Explore a unique serpent-shaped modernist park featuring the River Gade, water features, and beautiful floral displays designed by renowned landscape architect Sir Geoffrey Jellicoe.

Jellicoe Water Gardens is a rare post-war Modernist landscape in Hemel Hempstead, designed by famous landscape architect Sir Geoffrey Jellicoe in 1957 and opened to the public in 1962. This distinctive park is shaped like a serpent and creatively channels the River Gade through its layout, connecting visitors with water and nature in a thoughtfully designed environment. The gardens showcase beautiful floral displays and landscaping that reflect Jellicoe's innovative vision, inspired by experimental artist Paul Klee and concepts of the subconscious mind. Families can enjoy free access to this outdoor space, which is suitable for all ages from birth onwards. The park is pushchair-friendly and welcomes dogs, making it an accessible destination for families with young children and pets. Visitors can take leisurely walks through the gardens, enjoy the scenic water features, and appreciate the horticultural displays throughout the seasons. The site offers a peaceful retreat and a chance to experience an important piece of architectural and landscape design heritage.

Venue Details

What this place offers

Toilets

Public transport nearby

Accessible toilets

Free WiFi

Baby changing facilities

Food available

On-site parking

🐕Dog-friendly

Parking nearby

Pushchair friendly

A

Amirah rajasegaram

a month ago

The Garden park beside the riverside is exquisitely serene and had paronomic views of Hemel town it was worth insighting I had photographed this mesmerizing place was a pleasure to had been there afternoon.

S

sam chou

2 months ago

Very pretty garden with benches and a river with swans and a stork and some takeaway shops opposite - great place to relax and eat.

C

Colin Durrans (minisumo)

3 years ago

A lovely green place to sit, lots of seating throughout the garden. Appears very well kept.

J

Jeannette Capon

4 years ago

After shopping it's so good to just sit & enjoy looking at the flowers which is the best ever

K

Keith Hawley

5 years ago

Nice place to take a break from shopping. Was lucky enough to see a kingfisher.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026