St Albans Visitor Guide 2021-2022

ST ALBANS ST ST ALBANS ST ALB STALBANS ALBANS ST ST ALBANS ALBANS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2021-2022

OFFICIAL VISITOR G OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2021-2022 OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2021-2022 OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2021-2022

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE GUIDE 2021-2022 OFFICIAL VISITOR 2021-2022

enjoystalbans.com

m

ST ALBA

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE

ns.com

enjoystalbans.com

enjoystalbans.com enjoystalba enjoystalbans.com

©Pan Hapeshis

Use #enjoystalbans and be a part of our history

@EnjoyStAlbans

WELCOME TO ST ALBANS Visit one of Britain’s most historic cities, just 20 miles and 20 minutes by train from London.

St Albans offers visitors plenty to see and do whether staying a few days or longer explore the Cathedral, discover the city’s Roman history, browse around independent shops and the famous Charter Market, and relax in one of the many pubs and awardwinning restaurants. This historic, cultural city is like no other.

A thriving Arts and Entertainment scene, together with beautiful countryside on the doorstep, will make any stay a memorable one.

This guide is packed with tips to ensure you get the most from your visit. Click on the live links found within each page or head to enjoystalbans.com

Contents

Pg 04 - 24/48 Hours in St Albans...........................................

Pg 06 - Historic St Albans..............................................................

Pg 10 - Must See......................................................................................

Pg 16 - What’s On..................................................................................

Pg 20 - Shopping......................................................................................

Pg 22 - Charter Market.....................................................................

Pg 26 - City Map......................................................................................

Pg 28 - Eating & Drinking..............................................................

Pg 34 - Family Fun..................................................................................

Pg 35 - Experiences...............................................................................

Pg 38 - Arts & Entertainment.....................................................

Pg 39 - Sports & Recreation.........................................................

Pg 42 - Explore Further Afield...................................................

Pg 50 - Visitor Information...........................................................

Official Visitor Guide 2021 is sponsored, designed & published by

The Mission Hall, Clifton Street, St Albans, AL1 3RY | wla.agency

24 HOURS IN ST ALBANS

©Stephanie Belton

A beautiful and welcoming city, St Albans is the perfect place to relax and unwind against a backdrop of fascinating historical architecture, an abundance of independent shops, a 500-year-old Charter Market, award-winning restaurants and world-famous pubs.

Start your day with a coffee and pastry at St Albans Museum + Gallery which showcases the City’s fascinating history. The Clock Tower is a must and after ascending its 93 steps, visitors are rewarded with stunning views of the city. Enjoy the buzz of the vibrant independent shops and twice weekly Charter Market, for unique items and fresh produce. Next, absorb the heritage of St Albans Cathedral which boasts the longest nave in Britain, then wander through the Abbey Orchard to Verulamium Park, a sprawling 100-acre parkland that’s perfect for a picnic or leisurely stroll. Include a stop at the Roman Mosaic and Hypocaust and visit Verulamium Museum and the Roman Theatre, for a true taste of everyday Roman life.

DID YOU KNOW:

Until 1863, the Clock Tower bell was rung at 4am to wake apprentices for work and in the evening when all the fires and lights were to be put out.

HIGH STREET

ENJO

4

YSTALB

Finally, sit back and enjoy a drink in one of the city’s historic pubs which include ‘Ye Olde Fighting Cocks’ – heralded as Britain’s oldest pub.

48 HOURS IN ST ALBANS Whether you’re visiting St Albans or have lived here for many years, the city is overflowing with hidden gems to discover, cultural events to enjoy and an array of places to eat and drink.

Discover the most picturesque and interesting areas of the city, such as the former Coaching Inns and Abbey Guest Houses by booking a guided walking tour with St Albans City Guides.

For an interactive experience, the St Albans South Signal Box is a great place to visit, or the de Havilland Aircraft Museum, the UK’s oldest aviation museum. For family fun, Willows Activity Farm is a great day out for children of all ages.

Explore the surrounding countryside, including Heartwood Forest near Sandridge with its stunning spread of seasonal bluebells, or venture to Nomansland Common where children will enjoy climbing trees and building dens.

