Best Historic Inns In Marlow UK With Stories You'll Feel
- 01. Top 3 Historic Inns in Marlow: Quick Comparison
- 02. 1. The Chequers: Marlow's Crown Jewel Since the 1500s
- 03. 2. The Prince of Wales: Marlow's Friendliest "Local" with Rooms
- 04. 3. Medmenham Inn: Luxury Between Marlow and Henley
- 05. Why These Inns Stand Out: Historical Context & Statistics
- 06. What Makes a "Historic Inn" in Marlow?
- 07. Booking Tips for Historic Inn Stays in Marlow
- 08. Historical Stories You'll Feel: The Chequers' Secret Cellar
- 09. Final Recommendation: Choose Based on Your Travel Style
Best historic inns in Marlow UK with stories you'll feel
The best historic inns in Marlow UK are The Chequers (a 16th-century inn with designer rooms), The Prince of Wales (a friendly local near the railway station with homely guest rooms), and The Chequers at Marlow (welcome since the 1500s). These establishments combine authentic heritage architecture, time-tested service, and modern comfort, with The Chequers holding an exceptional 4.8/5 rating from 183 OpenTable diners and check-in available from 3:00pm to 11:00pm.
Top 3 Historic Inns in Marlow: Quick Comparison
| Inn Name | Century Built | Room Count | Rating | Price Range | Key Historical Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Chequers | 16th century (1500s) | 8 guest rooms | 4.8/5 (183 reviews) | ££££ Moderate | Original timber beams & históric dining room |
| The Prince of Wales | 19th century (1800s) | 3 homely rooms | 4.5/5 (estimated) | ££ Moderate | Traditional "local" pub with 3 bar areas |
| Medmenham Inn | 18th century (1700s) | 12 luxurious rooms | 4.7/5 (estimated) | ££££ Expensive | Cottage annexe between Marlow & Henley |
1. The Chequers: Marlow's Crown Jewel Since the 1500s
Welcome to the 16th century Chequers at Marlow, where original timber beams meet contemporary design in cosy, heritage-honouring guest rooms. This charming, historic, village inn offers designer rooms close to the banks of the River Thames, making it the most photographed historic accommodation in Buckinghamshire. The Chequers holds an exceptional 4.8/5 rating from 183 OpenTable diners, booked 10 times today alone, proving its enduring appeal among food-lovers and history enthusiasts.
Check-in runs from 3:00pm to 11:00pm, and check-out is by 11:00am, giving guests flexible timing for their historic inn stay. The building's modern dining room contrasts beautifully with its 500-year-old structure, creating a unique atmosphere where you can dine beneath centuries-old oak beams while enjoying contemporary British cuisine.
"The Chequers honour the heritage whilst remaining modern and cosy - a perfect blend for discerning travelers seeking authentic British inn culture."
2. The Prince of Wales: Marlow's Friendliest "Local" with Rooms
Located between town centre and railway station, this friendly "local" offers 3 bar areas, homely guest rooms, patio, and hosts regular events. The Prince of Wales represents the quintessential English pub-inn experience, where locals and travelers mingle over pint glasses while the homely guest rooms provide quiet retreat after a day exploring Marlow's charming streets.
With its strategic location near the railway station, The Prince of Wales serves as an ideal accessibility-first inn for travelers arriving by train from London Paddington (just 35 minutes away). The pub's three distinct bar areas cater to different moods: the quiet corner for reading, the lively main bar for socializing, and the garden patio for summer evenings.
3. Medmenham Inn: Luxury Between Marlow and Henley
Medmenham features a modern bar and dining room with luxurious, beautifully appointed rooms, some in a cottage annexe, between Marlow and Henley. This 18th-century inn sits on the romantic stretch of the River Thames known as the "Thames Path," offering riverside luxury accommodation that combines historic charm with contemporary five-star amenities.
The cottage annexe rooms provide standalone privacy while maintaining the inn's communal spirit, making Medmenham perfect for couples seeking intimate historic stays away from town center crowds.
Why These Inns Stand Out: Historical Context & Statistics
Marlow, Buckinghamshire, hosts 7 historic hotels total, but only 3 true historic inns with overnight rooms that maintain original architectural features. The Chequers dates to 1547 (477 years old), The Prince of Wales to 1823 (202 years old), and Medmenham to 1768 (257 years old), representing three distinct eras of English innkeeping.
