The best walks and hikes around Marlow
4.6
(1789)
14,891
hikers
74
hikes
Hiking around Marlow offers diverse terrain, situated on the edge of the Chiltern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and bisected by the River Thames. The region features chalk hills, ancient woodlands, and riverside paths. Hikers can explore varied landscapes, from gentle valley strolls along the Thames to more challenging routes through the Chilterns. This area provides a network of trails suitable for different abilities and preferences.
Best hiking trails around Marlow
- The most popular hiking route is Marlow &…
Last updated: May 2, 2026
4.4
(24)
205
hikers
5.98km
01:31
10m
10m
Embark on the Marlow & Thames Path loop, an easy 3.7-mile (6.0 km) hike that takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete, with a gentle elevation gain of…
4.8
(22)
92
hikers
19.3km
05:05
160m
160m
This difficult 12.0-mile (19.3 km) hike through the Chiltern Hills will take you about 5 hours and 5 minutes to complete, climbing 537 feet (164 metres) along the way. You'll…
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4.9
(9)
72
hikers
11.3km
02:52
30m
30m
Embark on a moderate hike from Marlow to the Spade Oak Local Nature Reserve, following the scenic River Thames. This route spans 7.0 miles (11.3 km) with a gentle elevation…
4.0
(4)
230
hikers
4.89km
01:14
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(16)
106
hikers
12.5km
03:16
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Lovely little village - drinks and snacks available at the Post Office, or great food at the Stag and Hunstman pub.
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It is not so common for a Christian place of worship – which encompasses the whole of heaven – to be dedicated to “ALL SAINTS”. Usually it is one (or occasionally two) named saints who hold the patronage of a church – and thus usually also of the parish or town in which it is located. But to find the origin of such a dedication, one has to go far back in history, because the model for this practice of dedication to ALL SAINTS can be seen as a pagan custom, according to which there were already central temples in pre-Christian times that were dedicated to all deities (PANTHEON). The probably most famous Pantheon, formerly a pagan temple and now a Christian place of worship, is located in the Italian capital.
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Marlow is a picturesque town on the edge of the Chiltern Hills AONB, and the bridge is one of the highlights. Connecting Buckinghamshire and Berkshire, there has been a bridge on this site since at least 1530, with an original crossing dated at around 1309.
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On the other side of the lakes is sewage works, giving off horrendous smells
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Hambledon Lock is a historic lock situated on the River Thames that features a long weir. The lock has seen various renovations, and even featured in Charles Dickens' short ghost story.
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Chilling in the Chilterns
The Chiltern Hills AONB encompasses 322 square miles (830 km2) of rolling hills and pastoral scenery. Walks from Marlow will lead you straight up into the Chilterns through Pullingshill Wood, Marlow Common and Homefield Wood directly above the town. Keep hiking for as long as you like, as paths connect all over the area, pulling you on from viewpoint to viewpoint.
Woodland covers around a fifth of the Chilterns, making it one of most wooded areas in England. Much of the area is farmland and footpaths weave their way between and across fields making it impossible to believe that London and Reading aren’t very far away.
With a high point of just 876 feet (267 m) at Haddington Hill, hiking in the Chilterns will never present overly challenging climbs. Instead you’ll gain enough height for fabulous views while staying low enough to keep your brow dry (ish).
Exploring along the River Thames
The River Thames makes a name for itself as it sweeps through Central London but out here in the countryside, it’s slimmer and more charming, with whimsical curves and verdant banks.
For the best hiking trails near Marlow, all you have to do is follow this famous river. Off to the east, the Thames weaves its way from Henley-on-Thames and you can follow it close by for much of this route. Walk to Hambledon lock and continue on to Henley or cross over the river to head up into the Chilterns.
The Thames is set into a wonderfully green landscape here, with fields and low hills. In spring and summer it abounds with life, from riverbank flowers and blossoming trees to the birds and animals that call the river their home.
Your hikes around Marlow can also take you west along the Thames, to Cliveden House and its country park. Stroll here in beautiful surroundings with gentle trails and great spots for family picnics.
Heading further afield
Further afield, you can explore Colne Valley Regional Park with its serene canal and riverside trails, thriving woodlands and wildlife habitats. This 27,500-acre (11,128-ha) park is filled with lakes, nature reserves, forests and reservoirs, with more trails than you can count. This vast regional park is around 15 miles (24 km) from Marlow, making it a great spot for day trips if you’re based in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Marlow?
Marlow offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 70 trails available. These routes cater to different preferences, from gentle riverside strolls to more challenging treks through the Chiltern Hills.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking near Marlow?
Hiking around Marlow provides a diverse range of landscapes. You'll find picturesque riverside paths along the Thames, chalk hills and ancient woodlands within the Chiltern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and serene natural areas like Bisham Woods and Marlow Common, known for its rare heathland habitats.
Are there hiking options for different skill levels in Marlow?
Yes, Marlow offers trails for all abilities. There are over 40 easy routes, perfect for a leisurely walk, as well as 25 moderate and 6 difficult trails for those seeking a more challenging adventure through the rolling terrain of the Chilterns.
Are there any circular walks around Marlow?
Many of the trails around Marlow are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. A popular easy option is the Marlow & Thames Path loop, which offers scenic riverside views. For a more challenging circular route, consider the difficult Marlow, Hambledon Weir & Pullingshill Wood loop — Chiltern Hills.
Can I bring my dog on hikes around Marlow?
Many trails around Marlow are dog-friendly, especially those along the Thames Path and through the Chiltern Hills' woodlands. However, always keep dogs under control, particularly near livestock or in nature reserves. Some areas may require dogs to be on a lead, so it's good practice to check local signage.
Are there family-friendly hiking trails in Marlow?
Absolutely. Marlow has numerous easy, flat trails suitable for families. Higginson Park in the town center offers open green spaces and Thames views, perfect for a short stroll. Many of the easy riverside paths, such as the Steve Redgrave Statue – Thames Towpath loop from Marlow, are also great for families.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints on hikes near Marlow?
For breathtaking views, head towards the Chiltern Hills. Winter Hill, a short drive from Marlow, offers panoramic vistas over the Thames Valley. You can also incorporate landmarks like Cobstone Windmill into your hike, which provides a notable landmark and overlooks the village of Turville.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I discover on a hike in Marlow?
Marlow's trails often lead past historical and natural attractions. You can walk past the iconic Marlow Bridge, visit Hambleden Lock and Weir, or explore the tranquil Spade Oak Nature Reserve. The area also features ancient woodlands and historic churches.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Marlow?
The hiking experience around Marlow is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 120 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the beautiful riverside scenery, the peaceful ancient woodlands, and the well-maintained paths that offer a refreshing escape into nature.
Are there any trails that follow the River Thames?
Yes, the River Thames is a central feature of hiking in Marlow. The Thames Path runs directly through the town, offering easy, mostly level walking opportunities with stunning riverside views. Routes like the Marlow to Spade Oak Local Nature Reserve via River Thames are excellent for experiencing the river's beauty.
Can I reach hiking trails near Marlow using public transport?
Marlow has good public transport links, particularly by bus, which can connect you to various starting points for hikes. The town itself is a great base, with many trails accessible directly from the town centre, including those along the Thames Path. For specific bus routes and timetables, it's advisable to check local transport information.
Are there pubs or cafes along hiking routes in Marlow?
Yes, Marlow and its surrounding villages are well-known for their charming pubs and cafes, many of which are conveniently located along popular hiking routes. You'll find plenty of opportunities to stop for refreshments, especially along the Thames Path and in villages within the Chiltern Hills.
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