The village of Wheathampstead boasts historical properties and trails, as well as a selection of food and drink venues.

With so much to do, be sure to make a booking at one of the award-winning pubs or restaurants in town, the perfect end to a memorable stay.

LOCAL TIP: The Vintry Garden, with its stunning views, next to the Cathedral is the perfect spot to enjoy a coffee or some delicious street food.

Plan your visit at enjoystalbans.com

5

©Cecelina Tornburg

HISTORIC ST ALBANS St Albans has played a significant historical role in British life, from ancient times right through to modern day.

Not only is it the site of England’s most important Roman settlement, it was also the home of Britain’s first Saint, Alban, the first battleground in the War of the Roses and has played its part in modern science as the home of the English philosopher Sir Francis Bacon and Professor Stephen Hawking.

St Albans Museum + Gallery celebrates the city’s 2,000 years of history through displays, artworks and installations, while traces of Roman history are all around.

Verulamium Museum displays incredible ancient artefacts, and a mosaic from a Roman villa has survived and can be seen in Verulamium Park, along with parts of the Roman city wall.

Clock Tower, in the city centre dating back to 1405. The Charter Market retains the lively spirit it exuded 1,000 years ago whilst pubs, shops and restaurants bring beautiful period buildings back to life.

Famous residents, in the world of science, include Sir Francis Bacon who was made Viscount St Albans and is believed to be buried in St Michael’s Church, while Professor Stephen Hawking attended St Albans School, one of the oldest public schools in the world.

St Albans claims its place in the history of film and TV. A popular set location Netflix drama The Crown chose the city’s cathedral as a substitute for Westminster Abbey - it was also home to one of the 20th century’s greatest film directors, Stanley Kubrick.

Wherever you walk, the city is packed with reminders of its rich heritage. The stunning Norman Cathedral built using Roman bricks and the unique Medieval

DID YOU KNOW: Verulamium Museum contains some of the best Roman mosaics and one of the largest surviving hoards of Roman gold coins discovered in Britain.

Historical facts at enjoystalbans.com

7

©Luke Watson

MUST SEE

Verulamium Museum, St Michael’s Street, AL3 4SW

This award-winning museum displays beautiful objects from Verulamium, the third largest city of Roman Britain. See some of the finest Roman mosaics and wall plasters outside the Mediterranean, and discover the life and times of a major Roman city. stalbansmuseums.org.uk Roman Theatre, Bluehouse Hill, AL3 6AD

Just a short walk from Verulamium Museum are the remains of a Roman theatre with a stage rather than an Amphitheatre – the only example of its kind in Britain.

Nearby are the foundations of a Roman town house, a sacred shrine and Roman shops gorhamburyestate.co.uk The Roman Mosaic & Hypocaust, Verulamium Park, AL3 4SW Discovered during excavations in the 1930s, this mosaiced floor of a large Roman townhouse also showcases a hypocaust – an ancient underfloor heating system and a marvel of Roman engineering. stalbansmuseums.org.uk

DID YOU KNOW: The Romans believed perfection was the preserve of the gods. They sometimes deliberately added mistakes to their mosaics to ensure they were not treading on their toes.

ENJO

10

YSTALB

St Albans Cathedral, Sumpter Yard, AL1 1BY

St Albans Cathedral stands over the place where Alban, Britain’s first saint, was buried over 1,700 years ago. Surrounded by beautiful parkland, the Cathedral is a treasure trove of history providing tours, events and activities for all ages. stalbanscathedral.org

©Angelo Hornak

St Albans Museum + Gallery, St Peter’s Street, AL1 3DH

This is a world-class centre for arts and culture at the heart of one of Britain’s most historic cities. Set over 3 floors are state-of-the-art gallery spaces which showcase over 2,000 years of priceless heritage.

Also displayed are contemporary artworks – sharing local, national and world treasures with visitors. stalbansmuseums.org.uk Verulamium Park, AL3 4SW

Over 100 acres of parkland in the City centre, are named after the Roman City of Verulamium, on which it stands. The River Ver that flows through the park is a rare chalk stream, which feeds the ornamental lake, home to a wealth of waterfowl. enjoystalbans.com

LOCAL TIP: Next to the newly refurbished playground is the Inn on The Park, a family and dog friendly cafe with great food and ample outside space.

