The Jellicoe Water Gardens, Hemel Hempstead

In 1957, famous landscape architect Sir Geoffrey Jellicoe was invited to design a new town centre park in Hemel Hempstead. He transformed a site that once held orchards, watercress beds, and ironworks into a unique garden shaped like a serpent. The design channels the River Gade, connecting people with water and nature. Inspired by experimental artist Paul Klee and the role of the sub-conscious mind, Jellicoe’s vision came to life when the Gardens opened in 1962. They are a rare post-war Modernist landscape and one of Jellicoe’s most intact schemes.

Whilst staying true to Jellicoe’s original design the Water Gardens underwent a major restoration in 2017 and has since won several heritage and conservation awards.

Timings & Tours

Thursday 18 September:

1030

Location & directions

1 Waterhouse Street, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP1 1EU

Directions:

The assembly point for the the walk is on the 'Water Gardens Mound'. This is adjacent to the Police Station and Job Centre at the junction of Combe and Waterhouse Streets. This is a circular walk so we will finish the walk here.

Contact on day:

Alan Olive

Telephone number:

+447879435485

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking required

Booking conditions:

This is a outdoor activity so please dress appropriate to the prevailing weather. The walk is on mostly level, paved footpaths. There is an incline in one area of the walk but there are steps and a slope suitable from wheelchairs and buggies. Please book via the Eventbrite link. There is no charge. Tickets are available from 1200 on 18 August. Please email if you have booked on the tour but find you are unable to attend. This will allow us to reallocate your place.

Booking contact name:

Alan Olive

Booking telephone number:

+447879435485

Booking email:

[email protected]

Booking website:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/heritage-open-days-the-jellicoe-water-gardens-hemel-hempstead-tickets-1538688782569?aff=oddtdtcreator

Booking opens:

18 Aug 2025 12:00 PM

Booking closes:

16 Sep 2025 12:00 AM

Accessibility details

We are walking on public pathways which are mainly paved, suitable walking footwear is advised.

Additional information

We hope you enjoy the tour!

Max no of people per tour:

20

Est. tour duration:

1 hour(s) 30 minute(s)

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