Opening a shop is an exciting venture for many people looking to bring their entrepreneurial dreams to life. However, choosing the right location is one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make in the process.
Why Location is Important
The location of your shop can significantly impact its success, influencing everything from customer to brand visibility and operational costs.
A well-chosen location can attract customers, enhance your business presence, and drive sales.
Conversely, a poor location might limit your reach and hinder growth. Understanding the importance of your shop’s location is essential for laying a strong foundation for your retail business.
In this article, we’ll explore the key factors to consider when selecting a location for your shop and how this decision can shape your business’s future, and where Salisbury Square – the new heart of Old Hatfield – could be the perfect location if you’re looking for a shop to rent in Hertfordshire.
Why Should I Open a Retail Business in Old Hatfield?
Located just outside Hatfield Park, Old Hatfield is rich in history and charm. Its blend of old-world allure and modern convenience makes it an ideal location for entrepreneurs looking to open a retail business.
Following the redevelopment of Hatfield train station, the completion of a multi-storey car park, and the creation of vibrant spaces like Arm and Sword Lane, Old Hatfield is entering a new growth phase.
The area will see the opening of an exciting mixed development of commercial and residential living via the regeneration of Salisbury Square, completing in spring 2026.
So, if you are considering shops to rent in Hertfordshire, here are five compelling reasons to consider opening your retail business in Old Hatfield.
Shops to Rent in Hertfordshire – 5 Top Tips
1. Heritage and Charm
Old Hatfield is a heritage-rich area boasting a collection of historical buildings and picturesque streets. The area’s charm attracts visitors year-round, providing a steady stream of potential customers for retail businesses.
With its quirky streets and period architecture, Old Hatfield offers a unique shopping experience that blends history with modern retail. This heritage appeal draws tourists and attracts locals who appreciate the area’s unique character.
Old Hatfield offers a range of retail and business opportunities. Delivering the highest build standards, the new retail units in Salisbury Square feature a mixture of modern and contemporary interior spaces with retail/restaurant space up to 263.56 sqm.
Retail units include:
- A 70 sqm retail unit
- A 54.8 sqm retail unit
- A large 127.3 sqm food unit suitable for a restaurant
Retailers have the chance to participate in this regeneration, initiatives like community markets and festivals are on the horizon, and convenient transport links are close by. Footfall is set to increase, and the area is expected to attract a diverse range of customers eager to support local businesses.
Download our Old Hatfield and Salisbury Square brochure.
2. Footfall from Hatfield Park
Located near the iconic Hatfield House, Park and Gardens, Old Hatfield benefits from the influx of visitors these attractions bring.
Hatfield Park hosts numerous events throughout the year, from historical tours to seasonal festivals, ensuring additional foot traffic. This makes Old Hatfield an excellent location for retail businesses looking to capitalise on a diverse and captive audience.
The completion of Salisbury Square is the missing part of the jigsaw for Old Hatfield, linking to Hatfield Park via Fore Street and The Broadway – this will bring many benefits to the community once finished, as well as encouraging new people to the area.
Retail businesses can capitalise on this by offering products and services that appeal to visitors who are looking for something bespoke and authentic.
3. Thriving Independent Retail Scene
One of Old Hatfield’s standout features is its thriving independent retail scene.
The area is home to various unique shops, offering everything from artisan goods to bespoke services. This vibrant mix of independent retailers creates a destination shopping experience that draws customers from near and far.
Being part of this dynamic retail community allows new businesses to benefit from Old Hatfield’s established reputation as a unique shopping destination.
Furthermore, the presence of other successful retailers creates opportunities for collaboration and cross-promotion, enhancing the appeal of opening a shop in the area.
Existing local businesses include a sustainable coffee roaster, beauty and wellness services, an Italian deli and food store, an artisan jeweller, a dog accessories store, and a bridal boutique. Old Hatfield is also home to the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce.
Business owners in Old Hatfield also enjoy networking and professional events hosted by the Hatfield Park Estate.
4. Residential Growth and Local Economy
The residential growth in and around Old Hatfield has been significant in recent years, with new homes being built to accommodate the increasing population.
This growth has boosted a growing, local economy, providing a solid customer base for retail businesses. As more people move to the area, the demand for diverse shopping options continues to rise.
Retailers in Old Hatfield can tap into this growing market, offering goods and services which cater to new and existing residents.
The new development of Salisbury Square includes stylish new apartments alongside exciting commercial, retail and hospitality spaces and is due for completion by Spring 2026.
5. Excellent Transport Links and Proximity to London
Old Hatfield is an extremely well-connected area, making it convenient for customers and suppliers to reach local businesses.
Hatfield railway station is just a short walk away, providing regular services to central London in under half an hour. Additionally, the area is well-connected by road, with easy access to major motorways such as the A1(M) and M25. There are also regular bus services to major Hertfordshire towns such as St Albans and Welwyn Garden City.
Old Hatfield’s excellent transport links make the area easily accessible for business owners and help attract visitors from further afield, contributing to its appeal as a retail destination.
Consider shops to rent in Hertfordshire and become part of the new heart of Old Hatfield.
If you are looking for a shop to rent in Hertfordshire, Old Hatfield is a prime location that offers a compelling blend of history, community, and the modern convenience of destination shopping.
Ready to join Hertfordshire’s most vibrant retail community? Explore retail opportunities in Old Hatfield’s new heart.
