
Water Gardens Car Park – A Complete Guide
If you’re planning a trip to Hemel Hempstead town centre, chances are you’ll come across the Water Gardens Car Park. Conveniently located near The Marlowes Shopping Centre and the picturesque Water Gardens, it’s one of the most popular parking spots in town. But with questions around charges, opening times, and availability, finding the right info can be tricky.
This guide breaks everything down so you can park with confidence and make the most of your visit.
Where is Water Gardens Car Park Located?
Car Park sits right in the heart of Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire. It’s within easy walking distance of:
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The Marlowes Shopping Centre – perfect for shopping trips.
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Hemel Hempstead town centre – cafes, shops, and local services.
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The Water Gardens – a scenic park with fountains, bridges, and seating.
Water Gardens Car Park Opening Hours
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Open: 24 hours, seven days a week.
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Pay & Display system – cash and card accepted (some machines also take contactless).
This flexibility makes it ideal whether you’re shopping during the day, grabbing dinner in the evening, or simply enjoying the riverside walks.
Parking Charges at Water Gardens Car Park
Charges may vary, but here’s a general idea of what you can expect:
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Up to 1 hour – low-cost, ideal for quick errands.
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1–2 hours – affordable for shopping trips.
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3+ hours – mid-range, great for longer visits.
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All-day parking – available for those spending the day in Hemel Hempstead.
Why Choose Water Gardens Car Park?
There are several reasons why this car park is so popular:
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Central location – right by shops, restaurants, and green spaces.
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Ample spaces – includes standard, disabled, and parent-and-child bays.
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Well-lit and monitored – giving drivers peace of mind.
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Accessible routes – lifts and ramps available for prams and wheelchairs.
Tips for Parking at Water Gardens
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Arrive early at weekends – it gets busy during peak shopping hours.
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Check payment methods in advance – not all machines accept every card.
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Use nearby alternatives – if full, The Marlowes and Gadebridge Park also have parking.
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Keep change handy – some older meters may still prefer coins.
FAQs About Water Gardens Car Park
1. How many spaces does Car Park have?
It offers hundreds of spaces, including dedicated disabled and family bays.
2. Is there overnight parking available?
Yes, the car park is open 24/7, so overnight parking is allowed.
3. Does Water Gardens Car Park have electric vehicle (EV) charging points?
Yes, some bays are fitted with EV chargers—check availability before arrival.
4. How close is it to the train station?
It’s around a 10–15 minute walk from Hemel Hempstead train station.
5. Is the car park safe?
It’s well-lit, monitored, and regularly patrolled, making it one of the safer options in town.
Conclusion
The Water Gardens Car Park is one of the best places to park in Hemel Hempstead thanks to its central location, good facilities, and 24/7 access. Whether you’re shopping, dining, or simply strolling through the Water Gardens, it offers convenience and reliability at reasonable rates.