Moving to Hemel Hempstead in 2026? Best areas, lifestyle and removals guide

Hemel Hempstead is a major town in Hertfordshire, defined by its "New Town" ambition, thriving business parks and surprising abundance of green space. Unlike the concrete jungles often associated with post-war development, Hemel’s identity is rooted in its valley location, historic Old Town and status as a key economic hub for the Home Counties.

The town functions as a strategic base for major international companies, supporting logistics, technology and leisure, while offering residents a practical, well-connected lifestyle just outside the M25.

Fun facts about Hemel Hempstead

• The Magic Roundabout (Plough Roundabout) is famous (or infamous) across the UK; it consists of six mini-roundabouts arranged in a circle and allows traffic to flow in both directions.
• The town is home to The Snow Centre, Britain’s newest indoor skiing destination and the closest real snow slope to London.
• Gadebridge Park was once the site of a substantial Roman Villa, the remains of which are still buried beneath the grass.
• The town was one of the first designated "New Towns" after WWII (1946) to house people moving out of London.
• Apsley was historically the birthplace of paper manufacturing on an industrial scale; the canal here was vital for the John Dickinson stationery empire.

Considering a house move to Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire?

Hemel Hempstead appeals to those seeking space, convenience and career opportunities. It attracts young families, commuters and tech professionals who want the connectivity of London without the capital’s price tag.

House prices are competitive for Hertfordshire and often a better value than neighbouring St Albans or Berkhamsted, making it a practical entry point for buyers looking for three-bedroom family homes.

Before finalising your move to Hempstead, it’s worth spending time experiencing the town from a resident’s perspective. Walk through the Old Town High Street to find antique shops and retro cafés and stroll along the Grand Union Canal at Apsley to see the modern waterside living. Testing the train services to London Euston or driving the A41 can help you assess the commute, while a visit to Jarman Park will show you the sheer scale of leisure facilities available.

If you are moving from another part of the UK, we recommend thinking about the logistics early. At Pickfords, our nationwide network is supported by local experience in Hertfordshire to help ensure smooth and well-organised home and office moves.

For smaller, short-distance moves within the town, you can also consider our man with a van service.

Things to consider before deciding to move to Hertfordshire

1. Neighbourhood choice: If you’re planning a house move and researching for local removals services in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, understanding the distinct "neighbourhoods" is key.

• Old Town: Historic, charming, with Victorian cottages and cobbled streets.
• Boxmoor: A village feel with a cricket green and trust-protected land; very sought-after.
• Apsley: Canal-side apartments and marina living, popular with commuters.
• Leverstock Green: Suburban and leafy with a strong community spirit.
• Adeyfield/Bennetts End: Classic New Town estates offering affordable family housing.

2. Employment and income stability: Employment is robust, centred around Maylands Business Park. It is home to giants like Amazon, ASOS and Britvic. The town is a powerhouse for logistics, IT and construction.

3. Schools and family life: Hemel has a solid range of state schools (such as The Hemel Hempstead School) and is close to excellent private options in Berkhamsted. The town is designed for families, with adventure playgrounds, skate parks and the massive Gadebridge Park.

4. Transport and commuting:

• Hemel Hempstead Station offers fast trains to London Euston (approx. 26 mins) and Milton Keynes.
• Apsley Station serves the southern part of the town.
• Road access is superb, sitting minutes from the M1 (J8) and M25 (J20).

5. Lifestyle and social environment: Life in Hemel is active and convenient. Skiing after work, cycling along the canal and shopping at the Riverside centre shape social life, making it ideal for people who value a busy, well-serviced environment.

Best areas to live in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire

Choosing the right area in Hemel depends on whether you prefer historic charm or modern practicality.

Boxmoor Boxmoor: It is arguably the most desirable area. It operates like a village, with its own trust that manages the green spaces and grazing cattle. It is within walking distance of the station, making it perfect for commuters who want a rural feel.

The Old Town: Located to the north of the modern town centre, the Old Town is the historic heart. It features Tudor and Georgian buildings, specialist shops and high-end restaurants. Living here offers character and community, away from the concrete of the 1950s development.

Leverstock Green: "Levy Green" feels separate from the main town, located on the eastern edge near St Albans. It has a village green, cricket club and local shops. It is very popular with families and older residents seeking a quieter pace of life.

Apsley: For young professionals, Apsley is the hotspot. The regeneration of the old paper mills into canal-side apartments (Apsley Lock) has created a vibrant community with its own marina, pubs and train station.

Warners End & Gadebridge: These areas offer solid, spacious family homes often built during the New Town expansion. They are close to the stunning Gadebridge Park and offer excellent value for money compared to Boxmoor.

If you are moving to Hemel Hempstead from another part of the UK, it’s also worth considering the practical side of the move early on. Since long-distance moves often involve the M1 and M25, considering removal companies that provide nationwide coverage supported by local knowledge of Hertfordshire will ensure a smooth and efficient move.

Things to do in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire

Life in Hemel is shaped by action. Residents enjoy skiing at The Snow Centre, watching movies at the IMAX in Jarman Park and walking in the Chiltern Hills (which start on the edge of town). The Old Town Hall provides theatre and comedy in an intimate setting.

Hemel’s location makes it a practical base. You are 15 minutes from the luxury of the Grove hotel or the history of St Albans. This balance of affordability, work opportunities and leisure is a key part of everyday life in Hemel Hempstead.

Frequently asked questions

Is Hemel Hempstead a good place to live long-term?

Yes. The strong local economy (Maylands) and excellent transport links provide stability, while the regeneration of the town centre is improving the aesthetic.

Is Hemel Hempstead suitable for families?

Yes. With affordable 3-4 bedroom homes, plenty of parks and the "Magic Planet" soft play, it is designed for family logistics.

What should I consider when arranging removals in Hemel Hempstead?

When planning removals in Hemel Hempstead, it’s important to factor in the roundabouts! The Magic Roundabout can be daunting for large vans if drivers aren't local. Many properties in the New Town areas have good driveway access, but Old Town streets can be narrow. Whether you are moving locally or from another part of the UK, careful preparation is essential and at Pickfords' our move managers are very experienced and have expert knowledge of the Hemel Hempstead area.

How do removal companies in Hemel Hempstead support local and long-distance moves?

Experienced removal companies in Hemel support a wide range of moves, from apartment moves in Apsley to office relocations in Maylands. Planning routes to avoid the A414 during rush hour is a key consideration. For moves involving larger households or longer distances, working with an established removals provider ensures reliability. We have been established in the removals industry since 1646 and in this time we have gained valuable knowledge and experience, which makes us stand out amongst others. It is guaranteed that you will receive a professional service for your move from Hemel Hempstead. 

Are office removals handled differently from home moves?

If you are planning to move your business and office in Hemel Hempstead, it requires a different approach. Commercial relocations here are frequent due to the large business parks, requiring coordination with loading bays and security gates.

Does Pickfords also cover surrounding areas of Hemel Hempstead?

Yes. At Pickfords, we regularly support moves to and from Hemel Hempstead as well as across the wider Hertfordshire area including St Albans, Watford, Berkhamsted, Tring and Harpenden. Whether you are looking to move your home or considering an office relocation, you can trust our experienced move managers.