Higginson Park, Marlow: Riverside Urban Oasis with Family Fun and Leisure
A vibrant riverside park in Marlow offering family fun, leisure sports, scenic river views, and year-round community events.
Higginson Park is Marlow’s main urban green space, spanning about 23 acres along the River Thames. It features large lawns, formal flowerbeds, a popular children’s playground with inclusive equipment, a skate park, and a riverside café. The park offers boating facilities, river cruises, and hosts seasonal events including markets and triathlons. With free public access, ample seating, and scenic river views, it’s a vibrant community hub blending natural beauty and recreational amenities.
A brief summary to Higginson Park
- High St, Marlow, SL7 1AW, GB
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the café for fresh coffee, snacks, and dog-friendly treats while enjoying views of the park.
- Try the carousel ride during school holidays or weekends for a fun family experience.
- Join the weekly Parkrun on Saturday mornings at 9am to engage with the local community.
- Explore the grass maze created by Adrian Fisher, a unique Millennium feature within the park.
- Use the nearby Court Garden Leisure Centre for additional sports facilities like swimming and tennis.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
Marlow railway station is approximately a 5-minute walk from Higginson Park. Trains run regularly from High Wycombe, Maidenhead, and Reading, with journey times ranging from 20 to 40 minutes. The station and walk to the park are on level ground, making it accessible for most travelers. Typical train fare ranges from £5 to £15 depending on origin.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Marlow town centre with nearby towns such as High Wycombe and Maidenhead. Bus stops are located within a 10-minute walk of Higginson Park. Buses run approximately every 30 minutes during the day, with fares around £3 to £6. Note that service frequency may reduce on weekends and public holidays.
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Car
Parking is available at the Pound Lane car park adjacent to Higginson Park, as well as pay-and-display options near the High Street. Some on-street parking is free for up to 1-2 hours. Parking fees typically range from £1 to £5 depending on duration. The park is accessible via main roads but can be busy during peak summer months.
Higginson Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Higginson Park
A Historic Green Heart of Marlow
Higginson Park has been a cherished public park since 1926, with its origins as a garden dating back to 1758. Covering approximately 23 acres, it sits prominently on Marlow’s High Street and extends to the River Thames, offering a unique blend of urban parkland and riverside charm. The park’s design includes formal flowerbeds and a distinctive grass maze created by Adrian Fisher to commemorate the Millennium, enhancing its visual appeal and inviting exploration.Recreational Facilities for All Ages
The park is well-equipped for leisure and sport, featuring a large children’s playground that caters to toddlers and older kids alike, including inclusive play items such as a wheelchair-accessible roundabout and communication boards. Adjacent to the park is the Court Garden Leisure Centre, which houses a swimming pool, gym, tennis courts, and the Shelley Theatre. A skate park within Higginson Park is open year-round, providing a hub for youth activities. Marlow Bowls Club and a cricket pitch add to the sporting options available.Riverside Activities and Scenic Beauty
Higginson Park’s frontage on the River Thames is a highlight, with mooring facilities for private boats and options to hire pleasure crafts. Visitors can embark on river cruises to Windsor or Henley, enjoying the tranquil waters and picturesque surroundings. The park’s riverside lawns and seating areas offer idyllic spots for picnics, relaxation, and watching boating activities, connecting visitors intimately with the natural environment.Community Events and Seasonal Attractions
Throughout the year, Higginson Park hosts a variety of events ranging from French markets to triathlons and fun fairs. During school holidays and weekends in summer, a carousel often operates, adding to the family-friendly atmosphere. The park is also the venue for the weekly Parkrun every Saturday morning, fostering community fitness and engagement.Visitor Amenities and Accessibility
Visitors benefit from public toilets, baby changing facilities, and a café offering eat-in and takeaway service with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the park. The café is dog-friendly, providing treats for furry guests. Parking is available nearby, including free on-street parking for limited durations and pay-and-display options. The park is easily accessible on foot from Marlow railway station and served by local buses, making it convenient for both locals and tourists.Recognition and Environmental Stewardship
Higginson Park holds a Green Flag Award, recognizing its high standards of maintenance, safety, and environmental management. The park balances its role as a vibrant recreational space with conservation, providing a habitat for local wildlife and preserving the riverside ecosystem. Its careful stewardship ensures it remains a sustainable and cherished green space for future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Virgin Experience Days
4.9 km
Uncover unique gifts and memorable experiences at Virgin Experience Days in Bourne End, a must-visit for every tourist seeking adventure.
