Issuu

theNOWmagazines.com

to get a digital copy of the magazine every month

Look inside for local events

harpenden November 2026

NOW

promoting local businesses, events and much more since 2006

07983 588313

wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

Welcome to November

As always we’ve squeezed in as much as we can, from Firework Displays, Remembrance Day Services, Christmas Lights Up and Local Theatre to Music, Comedy, Charity Events, Christmas Markets and much more. There’s also lots of local businesses from Architects to Driveways, Gutter Cleaning to Locksmiths, Plumbers to Rubbish Removal and Solicitors to Will Writing, whoever you call please let them know you found them in harpenden NOW. Run your own business? We‘d love to include you too, just book your space online today!

Jane & Wendy

@theNOWmagazines

Advertise in the December magazines

Book online today - Deadline 5th November theNOWmagazines.com wendy@theNOWmagazines.com 07983 588313

07983 588313

wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

07983 588313

wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

Friendly, professional tax advice for individuals in Harpenden, St Albans & surrounding areas

 Self Assessment

Tax Returns  Making Tax Digital  Capital Gains Tax

See your child build confidence through singing, dancing and acting A new year is just around the corner and spaces are filling up fast! Give your child a Spring term packed with imagination, connection, and Creative Courage For Life. At Stagecoach children develop vital life skills that stretch far beyond the stage. The skills they learn stay with them long after the curtain falls. At Stagecoach, performing is just the beginning - children get the opportunity to develop skills that can help them in everyday life:  Performing → finding their own way to express themselves  Working together → learning the value of being part of a team  Speaking up → communicating with confidence  Trying something new → learning to embrace challenges.

07983 588313

Through singing, dancing, and acting, they build:  Confidence & Self-Expression  Communication & Teamwork  Resilience & Focus Because the biggest outcome isn’t always what you see under the spotlight. It’s who they become along the way. Everyone is welcome, we take new students at the beginning of every term and there are no auditions. Book your 2 week trial for 4 -16 year olds today Call Mandy on 07725 162612 to try the sessions at Stagecoach St Albans. stagecoach.co.uk/stalbans Call Liz on 07793 206846 to book a trial at Stagecoach Harpenden. stagecoach.co.uk/harpenden

wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

DJ&M Plumbing Services Ltd We care about your small jobs too! ● Electric and Power Showers Fitted ● Ball Valves and Overflows ● Blocked WC’s, Sinks, Baths and

Basins

● Repair/Renew Stopcocks and Taps ● Plumb in Washing Machines

and Dishwashers

● Repair Leaking Pipes ● Outside Taps

Dean Herrington 01727 764217 07830 159010 info@djmplumbing.co.uk www.djmplumbing.co.uk see our main advert on the inside back cover

07983 588313

wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

Visit our showroom at

108 Southdown Road Harpenden AL5 1QQ and discover our stunning range of carpets and flooring

We will beat any like-for-like quote Bedroom Carpet fitted from £300 Engineered Wood flooring from £39 per sqm Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) Wood straight plank from £26 per sqm Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) Wood Herringbone plank from £32 per sqm Stair Runners (carpet) from £500 Laminate from £14 per sqm

Please quote NOW26 when making an enquiry The Bespoke Flooring Company Ltd

01582 341 540 lisa@bespokeflooring.uk

www.bespokeflooringherts.co.uk Sign up at theNOWmagazines.com to get a digital copy of harpenden NOW every month 11

Enjoy your free time and let us do the hard work for you General household and office cleaning Moving in / out cleans Experienced in elderly or housebound clients Reliable key-holders Proficient in alarm systems

Phone for a free quotation 07909 091325 ~ Taking Care of Your Home ~

07772 023603 tovey@mail.com

07983 588313

wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

Out & About Whipsnade Zoo

All free with admission Exhibition: ZSL at 200 until 31st Dec Showcasing the Zoo’s rich history. Boo at the Zoo 24th Oct - 1st Nov Enjoy Halloween activities, spooky stories, creepy crafts, animal adventures and dressing up. Christmas at Whipsnade 21st Nov - 24th Dec Enjoy festive crafts, animal talks and activities for the whole family. Additional cost to meet Santa Dunstable LU6 2LF whipsnadezoo.org