Find out more at enjoystalbans.com

11

MUST SEE

Charter Market, St Peter’s Street, AL3 5DJ

Established over 1,000 years ago, the colourful market is one of the largest in the South East. Discover an enormous variety of quality goods from fresh local produce to gifts, clothing, crafts and more. enjoystalbans.com ©Ren Behan

Clock Tower, High Street, AL3 4EL

Completed by 1405, the Clock Tower is the only surviving medieval town belfry in England. Today, you can climb the 93 steps to the top of the Tower and enjoy magnificent views of the City and Cathedral.

Visitors are warned that the spiral staircase is steep and narrow. stalbansmuseums.org.uk Historic Pubs

As St Albans was a day’s ride from London by horse and carriage, many Inns opened to satisfy demand for a night’s lodging and refreshments. There are still dozens of pubs around the city, many offering real ales (as you’d expect in the home of CAMRA) and delicious food - including Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, the oldest pub in the UK. enjoystalbans.com

DID YOU KNOW: Our Charter Market dates back to at least 1553. In 1834 a man named Faulkner offered his wife for sale in the Market Place for the equivalent of 12p!

12

©Cecelina Tornburg

The Gorhambury Estate, AL3 6AE/AL3 6AH

Old Gorhambury was completed in 1568 by Sir Nicholas Bacon and although little remains today, visitors can still visualise its previous grandeur. Impressive Gorhambury House was later built and highlights include a 17th century painted glass window. Both homes are accessed from scenic Gorhambury Drive. gorhamburyestate.co.uk

©Cecelina Tornburg

Sopwell Nunnery, Cottonmill Lane, AL1 2BY

Visit the ruins of Sir Richard Lee’s Tudor country house, built on the site of a 12th-century nunnery.

The site is an ideal spot for a family picnic, with adjacent wildlife meadow and the River Ver rare chalk stream. stalbansmuseums.org.uk

St Michael’s Village, St Michael’s Street, AL3 4SP

Nestling at the west end of Verulamium Park, the village is home to St Michael’s Church, built on the site of Verulamium’s basilica and one of the most significant surviving Anglo-Saxon buildings in the county.

Kingsbury Watermill, a working 16th-century watermill overlooking the River Ver, is home to The Waffle House.

LOCAL TIP: Tucked away are some great pubs including The Portland Arms, The Six Bells and Great Northern Pub & Kitchen. Or try the Reading Rooms in nearby Wheathampstead.

Find out more at enjoystalbans.com

13

For all the latest Coronavirus information, click link below:

enjoystalbans.com/usefulinformation/coronavirus/

WHAT’S ON Spring

•

•

Big Iftar

Autumn

•

EID

•

Food and Drink Month

•

VE Day

•

Pub in the Park

•

SustFest

•

CAMRA Beer and Cider Festival

Summer

•

Enjoy St Albans - Food and Drink Festival

•

Alban Pilgrimage

•

George Street Gin & Jazz

•

Enjoy St Albans Street Festival

•

•

Boishakhi, celebrating the Bangladeshi Diaspora

Halloween spooky trails, St Albans Ghost Tours etc

•

•

Larks in the Park

Black History Month & Black History Market

•

Comedy Garden

•

•

PRIDE in the Pub

Light Show - Earth | What a Wonderful World

•

Medieval Summer

•

Cathedral Fireworks

•

OVO Theatre Shakespeare production in the Roman Theatre

•

Christmas Cracker – lights turn on and street festival

•

International Organ Festival, St Albans Cathedral

ENJO

16

YSTALB

Enjoy St Albans Book Fest

Winter •

Enjoy St Albans at Christmas

From food and drink to family fun, comedy, arts, literature and music - there’s a packed programme of exciting events.

The legendary Food and Drink Festival is a month-long event celebrating all things food with pop-up markets, specialist food events, foodie movies, wine tastings and the CAMRA Beer and Cider Festival.