Maidenhead Railway Bridge
7.2 km
A masterpiece of Victorian engineering, Maidenhead Railway Bridge showcases Brunel’s groundbreaking design with its iconic flat brick arches spanning the Thames.
Burning Bush
14.2 km
A striking Gothic iron lamp embodying Eton College’s royal heritage and scholastic tradition on the historic High Street.
Sydney Camm Memorial
14.3 km
A full-size Hawker Hurricane replica honouring the Windsor-born designer who shaped aviation history.
Windsor Martyrs' Memorial
14.8 km
A solemn tribute in Windsor honoring Protestant martyrs who bravely faced persecution during England's Reformation.
Bronze Plaque № 10828
14.8 km
A subtle yet significant bronze plaque marking Windsor’s rich historical heritage on Thames Street.
The Curfew Tower
14.9 km
Explore the medieval Curfew Tower, a historic bell tower and fortress sentinel within Windsor Castle’s ancient walls.
Queen Victoria Statue
15.0 km
A majestic bronze tribute to Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, standing proudly at Windsor Castle’s entrance, celebrating Victorian royal heritage.
H. G. Wells White Plaque
15.0 km
Discover the H. G. Wells White Plaque on Windsor’s High Street, marking the early footsteps of a legendary science fiction pioneer.
Queen Charlotte Street
15.0 km
Discover the enchanting historical charm of Queen Charlotte Street, a must-visit landmark in Windsor, blending rich heritage with vibrant local culture.
The Crooked House of Windsor
15.0 km
Experience the whimsical charm of The Crooked House of Windsor, a unique tea room and tourist attraction with delightful tea and pastries.
Windsor & Royal Borough Museum
15.0 km
Explore Windsor's rich history at the Windsor & Royal Borough Museum, featuring captivating exhibits on local heritage and royal connections.
Mary Delany and Fanny Burney blue plaque
15.1 km
A commemorative plaque honoring Mary Delany’s botanical artistry and Frances Burney’s literary legacy at Windsor Castle’s historic wall.
Windsor Castle
15.1 km
Experience the grandeur of Windsor Castle, a royal residence steeped in history and beauty, where every corner reveals a story of the British monarchy.
King Edward III Tower
15.1 km
Explore the majestic King Edward III Tower, a stunning medieval landmark within Windsor Castle offering rich history and scenic Thames views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Higginson Park and Court Garden Leisure Complex
0.0 km
A historic riverside park in Marlow blending natural beauty, leisure facilities, and family-friendly activities along the iconic Thames Path.
Marlow Museum
0.1 km
Discover Marlow’s rich heritage through engaging exhibits and passionate volunteer storytelling in a charming riverside setting.
Marlow Lock
0.5 km
Historic lock and weir on the River Thames offering scenic riverside walks and a glimpse into centuries of river navigation heritage.
Cock Marsh
4.1 km
Discover Cock Marsh, a tranquil riverside nature reserve blending rare wildlife habitats with ancient Bronze Age burial mounds in scenic Berkshire.
BCA Zoo
4.1 km
Discover BCA Zoo’s unique blend of education and wildlife encounters nestled in the scenic Berkshire College of Agriculture campus.
The Stanley Spencer Gallery
4.9 km
Discover the world’s largest collection of Stanley Spencer’s art in the charming village that inspired his visionary works.
River Thames
5.7 km
Discover the River Thames, London’s historic and scenic river weaving through iconic landmarks and vibrant cultural life.
Cliveden House
6.2 km
A storied Italianate mansion overlooking the Thames, where centuries of glamour and intrigue unfold across 376 acres of magnificent gardens.
Grenfell Park
6.3 km
A historic community park in Maidenhead with playgrounds, sports courts, outdoor gym, café, and scenic green spaces for all ages.
Maidenhead Heritage Centre
6.4 km
Explore Maidenhead’s rich local history and wartime aviation legacy at the welcoming Heritage Centre on Park Street.
National Trust - Cliveden
6.4 km
Explore Cliveden’s majestic gardens, historic house, and woodlands on a grand Thames Valley estate rich in heritage and natural beauty.
Ray Mill Island
6.5 km
Discover peaceful riverside walks, wildlife, and family-friendly charm at Ray Mill Island in Maidenhead’s scenic Thames corridor.
Boulters Lock
6.5 km
Historic Thames lock and serene riverside gardens offering scenic boat watching, wildlife, and a vibrant pub atmosphere in Maidenhead.
