The festive season in Hemel Hempstead is about to get a whole lot brighter as the much-anticipated Santa Sleigh, organised by the Hemel Hempstead Rotary, prepares for its triumphant return. This cherished tradition spreads joy across Hemel Hempstead, Kings Langley, and Abbots Langley while raising crucial thousands for local causes.
A Decade of Festive Fundraising
Since its launch a decade ago, this annual sleigh activity has made an incredible impact, raising more than £130,000 for local charities and community organisations. This remarkable sum is a direct result of the overwhelming generosity shown by residents who support the initiative year after year, alongside the active participation of the local groups that benefit.
This year, the sleigh's itinerary is more ambitious than ever. It is scheduled to travel along 25 separate routes and will also make special static appearances at nine local venues. This expanded reach ensures that even more families can partake in the magic.
Meet Santa and Capture the Magic
One of the highlights for children and adults alike is the opportunity to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus in person. At various stops across the area, families will have the chance to chat with the festive couple and take a free festive photo to capture the special memory.
For those wondering when the sleigh will be in their neighbourhood, all the details are available online. Local residents can find the complete schedule, including route maps and precise timings, by visiting the official website: www.hemelsantasleigh.co.uk.
Static Sleigh Appearances
The sleigh will be stationed at the following locations for extended visits, perfect for those who want to meet Santa without following a route:
- November 29: Mini-Static in Claymore, Grovehill - 5.30pm to 6pm
- December 4: Static at Jarman Park Cinema - 4pm to 7.30pm
- December 11: Static in Marlowes, near The RoundHouse - 9am to 4.30pm
- December 13: Static at Tescos, Jarman Park - 8am to 6.30pm
- December 14: Static at Tescos, Jarman Park - 9.30am to 4pm & Mini Static at Apsley Lock Marina - 5pm to 5.30pm
- December 17: Mini Static at NISA, Crabtree Lane
- December 18: Static in Bank Court, near Liberty Tea Rooms - 10am to 3pm
- December 19: Static at Sainsbury's, Woodhall Farm - 8am to 5pm
- December 20: Static at Sainsbury's, Apsley Mills - 8am to 6.30pm
- December 21: Static at Sainsbury's, Apsley Mills - 9.30am to 4pm & Mini static at Ovaltine building - 5pm to 5.30pm
- December 22: Static at Tescos, Jarman Park
Neighbourhood Route Visits
The sleigh will also tour local streets, bringing the festive spirit directly to residents' doorsteps from 5.30pm to 7.30pm on these dates:
- November 22: Adeyfield North
- November 23: Marlowes/Cotterells
- November 24: Abbots Langley West
- November 25: Warners End/fields End
- November 27: Manor/Aspen Estates
- November 29: Grovehill West
- November 30: Bennetts End/ Hobbs Hill/ Barnacres
- December 1: Grovehill East
- December 2: Boxmoor/Green End
- December 3: Gadebridge Rd/Hammerfield/Boxmoor
- December 5: Boxmoor North/Counters End
- December 6: Gadebridge
- December 7: Abbots Langley East
- December 8: Tile Kiln Lane/North End
- December 9: Adeyfield West
- December 10: Chaulden
- December 11: Highfield
- December 12: Woodhall Farm
- December 14: Belswains/Nash Mills
- December 15: Leverstock Green
- December 17: Corner Hall/ Apsley
- December 18: Adeyfield East
- December 21: Kings Langley
- December 22: Warners End
The continued success of the Hemel Hempstead Rotary's Santa Sleigh is a powerful testament to the community's spirit. It’s a perfect opportunity for families to enjoy some free, festive fun while knowing their participation contributes to vital local causes, continuing a legacy of generosity that defines the area.
