Celebrating 100 Years of Higginson Park: Join the Centenary Celebrations in Marlow
- Krista Madden
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Higginson Park has been the green heart of Marlow for a century. This month, Buckinghamshire Council and local community groups are coming together to celebrate its 100th anniversary on Saturday 20th June.
Exactly 100 years ago, local residents rallied to buy this beautiful riverside space. They saved it for the public to honour the 100th birthday of General Sir George Higginson. Today, it remains a cherished sanctuary for residents and visitors alike.
To mark this incredible milestone, a grand Centenary Celebration Day is taking place this Saturday, 20 June.
Whether you are an art lover, a history buff, or looking for a fun family day out, there is something for everyone. Here is your complete guide to what’s happening on the day.
The Grenadier Guards Connection
The history of Higginson Park is deeply intertwined with the Grenadier Guards. General Sir George Higginson was one of Marlow's most distinguished residents and a highly decorated veteran of the regiment.
When the local community scrambled to purchase the Court Garden estate to prevent private development in 1926, the Grenadier Guards stepped in to help. Officers of the regiment raised £120—a significant sum at the time—to contribute to the purchase fund.
The park's official opening on 5 July 1926 was a magnificent military spectacle. Princess Mary arrived in Marlow to formally hand over the keys to General Higginson. Before the presentation ceremony, she personally inspected a guard of honour formed by the Grenadier Guards right here on the estate grounds.
Look out for an appearance of the Grenadier Guards in Higginson Park between 2pm-4pm on Saturday!
Event Schedule
Art in the Park
What: A relaxed outdoor painting session led by ArtXtra.
Where: Near the Marlow Museum.
Details: Open to all skill levels. A £5 cash donation is requested to cover materials.
Heritage Walks
What: Guided historical tours of the park.
Where: Tours depart from the Marlow Museum.
When: Every 60 minutes between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM.
Children’s Activities
What: Interactive storytelling and activities with acclaimed local author Simon Mole.
Where: Near the Little Green Boat Company.
When: Two sessions: 2:00 PM – 2:45 PM and 3:15 PM – 4:00 PM.
Live Music & Entertainment
What: Relaxed acoustic performances to soundtrack your afternoon.
Where: Near The Ark Café.
Line up: Enjoy tunes from the Marlow Ukulele Band alongside local jazz acts.
Special Commemorations & Future Events
The day will also feature the unveiling of a ceremonial Centenary Oak tree, planted near the Sir Steve Redgrave statue to ensure the park's legacy grows for another hundred years.
The celebrations don't stop this weekend, either. The Marlow Museum has been busy collecting community memories and handmade birthday bunting for a special display.
Later this year, on 17 September, a Heritage Open Day will be held at Court Garden House. This event will display original historical documents, maps, and artifacts detailing the park’s original purchase in 1926.
Book lunch at M Cafe for the best spot to enjoy the celebrations, or get a takeaway for a picnic in the park. Bring your picnic blankets, your family, and your community spirit down to Higginson Park this Saturday to celebrate 100 years of our favourite green space!
