Background

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.

4.6

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
  • Environment icon 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.
widget icon

Getting There

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather

Unlock the Best of Higginson Park

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

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.

Busiest months of the year

Busiest hours of the day

Popular Experiences near Higginson Park

Popular Hotels near Higginson Park

Select Currency