The many parks, flower gardens and waterside locations complement the shopping area in Hemel Hempstead well and add a diversion to the hustle and bustle in Marlowes Shopping Mall, which has a wide selection of shops to suit all tastes.  For a modern, developing town Hemel Hempstead is steeped in history with Hemel Old Town providing a glimpse into  past times with its highly attractive Victorian, Georgian and Tudor architecture housing many excellent pubs, cafes, restaurants and specialist shops, such as antique centres.  You can also take in a contemporary show at the Old Town Hall.