Hemel Hempstead lies to the west of the county, one of Hertfordshire's 'New Towns'.
These were created after World War II to relieve London's chronic housing problems and overcrowding. Industrial development was incorporated into the plans so that the new towns did not simply become domitory suburbs of the capital.
Like Stevenage (Britain's first New Town), Hemel Hempstead was developed around an attractive old town which still exists today. The town's 12th century church has survived and elsewhere there are attractive Tudor and Georgian buildings.
The remains of a Roman villa can be found in Gadebridge Park near Picotts End, to the north-west of the old town.
The modern town has excellent shopping facilities, notably at the Marlowes Shopping Centre and Jarman Park. One of Hertfordshire's largest industrial and commercial areas, Hemel Hempstead now benefits from the close proximity of the M1 and M25.
Hundreds of businesses are based here and Kodak have made Hemel Hempstead their European headquarters.
The town is famous for its 'Magic Roundabout'. Built in 1973 to cope with the increased congestion as Hemel Hempstead grew, the roundabout allows traffic to go around in both directions.
Gadebridge Park, Hemel Hempstead
20 heactare park with gardens, play areas, bowling greens, crazy golf and other activities in the summer. The remains of a Roman villa can be found in Gadebridge Park near Picotts End. Walks. Gadebridge Park information
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London Road Hemel Hempstead HP3 0AA MAP In 160 acres of formal gardens, Shendish Manor features a leafy golf course, elegant restaurant and scenic countryside views. The manor is in Apsley, just outside Hemel Hempstead. The stylish bedrooms each have a flat-screen TV and air conditioning. All ... More Information and Book ... |
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London Road Hemel Hempstead HP1 2RA MAP Dating back from the 17th-century and located a 5 minutes’ walk from Hemel Hempstead Train Station, this family-run hotel offers free parking, free Wi-Fi and an award-winning conservatory restaurant. All the bedrooms have an iPod dock and their own bat... More Information and Book ... |
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Breakspear Way Hemel Hempstead HP2 4UA MAP In an excellent location on the A414, close to the M1 (junction 8) and easily accessed from the M25 and M6 motorways, this hotel offers high-speed internet throughout. The Holiday Inn Hemel Hempstead is just 13 km (8 miles) from Luton Airport, 38 km (21 ... More Information and Book ... |
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Hempstead Road, Bovingdon Hemel Hempstead HP3 0DS MAP Set in peaceful gardens just outside Bovingdon, Bobsleigh Hotel features an award-winning restaurant and cosy bedrooms. With free parking, the hotel is just 10 minutes from Hemel Hempstead. The colourful bedrooms at the Bobsleigh have private bathrooms w... More Information and Book ... |
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Wolsey Road Hemel Hempstead HP2 4TU MAP ... More Information and Book ... |
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40-42 Alexandra Road Hemel Hempstead HP2 5BP MAP Alexandra Guest House is near Hemel Hempstead old town centre, close to the historic high street. Emphasis is placed on creating a pleasant, homely atmosphere. All rooms are equipped with tea/ coffee making facilities and free Wi-Fi. Hemel Hempstead is ... More Information and Book ... |
Towns Near Hemel Hempstead To Visit - straight line distance:
Berkhamsted Tourist Information (3.87 miles) St Albans Tourist Information (5.73 miles) Harpenden Tourist Information (6.79 miles) Chorleywood Tourist Information (6.92 miles)