Maidenhead Area Guide
The Get Living Edit
The Get Living Edit
Berkshire – one of London’s neighbouring home counties known for its royal connections, bucolic riverside villages and rolling valleys.
Nestled in the east corner you’ll find Maidenhead. A town that, much like the river it sits on, continues to go with the flow of rejuvenation as new transport links create new opportunities for development.
And while being able to get back to buzz of London is great, Maidonians really do prefer the quieter, babbling brooks of the countryside and extra space to breathe. Strolling down the river to some of its surrounding villages and you too will sip on the same inspiration that Kenneth Grahame found for everybody’s much-loved children’s classic, The Wind in the Willows.
So, hop aboard for a whistle-stop tour of Maidenhead!
Kenneth Grahame, The Wind in the Willows
Searching for a fabulous restaurant? Want to get outdoors? Or unwind in a spa oasis? We’ve got you covered with our guide to Maidenhead
From fine dining in Michelin-starred restaurants, to relaxed riverside cafes, Maidenhead and its neighbours has it all and everything in between. Tuck into its culinary scene…
A very reasonably-priced Spanish tapas bar in Maidenhead’s new canal-side area. In the summer, enjoy your croquetas and gambas outdoors overlooking the water. Its extensive menu means there’s always something to go back for.
Opened by husband and wife team, Seasonality has caught the attention of respected food critic Grace Dent. What started as a dine-at-home concept has now grown into a relaxed dining space while remaining focused on using seasonal ingredients at their best. It’s everything a good neighbourhood restaurant should be.
A pasta bar where you can really taste the freshness. The corn ribs are a must-try for starters and for dessert, the tiramisu will not disappoint. There are feasting menus available for groups of 8+ so you can try all the favourites, plus plenty of vegan options.
Coppa Club’s relaxed vibe and all-day dining concept makes it a go-to spot for any occasion. From lazy long lunches with grazing plates and cocktails, to fresh pasta and wine. Choose to sit in the restaurant, garden room or terrace overlooking the waterways.
Set over four floors in an unassuming building on Queen Street, The Borough is home to a wine and cocktail bar, speakeasy lounge and The Library – a restaurant serving modern British cuisine. Opt for the accompanying wine flight to try a selection of carefully picked wines from the wine room.
The Bakedd team are early risers, creating their signature dough for its delicious pastries, bread and quiches. Located on the waterways it’s an idyllic spot to sip coffee and watch the swans swim past.
Discover culinary excellence in nearby Bray. The Roux brothers’ waterside establishment promises a picture-perfect setting on the Thames, impeccable service, and first-class soufflé. It’s no wonder this classic French restaurant has been awarded three Michelin stars.
Further up the Thames in Taplow, is Alain Roux’s more relaxed riverside offering. The contemporary brasserie serves classic French Main courses starting from £20 and does a fantastic Sunday roast.
The Fat Duck in Bray is no ordinary dining experience. It’s a study and celebration of the senses. Inspired by childhood adventure stories, Heston’s 16 course menu is full of wonder and delight. You’ll need to book well in advance or look out for last minute cancellations.
Because out here in the countryside, pub walks are life.
Another of Heston’s creations, this quintessentially English inn is less formal than its sister restaurant but isn’t any less special. Dine amongst exposed beams, wood panelling and treat your tastebuds to his signature scotch egg and triple-cooked chips.
Tom Kerridge’s pub in Marlow is the only in the UK to have two Michelin stars under its belt. It’s warm and homely atmosphere, 17th century interiors and rich dishes keep it a firm local favourite, while drawing foodies in from far and wide.
Sitting on its very own island in the River Thames, The Boathouse and is the perfect alfresco spot for breakfast, lunch and dinner with a menu that changes with the seasons.
At the end of the Long Walk, you’ll be deserving of a drink at the Two Brewers in Windsor. Identifiable by its floral hanging baskets, head to this eighteenth-century local, grab a table in the low-beamed bar area and enjoy poshed-up pub food; think fillet steak and chargrilled asparagus wrapped in Parma ham.
For those seeking comforting pub classics, head to this old-world, sixteenth century establishment with roaring log fires and a heated garden marquee. If in doubt, go for the beer battered fish and chips.
Spend weekends discovering the beauty of being in the Berkshire countryside. Maidenhead sits along endless walking routes and is within reach of some stunning green spaces and areas of natural beauty to explore.
Take to the waters of the Thames from the Cliveden Estate in Taplow. Whether you’re an experienced skipper or nautical novice, the Electric Boat Company will find the right vehicle for you within its fleet. Spend the day bobbing along and marvelling the stunning riverside properties along the way.
This ancient royal landscape of forests, grasslands, lakes and gardens spans nearly 5,000 acres from Windsor Castle itself, south to Virginia Water where you’ll find a 2-mile-long-lake. Once the hunting ground of Kings and Queens, it is now home to 500 red deer which roam freely across the park – take care during rutting season!