Exhibition: Everyday Life in Inter-War Harpenden until Jan 27 free

Tues & Thurs 11am-3pm, Sat 10.30am-3.30pm A picture of what living in Harpenden was like between the World Wars, during which the Town doubled in size. Focusing on the High Street, living and working, health and childhood. Eric Morecambe Centre, Rothamsted Park harpenden-history.org.uk

Standing with Giants 21st Oct - 29th Nov 10am - 4pm, free with grounds admission D-Day 1476 – For Your Tomorrow – this display commemorates the 1,476 lives lost on 6th June 1944 under British command on D-Day. Waddesdon, Bucks HP18 0JH waddesdon.org.uk

Dinos After Dark

23rd Oct - 1st Nov 5.30pm - 8.30pm. Enjoy a prehistoric adventure with over 40 life-size animatronic dinosaurs, plus UV Halloween drummers, a silent disco, dino meet-and-greets and a spectacular end-of-show finale. Hertfordshire Zoo, Broxbourne EN10 7QA hertfordshirezoo.com

Dunstable Downs

Harpenden Art Club Exhibition

30th Oct - 1st Nov With over 300 stunning works of art on display, showing an exciting and diverse range of contemporary art, from realist work through to abstract pieces, with paintings, prints and sculpture. Harpenden Trust Centre, Southdown AL5 1PS harpendenartclub.co.uk

Self-Led Pond Dipping 1st Nov 10am - 1pm & 1pm - 4pm £4.50 Discover the creatures lurking in the water, from the tiny water flea to the mighty dragonfly nymph, the ponds of Rye Meads are full of amazing animals! No need to book RSPB Rye Meads, Rye Road, Ware G12 8JS events.rspb.org.uk/ryemeads

Fireworks Galore

Harpenden Rugby Club 1st Nov 3pm - 9pm With fireworks, a fairground, food village and a shuttle bus from town. Harpenden Rugby Club Harpenden AL5 2BA hrfc.com Wheathampstead Fireworks 1st Nov 4.30pm - 6pm Family £20, adult £7, child £5 Enjoy the fireworks, including a quiet room with views of the display, and a BBQ. All proceeds to Beech Hyde Primary School and Nursery. Beech Hyde School AL4 8TP tickettailor.com Low Bang Fireworks Night 6th Nov 6pm, display 7pm Family £25, adult £8, child £6 A family-friendly event with low bang fireworks, music, a BBQ, bar, hot drinks, tuck shop, mulled wine and a games area. Katherine Warington School, Harpenden AL5 5FH tickettailor.com Fireworks & Farm Fun 7th Nov 2pm £20.50 Enjoy a spectacular fireworks display, floodlit outdoor play, the SkyTrail, rock climbing wall, Shaggy’s Raceway, meet the animals and lots more. Mead Open Farm, Leighton Buzzard LU7 9JH meadopenfarm.co.uk Redbourn Fireworks Display 7th Nov gates 5pm, display 7pm free With fireworks, a funfair, and food and drink. Redbourn Common AL3 redbourn-pc.gov.uk Crabtree Fireworks Spectacular 7th Nov gates 5.30pm, display 6.30pm Family £30, individual £10 With fireworks, a BBQ and refreshments Crabtree Junior School, Harpenden AL5 5PU tickettailor.com St Albans Fireworks Spectacular 7th Nov 6pm Enjoy a spectacular display, and food village, while helping fund local charities; Isabel Hospice and Herts Domestic Abuse Helpline. Verulamium Park booking.stalbanscathedral.org