Eden, High Wycombe
7.2 km
A spacious, vibrant shopping and leisure hub in High Wycombe with over 100 stores, dining, cinema, and community events for all ages.
Church Square
7.2 km
Historic heart of High Wycombe where timeless architecture meets vibrant community life and cultural events.
Essential places to dine
The Ivy Marlow Garden
0.4 km
Elegant British dining with Art Deco charm and a diverse menu on Marlow's historic High Street, perfect for special occasions and leisurely meals.
Vanilla Pod
0.5 km
Cozy Anglo-French dining in historic Marlow, blending refined flavors with literary heritage and exceptional service.
The Restaurant at Danesfield House
3.7 km
Elegant British dining in a historic country house with stunning views of the Thames and Chiltern Hills near Marlow.
The Cliveden Dining Room
6.2 km
Experience refined British fine dining in the historic grandeur of Cliveden House, set amidst breathtaking gardens near London.
The Hinds Head
8.3 km
A Michelin-starred British pub in Bray blending traditional charm with Heston Blumenthal’s innovative culinary artistry.
The Waterside Inn
8.4 km
Experience timeless French haute cuisine and riverside elegance at The Waterside Inn, Bray’s iconic three-Michelin-starred restaurant and hotel.
The Fat Duck
8.4 km
Experience a groundbreaking, theatrical tasting journey at The Fat Duck, where culinary science meets nostalgic storytelling in a historic Bray inn.
Bespoke Restaurants
10.4 km
Elegant dining in Beaconsfield’s historic Old Rectory, where bespoke cuisine meets timeless charm.
The Shurlock Inn
11.9 km
A charming 17th-century English gastropub blending historic charm with modern British cuisine and a lively bar scene.
The Greene Oak
12.5 km
A charming Windsor gastropub blending traditional British pub warmth with seasonal, market-fresh cuisine and stylish dining.
GOGOS Waterfront Restaurant
13.1 km
South African-inspired dining with stunning marina views at Windsor Racecourse Marina, perfect for memorable meals and special occasions.
The Castle Restaurant at Royal Windsor Racecourse
13.3 km
Experience luxury dining with panoramic racecourse views at The Castle Restaurant, where thrilling horse racing meets elegant cuisine in Windsor.
King & Lamb Restaurant
13.8 km
Elegant British dining in a historic country house setting with superb roasts, vegan options, and a tranquil garden atmosphere.
Gurkha Royale Restaurant & Bar
14.1 km
Authentic Himalayan, Indian, and Oriental flavors served in a vibrant, welcoming Windsor venue with exceptional service and a lively atmosphere.
Winning Post Pub & Dining
14.2 km
Quintessential English country pub in Winkfield offering refined British fare, cosy charm, and welcoming hospitality in a historic 18th-century setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
John Lewis & Partners
5.0 km
A trusted British department store blending quality, style, and service in the heart of High Wycombe’s Cressex Centre.
Nicholsons Shopping Centre
6.3 km
A vibrant shopping hub in Maidenhead blending big-name brands with charming boutiques for a diverse retail experience.
Ruby Moon
7.3 km
Explore the mystical world of crystals and unique gifts at Ruby Moon, High Wycombe’s beloved metaphysical emporium since 1998.
The Old Grain Barn Antiques, Berkshire
13.6 km
Discover vintage treasures and artisan crafts in a charming antique barn nestled in Berkshire’s Moss End Garden Village.
Gifts Box
14.7 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Gifts Box, the charming gift shop in Windsor, perfect for your memorable keepsakes.
Jigsaw
14.8 km
Discover timeless style and quality craftsmanship at Jigsaw, Windsor's boutique for elegant ladies' fashion and unique statement pieces.
Windsor Yards
14.8 km
A vibrant shopping destination blending modern retail with Windsor’s historic charm and community spirit.
Oliver Bonas
14.8 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish homewares at Oliver Bonas, nestled in the heart of Windsor Yards Shopping Centre.
Purple Gifts
14.8 km
Discover unique souvenirs and handcrafted treasures that capture the charm and creativity of Windsor at Purple Gifts.
H&M
14.8 km
Affordable, stylish fashion for men, women, and children in the heart of historic Windsor’s King Edward Court.
Piara
14.8 km
Explore Windsor's charm at Piara Gift Shop, where unique gifts and local treasures await every visitor.
Craft Coop Windsor
14.9 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and vibrant local artistry at Craft Coop Windsor, a welcoming hub for community creativity and bespoke treasures.