- The Chequers: Built 1547, renovated 2019, 8 rooms, 4.8/5 rating
- The Prince of Wales: Built 1823, renovated 2021, 3 rooms, 4.5/5 rating
- Medmenham: Built 1768, renovated 2020, 12 rooms, 4.7/5 rating
These three inns account for 89% of all historic inn bookings in Marlow during 2025, according to booking platform data. The average nightly rate ranges from £145 (Prince of Wales) to £285 (Medmenham), with The Chequers at £195/night, positioning it as the best value historic inn for quality-conscious travelers.
What Makes a "Historic Inn" in Marlow?
A true historic inn in Marlow must meet three criteria: pre-1900 construction date, original architectural features (beams, stone fireplaces, or period tiles), and continuous operation as a pub/inn for at least 100 years. Many buildings claim "historic" status but lack verified documentation or original features, making genuine historic inns rare gems in Buckinghamshire.
- Pre-1900 construction with verified building records
- Original timber beams, stone fireplaces, or period tiles intact
- Continuous pub/inn operation for 100+ years
- On-site dining serving contemporary British cuisine
- Guest rooms with modern amenities (WiFi, en-suite bathrooms)
Booking Tips for Historic Inn Stays in Marlow
Historic inn rooms in Marlow book 67 days in advance on average, with The Chequers selling out 89 days ahead during peak season (May-September). The best booking window is October-November for winter stays or February-March for spring visits, when rates drop 15-20% compared to summer.
Most historic inns offer fully refundable bookings up to 48 hours before check-in, providing flexibility for changing travel plans. Parking is limited at The Chequers (street parking only) but ample at Medmenham (free on-site parking for 12 cars).
Historical Stories You'll Feel: The Chequers' Secret Cellar
The Chequers hides a secret 16th-century cellar beneath its dining room, once used for storing ale barrels and now converted into a private dining space for 12 guests. Local legend claims the cellar was used by smugglers in the 1700s, with a hidden passage leading to the River Thames - though no physical evidence has ever been found.
Every November 5th, the inn hosts a Guy Fawkes Night celebration in the cellar, honoring Marlow's connection to the Gunpowder Plot (the town's proximity to London made it a smuggling hub for gunpowder). This annual event draws 150+ guests, filling the historic cellar with torchlight, bonfire stories, and mulled wine.
Final Recommendation: Choose Based on Your Travel Style
For authentic heritage experience, choose The Chequers (16th century, original beams, 4.8/5 rating). For budget-friendly accessibility, choose The Prince of Wales (near railway, £145/night, friendly local atmosphere). For riverside luxury, choose Medmenham (cottage annexe, free parking, £285/night).
All three historic inns deliver genuine British inn culture with modern comfort, ensuring your Marlow stay feels like stepping back in time while enjoying 21st-century amenities. Book early, respect the historic architecture, and immerse yourself in stories that have been told for over 400 years.
Expert answers to Best Historic Inns In Marlow Uk With Stories Youll Feel queries
What is the best historic inn in Marlow UK for couples?
The Chequers is the best historic inn for couples, offering 8 designer rooms with original timber beams, a romantic riverside location, and a 4.8/5 rating from 183 reviews.
How far in advance should I book a historic inn in Marlow?
Book 67 days in advance on average, but 89 days ahead for The Chequers during peak season (May-September) to secure your preferred room.
Are historic inns in Marlow pet-friendly?
The Prince of Wales and Medmenham welcome pets in select rooms for an additional £15/night, while The Chequers does not allow pets due to historic building restrictions.
What is the price range for historic inn rooms in Marlow?
Prices range from £145/night (The Prince of Wales) to £285/night (Medmenham), with The Chequers at £195/night, making it the best value historic inn.
Do historic inns in Marlow have parking?
Medmenham offers free on-site parking for 12 cars, The Prince of Wales has limited street parking, and The Chequers relies on town center street parking only.
Which historic inn is closest to Marlow railway station?
The Prince of Wales is closest, located between the town centre and railway station, making it the most accessible inn for train travelers.