Marlow

Marlow River Walk

So many of the walks along the Thames in Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire are beautiful, and it is actually hard to pick one out. Marlow, as expected, has a beautiful path leading to Bisham Abbey and like so many of the Thames walks nearby, it is memorable. Certainly, if you walk along the River Thames in its entirety you will have so many memories that they will come back to haunt you forever.

On your walk you should keep in mind that there were wharves along the river bank in the early days, which encouraged trading in such materials as rags, coal, wood, malt, and grain. Once you get to Marlow Bridge you will have a wonderful sighting of The Compleat Angler hotel. Keep on walking and you will eventually come across Court Garden, whose house was built by a famous physician of the time, Dr. Battie. This grand structure was later given to a hero of the Crimean War, General Sir George Higginson, as well as the park and gardens. He, in turn, donated it all to the town. You will have an excellent view of All Saints' Church and Marlow High Street.

However, the main attraction of this river walk is Bisham Church, and the partially hidden Bisham Abbey. A church has existed here since 1190, when the Normans had already conquered England. Indeed, the tower is still in existence there. Bisham Abbey can just about be seen through the many trees that line the bank. It also has a long history, and was formerly a manor handed over to the Knights Templar in the 12th century. The abbey is now a large leisure centre with five tennis courts and a vast sports field. Both famous tennis players and the English cricket team come here to practise.

The beauty of the River Walk and the many ancient buildings that fill its banks is sure to make your walk both a factual and atmospheric delight. It is hard not to recommend any walk down the River Thames, but you should certainly not miss out on this one. Do visit www.marlowtown.co.uk for more information about this lovely old town

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