The Thames Path which connects London to the Cotswolds passes through several rural counties. Along the Maidenhead to Windsor stretch you’ll pass under Brunel’s famous railway bridge known as the Sounding Arch because of its spectacular echo - give it a try!
Built as a training ground for Eton College’s rowing team, Dorney Lake has since hosted Olympic athletes including Sir Steve Redgrave. For those just starting out, Dorney Boat Club runs weekly sessions for all abilities. Or if you’d rather stay on land other outdoor activities include: archery, falconry, ferret racing (who knew?), rock climbing and yoga.
Learn about Maidenhead’s heritage while getting your steps in by following the ‘Maidenhead Memories’ sculpture trail. Download the map to discover eight pieces of public art and if you find them all you could win £20 in a prize draw to spend at Bakedd bakery.
An Area of Outstanding National Beauty, the Chiltern Hills spans 660 square miles and several counties. From Maidenhead, drive/catch a train to Marlow and Bourne End where you can then access several walking routes taking you through this unique landscape and stunning views of the Thames Valley.
Maidenhead offers something different when it comes to staying well. Yes, you can HIIT up a gym or fitness studio, but for the best way to look after your body, mind and soul we recommend making use of one of its nearby spas or taking to the water for some R&R.
Indulge in a five-star spa experience within National Trust grounds. If you become a member of this exclusive social and country club, you’ll get full access to the spa facilities – fluffy robes and all - including an outdoor pool hidden behind a brick-walled garden. Pure bliss.
Relax under the stars by the Celestial Pool, feel the tension leave your muscles in the Hydrotherapy Surf Pool or float into a state of calm in the Dead Sea Salt Pool – you’ll certainly feel like a water baby at Nirvana Spa.
Housed in a stunning Georgian property, this peaceful haven is just one stop from Maidenhead on the Elizabeth Line away. Whether you’re having a deep-tissue massage, taking a dip in the outdoor pool or heating up in the sauna, we guarantee you’ll leave feeling brand new.
Tucked away off a leafy path in Reading, discover restored Edwardian swimming baths that will take you back in time. This Grade II listed urban retreat is open to the public all year round thanks to heated pool, hot tub and sauna as well as massage rooms and an award-winning restaurant which is featured in the Michelin Guide.
Get a full body workout on the quiet backwaters at Boulters Lock. The SUP-er friendly paddleboarding club run by locals Tara and Phil is a great way to meet new people in the area and explore further reaches of the Thames and beyond.
Venture further into Berkshire and Buckinghamshire to discover picturesque towns and villages – each with their own attractions and stories to tell.
Take a stroll (or boat trip) along the river bend at Cookham and it’s easy to see where Stanley Spencer - one of the greatest painters of the 20th century – found his inspiration. Art fans must pay a visit to his dedicated gallery on the High Street, where you’ll also find the Kings Arms, a handsome gastropub and several independent shops and restaurants.
Wrap yourself in royalty by visiting this historic town, built around Windsor Castle – the oldest castle in the world to be in continuous occupation. But fear not if you don’t catch the King or miss the Changing of the Guard as there’s plenty more to discover. Windsor has dozens of excellent restaurants and traditional pubs, plus a stunning Edwardian theatre that attracts some of the best plays and musicals direct from the West End.
Known for having one of the world's finest and most famous courses on the doorstep, the small town of Ascot attracts over half a million visitors each year. Racegoers can enjoy events all year round with a range of tickets – from top-tier hospitality and fine dining, to free events. Whether you’re a betting person, or just there for the spectacle, it’s a great sporting day out.
Lovely-looking Marlow is perfect for an afternoon of retail therapy, lined with independent boutiques, delicatessens, and well-known high street brands. Stop to refuel from one of the town’s many cafes and restaurants, including three of Tom Kerridge’s fantastic pubs. Fun fact: Marlow’s famous Grade I-listed bridge, was designed by the same engineer who later connected Buda and Pest in Hungary.
Surrounded by picturesque countryside, Henley offers plenty to do in terms of walking, cycling and picnicking by the river in the warmer months. It boasts a number of independent retailers and many charming places for a bite to eat. But its calendar highlight is the Henley Regatta when the town comes alive with cheering crowds and hospitality tents line the riverbanks.
Being home to 2 out of 8 Michelin Guide’s three-starred UK restaurants, Bray is considered one of the world's gastronomic capitals. This pretty, riverside parish is best explored by chartering a restored gentleman’s motor yacht – climb aboard with Kalbarri Charters and be served canapes and champagne as you bob along, then disembark to eat at one of the famous Thameside restaurants.
If you enjoyed your amuse-bouche of Berkshire countryside living, then we know you’ll just love digging in to the local area.
Less than five minutes’ from Maidenhead station, One Maidenhead puts you at the heart of it all. A place where you can connect with nature and city life. To discover all this new neighbourhood has to offer, book a viewing with our friendly on-site team who will show you around our newest collection of apartments to rent in Maidenhead and resident amenities.
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