tribute band concert in the evening. For details visit
www.marlowtownregatta.org.
The Marlow Regatta is held at Dorney Lake the following weekend,
combining the highest levels of international rowing competition with
an English garden party atmosphere. See www.marlowregatta.org.uk.
Swan Upping
Every July, Marlow plays host to the 12th century ceremony of ‘Swan
Upping’. Six wooden skiffs, led by the crested flag of the Queen’s
Swan Marker, process along the Thames as liveried officers mark the
swans as the ‘property’ of The Queen or the ancient Vintners and
Dyers Societies, the only bodies now formally entitled to swan rights
on the Thames.
The procession stops for refreshment at the Two Brewers in St Peter
Street and the day ends at The Compleat Angler Hotel, beside Marlow
Lazy days with picnics, pretty pubs, fine dining,
music festivals, riverside walking, special places
Bridge. For details visit www.royal.gov.uk, or contact Marlow
to stay, quirky shops or just messing about in
Information Centre (see page 20).
boats... for all this and more great ideas go to
www.visitthames.co.uk8