Hemel Hempstead area guide

Located 24 miles northwest of London — Hemel Hempstead offers all the benefits of being close to the Capital, with the stunning Hertfordshire countryside right on its doorstep.

Hemel Hempstead is located on the Grand Union Canal, River Bulbourne and River Gade and has long been a popular location for families, young professionals and commuters to settle down. It is part of the London Commuter Belt and Greater London Urban Area, with frequent train services to the Capital.

The town also boasts a picturesque old-school charm, with Old Town being one of the most attractive areas here. The recently rejuvenated Old Town High Street is a vibrant place to visit, with Tudor, Georgian and Victorian buildings housing shops that sell everything — from exquisite artefacts to angling supplies.

The cobbled High Street is further lined with well-rated restaurants, tearooms, cafes and pubs – creating a lively atmosphere all year.

Hemel Hempstead and Hertfordshire offer a variety of activities for people of all ages, including a large multi-screen cinema, rock climbing wall, indoor skate park, golf at Gadebridge Park, pool, ice rink and one of the country's largest indoor ski centres. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter is also just a short drive away.

With an excellent selection of schools and colleges, Hemel Hempstead is a great location for growing families. Some schools here are rated Outstanding by Ofsted, including Brockswood Primary School, Two Waters Primary School and Woodfield School.

Scenic Hemel Hempstead is ideal for those who need to commute to London regularly. The West Midlands Trains line takes only 33 minutes from Hemel Hempstead Train Station to London Euston. Commuters can also take a direct train to South Croydon and the Midlands.