What’s On September - December 2025
Welcome
St Albans Cathedral, home to Britain’s first saint, is the oldest site of continuous Christian worship in Britain.
“Welcome to our 2025 autumn and winter What’s On at St Albans Cathedral. We hope you will join us for worship, a tour, lecture, family activity, concert, or simply a quiet moment in this ancient Abbey Church. This season we celebrate the blessing of school bags, our annual Pet Service, the extraordinary Poppy Fields Light Show by Peter Walker in October, and the Cathedral’s Fireworks Spectacular. Before we know it, the anticipation and joy of Advent and Christmas will be here! This is your Cathedral –you are always welcome – and we hope to see you soon!”
The Very Reverend Jo Kelly-Moore, Dean of St Albans
and
St Albans Fireworks Spectacular pg 28
Coming Soon | Wales Exhibition pg 29
Friends of St Albans Cathedral pg 30 Support the Cathedral pg 31
The Story of Alban
This is a story of an ordinary person doing an extraordinary thing, a story which still inspires.
Alban lived around 300 AD in the Roman city of Verulamium. Alban gave shelter to a priest fleeing persecution.
With the authorities closing in, the two men exchanged cloaks allowing the priest to escape.
Alban was taken before the judge where he declared himself a Christian, condemning himself to death.
Alban was beheaded on the hill where the Cathedral now stands. Alban is Britain’s first saint. The story of friendship between Alban and Amphibalus is as relevant in our world today as it was 1700 years ago.
St Albans Cathedral remains committed to offering welcome and sanctuary to all, and to witness God’s love in the world.
Your Visit
There are many unique sights to take in when you visit St Albans Cathedral, making it a stunning setting for worship, events and tours.
Opening times
The Cathedral is open all year round 9am - 5pm
We need to raise £7,000 a day to keep this historic Cathedral open, so please donate generously.
How to book event tickets
Book online at www.stalbanscathedral.org, through the Cathedral Box Office located in the Cathedral Shop, or call 01727 890290
Planning your visit
Accessibility for all our visitors is an important part of our welcome and mission. Full information about planning a trip can be found at www.stalbanscathedral.org/visit
Abbot’s Kitchen by Dinner Ladies
Open daily 10am - 4pm
Meet Dinner Ladies, the new hosts in Abbot’s Kitchen! Fresh, feelgood food daily makes it the perfect Cathedral visit pit-stop. Card payments only.
Cathedral Shop
Sunday - Friday | 10am - 5pm
Saturday | 9am - 5pm
Take home a memory, or find the perfect gift in our welcoming shop. Find exclusive souvenirs, locally-made gifts, and unique treasures — open daily.
Regular worship
Join us for daily worship, the heartbeat of Cathedral life at which all are welcome. See page 14 for more details, and check the website for any late changes.
Group enquiries
We welcome groups from far and wide every day and can tailor tours to suit your group’s interest. Get in touch to find out more. Groups: 01727 890200 Schools: 01727 890212
Support us
To find out more about how you can support the Cathedral go to www.stalbanscathedral.org/donate or call 01727 890229
Cathedral Map
1. Shrine of Saint Alban
2. Shrine of Saint Amphibalus
3. Presbytery and High Altar Screen 4. The Norman Tower
Exhibition
Wall Paintings
Toilets
Visitor Highlights
St Albans Cathedral is a great place to visit with the whole family – whatever the weather! From the longest nave in England to our Wondrous Wall Paintings, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The Shrine of Saint Alban
The Shrine of Saint Alban is a site of national and international pilgrimage. People have been coming here for over 1700 years and it is used as a place of prayer and stillness by visitors every day.
The Shrine of Saint Amphibalus
Restored in 2021, this beautiful shrine to the other Saint in the Alban story makes this Cathedral the only one in the country with two medieval pedestal shrines.
The Norman Tower
Our Norman Tower is the only 11th century great crossing tower still standing in England today. It is also the only cathedral tower in England to be built using Roman bricks. You can explore our tower on one of our Tower Tours, see page 9.
Wall Paintings
See the wall paintings in the Nave restored to their former glory with unique light projections during our Daily Guided Tours.
The Longest Nave in England
Enjoy walking the longest nave in England, all 85 metres of it! Take in the architecture and atmosphere of this vast space.
Rose Window
Built in the 19th century, bathe in the beautiful light of our rose window in the North Transept. The stained glass was added in the 1980s and officially opened by Princess Diana.
Poppy Fields Light Show by Luxmaralis
This October half term, join us for our Poppy Fields Light Show. Immerse yourself in the Cathedral bathed in light and sound. Full details of the Light Show can be found on page 12.
Tours
Discover stories from 1700 years of history as you embark upon an exciting journey around the Cathedral on one of our special tours.
Daily Guided Tours
These tours are a great introduction to the Cathedral, its history and its treasures. Our expert guides will take you through our rich and varied history, exploring features such as our stunning medieval wall paintings, spectacular stained glass windows, and the shrine of Alban, Britain’s first saint.
Monday – Friday, 11.30am, 1.05pm and 2.30pm Saturday, 10.45am, 11.30am, 1.05pm and 2.30pm Sunday, 1.05pm and 2pm
There is no charge for these tours, donations welcome. These tours are for individuals or small family groups only. Please see the website for details.
Group Tours
Varying days and times
To allow you to make the most of your visit to the Cathedral, we require groups of six or more to book their tour in advance. The Guides can provide a general tour, something specially tailored to your group’s needs or particular interests, or one of our specialist tours.
Please contact us on mail@stalbanscathedral.org or 01727 890200.
© Still Cast Photography
Visually Impaired Persons’ Tour
Last Friday of the month, 1.30pm
We are delighted to be able to offer our guided tours to individuals with visual impairments. A dedicated group of guides has been trained to deliver these guided tactile tours so that our magnificent building can be made more accessible.
Tickets (no charge but donations welcome) are available from our website and the Cathedral Box Office.
Tower Tours
Selected dates and times
Join our expert guides on a visit behind closed doors to explore the roof spaces including the ringing chambers, before the final climb onto the roof of the tower. There is a total of 211 steps up to the top of the oldest cathedral tower in Britain, where you will be rewarded with fantastic views of St Albans (weather permitting).
© Toby Shepheard Photography
Tickets available from our website. Restrictions apply. Please see the website for details.
More to Explore Tours
Discover more of the treasures of the Cathedral with an experienced guide. All tours start at 1.30pm.
Back to School | Sunday 21 September
The Graveyard slot | Sunday 26 October Christmas is coming | Sunday 23 November
Tickets (no charge but donations are welcome) are available from our website or the Cathedral Box Office.
Special Tours
Discover the Cathedral’s secrets and hidden treasures on one of our special tours.
Selected dates and times. Tickets are available from our website.
Flora and Fauna
Encounter the natural world captured in stone, wood, glass and textile in the Cathedral. Be amazed by the huge variety of plants, birds, insects and mammals to be discovered.
Grand Designs
Marvel at the skill and artistry of the medieval builders and craftsmen, taking in precise stone and wood carving, radiant stained glass, bell casting, vivid wall paintings and gleaming illuminated manuscripts.
Rogues and Rebels
From murder, witchcraft and heresy to defying the laws and norms of their day this tour tells the stories of those men and women of the Abbey who chose their own path.
Stained glass
Glittering saints and blazing colour fill the Cathedral’s windows. From the WWI memorial honouring local soldiers to the great Rose Window, your guide reveals the people, legends, and faith behind the glass.
Making
your Mark
Explore the graffiti that has been scratched in the stone down through the ages. Look for signatures, skeletons, animals, crosses and other hidden gems.
Tower and Treasures
Tour the Cathedral’s shrines, wall paintings and medieval architecture, then climb the tower to the ringing chamber, belfry and sweeping roof views.
Let the Women speak
Hear the stories of women, heard and unheard, seen and unseen, who shaped the Cathedral’s history or who are commemorated within its walls.
Amazing Architecture
Step inside 1,000 years of Abbey history — from towering Norman arches to striking modern design. Walk through medieval expansions and be divided by Grimthorpe’s Victorian alterations.
Abbey by Night
Wednesday 1 October, Wednesday 22 October and Wednesday 12 November
As darkness descends and candles are lit, be transported back to the medieval abbey and meet the characters – both monks and pilgrims –to whom this great abbey was home. See and hear the inspiring tales these men and women have to tell.
Tickets available from our website.
Evening Pilgrimages
Our great cathedrals and churches were built to inspire and encourage pilgrims on this journey, with a vision of beauty and holiness, pointing to our heavenly destination.
Evening Pilgrimages offer a guided walk through the Cathedral, accompanied by historical insights, prayers, and silence. They are suitable for parishes, ecumenical groups, prayer groups, deaneries and so on. They start with light refreshments in the Welcome Centre, and end with Compline by candlelight and a visit to the Shrine of St Alban.
Evening Pilgrimages take place throughout the year and must be booked in advance. There is no charge for this, but donations are welcome on the evening. Visit our website to discover the date of the next Evening Pilgrimage and reserve your spot.
© Patrick Wainwright
© Toby Shepheard Photography
Poppy Fields
Tuesday 28 October to Saturday 1 November
This October half term, experience Poppy Fields by Luxmuralis, an immersive journey of light and sound reflecting on the World Wars and hopes for peace. Stunning projections and evocative music will transform the Cathedral into a moving work of art.
Tickets available on our website.
© Sally Mason, 2018 Poppy Fields
SEND slots
5.45pm on all dates except for Tuesday 28 October
Family viewing
Every 15 minutes from 6pm - 6.45pm
Evening lates
Every 15 mins from 7pm - 8pm
Roll of Honour
As part of the show, you can honour a loved one by adding their name, rank, and regiment to a special Roll of Honour, projected onto the cathedral walls. Submit your tribute through our website.
Worship Regular Services
Whether you prefer prayer, meditation, services, or lighting a candle, we welcome all to worship.
Sundays
8am Eucharist
9.30am Parish Eucharist
11.30am Choral Eucharist
11.30am Matins (3rd Sunday)
12.45pm Eucharist (3rd Sunday) 4pm Choral Evensong
Weekdays
7.30am Morning Prayer
8am Eucharist
12noon Eucharist at the Shrine 5pm Evensong (Evening Prayer on Fridays)
Saturdays
8.30am Morning Prayer
9am Eucharist
12noon Eucharist in the Lady Chapel 5pm Choral Evensong
© Still Cast Photography
Monthly Services
Regular special services held on set days each month.
Requiem Eucharist | 1st Wednesday, 8am
Healing Eucharist | 2nd Saturday, 9am
Compline | 2nd Sunday, 6pm
Mothers’ Union Eucharist | 4th Wednesday, 10am
Eucharist of the Blessed Virgin Mary | Last Saturday, 9am
Ecumenical Services
The Cathedral also has a thriving Ecumenical Chaplaincy, regularly holding services for different Christian traditions.
Roman Catholic
Mass is celebrated every Friday at 12 noon.
German Lutheran
A service in German is held on the last Tuesday of every month at 7pm.
Free Church
A service is held on the first Wednesday of every month at 11am.
Orthodox Liturgy
A service is held on the third Tuesday of the month at 10.30am.
British Sign Language Service
Informal service for all members of the deaf community. Visit our website to find out when the next service will take place.
A Day Chaplain is available to talk to most days in the Cathedral. For more information view of monthly services list on our website.
Prayer Cards
Prayer cards at candle stations offer words to guide your private prayer.
Special Services
The Cathedral hosts many special services throughout the year.
Bag Blessing Service
Sunday 14 September, 9.30am
As the new academic year begins, children bring their school bags to the service to be blessed.
Order of St Alban Evensong
Saturday 20 September, 5pm
Here we honour lay people in the diocese who have offered faithful and committed service over a substantial period of time.
Music Trust Patrons Evensong
Saturday 27 September, 5pm
Giving thanks for and recognising those who support our music.
Readers Celebration Service with Admission and Licensing of Readers
Sunday 28 September, 4pm
A celebration of Reader Ministry throughout the diocese and the admission and licensing of six new readers.
Pet Blessing Service
Sunday 5 October, 2pm
Bring your pet along - large or small - for an informal service of hymns, prayers and blessing.
Study Centre Awards Evensong
Sunday 5 October, 4pm
Celebrating the work of the Cathedral Study Centre and the achievement of those who have completed modules in the St Albans Certificate in Theology.
© Toby Shepheard Photography
Harvest Festival
Sunday 12 October, all services 9.30am, 11.30am, 4pm
We celebrate God’s creation and generous provision as we support others in our Harvest collections at all our services. At Evensong we welcome Dr Hilary Marlow the Canon Environmentalist to preach.
Saying Goodbye
Monday 13 October, 7pm
A quiet service of reflection and prayer as part of Baby Loss Awareness Week for those that have lost a baby or young child.
Welcome of New Roman Catholic Chaplain
Sunday 19 October, 4pm
We welcome and commission Fr John Deehan.
Commissioning of members of the Crown Nominations Committee
Monday 20 October, 5pm
We commission and pray for the committee as they commence their work on behalf of our diocese to appoint the next Bishop of St Albans.
Diocesan Confirmation Service
Saturday 25 October, 7.30pm
We welcome candidates for baptism and confirmation across the diocese as they take this next step in affirming their faith
All Saints Sunday
© Toby Shepheard Photography
Sunday 2 November, 9.30am and 11.30am services
Morning services will celebrate the life and witness of the saints whose example inspires us.
All Souls Requiem Eucharist
Sunday 2 November, 4pm
An opportunity to come and remember our loved ones who have died.
Installation of Canons
Saturday 8 November, 5pm
We welcome and install new Honorary Canons to the College of Canons.
Remembrance Sunday
Sunday 9 November
We gather to remember those fallen in wars and renew our commitment to peace.
Light Up a Life Service with Rennie Grove Hospice
Sunday 23 November, 2.30pm
Address and Compline
Monday 14 April - Wednesday 16 April, 8pm
A service of readings, poems, prayers and the opportunity to light a candle in memory of departed loved ones.
A service of night prayer with an address from our Holy Week preacher, the Revd Max Kramer, Chaplain at Keble College, Oxford.
Solemn Evensong and Benediction for Christ the King
Sunday 23 November, 4pm
The last Sunday of the liturgical year where we celebrate Christ as Lord over all creation.
For more information about worship, please visit our website.
Advent & Christmas
Look out for our special Advent and Christmas brochure for full details in December.
Advent Procession
Sunday 30 November, 6pm
Willow Foundation - Christmas Charity Concert
Tuesday 2 December, 7.30pm
West Herts Music Trust Carol Concert
Wednesday 3 December,7.30pm
St Albans Bach Choir Carol Concerts
Saturday 6 December, 3pm and 7pm
Carols on the Hour
Saturday 13 December, 11am - 5pm, on the hour every hour
Live Nativity Trail
Saturday 13 December, 12 noon - 3pm
Parish Eucharist with Nativity Play
Sunday 14 December, 9.30am
Christingle Service
Sunday 14 December, 2pm
Lessons and Carols
Sunday 21 and Monday 22 December, 7.30pm
Crib Services
Wednesday 24 December, 11am and 2pm
Christmas Eve Evensong
Wednesday 24 December, 5pm
Midnight Mass
Wednesday 24 December, 11pm
Christmas Day
Thursday 25 December Eucharist | 8am
Parish Eucharist | 9.30am
Choral Eucharist | 11.30am
Boxing Day Carols
Friday 26 December, 4pm
Young People
We offer an exciting array of groups for young people at the Cathedral.
Abbey Tots
Tuesdays, 10am, Offa Room
Come along to this popular parent and toddler group for pre-schoolers and their parents or carers.
No charge, tickets available on our website. Donations welcome.
Abbey Tots Service
Thursdays, 10am, St Michael Chapel
Our service for pre-school age children includes Bible stories, songs and prayers, as well as a snack and special meal.
Xcite
Fridays, 6.30pm - 8pm, Alban Room
A youth group for those aged 8 - 12, meeting during term time. It is the perfect opportunity to socialise and have fun with friends.
Youth Group
1st and 3rd Sundays each month during term time, 7pm - 8.15pm
Our fun and sociable youth group for ages 13 - 17 meets for games, conversation, hot chocolate and activities twice a month.
Contact our Children and Youth team for more information: children@stalbanscathedral.org
© Still Cast Photography
© Toby Shepheard Photography
Schools
There are plenty of fun activities, events and interactive experiences for our young visitors.
Roman Festival Week
Monday 15 September - Friday 19 September, 10am - 2.30pm
Bring history to life with our engaging Roman Festival week, ideal for KS2 pupils. This immersive experience features a carousel of three interactive workshops, and the opportunity to meet our very own Roman Soldier!
Age: approx. 5 – 11 years. All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult
£9.25 per pupil. Please email the Education Team to book your place and submit your questions: education@stalbanscathedral.org
Speak Your Mind - Sixth Form Conference
Wednesday 26 November, 1.30pm - 3.30pm
Join us for an engaging and thought-provoking event at our Annual Speak Your Mind - Sixth Form Conference. Inspired by the BBC’s Question Time, this event provides a unique platform for students to discuss and debate with a panel of speakers on a variety of subjects, including ethical, political and global questions.
The debate will be split in to two parts including a subject theme followed by a more general debate on current affairs etc.
Please email the Education Team to book your place and submit your questions: education@stalbanscathedral.org
Music
Join the Cathedral Junior Choir
The Junior Choir rehearses at the Cathedral on Monday afternoons in term time:
Juniors (Reception – Year 2): 4.45pm - 5.15pm
Seniors (Year 3 – Year 6): 5.15pm - 6pm
The Cathedral’s youngest choir, welcoming children from Reception to Year 6.
Cathedral Organ Open Evening
Friday 17 October, 6pm
Are you an organist aged 18 or under who would like to play the Cathedral’s world-famous organ? Contact us at organeducation@stalbanscathedral.org
Choral Compline
Sundays 12 October, 9 November and 14 December, 6pm
Sung by the Youth Choir, an atmospheric service of music and readings as darkness falls. All welcome
Organ Recitals
Hear our world-famous organ in our series of free-to-enter concerts.
Sunday 7 September, 3pm
Conor McGlone, Organ Scholar, St Albans Cathedral
Wednesday 17 September, 12.30pm
Nicholas Freestone, Assistant Director of Music, Worcester Cathedral
Wednesday 15 October, 12.30pm
Shanna Hart, Director of Music, St Botolph Without Aldgate
Wednesday 19 November, 12.30pm
Drew Sellis, Assistant Organist, Magdalen College, Oxford
Concerts, Events & Exhibitions
International Organ Festival Recital
Saturday 20 September, 6.30pm
James Orford, Organist at St Paul’s Cathedral plays Walton’s Spitfire Prelude and Fugue, alongside music by Vaughan Williams and Howells.
Exhibition | Art, Conflict and Remembering: The Murals of the Bogside Artists
Tuesday 23 September – Thursday 9 October
Experience Northern Ireland’s Troubles through the iconic Bogside Artists’ twelve murals, exploring memory and reconciliation.
Concerts by Candlelight
All concerts take place at 7.30pm
George Michael | Thursday 9 and Friday 10 October
Coldplay | Wednesday 19 and Thursday 20 November
Christmas | Wednesday 17 and Thursday 18 December
Jewish Living Exhibition
Tuesday 14 - Thursday 23 October
An exploration of Jewish traditions, history, and culture through objects, stories, and community voices.
Royal Choral Society: Verdi Requiem
Saturday 18 October, 7pm
Celebrate 150 years since the UK premiere of Verdi’s electrifying choral drama, with the choir who sang it first.
Silent Disco
Friday 24 October
The worlds biggest silent disco tour is back! Silent Discos in Incredible Places returns taking you back to the 80s, 90s and 00s.
Community Showcase
Saturday 25 October, 11am - 3pm
Discover over 50 charities and organisations. Learn about their impact and explore volunteer opportunities.
The St Albans Mystery Plays
Friday 7 November, 7pm
Imogen de la Bere’s unique plays bring Old and New Testament stories to life with medieval music, dancing and singing.
St Albans St Cecilia Society Festival
Saturday 15 November, 7.30pm
The St Albans Symphony Orchestra, Aeolian Singers, Hardynge Choir, St Albans Chamber Choir, and Radlett Choir join for a musical feast.
St Albans Bach Choir
Saturday 22 November, 7.30pm
Haydn’s The Seasons — dramatic recitatives, joyful choruses, and symphonic splendour capturing the beauty of nature.
Christmas Orchestra
Saturday 29 November, 6.45pm and 9pm
Festive film scores and sing‑along favourites from a 16‑piece orchestra with stunning lighting effects.
Willow Foundation Carol Concert
Tuesday 2 December
An evening of much-loved carols performed by outstanding local choirs.
West Herts Hospitals Charity 30th Anniversary Concert
Wednesday 3 December, 7.30pm
Celebrate 30 years with carols, songs and readings with a special address by Patron, Robert Voss, Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire.
Bach Choir Carols
Saturday 6 December, 3pm and 7pm
Join the St Albans Bach Choir for two concerts of Christmas music.
Hospice of St Francis
Sunday 7 December, 2pm
Carol singing with talented local choirs and joyful audience participation in aid of hospice care.
Quilt Display
Monday 8 December - 20 December, 1pm, 3.15pm, 6.30pm
A moving display of handmade quilts gifted to women, children, and young people in need.
The Snowman
Saturday 20 December, 1pm, 3.15pm, 6.30pm
The cherished Christmas tale brought to life with live orchestral accompaniment. For all ages.
© Toby Shepheard Photography
Talks and Workshops
A rich programme designed to explore faith, history and culture from many different angles.
The Stolen Crown: Treachery, Deceit and the Death of the Tudor Dynasty with Tracy Borman
Thursday 25 September, 7.30pm - 9pm, St Albans Cathedral
In 1603, Elizabeth I died, naming James VI of Scotland her heir. The throne passed peacefully from the Tudors — or so it seemed. Tracy Borman reveals the truth behind the dawn of the Stuart dynasty.
Speaker: Tracy Borman, Historian, Curator, Author and Presenter Tickets £20 (discounts for schools), available from our website
Magna Carta 800: How 1215’s Crisis Became 1225’s Constitution
Thursday 9 October, 7.30pm - 9pm, Alban Room / Online
In 1215, King John’s Runnymede charter looked doomed. By 1225, under Henry III, it was reborn — stronger, and built to last. Discover how a failed peace deal became the bedrock of England’s politics.
Speaker: David Carpenter, Professor at Kings College London Tickets £12 (£6 students), available from our website.
The Teacher of Auschwitz
Monday 20 October, 7.30pm - 9pm, St Albans Cathedral
The true story of Fredy Hirsch, the young German Jew who defied the Nazis — creating children’s homes in Terezin and a safe haven for them in the heart of Auschwitz.
Speaker: Wendy Holden, author and former War Correspondent Tickets £12 (£6 students), available from our website.
Margaret Beaufort: Survivor, Rebel, Kingmaker
Wednesday 12 November, 7.30pm - 9pm, Alban Room / Online
Mother and grandmother of kings, she shaped dynasties and outplayed enemies. Historian Lauren Johnson brings the formidable Margaret Beaufort vividly to life. Signed books available after.
Speaker: Lauren Johnson, author and public historian Tickets £12 (£6 students), available from our website.
Festive Illuminated Card Workshop
Saturday 22 November, 10am - 3.30pm, Alban Room
Create shimmering festive cards with 23-carat gold leaf, inspired by gilded medieval manuscript illuminations.
Tutor: Toni Watts, Resident Illuminator at Lincoln Cathedral
Tickets £80, available from our website.
Eleanor: On the Trail of England’s Lost Queen with Alice Loxton
Friday 28 November, 7.30pm - 9pm, St Albans Cathedral
In 1290, England mourned Queen Eleanor of Castile, beloved wife of Edward I. Her 200-mile funeral route was marked by twelve grand Eleanor Crosses. Historian Alice Loxton retraces this journey, bringing Eleanor’s story vividly to life.
Speaker: Alice Loxton, Historian and bestselling author Tickets £15 (£7.50 students), available from our website.
Jane Austen Behind Closed Doors with Lucy Worsley
Friday 12 December, 7.30pm - 9pm, St Albans Cathedral
Beloved historian Lucy Worsley opens the doors to Jane Austen’s world in this special anniversary event. Discover the rooms she lived in and how she quietly changed literature forever.
Speaker: Lucy Worsley, bestselling Author, Historian and Presenter
Tickets £15 - £40, available from our website.