Spooky Half Term Trail 24th Oct - 1st Nov 10am - 4pm £3 Complete 10 activities at stations along the path to Chute Wood, each stop features clues or challenges, helping to piece together a puzzle and bringing Halloween to life at Dunstable Downs. Art Course: Watercolour Sunsets 5th Nov 3pm £47.50 As the sun sets over the Downs enjoy an afternoon creating your own sunset painting. Festival of Lights Celebration 15th Nov 5.30pm - 8.30pm free All are welcome to enjoy music performances, traditional crafts and games, and soak up the colour and lights of Diwali. Seasonal Wreath Making Workshop 27th Nov 6.30pm £75 Whipsnade Road, Dunstable, Beds LU6 2GY 14 nationaltrust.org.uk 07983 588313 wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

W lun e als ch o trip es & enjoy s to the get atre h er

 A great way to meet new people  No need to read music  No auditions  Not for profit

Harpenden Salvation Army Hall AL5 2TG Wednesdays 10.45am - 12.15pm Wheathampstead Mead Hall AL4 8BP (free parking) Mondays 1.30pm - 3pm

Out & About

the laws and norms of their day, hear the stories of those associated with the Abbey Church who, over the centuries, followed their own path. St Albans 3 Day Art Fair 7th - 9th Nov Event Cinema A working art market, where local artists will Royal Ballet & Opera: Manon 1st Nov 2pm showcase and sell their work. In the seedy underbelly of 18th-century Paris, nothing is sacred, even love can be bought, Christmas Artisan Market + Art Fair hedonistic Manon is caught between twin desires 7th - 19th Nov 11am - 3pm Over 70 local artisan when she falls in love with a student, but the riches stalls showcasing beautiful, unique gifts promised by Parisian society remain tempting. Young Artists: Pupils from Tring Park School Golden Boy 5th Nov 7pm & 8th Nov 2pm for the Performing Arts 9th Nov 1pm 1930s New York, at the height of the Depression. Discover some exciting performers of the future. Joe Bonaparte is a gifted young violinist who is lured Justice Café: Prisons on the Table 9th Nov 6pm into the brutal world of boxing. A drama exploring An open discussion about where prisons fit ambition, identity, and the high price of success. into a just society. Royal Ballet & Opera: Carmen 10th Nov 7pm The Heretic & the King: How William Tyndale An all-star cast brings this white-hot drama to life, Laid the Foundations for the English Bible with Ginger Costa-Jackson in the fiery title role, 10th Nov 7pm and Russell Thomas as the despairing Don José. Marking the 500th anniversary of the most important Giant: The Play book ever published in English: William Tyndale's 19th Nov 8pm & 22nd Nov 2.20pm New Testament. Hear the dramatic story of what he It’s the summer of 1983, Roald Dahl‘s, The Witches did, and how, even as he was killed, his book is about to hit the shelves, but the outcry at his became a pillar of England's Reformation. recent, explicitly anti-semitic article won’t die down. Lest We Forget 11th Nov 10.30am Dahl is forced to make a public apology or risk his See some of the Cathedrals war memorials and name and reputation. hear how many, in the service of others are Doctor Who Day 23rd Nov 7pm commemorated. For the first time in cinemas, the acclaimed In The Dark - HUSH 13th Nov 6.45pm two-part adventure The Impossible Planet and The Step into complete darkness, where music Satan Pit have been re-edited into a single movie. becomes your only guide. Campus West, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6BX Tour: Royal Connections 14th Nov 10.30am campuswest.co.uk Explore over 1200 years of royal connections with the Cathedral. Hat Factory Arts Centre Kevin Quantum Anti-Gravity: Thrilling & Beautiful There Was a Child: Jonathan Dove & Requiem: Gabriel Fauré 14th Nov 7.30pm Magic 1st Nov 2pm £16.50, £13.50 Having spent With St Albans Bach Choir, Girl Choristers of his life studying physics and magic, Kevin explores St Albans Cathedral Choir and Sinfonia Verdi. the exotic space where science and magic meet. Whitney Houston by Candlelight 18th Nov Mark Watson: Before it Overtakes Us 5th Nov 7.30pm £24.75 Bowie By Candlelight 19th Nov Mark ponders the worst word he’s ever used in Luther Vandross by Candlelight 21st Nov public, the state of the UK sausage industry and Tour: The Twelve Days of Christmas more in his frantic and fun-packed new show. 22nd Nov 1.30pm The Father Teds 21st Nov 7.30pm £16.50 From twelve drummers drumming to a partridge Irish, Pop and Rock at its very best since 1996. in a pear tree. Simon Evans: Staring at the Sun 26th Nov 7pm Light up a Life Service 22nd Nov 6pm Evans is squinting at an uncertain future, and Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care invites you to remembering the analogue world of hitch-hiking, and join them to remember those we love and miss. being able to get properly lost! £22 Organ Recital: Paul Greally 23rd Nov 12.30pm Ladies of Laughter 28th Nov 6.30pm £22 Tour: Craft of the Carpenter 25th Nov 1.30pm Round up your friends and family for a Explores the Cathedrals fascinating woodwork, guaranteed night of hilarity. focusing on skilled carpentry from medieval to Luton LU1 2EY culturetrust.com modern times. The Christmas Orchestra 28th Nov 6pm St Albans Cathedral An uplifting concert with compositions from Tour: The Graveyard Slot 1st Nov 1.30pm Christmas films and traditional classics. Explore some of the Cathedrals’ ledger stones and spooky memorials and hear stories of people buried Advent Procession 29th Nov 6pm there and the part they played in the Abbey’s history. A candlelit service combining readings and music to mark the start of Advent. Tour: Rogues & Rebels 5th Nov 12.30pm stalbanscathedral.org From murder, witchcraft and heresy to challenging

