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From Cotswolds villages to coastal towns, Britain boasts an array of breathtaking locations. While I love exploring them, settling in one for a long time requires it to meet my expectations. Having spent several years living in Windsor, I was sceptical about whether a place could live up to its picturesque scenery. Yet this lesser-known gem just outside London proved to be considerably quieter and more tranquil.

Situated approximately 28 miles from central London, Marlow sits along a picturesque stretch of the River Thames, nestled amongst the sweeping countryside of the Chiltern Hills. Its historic high street and charming surroundings draw visitors from across the country, yet it remains pleasantly unhurried compared to neighbouring towns such as Henley-on-Thames. The town featured in the Domesday Book as an established settlement, prized for its fertile land and river access.

It subsequently flourished as a river crossing and trading hub before gaining recognition for malting and brewing. During the 19th century, construction of the bridge began to strengthen connections across the Thames, while the later arrival of the railway further enhanced accessibility and spurred growth.

Today, it stands as an affluent residential and leisure destination, celebrated for its riverside location, vibrant high street and exceptional dining scene. It is regularly ranked amongst the finest places to live in the UK.

There is plenty to see and do in the town, from hiring a rowing boat and enjoying a picnic in Higginson Park to browsing the local market.

The charming high street is brimming with independent boutiques and eateries, including The Cheese Shed, The Marlow Bookshop and The Dresser. Laurent's, an Italian café and deli serving mouth-watering sandwiches and coffee, is also a personal favourite.

Marlow regularly hosts markets where visitors can discover locally sourced produce, amongst them delectable homemade gelato from Agosti Gelato and freshly pressed juices from Marlow Juices.

The town has earned a strong reputation for its thriving food scene, boasting award-winning pubs and Michelin-starred restaurants.

The Hand and Flowers stands as perhaps the town's most celebrated dining destination, having become the first pub in the country to receive two Michelin stars - a distinction it proudly retains to this day.

Owned by celebrity chef Tom Kerridge, it elevates classic British dishes through refined techniques and bold, distinctive flavours. Dining here doesn't come cheap, however, with a set Sunday lunch priced at around £195.

Property and living costs tend to sit well above the national average, reflecting the town's desirability and its commuter-friendly location.

According to Rightmove, the average house price in Marlow over the past year came in just under £700,000 - more than double the UK's current average of £290,000, as recorded by the Office for National Statistics.

The town also sits within easy reach of Bourne End, Cookham and Bray, while nearby Cliveden, a stunning National Trust property, makes for a perfect weekend retreat.