Welcome to Hertsmere!

This is a place full of surprises. Situated where the rural beauty of Hertfordshire meets the hubub of the North London suburbs, Hertsmere is a borough of fascinating contrasts.

A ramble along one of its country lanes can lead you to a welcoming country pub with a roaring log fire, to a quaint village clustered round a medieval church or even to one of Hertsmere's thriving, modern commercial zones on the fringes of the main towns.

Rich in history and natural beauty, the borough is also a place of economic opportunity, enjoying a varied commercial life enhanced by fast, efficient rail and road connections to the heart of London and to the north. Many high technology companies have chosen to make their base here and, together with light industry and major companies from the service sector, contribute to the borough's strong business identity. Hertsmere also has a place on the international stage as the home of the world-famous Elstree Studios - the 'British Hollywood' in Borehamwood. The Council is now the Studios' landlord, although the Studios is run as a private company reporting to its own board of directors.

Covering an area of 39 square miles, the current 100,000 (latest estimate) inhabitants of Hertsmere are concentrated in four main towns, Borehamwood, Bushey, Potters Bar and Radlett, each with their own distinct character. In addition to these urban centres, wide tracts of the borough's beautiful agricultural landscape are dotted with attractive villages.

Whether you are a resident or a visitor or are simply passing through on holiday or business - you will soon appreciate that Hertsmere can offer the best of both worlds. With the help of this special guide we hope you will discover for yourself a place where the benefits of town and country complement each other seamlessly and where the sparkling fantasy of film is woven into the past, present and future.