Choose a starting point that suits the day
Hemel Hempstead offers several different kinds of outing without relying on a single attraction. The Old Town works for historic streets and an evening performance, the Water Gardens for a town-centre walk, and Apsley for a canal-side visit. Pick one area first, then add a nearby meal or shop.
The town’s neighbourhoods and valleys are spread out. Apsley and the Old Town are separate destinations, so allow for the journey between them rather than treating everything as one compact high street.
Explore Jellicoe Water Gardens
The Water Gardens run beside the town centre, with the River Gade, white-railed bridges, a lake and ornamental planting. Geoffrey and Susan Jellicoe’s design brings a carefully planned landscape into an everyday shopping area. The flower garden and benches make a useful pause during a longer visit.
The council’s page explains the design, access and parking, as well as the play area and volunteers’ garden. You can pair the gardens with Marlowes and Waterhouse Street without committing to a long rural walk.
Walk through Gadebridge Park
Gadebridge Park is close to the Old Town and follows the Gade valley. Its different sections include open recreation space, gardens, play facilities and a skate park. Leighton Buzzard Road divides parts of the park, so use the council’s information to choose an entrance for the part you want to reach.
The River Gade is a chalk stream and an important wildlife habitat. Keep to suitable paths and leave room around the water and planted areas. Seasonal facilities such as the splash park have their own arrangements; the main park offers a reason to visit beyond those activities.
Spend time around Apsley Lock
The Grand Union Canal connects Apsley with the wider canal network and its former paper-making landscape. The Canal & River Trust highlights the marina, towpath and bridges as places to explore. A short waterside walk can be combined with a drink or meal near Stationers Place.
The towpath is shared with other walkers and cyclists, and the water’s edge needs care with young children. For a longer route, plan your return journey as well as the outward walk. The Trust’s visitor page gives a useful introduction to the area.
Add a performance or a local event
The Old Town Hall’s programme ranges from theatre and live music to film and family shows. Booking a performance gives you a clear evening plan, with the High Street nearby for food or a drink beforehand.
For a date-specific outing, use the directory’s What’s On guide. It brings together a selection of current and following-month events, including organiser links, so you can choose something that fits your visit.
Spotted something out of date? Let us know.
More local guides
- About Hemel Hempstead: the Old Town, New Town and neighbourhood life
- Community life in Hemel Hempstead: halls, groups and green spaces
- Shopping in Hemel Hempstead: Marlowes, the Old Town and local independents
- Where to list and promote your Hemel Hempstead business
- What’s on in Hemel Hempstead: November and December 2026