The constitueny of '''Maidenhead''' and Windsor is the most affluent area of the UK, with house prices often exceeding those of Central London. It's position in the River Thames countryside, with close proximity to the capital is unrivalled making it a gold-mine for commuters. It is one of the safest Conservative seats in the UK (The MP is the Shadow Leader of the House, Theresa May).
Like many towns, Maidenhead has its fair share of crime and antisocial behaviour, and the town centre is a little grey and full of concrete. The area near the river, locally known as Maidenhead Riverside, however, is a pleasent contrast to this, offering nice views of the Thames and great walks towards the villages of '''Cookham''' and Marlow; and '''Bray''' and Windsor and Eton.
Maidenhead is on the main rail and road routes between London and Reading. It lies on the famous Great Western Railway, famously designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Maidenhead train station lies immediately between the Twyford and Taplow stations. If you're in London you will need to get to London Paddington to get a train westward to Maidenhead. Maidenhead is situated on the 8/9 Junction on the M4.
There are good bus links, you can get most buses from Frascati Way in the town centre, or near Boots on the high street. [http://www.maidenheadmaps.co.uk Maidenhead Maps] contains interactive maps for the area, including cycle routes and local facilities. You can also create and submit your own maps by following the simple instructions.
The famous railway bridge designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel.
'''Boulter's Lock''' and Boulters Island on the River Thames. A great spot for walks amongst relatively tame squirrels and views of Maidenhead Wier. There is also a small hotel/restaurant on the Island.
'''Cookham''' is a picturesque village between Maidenhead and Marlow. It is a traditional English country village with a hugely popular gallery and excellent but expensive restaurants. Trains link Cookham with Maidenhead every hour. Alternatively walk there along the River, about 1 hour.
Investigate the Norden Farm arts centre, which is newly opened and contains a theatre and arthouse cinema. There is an Odeon mainstream cinema in the town centre. The Magnet Leisure centre is complimented by the David Lloyd Fitness Centre. Visit Maidenhead Heritage Centre to discover the town's fascinating history and to purchase unique Maidenhead souvenirs (website available)
The town centre is a fairly typical one, containing most high street shops, including Next, Virgin Megastore, Boots, Superdrug, Marks and Spencer, and TopShop.
Indian restaurants such as the Cookham Tandoori and the Emperor of India are well recommended. There are also decent Thai and Chinese restaurants. One of Britain's culinary capitals, the village of Bray, is a very short distance away. This village contains the Roux Brothers' Waterside Inn as well as Heston Blumenthal's Fat Duck, which is currently the second best restaurant in the world according to Caterer Magazine.
Surrounding villages and suburbs have some excellent ancient pubs. The town centre has Chicago Rock Cafe, Que Pasa, and a Ivory Lounge. Non-chain bars include Phatz Bar, good for live music, as well as Heroes and Smokey Joes. Surprisingly, the Lloyds/Wetherspoons branch in Maidenhead (The Greyhound) is featured in a CAMRA drinking guide. Lovers of ale should head there since there is a great and ever changing line up of taps. Well, the pub is really for everyone since its prices can't be beaten locally.
Maidenhead is 25 minutes away from London Paddington on a fast train (7.25am).