07983 588313

wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

Out & About Knebworth House

Half Marathon & 10k 1st Nov £38 - £57 In support of the Garden House Hospice. Christmas Fair 27th - 29th Nov The perfect way to embrace the spirit of the season with family and friends. Stevenage SG1 2AX knebworthhouse.com

Hospice of St Francis

An Evening with Adam Frost 4th Nov 6.30pm £15 Join award-winning garden designer and BBC Gardeners’ World presenter, as he discusses the plants that have shaped his life. Spring Garden Lane, Berkhamsted HP4 3GW Viva St Francis 20th Nov 7pm An unforgettable party night with a casino, live entertainment and an auction. £65 The Artisan, Cow Roast, Tring HP23 5RF stfrancis.org.uk

Eric Morecambe Centre

Dom Joly: Trigger Happy TV, 25th Anniversary Tour 4th Nov 7.30pm meet & greet 6pm Wille & The Bandits 5th Nov 7.30pm Classic blues rock 3 piece, with the use of some bizarre instrumentation. There’s A Monster In Your Show 10th & 11th Nov 10.30am & 1.30pm Tom Fletcher’s interactive adventures for big imaginations are leaping from page to stage, with the beloved ‘Who’s in Your Book?’ Chuckl with Reginald D Hunter & Special Guests 13th Nov 7.30pm A night of live comedy with Reginald D. Hunter, Dan Tiernan, Wendy Wason and MC Dave Ward. The Arts Society Harpenden Evening 18th Nov 8pm The Recorder - Instrument of Torture or Delight? The Arts Society Harpenden Area 19th Nov 10am The Curious History of Christmas Food. Jack J Hutchinson Acoustic 20th Nov 7.30pm Guitarist and singer songwriter. Hugh Cornwell: Never Say Goodbye Acoustic Tour 20th Nov 7.30pm The final solo acoustic tour from the singer and songwriter of The Stranglers. Man in the Mirror 22nd Nov 7.30pm New tribute concert to Michael Jackson. Sir Geoff Hurst: Last Man Standing 23rd Nov 7.30pm, meet & Greet 6pm A true football legend, and the only living player remaining from England’s football victory in 1966. Rothamsted Park, Harpenden AL5 2FR everyonetheatres.com

