The Anglo-Saxon word holm means an area of marshy land by a stream. The lane which runs past Old Thatch is called after the two moors, Cold Moorholm Upper Moor and Cold Moorholm Lower Moor, both of which are bordered by two streams. They gave the area the name Merlawe - meaning 'what is left after draining the mere'. The Saxons were the first people to drain the land in the Thames valley and live here. Despite being relatively recently created, the gardens reflect the sense of the past which pervades Old Thatch and makes it such a unique and tranquil setting. The gardens range from the formal to informal, from mono-colour to multi-colour, with some stunning grasses and planting combinations. There are different types of gardens, ranging from the Formal Garden, through the Lavender Terrace to the Water Garden and beyond to other gardens including a cottage garden and rose walk. Today, Old Thatch is also known for its beautiful gardens.

The River Thames and Little Marlow Country Park are less than five minutes walk away. The thatched house, with a brick and timber frame, is situated in 0.8 hectares of gardens which are open to the public during the summer months. Old Thatch is a grade II listed building, dating from the 17th century.

There is also a pond built by Enid Blyton and a feature known as the Pencil Garden, a mystery garden of humour which is never described, only visited. Features include a water garden, cottage garden, rose walk and a lavender terrace. It is surrounded by 0.8 hectares of gardens of many different styles, some formal and some informal. Old Thatch is a grade II listed brick and timber framed house with a thatched roof.

The house edward lee