Marlow

Thames-side elegance meets Chiltern Hills charm in this remarkably well-preserved Georgian town. Marlow's High Street feels properly upmarket without being stuffy - think independent boutiques alongside renowned restaurants, with the spire of St. Peter's church providing a handsome backdrop.

The town wears its literary connections lightly but proudly. T.S. Eliot lived here while writing 'The Waste Land', and you'll find Kenneth Grahame's former residence where 'The Wind in the Willows' took shape. These aren't tourist traps - just blue plaques on beautiful buildings that happen to house history.

Marlow's real draw is the Thames itself. The weir creates a lovely rushing soundtrack to riverside walks, while the suspension bridge - a proper Victorian engineering feat - frames views that haven't changed much in decades. Court Garden Leisure Complex offers more active pursuits if you fancy a swim or tennis match.

Getting here couldn't be simpler. Direct trains from London Paddington take about 45 minutes, stopping at Marlow station right in the town centre. The M40 and M4 are both within easy reach for drivers.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense for exploring the wider area. Hurley Riverside Park puts you right on the Thames Path, while Penn Meadow Farm Camping offers a more rural base in the Chiltern countryside. Both give you the freedom to explore Marlow at your own pace, perhaps catching sunset drinks by the river before retreating to your pitch. The town's compact size means everything's walkable, yet you're perfectly positioned for day trips to Windsor, Henley, or the Chiltern Hills proper.