© Paul Musso
Courses
Introduction to the New Testament (SACT)
Wednesday evenings, 24 September - 3 December, 7.30pm9.15pm, Online
From gospels to letters, explore the New Testament’s central figures, ideas, and history. Over 10 weeks, you’ll examine the structure, purpose, and themes of its diverse writings.
Tutor: The Rev’d Reid Humble
Tickets £130, available from our website.
Heresies and the Church (SACT & SACT+)
Wednesday evenings, 20 November - 18 December, 7.30pm - 9.15pm, Online
From early disputes to radical reformers, discover how heresies have shaped and challenged Christian belief. Over five weeks, explore their origins, evolution, and lasting impact on the Church.
Tutor: Professor Tim Boatswain
Tickets £75, available from our website.
Cathedral Library and Archives
Cathedral Library
Come and visit our cosy library to browse and borrow books or as a quiet space to read and work in. Make sure to visit our collection for Young Readers or join our monthly Book Club. Visit our website for more details about opening times.
The Archives
A treasure trove of photographs, books, letters, drawings, and other documents that tell the story of the Cathedral and Abbey. The Archives can be visited by appointment, usually on Monday afternoons in term-time. Email archives@stalbanscathedral.org to book a visit to the Archives.
© Toby Shepheard Photography
Fireworks Spectacular
Saturday 8 November, 7.30pm in Verulamium Park.
Gates open at 6.30pm.
Come and enjoy a spectacular display in aid of local charities Hospice of St Francis, who help 2,000 local people to live their precious lives well and the Daylight Club, a social club for adults with physical and other disabilities.
Early bird tickets (available until Friday 17 October)
Adult £10 | Children under 16 £6 | Family £28.50 | Children 3 and under go free
On the night prices
Adult £15 | Children under 16 £10 | Family £40
Tickets available from our website
The Whales
Wednesday 31 December - Wednesday 4 February 2026
In partnership with Messums.org
For five weeks only, three monumental sperm whale sculptures will soar above the Nave — a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle by artist Tessa Campbell Fraser.
Step into this vast, breathtaking installation and explore our connection to the wild. Alongside the whales: candlelit concerts, thought-provoking talks, hands-on workshops, yoga under the whales, and more.
Look out for the complete details and schedule coming soon!
The Friends of St Albans Cathedral
The Friends of St Albans Cathedral is an independent charity providing financial and practical support to the Cathedral.
The Friends play a vital role in enabling the life and work happening in our glorious building to develop and thrive, as it has done for nearly 1000 years.
“The Friends of St Albans Cathedral is a key part of the ongoing flourishing of our mission and ministry through its generous support.”
The Very Reverend Jo Kelly-Moore, Dean of St Albans
For more information on how to join the Friends and support our valuable work, visit us at www.stalbanscathedral.org/friends or email us at friends@stalbanscathedral.org. Alternatively, you can contact Hazel Ireson, Membership Secretary, on 01582 832312.
Friends of St Albans Cathedral
St Albans Cathedral Sumpter Yard, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 1BY
A gift with a difference
Adopt St Albans Cathedral
Are you looking for a unique gift? By adopting part of St Albans Cathedral you will make a difference to the future of this place.
Support our Learning
By adopting an item in the Archives, you will support the Education Trust in its mission to ensure learning is at the heart of the Cathedral and protect our learning heritage for the future.
Preserve our Building
By adopting a Roman brick from the medieval tower you will support the future preservation of the Cathedral and its precincts.
Sustain our Music
By adopting a pipe, you help to support the Music Trust in its aims to maintain our Harrison & Harrison Organ and protect the Cathedral’s music for future generations.
Buy your gift in the Cathedral Shop or online at www.stalbanscathedral.org/adopt
Opening times
The Cathedral is open daily 9am - 5pm.
Please donate generously. We need to raise £7,000 a day to keep the Cathedral open. Scan the QR code to donate.
Registered Charity Number 1207312 www.stalbanscathedral.org “...
Tickets
Book online at www.stalbanscathedral.org, in person at our Box Office, located in the Cathedral Shop, or call 01727 890290.
For the latest information visit our website and sign up for our What’s On newsletter: www.stalbanscathedral.org/join-our-mailing-list
St Albans Cathedral
Sumpter Yard, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 1BY Cathedral Office: 01727 890210
Email: mail@stalbanscathedral.org