St Albans Museum + Gallery

Town Hall Tour 4th Nov 10.30am From the glittering galas and balls in the Assembly Room to the Cells below Free, please book

07983 588313

Fairy House Workshop 14th Nov 10.30am Craft your own whimsical fairy house or hobbit hole using polymer clay. Transform a simple glass jar into a charming miniature sculpture. £40 History of England in 25 Poems 17th Nov 7pm £10 / Zoom £6 Time travel into 1300 years of England’s history through remarkable poems written between the 8th century and today. St Albans Creative Christmas Market 5th Dec 10am - 4pm Free entry Town Hall, St Peter's Street AL1 3DH stalbansmuseums.org.uk

The Horn

Niall McNamee 5th Nov 8pm Dynamic singer-songwriter, known for his timeless songwriting and charismatic live performances. Courtney Hadwin 12th Nov Durham-born singer-songwriter whose powerhouse voice captured global attention with a Golden Buzzer audition on America’s Got Talent in 2018. Junior Brother 18th Nov Critically acclaimed, Irish artist with a haunting voice and inventive take on traditional folk. The Spitfires 21st Nov Formed in Watford, blending mod, punk, ska and indie influences with sharp social commentary and energetic live performances. KEG 24th Nov With explosive live shows and a blend of post-punk, hardcore, art rock and offbeat pop. The Horn, St Albans AL1 3TE thehorn.co.uk

The Alban Arena

Phil Wang - Uh Oh 5th Nov 7.30pm Back with a new show, he’s older than ever before, and he’s got a moustache and it bristles with wisdom! That’ll Be Christmas 7th Nov 7pm A mix of singalong hits, laugh-out-loud comedy. We Will Rock You 11th - 14th Nov 7.30pm & 14th Nov 2.30pm The explosive smash-hit musical set to the legendary songs of Queen, presented by St Albans Musical Theatre Company. Step Into Christmas 15th Nov 7.30pm This spectacular concert is the ultimate way to kickstart your festive celebrations. Harry Enfield & No Chums 17th Nov 7.30pm 18+ Harry reflects on 40 years of arsing about in comedy, bringing some of his favourite characters back to life. Nish Kumar: Angry Humour from A Really Nice Guy 18th Nov 7.30pm The Amy Winehouse Band - Back to Black 19th Nov 7.30pm Led by Amy’s long-time musical director and bassist, Dale Davis, and bringing together the original musicians who stood beside her on stage Trevor Nelson’s Soul Nation 21st Nov 7pm Enjoy an evening with this critically acclaimed radio host, promoter, club DJ and TV presenter. continued on page 24

wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

07983 588313

wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

07983 588313

wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

Conveyancing, Family Law, Immigration, Litigation, Landlord and Tenant, Road Traffic Offences, Private Client We are a small friendly law firm and understand that when facing a legal problem it can be stressful, so our aim is to make you feel as comfortable as possible and assist you with achieving the results you desire by listening to you. We specialise in Conveyancing, Family Law, Immigration, Litigation, Landlord and Tenant, Road Traffic Offences and Private Client, and our rates are very reasonable for this area. Book a free 20 minute appointment to discuss how we can help. There is free parking for an hour right outside. Prepare for the future and protect yourself and your family.

