A picturesque Georgian market town has been crowned the best high street in the UK outside of London by estate agents Knight Frank.

According to the property sellers, Marlow, which is a town in Buckinghamshire located on the banks of the River Thames, is the best of the best when it comes to thriving high streets. Knight Frank looked at where home buyers are flocking, and Marlow came out as a seriously desirable area. 

The high street was described as ‘both charming and lively’ and it draws in home-hunters for its independent stores and high fashion boutiques. As well as being home to a good grammar school – Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School – it’s also got Michelin-starred restaurants and cosy pubs.

In fact, famous chef Tom Kerridge has a pub there called The Hand of Flowers, which is the only public house in the UK with two Michelin stars. There’s also Compleat Angler and well-loved originals like The Ivy.

Some of Time Out’s fave things to do in Marlow include strolling around Higginson Park, admiring the view of the Thames and finishing with a pint at the cosy Two Brewers.

Marlow high street, Buckinghamshire, England
Photograph: Shutterstock

Matt Davies, partner at Knight Frank, said: ‘We tend to see a slightly younger buyer base in Marlow, driven in large part by its outstanding educational institutions, including grammar schools such as Sir William Borlase’s. 

‘This often draws buyers towards the west side of town, to be within easy reach of these highly sought-after schools.’ 

After Marlow, the historic and beautiful Clifton Village in Bristol. Recent improvements, such as the pedestrianisation of Princess Victoria Street, have apparently added to the conservation area’s already substantial charm. 

Overall, Wimbledon Village took the top spot as best high street in Britain by Knight Frank, which was impressed by its indie boutiques and bakeries, fitness studios and community vibes. Hampstead and St John’s Wood, also in London, followed.

Did you see that this Marlow riverside trail is one of the best scenic walks near London?

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