Hertsmere

Hertsmere is a local government district in Hertfordshire, in the East of England, covering Borehamwood, Elstree, Potters Bar, Radlett, Bushey and several villages. The borough council is based in Borehamwood. The area has a long association with film and television production centred on Elstree Studios in Borehamwood and Elstree, where sound stages and backlots have been used for feature films and television series since the early 20th century. Open spaces include Aldenham Country Park and Aldenham Reservoir, with footpaths, a visitor centre and water-based recreation inside the district boundary.

Settlement patterns mix suburban towns and small villages at the edge of the Greater London green belt. Rail services link Potters Bar on the mainline to London and Borehamwood on the Thameslink route, supporting commuter travel. There is a notable Jewish community with synagogues and communal facilities, particularly around Radlett and Bushey. Local provision centres on town high streets, schools and community centres, while the borough council manages planning, leisure and environmental services, reflecting the district’s combination of studio heritage, residential neighbourhoods and countryside.