Immerse yourself in history with the Alban Pilgrimage in June and Medieval Summer in July which celebrate the city’s magnificent medieval history. Book tickets and experience Shakespeare in the beautiful outdoor Roman Theatre and look out for a brand-new event, St Albans Book Fest, which celebrates authors old and new.

With over 500 years of tradition, the Wednesday and Saturday Charter Market is a must visit for fresh and locally produced goods. Be sure to check the listings for Sunday markets which rotate and include Vintage, Farmers, Sustainable and World markets.

Whilst St Albans shines in the summer, it really sparkles at Christmas. Enjoy themed markets packed with unique gifts and warm up with some delicious seasonal food and drink. The series of festive installations across the town centre are the perfect backdrop for a memorable picture.

Events are subject to change. Visit enjoystalbans.com for up-to-date details and listings.

Up to date events at enjoystalbans.com

17

There is so much to do in our wonderful city, from comedy to music and movies to theatre St Albans has it all.

For details on key venues in the city, please click link below:

enjoystalbans.com/thingsto-do/entertainment/

©Stephanie Belton

STYLISH ST ALBANS

St Albans is a spectacular shopping destination. Quaint streets and medieval buildings house independent shops, while shopping areas play host to well-known brands.

Starting at the Clock Tower, enjoy a browse along High St for award-winning fashion and lifestyle stores. Don’t miss the Village Arcade, a corridor of wonderfully charming boutiques and Heritage Close, with niche independents and steps down to the Cathedral. From there, head to picture perfect George Street for boutique shops and pubs in Grade II listed buildings.

From the Clock Tower, make your way into the vibrant Market Place which has been at the heart of St Albans shopping for hundreds of years. To the left is Christopher Place, a crescent shaped shopping area with luxury brands and a central space for relaxing. Continue back ©Adrian Antal

through the bustling Market Place and up towards St Peter’s Street, the main artery of the city centre, with flagship stores, banks and transport links.

At the top of town, turn left on to Catherine Street for everything from salons to quirky cafes, pubs and interiors. Make your way back down and to the left of the Town Hall where you will find The Maltings, the largest shopping area in St Albans with big brand names galore and independents.

Head on to Chequer Street for fashion, art and photographic goods as well as numerous food venues. Then turn left and explore London Road with health, beauty and sustainable independents.

Carry on until you reach The Odyssey, a recently restored independent Art Deco cinema. Retrace your steps, back to the main junction, then turn left for the famous Holywell Hill to discover independent fashion, food, books, interiors and more.

Full directory at enjoystalbans.com

21

MARKET MAGIC St Albans has an extraordinary history.

With a rich Roman past, it’s been home to many fascinating people who have influenced the city and shaped the culture of modern Britain. But it’s the market that is at the heart of the St Albans story.

For over 500 years it has been a regular fixture, trading every Wednesday and Saturday, attracting and uniting locals and those in neighbouring areas.

Whilst today, an eclectic mix of traders offer fresh produce, diverse artisan goods

22 22

Discover more at enjoystalbans.com

and world foods, this was not the case in earlier times where streets and areas were dedicated to the sale of certain goods such as fish by the bucket and also cattle & iron.

Come rain, wind or snow, traders are there offering everything you could want or need.

Legacy family businesses sit side by side with local start-ups looking to kick-start their business journey. The market is a weekly focal point for locals and a huge draw for people from far and wide who are attracted by its buzzing atmosphere, in which to purchase quality goods.

In more recent years the market offering has expanded to include fringe markets, like the Inside Out pop-up event, each Friday where local businesses join traders and food stalls. Sundays play host to a rotation of diverse market events including Sustainable, World, Farmers and Vintage markets.

