A historic market town with a modern outlook, Hemel Hempstead offers the best of both worlds. With excellent commuter links, a wide range of schools, scenic green spaces and a variety of homes to suit every stage of life, it’s no surprise this Hertfordshire hub continues to attract upsizing families, young professionals and long-time locals alike.
Hemel Hempstead
Our guide to living in Hemel Hempstead
Amenities
Hemel Hempstead town centre is home to The Marlowes Shopping Centre, offering well-known high street names, while Riverside Shopping boasts a mix of fashion, beauty and lifestyle stores alongside a selection of cafes and restaurants. The Old Town, with its cobbled streets and historic charm, is a local favourite for independent boutiques and pubs. For everyday essentials, the town offers several large supermarkets including Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Aldi, plus a wide range of convenience stores across its neighbourhoods.
Nature & outdoors
Boxmoor Common, with its open meadows and grazing cattle, provides a peaceful escape just a short walk from the town centre. Gadebridge Park is another much-loved green space with its riverside walks, children’s play areas and splash park. Venture further out and you’ll find access to the Chiltern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering picturesque countryside ideal for weekend walks, cycling and outdoor adventures.
Education
Families are well-served by a variety of local schools. Primary options include South Hill, Boxmoor and Hobletts Manor, while secondary schools like The Hemel Hempstead School and Longdean School have good reputations locally. There are also grammar school options in nearby Watford, plus further education opportunities at West Herts College, which has a campus in Hemel Hempstead.
Property
Hemel Hempstead offers a diverse mix of property styles across its neighbourhoods. Boxmoor and the Old Town feature period homes, Victorian terraces and character cottages, ideal for those seeking charm and heritage. The newer developments in areas such as Adeyfield, Nash Mills and Leverstock Green offer modern family homes and executive-style detached houses. You’ll also find a strong selection of flats and maisonettes, particularly popular with first-time buyers and buy-to-let investors.
Transport
Commuters benefit from direct rail links into London Euston in as little as 26 minutes via Hemel Hempstead station on the West Coast Main Line. The town is also served by Apsley and Boxmoor stations for added convenience. By road, the M1 and M25 are easily accessible, making travel across the South East straightforward. Local buses provide connections throughout town and into neighbouring villages and towns.
Why live in Hemel Hempstead
Hemel Hempstead offers space to grow, a strong sense of community and excellent access to both countryside and capital. It’s a practical and appealing choice for families seeking larger homes, professionals wanting a quick commute, or those looking to settle somewhere with a wide range of local services and green space. Its blend of old and new, town and nature, makes it a standout location in Hertfordshire.
Looking to buy or rent in Hemel Hempstead
Whether you’re searching for a Victorian terrace in Boxmoor, a modern apartment near the station or a family home close to good schools, Castles can help.
Get in touch with our local experts today to start your property journey in Hemel Hempstead.
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