Living in Hemel Hempstead

Located 24 miles northwest of London, Hemel Hempstead combines historic architecture, modern facilities, and access to nearby countryside. 

Where is Hemel Hempstead? 

Welcome to our Hemel Hempstead area guide. Situated in southwest Hertfordshire, within the borough of Dacorum, it is in a prime location 24 miles northwest of central London. With nearby towns including Luton to the North, St Albans to the East, Watford to the South and Berkhamsted to the west, Hemel is well placed to explore the wider region.  

The town conveniently sits just off the M1 motorway, providing easy access to both the M25 and A41. Luton airport is also within around 20 minutes reach by car. This, along with quick train links to the capital, makes it a practical base for commuters and frequent travellers. 

Is Hemel Hempstead a nice place to live? 

Hemel Hempstead offers a unique blend of history and modern living. The town is often described as “two towns in one” – with the characterful Old Town to the north, featuring cobbled streets, antique shops and a Norman church, and the New Town offering a more contemporary feel with shopping centres and leisure facilities. 

It offers a mix of historic and modern features for the town’s 100,000 residents, with Hemel Hempstead having previously ranked seventh on Rightmove’s Happy at Home Index in 2023. It is an area that caters to a range of lifestyles – from families and professionals to students and retirees.  

Residents enjoy easy access to quaint nearby towns and villages like Berkhamsted, Chesham, Harpenden and Tring, all within a 20-minute drive. There’s also plenty of green space, with the Chiltern Hills, Ashridge Estate and Grand Union Canal offering scenic escapes just moments from the town centre. 

What is Hemel Hempstead famous for? 

Historically, Hemel Hempstead had been a small market town. However, in the aftermath of the Second World War, it was declared as a designated New Town to help accommodate London’s overspill population. 

This post-war redevelopment has given it a distinctive layout and mix of architectural styles, with the Old Town’s period buildings and village-like atmosphere remaining a highlight. 

Today, Hemel is also home to the UK’s largest indoor ski slope – The Snow Centre – which is a popular destination for indoor skiing and snowboarding. 

Another local landmark is the “Magic Roundabout,” a unique traffic system that’s become something of a talking point. It’s also just a short drive from the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London: The Making of Harry Potter – one of the region’s most visited attractions. 

Things to do in Hemel Hempstead 

Hemel Hempstead offers a wide range of things to see and do. The town centre is home to Marlowes Shopping Centre, cinemas, cafés and leisure facilities, while the Old Town offers independent cafes, bars, restaurants, and shops, as well as a popular weekly market held on Sundays with a variety of stalls. 

Outdoors enthusiast can explore Gadebridge Park’s 80 acres, stroll along the Grand Union Canal, or head into the nearby Chiltern Hills for walking and cycling. The Water Gardens also provide a peaceful spot to relax in the heart of town. 

There are a range of family-friendly activities in and around Hemel Hempstead, with soft play centres, crazy golf at Gadebridge Park and ski lessons at The Snow Centre. Cultural highlights include local museums, art galleries and community events. 

For something different, the Amaravati Buddhist Monastery offers meditation workshops and a glimpse into monastic life, while Whipsnade Zoo and Ashridge Estate are just a short drive away. 

What is the transport like in Hemel Hempstead? 

Hemel Hempstead is well connected by road, rail and air. The town sits close to both the M1 and M25 motorways, making it easy to reach London, Luton, Watford and beyond. The A41 also provides a direct route to nearby towns. 

Rail services from Hemel Hempstead station offer regular trains to London Euston, with journey times of around 30 minutes, providing convenient access for those commuting to London. 

For air travel, Luton Airport is just 20 minutes away, while Heathrow can be reached in around 40 minutes by car – giving residents access to a wide range of domestic and international destinations. 

Schools in Hemel Hempstead 

Hemel Hempstead has a range of schools, with many rated ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted. 

For higher education, Hemel is within reach of colleges and universities across Hertfordshire and London, providing a wide range of academic and vocational options. 

What are the average property prices in Hemel Hempstead? 

Property prices in Hemel Hempstead are generally lower than in nearby towns such as Berkhamsted or St Albans. 

House prices in the town averaged £431,938 over the last year. The majority that sold were terraced properties, selling for an average price of £403,195. Flats sold for an average of £247,912, with semi-detached properties fetching £513,435. 

FAQs 

• How far is Hemel Hempstead from London? 
  Around 24 miles – roughly 30 minutes by train or 40 minutes by car. 
• Is Hemel Hempstead good for families? 
  Hemel is home to a range of schools, green spaces and activities that may appeal to families. 
• Is Hemel Hempstead affordable? 
  Compared to nearby towns, Hemel offers more competitive property prices and rental options. 
• Is Hemel Hempstead good for commuters? 
  Hemel Hempstead is within the commuter belt, providing fast train links to the capital as well as easy access to major motorways, and Luton and Heathrow airports. 
• What is the nightlife like in Hemel Hempstead? 
  The town has a mix of pubs, bars and restaurants, with occasional live music and events in the Old Town and town centre.