URPoint Details
The Domesday Book mentions the mills of this attractive market town stretching along the River Gade.
The High Street is delightful, rising in a gentle curve and unlike most new towns, Hemel Hempstead developed around a charming old town, centred on St Mary's church. The new town is a vibrant centre with parkland and water gardens.
Near the church is Henry’s Banquetting hall, two brick and timber cottages built over 300 years ago, their overmantels a mixture of Tudor roses, crowns and fleur-de-lis.
The Church of St Mary is a large 12th century church standing at the far end of the town, is reputed to be one of the finest in the country. It has a 14th century timber spire nearly 200ft high. Mostly Norman, with a nave of six bays, a clerestory, a crossing tower on the lower stage and a circular staircase turret in the upper nave. The roofs of the transepts are 15th century with arched braces decorated with traceried spandrels.
Gadebridge Park is a lovely large parkland stretching from the town centre along the Gade Valley towards Piccotts End. Crazy golf, bowling green and playground along with lovely picnic areas make this a great spot for walking.
- Type:
- Landmark