If you are looking for things to do in Hemel at the weekend, Hemel Hempstead offers an easy mix of history, independent businesses, open green space, waterside walks and year-round activities. This 48-hour itinerary keeps you close to the town itself, taking in the character of Old Town, the energy of the Marlowes and the peaceful landscapes that make Hemel such an enjoyable place to explore.
Saturday morning: coffee and character in Old Town
Start your weekend in Old Town Hemel Hempstead, the town’s historic heart. The High Street has a very different feel from the modern centre, with attractive Georgian and Victorian buildings, independent shops, cosy cafés and traditional pubs.
Take your time over breakfast or coffee, then browse the smaller businesses for gifts, clothing, homeware and locally produced treats. The Old Town is particularly enjoyable when there is a market, vintage fair or seasonal event taking place, so check the Hemel Hempstead events calendar before you visit.
The area is compact and easy to explore on foot. Look out for St Mary’s Church, pause to admire the historic architecture and enjoy the village-like atmosphere before continuing towards the River Gade.
Saturday late morning: Gadebridge Park
From Old Town, walk towards Gadebridge Park, one of the best-known green spaces in Hemel Hempstead. Covering 55 acres, the park gives you plenty of room to slow down after a busy morning.
Follow the paths through lawns, mature trees and wildflower areas, or settle down for a relaxed picnic if the weather is kind. Families can make use of the play areas, splash park, skate park and sports pitches, while history enthusiasts can look for the remains of the Roman villa.
Gadebridge Park is also a good choice when you want a flexible itinerary. You can spend an hour taking a gentle stroll or several hours enjoying the facilities, river and open space. It is free to enter, dog friendly and close enough to Old Town for an uncomplicated walk between the two.
Saturday afternoon: the canal and Box Moor
After lunch, head towards the Grand Union Canal towpath. The route through Hemel connects Boxmoor with Apsley and provides a peaceful change of pace, with narrowboats, locks, wildlife and long stretches of water reflecting the surrounding greenery.
Choose a short out-and-back walk or explore further along the towpath if you want to be more active. It is suitable for walking, jogging and cycling, although sensible footwear is recommended, particularly after wet weather.
You can also include some of the nearby Box Moor Trust estate. Its meadows, woodland and common land bring a genuine countryside feel within easy reach of the town. Keep an eye out for birds, seasonal wildflowers and the Trust’s grazing cattle, and remember to follow local signs around livestock and shared paths.
Saturday evening: snow sports or a relaxed dinner
For a memorable evening activity, book a session at The Snow Centre. Its real-snow indoor slope offers skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing throughout the year, with lessons available for beginners and opportunities for more experienced visitors.
Because sessions and lessons generally need to be booked in advance, check availability before travelling. If you would rather keep the evening relaxed, return to Old Town for dinner and a drink. The Olde Kings Arms and The Plough are two established pub options, while the High Street also has cafés and restaurants for a quieter meal.
Sunday morning: a riverside walk through Hemel
Begin Sunday with a gentle walk beside the River Gade. The Water Gardens provide a pleasant route through the modern part of Hemel, with landscaped spaces, footpaths and places to pause. The contrast is part of the town’s appeal: within a short distance, you can move from historic Old Town streets to the planned green spaces of the new town.
Continue towards the town centre of Hemel Hempstead, where Marlowes and Riverside provide shops, cafés and convenient places for a mid-morning break. Whether you are browsing for essentials, looking for lunch ingredients or simply enjoying the town’s central activity, the Marlowes is an easy place to add to your route.
Sunday afternoon: Marlowes and a local pub lunch
Spend some time exploring the town centre and leisure options before choosing a local pub for lunch. You might prefer a traditional meal in Old Town, a casual bite near Marlowes or a canal-side stop around Apsley.
Allow yourself time to linger. A good Sunday in Hemel Hempstead does not need to be rushed, and a pub lunch followed by a final walk along the canal or through Box Moor is a fitting way to finish the weekend.
Plan your Hemel Hempstead weekend
The best thing about this itinerary is its variety and convenience. You can enjoy independent shops in Old Town, green space at Gadebridge Park, peaceful towpaths, more than 500 acres of Box Moor Trust land, the distinctive experience of The Snow Centre and the practical attractions of Marlowes: all without leaving Hemel Hempstead.
For more inspiration, browse our complete guide to attractions and things to do in Hemel Hempstead and check what’s on locally before setting off. Use the schedule as a starting point, then make it your own depending on the weather, your interests and how slowly you want to enjoy the town.