Marlow railway station dates back to 1873, but the tiny modern build was opened in 1967 on the site of the original goods yard. Colloquially the branch line is known as the 'Marlow Donkey' and a local pub of the same name can be found at the end of the Station Approach. The line to Marlow offers a unique experience as the train reverses direction at Bourne End before heading off to the west, drifting across the floodplains of the Thames out towards Marlow.
Over the centuries, Marlow has developed from a popular crossing spot on the River Thames to a rowing institution - with Dorney Lake the scene of Team GB's rowing success during the London 2012 Olympics and a statue of Sir Stephen Redgrave, the town's most famous son, erected in Higginson Park. Each June, The Marlow Town Regatta and Festival is a national event and the ancient ceremony of Royal Swan Upping - the annual census of the swan population on the River Thames - takes place here every July. Also, on the waterside, Albion House is where Mary Shelley completed her famous horror tale, Frankenstein. Non-water fans should take in the eclectic shops of the High Street, West Street and Spittal Street.