Spanning around 5,000 sq ft across two floors, the venue will bring a new family entertainment offer to Hemel Hempstead and marks the brand’s first location in the East of England.
Guests pay a single admission fee for unlimited access to arcade games, pinball, pool, air hockey and more, with no coins, tokens or hidden extras.
The opening is the latest in a strong run of new arrivals at The Marlowes. It follows the recent openings of Esquires Coffee and We Do Mobility earlier this summer, and reflects the centre’s ongoing commitment to bringing a broader, more varied mix of businesses to the heart of Hemel Hempstead – from everyday services to destinations that give the whole community a reason to visit.
Continue Arcades was the perfect fit for that vision. The brand replaces the spinning coins and tokens of traditional arcades with a simple, family-friendly promise: pay at the door and play everything. Guests step into a neon-lit, retro-future world packed with arcade classics, pinball, racers, shooters, pool and air hockey, alongside unlimited popcorn, pick ‘n’ mix, hot dogs, frozen drinks, and cocktails and licensed drinks for over-18s.
David Taylor, Member of Parliament for Hemel Hempstead, said: “Fantastic to see a retro gaming lounge opening in Hemel town centre. This is a great addition for local families and reflects the ongoing efforts of The Marlowes Shopping Centre to strengthen its role as an active social hub, bringing more people into the town and supporting local businesses. I look forward to visiting when it opens.”
A destination for the whole community
Continue Arcades is an all-weather, all-ages day out and that is exactly what The Marlowes shopping centre wanted to bring to Hemel. Whether it’s families looking for an afternoon out, friends after a bit of friendly competition or groups celebrating a birthday or team social, there is something here for everyone.
Entry is priced to keep fun accessible: £14 for adults and £12 for children, with no hidden extras, tokens or coin top-ups. Birthday and group party packages start at £15 per person, and the whole venue is available for exclusive private hire for 90-minute takeovers.
A local team, run by local people
The Hemel Hempstead venue is run by local owners Olivia and Jeff Brizzolara, who are working hands-on in the arcade. The opening has created seven new local jobs, including a general manager and six arcade team members, while the venue’s fit-out was delivered by local builders and contractors. The investment reflects both Continue Arcades’ and The Marlowes’ commitment to supporting the local economy and bringing more visitors into Hemel Hempstead town centre.
Continue Arcades was founded by Austin Wood, who opened the brand’s first venue in Plymouth in May 2024 with a mission to turn empty high-street spaces into buzzing, sociable places for families and friends. The brand has since grown to Plymouth, Taunton, Swansea, Chichester and Tenby. Hemel Hempstead is the sixth UK venue and the first of a planned ten across the East of England.
“We’re really pleased to welcome Continue Arcades to The Marlowes. This is the kind of venue that gives people a genuine reason to come into town and to stay longer when they get here. It’s great fun, it’s good value, and it’s for everyone. Continue Arcades is a brilliant addition to what is shaping up to be a really exciting summer at the centre.” said Vicki Workman, Business Manager, The Marlowes shopping centre.
“Games have always been a family passion, Jeff is a game developer who has worked on AAA titles, so bringing the love of play to our own town is a dream come true. Continue Arcades is about one thing: the most fun on the high street. We’ve built a place where a family can play all day for one fair price, where nostalgia is everywhere you look, and where a bit of friendly competition brings everyone together. The Marlowes is the perfect home for it.” said Olivia Brizzolara, Co-owner, Continue Arcades Hemel Hempstead
Continue Arcades opens to the public on Friday 24th July 2026. Everyone is warmly welcome from day one.
Opening hours
Sunday – Thursday: 11:30am – 9:00 pm
Friday: 11:30am – 11:00pm
Saturday: 10:00am – 11:00pm
