Boxmoor was formerly a village in its own right, and has since been absorbed into neighbouring Hemel Hempstead. Now viewed by many as a suburb of the town, we uncovered more about the area...

Located just off the Magic Roundabout, Boxmoor is just a short way from Hemel Hempstead's many amenities.

Residents of Boxmoor also have their own shops and services along St John's Road.

These include a post office, a GP surgery, a pharmacy, a jewellers, a florist and an estate agents - so making a slightly longer trip into Hemel isn't always necessary.

(Image: Danny Loo)

There are many natural walking paths alongside the River Bulbourne, which can make the sometimes-maligned Hemel Hempstead town centre feel far away.

The area's large open spaces offer a perfect spot for family outings and picnics. These include Heath Park, which features a children's play area and is the home of Boxmoor Cricket Club.

Keen walkers can explore even further into the rolling hills around neighbouring residential areas Felden and Chaulden.

(Image: Karyn Haddon)

Boxmoor is surrounded by acres and acres of preserved natural space which is freely accessible on foot from any part of the area.

There's something for everyone - whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll, a family outing or a place to walk your dog.

The area regularly hosts Carters vintage steam fair, and is also the site used when the circus comes to town.

History 

The name 'Boxmoor' originates from the box tree and the water meadows that run alongside the river.

Boxmoor was previously the site of a Mesolithic camp, which was discovered from stone tools dating from 1500 to 6000BC.

There are also remains of a Roman villa from the first and second century.

For a long time, Boxmoor remained undeveloped, and was little more than a grazing land for sheep.

The area's only significant landmark was the Fishery Inn, which served as a stop for coach and canal travellers and is still in operation today.

Boxmoor began to expand after the London and Birmingham Railway was forced to build its main line and station a mile to the west of neighbouring Hemel Hempstead. 

The area was absorbed into Hemel during the 1950s and 60s, and the railway was renamed in the process.

However, Boxmoor still retains much of its rural land and heritage. 

The Box Moor Trust was founded in 1594, and continues to own and protect much of the surrounding area, ensuring that it remains free for residents to use and enjoy. 

Property 

Boxmoor is a popular place for London commuters who are looking for more space outside the capital to make their home.

Properties currently on the market in the village include a four-bedroom detached property at Moorland Road for £1.2m and a three-bedroom detached bungalow at Old Fishery Lane for £765,000. 

(Image: Danny Loo)

According to Rightmove, the majority of sales in Boxmoor during the last year were terraced properties, selling for an average price of £429,871.

Flats sold for an average of £274,591, with semi-detached properties fetching £535,469. 

Transport 

Boxmoor is located around 27 miles north of London, with easy access to the M1 and M25 for motorists. 

Trains Hemel Hempstead station into London Euston take around half an hour. 

Schools 

There are several schools in and around the village which are rated 'good' by Ofsted.

These include Boxmoor Primary, South Hill Primary, Pixies Hill Primary and St Rose's Catholic Infants' School. 

Popular secondary schools include The Hemel Hempstead School - a comprehensive with a sixth form situated between Boxmoor and Hemel hospital - which is also rated 'good'. 

Fee-paying alternatives nearby include Westbrook Hay Prep School, Lockers Park and Abbot's Hill. 

Food and Drink 

Boxmoor has several pubs and restaurants, including the historic canalside Fishery Inn and Fishery Wharf Café, both of which offer a waterside view. 

(Image: Danny Loo)

There is a Harvester directly outside the station as well as two pubs - the Three Blackbirds on St John's Road and the family-run The Post Office Arms on Puller Road, which has a bonus sports bar.