Much-loved waterpark closed forever after 18 years and now no trace remains

Much-loved waterpark closed forever after 18 years and now no trace remains The waterpark, which was just one hour away from London, was popular with countless families and was home to many "happy memories" but now it's gone for good A beloved waterpark that had been a family favourite since opening in the 1990s shut its doors permanently, and has since been razed to the ground. The UK might not immediately come to mind when thinking of visiting waterparks, given our notoriously grey weather isn't necessarily the ideal setting for elaborate and vibrantly coloured slides and attractions. However, there were numerous venues that drew substantial crowds, and one located less than an hour from London proved particularly popular. This was Aqua Splash in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, celebrated for its attractions, slides and swimming pools. The venue was distinctive, with several of its slides protruding from the building and winding around its exterior, creating an exhilarating spectacle even before visitors stepped inside. The indoor waterpark attracted both locals and those travelling from further away, eager to experience the excitement on offer - though its prosperity proved short-lived. Over time, Aqua Splash faced criticism for deteriorating conditions, with unclean changing facilities and floors becoming the norm. The venue began to appear worn and required refurbishment, but sadly, this never materialised. The Jarman Park site closed in 2013, with the entire complex subsequently demolished in 2014, erasing both the waterpark and the "cherished memories" created within its walls. Yet the Aqua Splash name lives on to this day. The site where it once stood is now occupied by the Planet Ice Hemel Hempstead ice rink and the XC extreme sports centre, a firm favourite among thrill-seekers for its indoor skatepark and climbing walls. Nostalgia for beloved childhood haunts and long-lost venues continues to capture the public's imagination. Instagram account Hemel Images shared a Reel to the popular social media platform, featuring images of the waterpark in its prime, set against a well-known clip of actor Shia LaBeouf running through a series of emotions. Overlaid on the Reel, Hemel Images added the caption: "POV: Aquasplash was your childhood". In the post's description, the account's creator paid tribute to the "happy memories" and lasting legacy of the waterpark. They wrote: "Despite being often labeled as 'a death trap waiting to happen' by visitors, it had a rich history. Back in the day, Aquasplash served as a significant attraction for residents across Dacorum, Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, and beyond. "From its impressive entrance to the slides protruding from the building's side, the lazy river, the expansive green space bowl, the thrilling rapids, the blue slide, the jacuzzi, and the café, Aquasplash offered non-stop excitement. "Today, it exists solely as a cherished memory." In the comments section, fellow Aqua Splash enthusiasts were eager to share their memories. One joked: "Guaranteed athletes foot every visit, wouldn't change it for the world". Another said: "I can still smell and taste it!" A third added: "Why is there nowhere similar that place was like heaven to me at 8/9 no brainer?? Would make loads of dosh and fun for everyone - even me at 34". While a fourth wrote: "I work at the cineworld up at Jarmans. And in a little room under one of the screens there is still a boat from the old slides". Someone else said: "I was a lifeguard in there, what a job aha". And another simply added: "This place was the best".