CITY MAP 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23

Abbey Gateway Abbey Theatre Alban Arena Cathedral Christopher Place Civic Centre Clarence Park Clock Tower Kingsbury Watermill Roman Mosaic & Hypocaust Maltings Arts Theatre Maltings Shopping Centre Odyssey Cinema Police Station Roman Theatre St Albans Museum & Gallery St Albans South Signal Box St Michael’s Church Verulamium Museum Verulamium Park Village Arcade Vintry Garden Ye Olde Fighting Cocks Inn

9

15 18

19

20

10 23

P C

Car Parks Coach Parks Visitor Information CD Coach Drop Off Point Main Shopping Centre Footpaths WC Public Toilets Churches, Places of Worship

ENJO

26

YSTALB

14

7

6 3

8

1

4

21

5

16 11

22

17

13

2

Maps & Guides at enjoystalbans.com

27

FOODIES WELCOME

©Stephanie Belton

St Albans has a remarkable history and reputation with food and drink. It’s modern-day foodie scene makes it a must-enjoy destination.

An historic inn-keeping city, St Albans has the most pubs per square mile in the country and is home to England’s Oldest pub, Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, as confirmed by The Guinness Book of Records.

Did you know the hot cross bun originated in St Albans? The ‘Alban Bun’ was created by Brother Thomas Rocliffe, a 14th Century Monk at St Albans Abbey, who developed the recipe and would feed the poor on Good Friday.

With over 100 restaurants, bistros, pubs, cafes and coffee shops, there is something to suit every taste for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. St Albans is home to a plethora of award-winning destinations that are perfect for special occasions and culinary gatherings - including Thompson, the only 3AA rosette fine dining restaurant in Hertfordshire.

Enjoy incredible flavours from around the world with street food stalls on the weekly markets, with plant based and gluten free options available. Be sure to look out for the mouthwatering pop-up food markets and festivals which St Albans is so well-known for.

Wander down to The Waffle House, for scrumptious Belgian waffles, located in the idyllic 16th Century Kingsbury Watermill DID YOU KNOW: overlooking the River Ver. When it comes to food and While filming at Elstree Studios, Tom Cruise is said to have ordered lobster and drink, St Albans really is chicken tikka masala when he visited Veer hard to beat!

Dhara restaurant in St Albans.

ENJO

28

YSTALB

LOVE YOUR LOCAL If you like your pint served with character, then you are in the right place! St Albans is home to some of Britain’s oldest pubs, each packed with history, local ales and plenty of tales to tell!

Of the many pubs in the district, the majority are run by individuals which means that their pub is their livelihood.

So expect a warm welcome, superb food and an idyllic setting.

From family and pet friendly, to live music, gastro and sporting venues, St Albans offers a unique pub experience that you are guaranteed to enjoy, whatever the occasion.

LOCAL PUB CRAWLS Discover independent pubs across the district with our brilliant pub trail!

Head to SaveStAlbansPubs.co.uk

LOCAL TIP: Local shop owners have a wealth of knowledge and are on hand with great tips and advice on where to book!

Contact details at enjoystalbans.com

29

St Albans Museum + Gallery Café Enjoy barista made coffee with a beautifully flaky pastry or indulge in a delicious lunchtime meal in the atmospheric Courtroom Open every day, 11am - 5pm St Albans Museum + Gallery St Peters Street St Albans AL1 3DH ©Stephanie Belton

FESTIVAL FUN

St Albans is well-known for its vibrant and incredibly popular festivals.

There is fun for the whole family at the Alban Weekend in June, which includes the Alban Pilgrimage and Alban Street Festival with live music, festival stalls and street food.

The St Albans Food and Drink Festival in September celebrates our food & drink heroes. A month-long programme of vibrant events across the district includes the St Albans Food & Drink Awards and Feastival Street Festival.

The festive season begins with the Christmas Cracker event in November, when the Christmas lights are officially switched on! Kick start your Christmas shopping and enjoy fun for all the family at the Christmas Street Festival with family entertainment, rides and festive market stalls.

Find event details & accommodation listings at enjoystalbans.com

ENJOYSTALBANS.COM

©Stephanie Belton

FAMILY FUN

©Cecelina Tornburg

Come rain or shine, St Albans offers families an endless array of fun activities to enjoy.

There are parks aplenty to keep the little ones entertained. Verulamium Park boasts a Roman themed children’s playground, splash-park and football pitches, whilst Clarence Park offers a children’s play area, lots of green space and a walking circle.

The Alban Way is ideal for a cycle or scoot, flat and traffic-free, children will enjoy their freedom while staying safe.

shows, tractor rides, farmyard petting, funfair rides and huge indoor and outdoor play areas. For a rainy day, soft play is a great option, so try DJ’s Play Jungle, Cotlandswick Leisure Centre or Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre.

At the UK’s oldest aviation museum, the de Havilland Aircraft Museum, visitors can get up close to the iconic Mosquito, sit in a cockpit or book a pilot simulator flight. It’s a memorable day out for everyone.

Hatfield House & Park and Knebworth House are two glorious heritage properties offering acres of land to explore. Kids will love the woodland trails at Hatfield House whilst DID YOU KNOW: the unique Dinosaur Trail and thrilling adventure In 1820 Elizabeth Wilson died hitting her head as the coach entered the White Hart playground at Knebworth Inn. Her ghost walks in the inn yard. Her House will make it hard to death features in Charles Dickens’ Pickwick leave.

An action-packed day is guaranteed at Willows Activity Farm with its children’s

papers.

ENJO

34

YSTALB

EXPERIENCES

©Cecelina Tornburg

Whether action or relaxation is the order of the day, there are activities to suit all tastes in St Albans.

Discover the people, history and hidden stories of St Albans and the surrounding area with the St Albans City Guides, a not for profit organisation. The guides are all trained and qualified as either blue or green badge guides with the Institute of Tourist Guiding. There is a wide variety of tours, including the spooky Ghosts & Ghouls Walk at Halloween.

Several Blue Plaques are dotted around the city so wander the streets and discover which prominent people once resided in St Albans On the edge of the city is Gorhambury Estate, home to the Roman Theatre, Old Gorhambury and Gorhambury House.

Absorb stunning scenery on

the magnificent drive which weaves these wonders together.

To slow the pace, enjoy delicious scones and pastries at St Michael’s Manor or try either The Ivy in the city centre or Sopwell House.

Take time to recharge with an indulgent spa treatment at Verulamium Spa, or visit the Cottonmill Spa at Sopwell House and enjoy first-class facilities in enchanting grounds. The Beauty House

by Champneys, tucked away on the High Street, is an oasis of calm offering iconic treatments.

LOCAL TIP:

Greenwood Park is great for kids that love to climb! This huge open-space park, in nearby Chiswell Green, is perfect for all ages.

Plan your visit at enjoystalbans.com

35

©Stephanie Belton

©Stephanie Belton

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Birthplace of 60s rock band The Zombies and home to Stanley Kubrick, St Albans retains a thriving arts and entertainment scene.

Soak up Art Deco style while enjoying a movie at The Odyssey Cinema. Take your pick from current releases to classics and enjoy the big screen in a comfy chair.

Trestle is known for its physical theatre using masks to create unique performances.

The Maltings Theatre and Abbey Theatre offer a kaleidoscope of productions from musicals to Shakespeare and folk to childrens’ shows.

The evening doesn’t have to end when the curtain falls as St Albans has a vibrant live music scene which includes The Horn A premier venue in St Albans is the Alban who have won UK Music Pub of the Year Arena. The annual panto draws big crowds twice. Check out lemonrock.com for and the rest of the year the programme listings. Looking for a big night out? Head includes celebrity talks, opera, ballet, tribute to Club Havana for an electrifying party acts, and more. atmosphere.

Theatres fill the district offering - must-see And for something different, entertainment. The Sandpit Theatre hosts St Albans Organ Theatre offers a unique concerts, dance, comedy and film while opportunity to see and

DID YOU KNOW: ENJO

The first cinema in St Albans opened in 1908 on the same site as today’s Odyssey.

The first permanent cinema in Hertfordshire, it included a restaurant, swimming pool and hair salon.

ENJO

38

YSTALB

hear the fascinating world of mechanical musical instruments from a bygone age. With so much to see, check what’s on in advance and book ahead to avoid disappointment.

SPORTS & RECREATION As home to the Ryder Cup, St Albans boasts excellent golf courses, sports facilities, and an abundance of green space and cycle routes.

Verulam Golf Club offers a challenging par 72 course while Batchwood Golf Club and Centurion Club feature courses to test and challenge. Abbey View Golf & Track is a 9 hole course with Foot Golf which the kids can enjoy.

The area is well known for great cycling and walking trails. The Alban Way is a safe, flat and traffic-free route linking Cottonmill Lane, St Albans to Wrestlers Bridge, Hatfield. There are many access points and it is dotted with pretty views, play areas, recreation grounds and reminders of its previous use as a railway line.

The wider district also offers a plethora of walks and cycle paths. Discover more at hertfordshire.gov.uk.

If tennis is your sport, then practise shots

on the courts at Clarence Park or try bowls, football and hockey which can also be played there. Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre has extensive facilities including a gym, swimming pools, climbing wall and spa – check programmes in advance.

Adventurous kids, and adults, can test their biking ability on the fantastic BMX track at Marlborough Pavilion Open Space. This daring track is a hidden gem and fun is guaranteed.

There are many fantastic self-guided walks and cycle paths to discover. Minutes from the city, visitors are surrounded by woodland, fields and nature. Discover routes at hertfordshire.gov.uk or scan below.

Try something new or practise old tricks at The Pioneer Club. Book a lesson, bring a skateboard and learn to fly through the air with speed and skill.

LOCAL TIP: There are some fantastic bike rides and cycle routes around St Albans. Visit Sustrans.org.uk to inspire your perfect route.

Outdoor Activities in Hertfordshire at enjoystalbans.com

39

©Sally Masson

For local tips, gift guides, event news and much more visit our blog, please click the link below:

enjoystalbans.com/blog/

DISTRICT DISCOVERIES Picturesque, historic and full of character, a visit to some of the pretty villages around the district is highly recommended.

One stop away on the train, and a short drive north leads to the town of Harpenden.

Recently named one of Britain’s top 10 high streets, Harpenden boasts a wide array of independent shops and restaurants as well as a monthly Farmers Market that sells the finest fresh produce.

There is no shortage of green space here; Harpenden Common hosts regular cricket matches, Rothamstead Park’s 56 acres includes a play area and skateboard park, while Rothamstead Manor has beautiful gardens.

Harpenden Sports Centre provides pools, gym and outdoor courts and in a district known for exceptional entertainment, Harpenden Public Halls showcases the latest films, musicians, comedy and theatre performances.

Nearby, Redbourn Village Museum offers visitors a glimpse into a varied past. Cricket is still played on Redbourn Common and The Cricketers pub offers a warm welcome.

Quaint cafes and shops adorn the village while surrounding countryside offers scenic walking trails – see redbournvillage.org.uk.

The setting of Redbournbury Watermill couldn’t be more idyllic. The working mill provides ingredients for the on-site bakery, and walking trails around the mill allow visitors to enjoy a picture-perfect countryside.

ENJO

42

YSTALB

Elephant & Castle Pub, Wheathampstead

Wheathampstead is a charming village with an extraordinary history. Explore some of its lovely countryside walks, a highlight being Devils Dyke which dates back to around 50BC. Measuring 32 feet deep and 100 feet across – it was the scene of a battle between Julius Caesar and local tribes. See wheathampsteadheritage.org.uk.

Wheathampstead Heritage Trail includes 21 historical properties. Savour the architecture, history and geology of the village on a self guided tour where walkers can start and end anywhere.

There is more to Wheathampstead than at first meets the eye. Farr Brewery, set in the Ayot Estate, is a micro-brewery producing award-winning craft ales. The brewery supplies local pubs and visitors

can sample a pint in its taproom. Tours are available and with a well stocked shop it’s definitely worth a visit.

The enchanting River Lea runs though the village and with places to paddle, kids will love it. There are plenty of open spaces, shops, cafes and restaurants so be sure to drop by.

Nearby Sandridge Village is a popular place for walkers and cyclists who often stop at the pubs and tea room for refreshments.

Must see attractions include Heartwood Forest, the largest native forest in the country with wildflower meadows, arboretum and community orchard. Nearby Nomansland Common is a wild heathland, abundant with wildlife. Great places to get out and enjoy nature.

Discover more at enjoystalbans.com

43

ST ALBANS GIFT CARD

Treat someone to a St Albans Gift Card and they can enjoy spending it on their next visit.

For details and to purchase online, please click link below: stalbansgiftcard.co.uk

ACCESS ST ALBANS

Shopmobility is a charitable scheme providing free battery powered scooters and manual wheelchairs to anyone that needs help getting around the city centre.

You don’t have to be registered disabled or elderly and can book in advance by calling 01727 819339, or register on the day at the office.

The St Albans Shopmobility office is located on the ground floor entrance of the Drovers Way car park (off Catherine Street). stalbansshopmobility.com accessable.co.uk

CHANGING FACILITIES

Toilets and changing places are available at Civic Centre, Westminster Lodge, and Cunningham Hub. See Changing-places.org for more details.

Main information point:

St Albans Museum + Gallery Open: 10am-5pm Mon-Sat and 11am-5pm Sun. Town Hall, St Peter’s Street, St Albans AL1 3DH Tel: 01727 864511 Email: vic@stalbans.gov.uk Other information points: Verulamium Museum

Open: 10 am – 5:30 pm Mon-Sat and 2pm-5:30pm Sun St Michael’s Street, St Albans AL3 4SW St Albans Cathedral (open daily) Sumpter Yard, St Albans AL1 1BY

Blacksmiths Arms

Harpenden Town Hall Leyton Road, Harpenden AL5 2LX Tel: 01582 768278 Email: Harpenden.town. council@harpenden.gov.uk Web: harpenden.gov.uk

Friendly, knowledgeable staff are to here to help. For more details on visitor information points please click link below: enjoystalbans.com/traveland-maps/st-albans-visitorinformation-points/

STAY A BIT LONGER

St Michael’s Manor, Fishpool Street

Sopwell House, Cottonmill Lane

From small, intimate bed and breakfasts to large hotels, make the most of your visit and book a stay at one of the city’s fantastic accommodations. Visit EnjoyStAlbans.com for full listings and contact details.

Torrington Hall, Holywell Hill

50

Discover more at enjoystalbans.com

TRAVEL TO ST ALBANS

By Car:

P

Close to the M1, A1(M) and M25 (Junctions 21a & 22), St Albans is easily accessible from all parts of the UK. Car Parking: See the CITY MAP for car parks. Blue Badge holders can park for 3 hours free (please display permit and time clock). Council car parks are free after 6.30pm daily and £1 all day on Sundays.

By Rail: St Albans City station is only 20 minutes from London on the Thameslink line between Bedford and Brighton, connecting St Albans to London Luton Airport, Gatwick Airport, and London St Pancras International for Eurostar services.

St Albans Abbey station links to Watford Junction, for connections to London Euston, the West Midlands and the North via the West Coast mainline.

Both railway stations are a ten minute walk from the city centre.

By Bus and Coach: St Albans is well connected with services from North London, Welwyn Garden City, Hatfield, Luton and Watford. National Express coaches link the neighbouring towns of Hatfield and Hemel Hempstead with Stansted, Heathrow, Luton, Gatwick, Oxford and Cambridge.

By Air: Both London Luton Airport and Gatwick Airport are directly linked to St Albans by rail. Stansted and Heathrow airports are also easily accessible by road, bus and coach.

HELPFUL INFORMATION Visit Herts is the official tourism website for Hertfordshire: visitherts.co.uk If you require this information in large print, on tape or in another language please contact 01727 864511

FOLLOW US ON:

EnjoyStAlbans

EnjoyStAlbans

enjoy_st_albans

Did You Know facts credited to St Albans and Hertfordshire Architectural and Archaeological Society Disclaimer: Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, The BID cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions.

51

ENJOYSTALBANS.COM

ENJOYSTALBANS.COM

Enjoy St Albans for the day ENJOYSTALBANS.COM

ENJOYSTALBANS.COM

- Come back for a weekend!

Visit Hertfordshire’s only Cathedral City, explore our heritage sites, wander our independent shops, visit our 500-year-old Charter Market and don’t forget to try some of our award-winning food and drink.

Just 20 mins from London St Pancras or just off the M1/M25.

For more information: info@stalbansbid.com

enjoystalbans.com

@shopstalbans