A much-loved waterpark located less than an hour from London has been closed for good and completely demolished, leaving no trace of its once-thrilling slides and pools. Aqua Splash in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, was a popular destination for families since its opening in the 1990s, but it shut down in 2013 and was razed to the ground in 2014.
A Recognizable Landmark
The indoor waterpark was instantly recognizable, with elaborate slides that jutted out and wrapped around the exterior of the building. It offered a variety of attractions, including a lazy river, rapids, a jacuzzi, and a café, drawing visitors from across Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, and beyond. However, over time, the facility fell into disrepair, with dirty changing rooms and floors becoming common complaints.
Demolition and New Beginnings
After ceasing operations in 2013, the Jarman Park venue was demolished the following year. The site now houses the Planet Ice Hemel Hempstead ice rink and the XC extreme sports centre, which features an indoor skatepark and climbing walls. Despite its physical disappearance, the memory of Aqua Splash lives on through nostalgia shared on social media.
An Instagram account called Hemel Images posted a Reel showcasing photos of the waterpark in its heyday, accompanied by a clip of actor Shia LaBeouf. The caption praised the “happy memories” and legacy of Aqua Splash, noting that it “exists solely as a cherished memory.” Fans commented fondly, with one recalling “guaranteed athlete’s foot every visit, wouldn’t change it for the world,” and another saying, “This place was the best.”
