Hertfordshire is a county with a low profile, but high reputation for idyllic charm. Its towns such as Bushey tend to buck the trend of the busy South East, even though it practically borders the London Borough of Harrow. With a small population of about thirty thousand residents, the area has been occupied since the early Stone Age or Palaeolithic period. Whilst not actual occupied by the Romans, a Roman road cuts through the town, there are Roman remains including villas dotted around the surrounding landscape.

The history of Bushey from the medieval period through to the end of the Napoleonic Wars provides much colour and accounts for its unique feel and various claims to fame. In fact, the small town feel to it, even thought on the doorstep of London is probably why it is so loved by its residents and businesses alike. It is currently twinned with the German town of Landsberg am Lech. This twinning is more than just a random selection as well. Sir Hubert von Herkomer, who visited Bushey, fell in love with it and built a renowned art school in the 19th century, was originally from the area of Bavaria where Landsberg am Lech is located.

Bushey has many cultural connections besides art, with the Elstree film studios just down the road. It therefore provides a convenient setting for many programmes, with its traditional and native charm a major factor in such decisions. Programmes and films such as The Avengers, Grange Hill, Monty Python's Flying Circus, Harry Potter, Nuns on the Run and Little Britain all used the town for their filming, often recruiting extras from the local schools, colleges and the University College London.

The people who live in Bushey manage to keep the feel of a close community and identity, even in today's hurly burly society. The Bushey Festival epitomises this attitude. Opening in the first two weeks of July, it has been a regular event since 1983 and is organised, staffed and run entirely by volunteers, becoming a registered charity in 1990. The 'village' feel to it is important and items such as the 'Bushey in Bloom - Front Garden Competition' ensure community involvement and civic pride. This is organised by the active Bushey Horticultural Society. Other traditional long standing elements include the Bushey Quarter Marathon and other fun runs, quizzes, musical recitals, dancing displays and taster lessons and much more.

Educationally Bushey boast a range and mix of excellent state and private schools, both infants and juniors. Here you will also find the Purcell School. One of the UK's oldest music schools, it regularly produces superb and talented musicians. It also organises around 200 events for its pupils and public, not only in Bushey, but all around the country. On top of that the school regularly has international tours which in the past have included Russia, Iceland and Japan.

Bushey is a charming town, where old and new merge together to provide a unique location. Whilst embracing the modern, Bushey upholds the community and tradition that has existed and formed it for hundreds of years.