The shopping centre ensuring every child finds joy this season

The Marlowes isn't just a shopping centre; it's the heart of our community's Christmas celebration. We are pouring all our festive spirit into making sure that the joy of the season is accessible to every single family, embracing the true meaning of giving and togetherness through our ‘December Discoveries’ campaign.

We believe that Christmas is a time for heartfelt memories, not hurry or stress. Our commitment goes far beyond the high street; it’s about compassion, inclusion, and supporting the wonderful people of Hemel Hempstead all year round.

We know that for many families, the excitement of the Grotto can feel overwhelming. That’s why we are so proud to offer our one of a kind Sensory Santa sessions with SEND bookings, offering a quiet haven where every child, including those with autism or sensory sensitivities, can experience the pure magic of meeting Father Christmas.

These unique sessions are held first thing in the morning, 10:30 am on Sunday 7th, 14th, and 21st of December. We dim the lights, minimise noise, and manage capacity, creating a peaceful, personalised environment built entirely around your child’s needs. It's a special, stress-free tradition we promise to deliver.

While entry is free, we kindly encourage a £5 donation to support the heroic Children's Air Ambulance, helping them continue their lifesaving flights across the country. Please pre-book these invaluable sessions by emailing [email protected].

Our dedication to Hemel Hempstead doesn't pause after Christmas Day. We are deeply committed to the people who make our town special.

We stand shoulder-to-shoulder with incredible organisations like Electric Umbrella, whose mission is to empower learning-disabled and neurodivergent people through creativity, music, and connection, helping to foster a truly inclusive society in Hertfordshire.

Nothing warms the heart like seeing local pride! Our beloved Hemel Reindeer Trailreturns, featuring nine unique reindeer decorated by talented students from nine local primary schools. It’s a free activity that invites families to explore and celebrate the creativity right here in our town, with the added excitement of a chance to win an iPad.

We understand the importance of connection. That's why we proudly host the monthly Alzheimer's Society coffee morning in our Community Hub. It's a supportive, welcoming space where friendship and help are always available, a commitment that continues every month of the year, no matter the season.

We've listened to our shoppers! We want your visit to be stress-free and seamless, allowing you to focus on the joy of gifting:

● Say goodbye to parking worries! We’ve implemented a new operator with cashless payment machines and clear signage to simplify your arrival and departure. We want your focus to be on finding that perfect present, not finding change.

● Take back your evenings! We offer late-night shopping until 7:00 pm every Thursday throughout December, giving you the peace and space you need to complete your list.

The Marlowes says: “We believe Christmas magic should be accessible to everyone, and our specialised Sensory Santa sessions are a vital part of that commitment. We want to be known as the most inclusive centre in the region. By focusing on essential community welfare, from our partnerships with Electric Umbrella and the Alzheimer's Society to fundraising for the Children's Air Ambulance, we are ensuring that The Marlowes serves as a true community hub this Christmas and throughout the year”