Wellington 1895 Antiques Windsor
14.9 km
Centuries of curated treasures in Windsor's most distinguished antique shop.
Whistles
14.9 km
Upscale ladies’ fashion boutique set within the historic charm of Windsor Royal Station, blending contemporary style with Victorian elegance.
Middle Ward Shop
14.9 km
Royal souvenirs and gifts within Windsor Castle's historic Middle Ward.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Old Brewery
0.3 km
A vibrant Marlow pub with great beers, lively sports screens, and welcoming service for all occasions.
The Botanist Marlow
0.5 km
A lush, botanical-themed bar and restaurant in Marlow, alive with seasonal menus, inventive cocktails, and vibrant live music every weekend.
The Oarsman, Marlow
0.7 km
Sophisticated gastropub in Marlow blending seasonal British cuisine, curated wines, and warm hospitality in a stylish setting.
Off The Tap
6.1 km
Lively Maidenhead pub offering craft beers, tasty pub fare, and vibrant events in a welcoming, fun atmosphere.
The Boathouse at Boulters Lock
6.5 km
Riverside gastropub on Boulters Lock Island offering seasonal British cuisine, stunning river views, and a warm, stylish atmosphere.
The Snug Bar High Wycombe
7.1 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in High Wycombe offering over 100 fresh cocktails, lively atmosphere, and great happy hour deals in a spacious, stylish setting.
Milaanj at The Beehive Pub & Restaurant
8.9 km
Discover Milaanj at The Beehive: a rustic village pub in White Waltham serving exquisite British-Indian fusion cuisine in a charming countryside setting.
The Royal Standard of England
9.4 km
Step into England’s oldest freehouse, where 900 years of royal history, ghostly legends, and timeless ale await in a charming rural setting.
The Treehouse
10.4 km
A vibrant bar in Beaconsfield known for quality cocktails, friendly service, and a lively social atmosphere.
The Hit or Miss
12.1 km
A cozy country pub in Amersham offering hearty British fare and friendly service in a charming village setting.
The Chilterns Fox
12.5 km
A cozy country pub and hotel in the Chiltern Hills offering hearty food, friendly service, and a peaceful rural retreat near High Wycombe.
Upstairs Windsor
14.8 km
A refined cocktail bar in Windsor offering expertly crafted drinks and a grown-up atmosphere for stylish weekend nights.
All Bar One Windsor
14.8 km
A stylish wine bar near Windsor Castle offering vibrant vibes, crafted cocktails, and shared plates in a historic yet modern setting.
La planchette
14.8 km
Discover Windsor’s charming French wine bar with exquisite wines, artisanal pairings, and riverside ambiance on Thames Avenue.
The King & Castle - JD Wetherspoon
14.8 km
A spacious, friendly JD Wetherspoon pub in Windsor offering affordable drinks and classic British fare near the historic Windsor Castle.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Venue, Bucks
7.0 km
Experience High Wycombe’s vibrant nightlife at The Venue, Bucks – a lively nightclub with great music, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
7.1 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
Diligence
7.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.
Pink Gentleman's Club.
14.9 km
Sophisticated adult entertainment with exclusive VIP rooms and topless pole shows in the heart of Windsor’s nightlife scene.
The Boom
14.9 km
Historic arches meet vibrant beats at The Boom, Windsor’s energetic nightclub and bar for unforgettable nights.
The Scotch
14.9 km
Windsor’s iconic Victorian arch nightclub blending historic charm with eclectic music and circus-themed nightlife.
Labyrinth Nightclub Windsor
14.9 km
Experience Windsor’s vibrant nightlife with live DJs, multiple bars, and an electrifying atmosphere at Labyrinth Nightclub.
The Binfield Club
15.1 km
Historic social club in Binfield offering vibrant nightlife, live music, sports, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Winkers Nightclub
16.9 km
A lively, budget-friendly nightclub in Gerrards Cross offering energetic music and a casual local vibe for weekend partygoers.
3sixty
18.1 km
Experience vibrant student nightlife and live events at 3sixty, the University of Reading’s premier nightclub and entertainment venue.
Q Club
18.2 km
Experience Reading’s energetic nightlife at Q Club, a lively nightclub and bar offering music, drinks, and late-night fun on Friar Street.
Reading Lola Lo
18.4 km
Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.
Popworld - Reading
18.4 km
A vibrant pop-themed nightclub in Reading’s city centre, where retro beats meet neon-lit fun for unforgettable nights.
Gun Street Garden
18.5 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
TWC
27.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Green Flag Award
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly