ST ALBANS OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE
2026 - 2027
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WHAT’S ON
HERTFORDSHIRE COUNTY SHOW The Showground, Redbourn Sport horses, Shetland racing, heavy horse displays, a dog zone plus shopping and entertainment. 23 – 24 May 2026 FOODIES FESTIVAL Oaklands College A fab weekend of top chefs, tasty food, drinks and live music. 29 – 31 May 2026 OPEN AIR FESTIVAL Roman Theatre of Verulamium Imaginative and surprising new versions of classic plays and stories performed by OVO in a historic setting. 5 June – 31 August 2026 ST ALBANS FOLK FESTIVAL Various locations A weekend of events including a day of dance, an evening of singing and a concert at the Roman Theatre. 5 – 7 June 2026
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ALBAN DAY St Albans City Centre & Cathedral Celebrating Britain’s first saint with a colourful city centre procession, pilgrimage worship and events. 20 June 2026 COMEDY GARDEN Verulamium Park The ultimate chuckle with an all-star comedy line-up plus craft beer, street eats and more. 22 – 26 July 2026 BEER & CIDER FESTIVAL Alban Arena Enjoy real ale, craft beer, cider, food and entertainment. 23 – 26 September 2026 GIN & JAZZ George Street An evening of late-night shopping, live music, food and Gin in the historic Cathedral Quarter. 2 October 2026 FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR Verulamium Park Amazing display raising thousands of pounds for local charities. 7 November 2026 CHRISTMAS CRACKER St Peter’s Street Street festival with Santa’s Grotto, live music, street food, fun rides and festive market stalls. 22 November 2026 GAIA St Alban’s Cathedral An awe-inspiring art installation by Luke Jerram, using detailed NASA imagery to create a floating, three-dimensional representation of the Earth. January 2027
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Ricky Barnett
ST ALBANS SPRING FESTIVAL St Peter’s Street Celebrate Spring in St Albans with live music, arts and crafts, street theatre and food. 17 May 2026
WELCOME
Abbey Gateway
The Cathedral city of St Albans in Hertfordshire is a top-place to visit with incredible history, beautiful architecture, stunning parks, fabulous independent shopping, enticing eateries and an all-year-round programme of exciting events. Discover all you need and more at www.enjoystalbans.com and make the most of your visit to sensational St Albans. Cover photo credit: Ricky Barnett
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French Row
St Albans has a long-standing reputation for its thriving food and drink scene, making it a must visit foodie destination. The city offers an impressive variety of dining experiences, from traditional British fare to global flavours inspired by cuisines from around the world. Visitors can enjoy everything from cosy cafés and historic pubs to stylish restaurants and lively street food spots.
Market Place
Shopping in St Albans offers a unique experience where old and new architecture blend seamlessly, creating a setting full of charm and character. The city’s streets are lined with a mix of well-known brands, bustling markets, and trendy independent stores, giving shoppers plenty of variety and style to explore.
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Ricky Barnett
Ricky Barnett
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St Albans is a vibrant and lively city that offers something for everyone all year round. Steeped in history, it boasts stunning landmarks and offers a wide range of attractions, from beautiful parks and museums to engaging exhibitions that bring the city’s rich past to life. Throughout the year, St Albans hosts an exciting calendar of events, creating a welcoming atmosphere that blends culture, community, and entertainment in one charming destination.
Ricky Barnett
Alban Day: Pilgrimage & Festival
Emily Dicks
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DISCOVER ST ALBANS
The Samuel Ryder Hotel
As a historic inn-keeping city, St Albans is a place where its history is told through its beautiful buildings. With so much to explore and enjoy, why not stay a few days to make the most of your visit. Choose from a range of accommodation peppered around the city and surrounding areas from small charming B&Bs to large hotels.
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Discover St Albans
48 HOURS
Ricky Barnett
IN ST ALBANS Day 1 Start your day with a coffee or freshly baked pastry from one of the many eateries on the characterful French Row or Market Place, before heading up the Clock Tower (open Apr - Sept). After ascending its 93 steps, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the city. Then head to St Albans Museum + Gallery which showcases the city’s fascinating history. Before your next stop, enjoy the neighbouring shopping area and eateries for a spot of lunch. Next absorb the heritage of the spectacular St Albans Cathedral which boasts the longest nave in England, then wander through the Abbey Gateway to Verulamium Park, a 100-acre park perfect for a picnic or leisurely stroll. Include a stop to view the remains of the Roman Wall, the Roman Mosaic and Hypocaust. Then visit the Verulamium Museum and the Roman Theatre of Verulamium for a true taste of Roman life.
“St Albans is the perfect destination for all ages to enjoy.”
At the end of the day enjoy some delicious food and a drink in one of the city’s traditional pubs, which have been part of life in St Albans for centuries, including Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, heralded as one of England’s oldest pubs. Wherever you go, you are guaranteed a warm welcome.
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Verulamium Park
Day 2 Learn about the city’s history and discover the most picturesque and interesting areas by booking a guided walk with St Albans Tour Guides. Take a walk down the picturesque Fishpool Street to St Michael’s Village, home to St Michael’s Church which was built on the site of Verulamium’s Basilica and is one of the most significant surviving Anglo-Saxon buildings in the county. 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 an enjoyable day 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 historic buildings and trails. Back in the city centre, treat yourself to an evening at an award-winning restaurant for the perfect end to a memorable stay.
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MANY STORIES
St Albans was originally founded as a Celtic settlement before its Roman conquest after which it became the Roman city of Verulamium, the third largest town in Roman Britain. It later became known as St Albans because of its association with Saint Alban, Britain’s first saint. The city was the first battleground in the War of the Roses, was a major part in the Peasants Revolt of 1381 and has helped shape modern science as home of English philosopher Sir Francis Bacon. Wherever you walk, the city is packed with reminders of its rich heritage. The unique medieval Clock Tower
Ricky Barnett
A CITY WITH The Samuel Ryder Seed Hall
dates back to 1405 while the Roman Theatre is the only example of its kind in Britain. St Albans Charter Market retains the lively spirit it exuded 1,100 years ago, while St Albans School, where Professor Stephen Hawking was a pupil, is one of the oldest in the world. Samuel Ryder, best remembered as the founder of the Ryder Cup, was also one of St Albans’ most notable citizens as a successful businessman - creator of penny packets of seeds, churchman and politician. Horticulturalist Frederick Sander - also known as “The Orchid King” was the Royal Orchid Grower to Queen Victoria and had a business on George Street. The world of entertainment has also stamped its mark on the city. Arthur Melbourne Cooper photographer and early filmmaker known for his pioneering work in stopmotion animation, opened the first permanent cinema in Hertfordshire on London Road, now The Odyssey. While film directors Stanley Kubrick and Mike Newall also called it home. Legendary 60s rock band The Zombies formed in St Albans, as well as indie bands Enter Shikari and Friendly Fires.
Ricky Barnett
The city’s journey through time makes it a unique must-visit destination with fascinating stories to tell on every corner. Discover more about its history at stalbanshistory.org or head out on the Blue Plaque Trail.
Roman Theatre
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MUST SEE
ATTRACTIONS
ST ALBANS CATHEDRAL
VERULAMIUM PARK
Sumpter Yard St Albans Cathedral stands over the place where Alban, Britain’s first saint, was martyred 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
Abbey Mill Lane Over 100 acres of parkland in the city centre are named after the Roman City of Verulamium on which it stood. The ornamental lake is home to a wealth of waterfowl, while the Roman themed playground and splash park in summer are perfect for children. enjoystalbans.com
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ST ALBANS MUSEUM + GALLERY
THE ROMAN MOSAIC & HYPOCAUST
St Peter’s Street A world-class centre for arts and culture set over 3 floors. This state-of-the-art gallery presents over 2,000 years of priceless heritage with exceptional, ground-breaking exhibitions showcasing contemporary art sharing local, national and world treasures. stalbansmuseums.org.uk
Verulamium Park Discovered during excavations in the 1930s, this mosaic floor of a large Roman townhouse also showcases a hypocaust – an ancient underfloor heating system and a marvel of Roman engineering. stalbansmuseums.org.uk Stephanie Belton
Cecelina Tornberg
CLOCK TOWER
VERULAMIUM MUSEUM
High Street Completed by 1405, the Clock Tower is the only surviving medieval town belfry in England. Climb the 93 steps to the top of the tower and enjoy magnificent views. Open April to September, on Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays. stalbansmuseums.org.uk
St Michael’s Street 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
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Lee Romi
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Ricky Barnett
Ricky Barnett
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MUST SEE
ATTRACTIONS
ST ALBANS CHARTER MARKET
SOPWELL NUNNERY
St Peter’s Street Awarded Best Large Outdoor Market in Britain in 2024, the colourful twice-weekly market is one of the largest in the Southeast. Discover an enormous variety of quality goods from fresh local produce to gifts, clothing, jewellery and more. stalbans.gov.uk/markets
Cottonmill Lane Visit the ruins of Sir Richard Lee’s Tudor country house, built on the side of a 12th century nunnery. An ideal spot for a picnic with a wildlife meadow and River Ver chalk stream nearby. stalbansmuseums.org.uk Ricky Barnett
Ricky Barnett
ROMAN THEATRE
HEARTWOOD FOREST
Bluehouse Hill The remains of a Roman theatre, with a stage rather than an Amphitheatre, are 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
Heartwood A vast new forest of more than half a million trees, pockets of ancient woodland, wildflower meadows and fantastic wildlife spotting. woodlandtrust.org.uk
Cecelina Tornberg
THE GORHAMBURY ESTATE Bluehouse Hill Old Gorhambury was completed in 1568 by Sir Nicholas Bacon. Whilst little remains, you can still visualise its previous grandeur. Impressive Gorhambury House was later built and includes a 17th century painted glass window. gorhamburyestate.co.uk
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Ricky Barnett
ST MICHAEL’S CHURCH
Ricky Barnett
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St Michael’s Street Built on the site of Verulamium’s basilica, this church marks the place where Alban was tried for being a Christian. The most extant Anglo-Saxon building in Hertfordshire, it contains architecture and art in stone, wood, metal and glass from across a millennium. stmichaels-parishchurch.org.uk
Ricky Barnett
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FAMILY FUN CLIMB THE CLOCK TOWER (APR-SEPT)
Kids will love the never-ending staircase and the magnificent views from the top. WESTMINSTER LODGE LEISURE CENTRE
Ricky Barnett
Enjoy
St Albans South Signal Box
RECREATION AREAS
With swimming pools, climbing wall, inflatable sessions and soft play, kids of all ages will find something to do.
Visit Clarence Park or Bernard’s Heath Recreation Ground for playgrounds and pitches where kids can play.
ALBAN WAY
ST ALBANS CYCLE HUB
A safe and flat traffic-free trail dotted with play areas and recreation grounds so bring your bike or walk and explore.
Try the Pump Track and Dirt Jumps, or build your skills and confidence on the Cyclocross or Leisure Track.
ST ALBANS MUSEUM + GALLERY & VERULAMIUM MUSEUM
WILLOWS ACTIVITY FARM
Amazing exhibits and fun activities including crafts, dressing up and a free city trail map.
With children’s shows, tractor rides, farmyard petting, funfair rides and huge indoor and outdoor play areas, they won’t want to leave! DE HAVILLAND AIRCRAFT MUSEUM
The UK’s oldest aviation museum is a fascinating day out with lots of hands-on activities and the chance to get up close to the iconic Mosquito. THE PIONEER CLUB
All ages welcome to practice new tricks, or learn basic skills, on skateboards, scooters and in-liners. ST ALBANS SOUTH SIGNAL BOX
Pull levers and watch signalling demonstrations at this unique interactive attraction. VERULAMIUM PARK
Huge green parkland with lake, children’s play area, a seasonal splash park and Rockin’ Romans Golf & Trampolining. Rockin’ Romans Golf & Trampolining
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Check websites for opening times.
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willowsactivityfarm.com © Frederick Warne & Co. Limited and Silvergate PPL Limited 2026. All rights reserved. PB02256
“As the sun sets, it’s a beautiful, atmospheric place to watch drama.” ~ Financial Times
The shopping destination for fashion, food and lifestyle in St Albans.
Roman Theatre Open Air Festival
5 June - 31 August 2026 Bold, imaginative, surprising Live Theatre and music, in The UK’s oldest producing theatre.
THE roman theatre of VERULAMIUM St Albans, AL3 6AE @ovotheatre www.ovo.org.uk
Discover offers, events and a curated mix of brands, right in the heart of the city. Parking: Christopher Place Car Park, AL3 4DA @christopherplacestalbans
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SHOPPING CENTRES The city centre hosts a number of shopping centres including Christopher Place, a hub for luxury brands, whilst The Maltings is full of high street favourites, Heritage Close features niche independents and Village Arcade offers a corridor of wonderfully charming boutiques.
George Street
SHOPPING
IN ST ALBANS INDEPENDENTS & BOUTIQUES French Row and Market Place, have been at the heart of St Albans shopping for hundreds of years, offers a range of fashion, homeware and eateries. Market Place is also the site for St Albans Markets. The street dates back to 860 AD when the market was established, making it one of England’s oldest street markets still in operation.
RETAIL PARKS The Galleria designer outlet in Hatfield is just a short drive or bus ride away with shops, cafes, restaurants, a ninescreen cinema and giant adventure playground. Colney Fields is a popular shopping destination close to St Albans with a line-up of big retail names. ST ALBANS GIFT CARD Looking for the perfect gift? The St Albans Gift Card can be spent in a huge variety independent and national chains in the city centre. Including shops, restaurants, salons and pubs, it is a great gift which takes the guess work out of gifting, whilst also supporting local businesses. Available as a physical card or e-card. Find out how to purchase at stalbansgiftcard.co.uk
In the Cathedral Quarter, picturesque George Street and adjoining High Street are a must for boutiques, award winning fashion and independent shopping. St Peter’s Street, the main thoroughfare of the city is filled with well-known brands and high street services, while at the top of town Catherine Street boasts everything from barbers to quirky cafes. Lee Romi
Explore Chequer Street and London Road for interiors and health and beauty. Holywell Hill is where to shop for sustainable fashion, food, books and more. Christopher Place
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YOUR STORY YOUR DESIGN Share your inspirations and we’ll craft a bespoke piece
Fantastic events throughout the year
DISCOVER KNEBWORTH HOUSE www.knebworthhouse.com
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designed uniquely for you www.hkjewellery.co.uk Hertfordshire Jewellery Centre 01462 790 565 North Barn, Fairclough Hall Farm, Halls Green, SG4 7DP
St Albans 01727 221 160 20 Chequer Street, AL1 3YD
Cambridge 01223 461 333 6/7 Green Street, CB2 3JU
London 0208 154 9500 69 Regent’s Park Road, Primrose Hill, NW1 8UY
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Ye Olde Fighting Cocks Inn
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VERULAM GOLF CLUB Home of the Ryder Cup
Well into our second century as a thriving members’ club situated in the heart of historic St Albans, known as Verulamium in Roman times. ----MEMBERSHIPS - VISITORS WELCOME ----FUNCTION SUITE AVAILABLE Located in the heart of St Albans, Our challenging par 72 course was designed by James Braid in 1905
225 LONDON ROAD, ST ALBANS, HERTS, AL1 1JG 01727 853327 | www.verulamgolf.co.uk | info@verulamgolf.co.uk
Helping Businesses in Herts, Beds, Bucks, Essex and London manage their waste
Discount available for BID members Proud to partner with
SKIP SERVICE
MAN & VAN SERVICE
ZERO LANDFILL POLICY
FREE QUOTATION AND SITE VISIT
EXPERTS IN WASTE & RECYCLING COLLECTION .
How Can KP Waste Help You? We are a specialist waste management company, with over 28 years of providing high quality waste services to We can supply a range of containers to suit your needs and we specialise in the collection of: • General waste • Cardboard • Glass • Mixed recycling • Food (card, plastic & paper) No bin rental and no duty of care charge Our 30 vehicle fleet covers Herts, Beds , Bucks, Essex and London.
Contact us today on www.kpwaste.co.uk | sales@kpwaste.co.uk
01727 822 111
ARE YOU VISITING OR MOVING IN OR AROUND ST ALBANS?
WE HAVE THE LARGEST RANGE OF • Self-Drive Cars • Vans • Trucks & Minibuses in the area
Helping the local community in & around St Albans for 44 years
Contact us for a quote for your next move!
T: 01727 838151 E: rentals@carandvanhire.co.uk
1a Ronsons Way, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL4 9PZ
www.carandvanhire.co.uk
Shop
MARKETS CHARTER MARKET
Wednesday & Saturday
This award-winning market is a great destination for quality items, artisan goods and street food. stalbansgov.uk/markets
VEGAN MARKET
Selected 1st Sundays
A huge variety of food stalls, handmade cosmetics, ethical clothing, artisan jewellery and plastic-free goods. veganmarkets.co.uk
SECOND SUNDAY & ART MARKET 2nd Sundays
Seasonal fruit and veg, handmade goods and street food. On selected Sundays, support local artist and pick up some affordable art at the Art Market.
VERULAMIUM MUSEUM The museum of everyday life in Roman Britain. Open daily 10am-4pm.
VERULAMIUM MUSEUM
collectivegallery.co.uk
ANTIQUE & VINTAGE MARKET Selected 3rd Sundays
Featuring all manner of antiques, vintage and architectural salvage, this is a much loved and celebrated market. stalbansantiqueandvintagemarket.com
Antique & Vintage Market
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Ricky Barnett
Markets take place on St Peter’s Street. Check websites for confirmed dates and times.
St Albans Museum + Gallery Exhibitions, talks, activities, shop + café. Open daily 10am-4pm. Free entry.
Eat
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FOOD & DRINK DINE IN STYLE
Enjoy sophisticated all-day dining at The Ivy with its vibrant maximalist décor, the glamourous Cosy Club and industrial-luxe venue The Hub on Verulam. Near the Cathedral Lussmanns offers stylish and sustainable dining experience. Hazéls is a musicled wine bar and restaurant serving French-inspired cuisine in elegant surroundings.
CAFE CUTLURE
You’ll find a plethora of independent coffee shops and high street favourites across the city. From the historic Courtroom Café to the serene Courtyard Café, Clock Tower views by Silver Palate and Cathedral views at George Street Canteen, there are plenty to choose from. Cosy Club
FAMILY FAVOURITES
GLOBAL FLAVOURS
St Albans is a culinary melting pot, featuring authentic flavours from across the world. Experience fragrant Moroccan dishes at Al-Farrid, Indian spice at Chilli Bar & Kitchen, aromatic Vietnamese flavours at Pho, hearty Turkish dishes at Havin or the vibrant cuisine of Thailand and Malaysia at Sukawatee.
KL Creative
Families with children are brilliantly catered for, with kid’s menus available at many independent restaurants as well Wagamama, Bill’s, Zizzi and The Beech House. For something sweet, head to Waffle Wands, HiTea, Knoops or Shaken Cow. Stephanie Belton
Pho
DOG FRIENDLY
STREET FOOD
St Albans is an incredibly dog-friendly place with over 100 businesses welcoming your four-legged friends. Just look out for a “Dogs Welcome” sticker in shop windows. For a full list of shops, businesses and places to eat that allow dogs search “Dog Friendly” on enjoystalbans.com.
Thanks to its vibrant markets, the city offers some of the best street food you’ll ever taste. Try something new with dishes from countries including Peru, Brazil, Thailand and Spain, with plenty of vegan, glutenfree and dairy-free options available.
Lee Romi
@enjoystalbans
enjoystalbans.com
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Surround yourself in history at Britain’s oldest public house
We boast a stunning seasonal menu, carefully chosen wines and a great selection of real ales. In addition, we also have music every Friday and a large garden with stunning views over Verulamium.
An absolute must for anyone visiting our magnificent ancient City
From sunrise coffee to sunset cocktails Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner 7 days a week Takeaway and delivery available Book your table or order online today!
ORDER ONLINE
e Use cod r EB10 fo ! 10% off
www.fightingcockssa.com Email: reservations@fightingcockssa.com Tel: 01727 869152
2-8 Hatfield Road,St. Albans, AL1 3RP 01727 260990
stalbans@elysiumbistro.co.uk
A sophisticated & stylist restaurant A corner of the Mediterranean in St.Albans, our independent family restaurant serves Greek Cypriot and Mediterranean food with a hint of Spice from the Middle East. Our food is both healthy and fun, meant for sharing either as a snack or as a main meal. Our dips and the majority of our food is freshly made in our preparation kitchen.
Takeaway online or collect
Dine in our restaurant
Voted as one of UK’s top 12 Indian restaurants
01727 840 100
chillibarkitchen.com
28-30 London Road, St Albans
@ChilliBarAndKitchen
OPEN 7 DAYS
Eat
Enjoy
Ricky Barnett
PUBS When it comes to offering a traditional British pub experience, there is no better place than St Albans. A historic inn-keeping city, St Albans has the most pubs per square mile in the country, so you’re never far from a perfect pint and a characterful setting. Pubs remain a big part of the St Albans story with dozens of historic inns being the social hub for locals and visitors alike. Most famous is the Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, which has a unique octagonal structure, in Verulamium Park which dates back to 793. The whole city is dotted with hidden gems including The Boot, The Six Bells, The Cock Inn and the Lower Red Lion. So wander the side streets and discover a brilliant selection of charming, quintessentially British pubs. For a more contemporary setting try the Mad Squirrel, Saint & Sinner or The Peahen. As the home of CAMRA - Campaign for Real Ale, you can expect a wonderful selection of real ales on tap – be sure to ask the bar staff for a recommendation. And check out the Beer & Cider Festival in September. Find out more about the history of St Alban pubs by booking a Coaching Inn Guided Walk with St Albans Tour Guides. This fascinating walk also looks at the architecture and the people who were part of this vibrant area of St Albans.
Odyssey Cinema
ENTERTAINMENT St Albans has a thriving arts and entertainment scene. Head to The Alban Arena for national touring shows, rock and pop concerts, comedy, film and the must-see annual panto. The Sandpit Theatre hosts concerts, dance, comedy and film while Trestle is known for its mask and physical theatre shows. Abbey Theatre and The Maltings Theatre host a kaleidoscope of productions, musicals and kids shows. Offering a unique experience, theatre company OVO annually present the Roman Theatre Open Air Festival during the summer months. For film, you won’t find a more special moviegoing experience than at the Art Deco style Odyssey Cinema. Showing a varied range of current releases, hits, cult movies and arthouse offerings. The Hub on Verulam cinema rooms also offer a busy schedule of independent films, kids cinema and screening of major sporting events.
Cecelina Tornberg
You can find an array of art exhibitions from local to internationally acclaimed names at St Albans Museum + Gallery, the Collective Gallery or at one of the many art shops in the city centre. St Albans has a vibrant music scene including The Horn which hosts live music, tribute bands and DJ nights. Looking for a big night out? Head to Havana or Club Veeda for an electrifying party atmosphere.
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Discover more at the abbey theatre Home of the Company of Ten, the Abbey Theatre is a welcoming venue for audiences and volunteers alike. Enjoy inspiring productions throughout the year, or be part of the action onstage or backstage. Be part of our friendly, creative community in the heart of the city.
Scan the QR code to find out what’s on and how to get involved now
abbeytheatre.org.uk 01727 857861
SEE WHAT’S ON! The Alban Arena, located in the heart of St Albans, is Hertfordshire’s premier entertainment venue. Enjoy an array of captivating performances, including national touring shows, live music, comedy, pantomime, children’s shows and more.
everyonetheatres.com
Box Office: 01727 844488
Discover St Albans
HARPENDEN One stop on the train or a short drive away, Harpenden offers independent shops, restaurants and a wonderful common which hosts regular markets. Visit Rothamsted Park and Rothamsted Manor, a stunning Grade I listed manor house with beautiful gardens. Or take a walk around Batford Springs Nature Reserve with its varied habitats, clear chalk streams and ponds. REDBOURN Quaint cafes and shops adorn the village while surrounding countryside offers scenic walks. The Redbourn Village Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the areas varied past and Redbournbury Watermill & Bakery is a fully restored 18th century working watermill on the River Ver, with the working mill providing ingredients for the on-site bakery. WHEATHAMPSTEAD Charming Wheathampstead has an extraordinary history and countryside walks including Devils Dyke which dates to around 50BC and was the scene of a battle between Julius Caesar and local tribes. Farr Brewery
Nomansland Common
set in the Ayot Estate is a micro-brewery producing award-winning craft ales and offers insightful tours of its facilities. GREAT OUTDOORS Heartwood is the largest newly planted native forest in the country. It is home to over half a million new saplings, stunning ancient woodland, a native arboretum and a community orchard. Nomansland Common is a 52-hectare open space between Wheathampstead and Sandridge, with heathland, meadows, woods, and a 1-mile trail. The River Ver Trail from Kensworth Lynch to Bricket Wood is a must for walkers. Pick it up anywhere along the route and follow this rare chalk stream through stunning scenery. The Hertfordshire Way is a stunning circular walk around the county of Hertfordshire, 312 km in total. FILM LOCATIONS Just up the A1 you’ll find Knebworth House which was a location for The King’s Speech, Batman and Netflix’s You and a short drive from St Albans visit Hatfield House, Park & Gardens, where Bridgerton, The Crown and Paddington were filmed. Both are magnificent historic houses with stunning grounds with lots to do. The popular Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter is off the A405 North Orbital, making St Albans a great stop before or after for potterheads visiting the area.
Rothamsted Manor
@enjoystalbans
Ricky Barnett
FURTHER AFIELD
enjoystalbans.com
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Stay
STAY There are many places to stay to suit all budgets and tastes from small, intimate B&Bs to large hotels. Here are some suggestions: CHARACTER The Samuel Ryder Hotel St. Albans, Tapestry Collection by Hilton and White Hart Hotel are just steps from St Albans Cathedral and boast character and comfort set in historic buildings. LUXURY St Michael’s Manor is located steps from Verulamium Park on one of the prettiest streets in St Albans and Sopwell House is a beautiful Georgian country house with an award-winning spa. B&B/RENTALS Torrington Hall is a beautiful Grade II listed building, right in the heart of St Albans and overlooks the Cathedral. The Goat Inn public house is an award winning historic pub and also offers a unique stay. Weddings & Functions
Outdoor Seating
HOTEL CHAINS Premier Inn St Albans and Travelodge St Albans both offer a central location and comfortable rooms, perfect as a base to explore the city.
15 Charming Bedrooms
The White Hart Hotel is a charming timbered old coaching inn located in the heart of St Albans, opposite the Cathedral and Abbey, offering value for money accommodation, bar and Tudors restaurant. Dine in the hotel’s intimate oak-panelled Tudors restaurant with a cosy fire place, serving modern British cuisine. Enjoy some drinks in the cosy atmosphere of the adjoining bars that includes a selection of Ales.
St Michael’s Manor
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HELPFUL INFORMATION VISITOR INFORMATION POINTS St Albans Museum + Gallery: 10am – 4pm daily St Albans Cathedral: 9am – 5pm daily Verulamium Museum: 10am – 4pm daily ACCESS ST ALBANS Major tourist attractions St Albans Cathedral, Verulamium Museum and St Albans Museum + Gallery are accessible by wheelchair and provide large print guides. The venues also welcome assistance dogs and guide dogs. Check individual sites for further information. SHOPMOBILITY A charitable scheme which provides free wheelchairs and battery powered scooters to anyone that needs help getting around the city. Drovers Way Car Park Ground Floor Mon, Wed & Fri 9:30am – 4pm Tue & Thurs 10am – 2pm For more information call 01727 819339 or visit stalbansshopmobility.com CHANGING FACILITIES Toilets and changing places are available at Civic Centre, Westminster Lodge, and Cunningham Hub. For more details visit changing-places.org
TRAVEL TO ST ALBANS By Car: Close to the M1, A1(M) and M25 (Junctions 21a & 22), St Albans is easily accessible from all parts of the UK.
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Car Parks: There are several long and short stay car parks within the city, as well as limited on-street parking. For more information on car and motorcycle parking, EV charging points and Blue Badge parking visit enjoystalbans.com 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 & 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.
PLAN YOUR VISIT For further information on access, facilities, maps and parking visit enjoystalbans.com
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Disclaimer: Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, St Albans BID cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions.
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Official Visitor Guide 2026© is designed and published by William Lawrence Advertising. The Mission Hall, Clifton Street, St Albans, AL1 3RY. To advertise or for further information, please contact: 01727 833 122 | www.wla.agency
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St Albans City Centre BID proudly promotes the wealth of attractions and features St Albans and the wider District offers. For more information about what the BID does for our city and contact details, please visit: stalbansbid.com
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VISIT
Clock Tower, Ricky Barnett
ST ALBANS
SHOP EAT STAY ENJOY
Come visit Hertfordshire’s only Cathedral City Enjoy our independent shops, explore our heritage sights and don’t forget to try some of our award-winning food and drink. Just 20 mins from London St Pancras Int or just off the M1/M25/A1M.
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