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.

Out & About
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
Located within 160 acres of formal gardens, the manor is set on an 18-hole golf course which is open to the general public.
Shendish Manor is situated in Apsley, just outside of Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, 25 miles north west of central London. The...
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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 ...
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London Road Hemel Hempstead HP1 2RA MAP
This attractive family-run hotel is conveniently located just an 8-minute drive from junction 20 of the M25, junction 8 of the M1 and Maylands Avenue Industrial Estate.
The Boxmoor Lodge Hotel has a quiet, yet convenient location, with excellent transpor...
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Stationers Place, Apsley Hemel Hempstead HP3 9RH MAP
This good-value, modern hotel in Apsley has air-conditioned bedrooms, a bar with Sky Sports, and parking. Apsley Train Station is a quick walk away.
Trains to Central London leave from Apsley Station. Wembley is a 30-minute train ride.
Bedrooms at Expre...
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Hemel Hempstead Rd, Redbourn Hemel Hempstead AL3 7AF MAP
This comfortable hotel is set in woodland a short drive from the centre of Hemel Hempstead. London Luton Airport is 9 miles away, and the M1 is nearby.
Bedrooms have a flat-screen TV, toiletries and high-speed internet.
Ramada Hemel Hempstead is a styli...
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A41 Service Area Bourne End Hemel Hempstead HP1 2SB MAP
At Premier Inn Hemel Hempstead West food and drink is available at the adjoining and bar and restaurant...
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Moor End Road Hemel Hempstead HP1 1DL MAP
At Premier Inn Hemel Hempstead Central food and drink is available at the adjoining and bar and restaurant...
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Hempstead Road, Bovingdon Hemel Hempstead HP3 0DS MAP
Bobsleigh Hotel is full of character and charm, and set in beautiful gardens just outside Bovingdon. Its serene surroundings are within easy reach of the M1/M25, the town centre and Hemel Hempstead industrial estate.
Only 2 miles (3.2 km) away is Hemel H...
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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 ...
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41 High St. Old Town Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AF MAP
This attractively restored 16th century coaching inn offers comfortable air conditioned accommodation in 8 well-appointed executive rooms, all with luxury en suite bathrooms with extra large powerful showers.
In the old town of Hemel Hempstead, the Olde ...
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