Living in Hemel Hempstead

Community and local life in Hemel Hempstead is built around its neighbourhoods, green spaces, and vibrant programme of local events. There is a strong sense of identity, especially in the Old Town and Boxmoor, where independent stores and cafés foster a close-knit community feel.

The area benefits from numerous parks and outdoor spaces, such as Gadebridge Park, offering formal gardens, play areas, and sports facilities. Regular markets and annual events, such as the Hemel Old Town Charter Market and the Riverside Festival, bring residents together throughout the year.

With local leisure centres, community hubs, and places of worship, there are many opportunities for socialising and getting involved in voluntary organisations and sports clubs. The Grand Union Canal and nearby Chiltern Hills encourage an active, outdoor lifestyle for residents of all ages.

Crime rates in Hemel Hempstead generally reflect national averages for towns of its size, with typical fluctuations in different neighbourhoods. The town centre tends to experience higher activity, but targeted initiatives from the Hertfordshire Constabulary have focused on tackling anti-social behaviour and improving night-time safety.

Many residential areas, such as Boxmoor and Leverstock Green, are perceived as especially safe and community oriented. Continued investment in CCTV, street lighting, and neighbourhood policing has contributed to a positive sense of security for most residents. Local policing teams regularly engage with the public and run community safety events throughout the year.

Parking in Hemel Hempstead is generally accessible, with a wide range of car parks throughout the town centre, in addition to residential permit schemes in some areas. Many shopping and leisure complexes offer free or low-cost parking for visitors.

On-street parking is available, but may be restricted in busy or central districts. During peak times, there can be higher demand near schools and train stations. The local council operates multiple pay-and-display car parks, with options for both short and long stays.

Major road access is excellent, with the M1 running just to the east of Hemel Hempstead, providing quick links both north and south. The M25 is a short drive away, making London and other regions highly accessible.

Nearby towns and cities by road:

• Watford – approx. 15 minutes via A41 (8 miles)
• St Albans – approx. 20 minutes via A414 (10 miles)
• London – approx. 35 minutes via M1/M25 (24 miles)
• Luton – approx. 20 minutes via M1 (12 miles)

Hemel Hempstead offers a diverse food and drink scene, ranging from independent cafés and gastropubs to familiar chain restaurants. The Old Town is home to traditional pubs and restaurants housed in historic buildings, while Riverside and The Marlowes shopping districts provide options for contemporary dining, coffee, and takeaways.

Popular establishments include The Full House Wetherspoon, The Fishery Inn by the Grand Union Canal, and Boxmoor Steakhouse. The area is also served by several Indian, Italian, Chinese and Turkish restaurants, alongside an active café culture.

While nightlife is relatively low-key compared to nearby cities, Hemel Hempstead features several bars and late-night venues. The Old Town Hall doubles as a theatre and arts centre offering performances, live music, and events. A choice of local cinemas and bowling alleys complement the evening entertainment options, appealing to all age groups.

School quality
Hemel Hempstead is well connected with several good and outstanding rated schools for children of all ages, making it an appealing choice for families concerned with education. There are strong secondary and primary options, as well as independent schools and colleges.

Parks and green space
Families benefit from ample access to green spaces including Gadebridge Park and the wide canal pathways. Outdoor playgrounds and sports pitches support active recreation for children.

Childcare
There are a variety of nurseries, pre-schools, and childminders throughout Hemel Hempstead, offering ample choice and flexibility for working parents. Local children’s centres run activities and support for families.

Safety
Residents generally feel safe in Hemel Hempstead, and strong community policing helps foster a secure environment for raising children. Many neighbourhoods have watch schemes and active parent networks.

Family activities
From community festivals to cinema, bowling, and sports clubs, children and families will find a full calendar of activities. There are soft play centres, youth clubs, and family-friendly restaurants across the town.

Hemel Hempstead is a pet-friendly town, benefiting from numerous parks, woodland areas, and riverside walks, ideal for dog owners and those who enjoy time outdoors. The award-winning Gadebridge Park, along with Boxmoor Trust land and local nature reserves, offer plenty of off-lead spaces for dogs and exercise opportunities for pets.

There are several veterinary clinics and pet care providers across the town. Many of the local pubs and some cafés welcome dogs, particularly in the Old Town and alongside the canal. Housing developers and rental properties increasingly accommodate pets, reflecting the popularity of animals among residents.

There is also a choice of dog grooming, pet supply shops, and regular community events focused on pet welfare and responsible ownership. Open green space ensures that pet owners in Hemel Hempstead have a wealth of choices for daily walks and activity.

Hemel Hempstead’s location and transport options make it a strategic hub for those commuting to London, the Midlands, or elsewhere in Hertfordshire. The town is well served by rail, bus, and road connections.

Train
Hemel Hempstead railway station sits on the West Coast Main Line, providing fast and frequent trains to London Euston in as little as 30 minutes. Services also connect north towards Milton Keynes and Birmingham.

Bus
An extensive local and regional bus network connects Hemel Hempstead with Watford, St Albans, Luton, Aylesbury, and outlying villages. Local operators include Arriva and Red Eagle.

Air
Luton Airport is approximately 20 minutes by car, offering national and international flights. Heathrow Airport can be reached in around 35 minutes via the M25.

Commute Times:

• London Euston – approx. 30 minutes by train
• Watford – approx. 15 minutes by train or car
• St Albans – approx. 20 minutes by car or bus

Schools in Hemel Hempstead cater for all stages of education, from early years to sixth form. The town is home to both well-regarded state and independent schools, making it a popular option for families prioritising education.

Primary Schools
Among the most notable primary schools in Hemel Hempstead are Boxmoor Primary School (Ofsted rated 'Good', June 2023), St. Albert the Great Catholic Primary School (Ofsted rated 'Good', February 2022), and Hobletts Manor Infants’ and Junior Schools (Ofsted rated 'Good', May 2023). Broadfield Academy, rated 'Good' by Ofsted (June 2019), is also highly regarded and serves a diverse catchment area.

Secondary Schools
Hemel Hempstead School is a prominent mixed secondary and sixth form, Ofsted rated 'Good' (March 2023). John F Kennedy Catholic School is another highly respected option, with a 'Good' Ofsted rating (May 2022). Laureate Academy and Adeyfield Academy are also well established, offering comprehensive education to local students.

Independent, Academies and Colleges
Lockers Park School is a leading independent prep school for boys, notable for its long-standing history and excellent academic record. The town also hosts West Herts College’s Hemel Hempstead campus, offering further education, vocational training, and adult learning.

Universities
While there are no universities directly in Hemel Hempstead, the nearby University of Hertfordshire in Hatfield (around 25 minutes by car or train) is the main higher education provider for local students. Buckinghamshire New University in High Wycombe and the University of Bedfordshire in Luton are also accessible.