131 - 133 Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JS 01727 839162 07955 952 250 info@abbeylaw.org

www.abbeylaw.org

Out & About The Alban Arena continued

Illegal Eagles 2026 22nd Nov 7.30pm Celebrating 30 years on the road with their brandnew Hotel California Tour, renowned for their flawless vocals, stunning guitars, and ability to recreate the legendary sound of the Eagles. The Nutcracker 25th Nov 7.30pm Performed by the Imperial Classical Ballet. Arsenal Invincibles Night: Jens Lehmann & Ray Parlour 26th Nov 7.30pm Relive Arsenal's greatest season - live on stage. Ben Portsmouth: This Is Elvis 27th Nov 7.30pm Not just a tribute artist; Ben is regarded as the closest living performer to Elvis, with energy, passion and authenticity that no one else can match. St Albans AL1 3LD everyonetheatres.com

Shuttleworth

Comedy Night 6th Nov Featuring fantastic standup acts from around the world. £25 Fireworks Night 7th Nov £12, child £6 With live music, fairground rides, and a spectacular fireworks display, with the Hangars illuminated in colourful lights to create a vibrant backdrop. Remembrance Weekend 7th & 8th Nov free Explore a range of history exhibitions, including the House's time as a convalescent home during WWI and WWII, enjoy guided tours with knowledgeable volunteers, and make-a-poppy activities. Christmas Casino Night 28th Nov 7pm 18+ Immerse yourself in an evening of festive cheer, live music and casino excitement, with fun-money casino tables, festive canapés and seasonal cocktails. Alder Drive, Beds SG18 9EA shuttleworth.org

The Old Town Hall

That Knave, Raleigh 6th Nov 8pm £17, £13 A journey through the astonishing highs and lows of one of Britain’s most famous historical figures. Of Mice & Men 7th Nov 8pm £18, £14 Set against the harsh backdrop of the Great Depression, this is the story of George and Lennie, two friends with a simple dream: to own a farm and live off the fat of the land. But a tragic turn of events threatens to destroy George and Lennie’s friendship and leaves George faced with an impossible choice. The Elves & the Shoemaker 14th Nov 11am & 2pm £15, £13.50 age 3+ Inspired by the book, using the simplest of dialogue, magical puppets, intricate design and original music. Finlay Christie: Champagne Casanova 14th Nov 8pm £18, £15 age 16+ Finlay humblebrags about his search for meaningful, authentic connection. Kenneth Williams: A Centenary Celebration 18th Nov 8pm £16, £13 age 14+ Readings of scenes and sketches from his most iconic work, alongside extracts from his private diaries. Hilarious and deeply poignant, and paying tribute to the brilliance of a true national treasure.

07983 588313

Solve-Along-A-Murder-She-Wrote 25th Nov 8pm £22, £18 age 14+ A unique and hilarious night featuring games, prizes, and audience participation. Midwinter Revels 28th Nov 8pm £18, £15 8+ A celebration of Yuletide Past guaranteed to warm the cockles of the most Scrooge-like heart. With carols, winter folk songs, toe-tapping tunes, and a mix of weird and wonderful instruments. High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE oldtownhall.co.uk

Willows Activity Farm

Low Bang Fireworks 6th & 7th Nov gates 6pm / fireworks 7.15pm £15.95 Enjoy an evening of crackling good fun. Please book Santa Spectacular 27th Nov - 24th Dec Meet Santa in his Grotto, visit the Create a Cuddle Workshop, decorate gingerbread, write a letter to Santa, meet the reindeer, enjoy the festive funfair and lots more. St Albans AL4 0PF willowsactivityfarm.com

Barn Theatre

The Academy 6th - 7th Nov 8pm & 7th Nov 3.30pm At a Premier League football club, everyone has something at stake. Big dreams, big money, and some very difficult choices. Underdog: the Other Other Brontë 13th - 21st Nov 8pm & 21st Nov 2.30pm Not a story about well-behaved women! This bold, funny play includes over 30 characters, played with frantic energy by five actors with around 50 costume changes. It’s fast-paced, physical and lots of fun. Jazz at the Barn: Joy Ellis Quartet 27th Nov 8pm Musicals at the Barn 28th Nov 8pm An evening of classics and modern musicals sung by Tammy Wall. Welwyn Garden City AL8 6ST barntheatre.co.uk

St Albans Organ Theatre

Organ Concert 7th Nov 3pm Mechanical Instrument Concert 8th Nov 3pm 320 Camp Road AL1 5PE stalbansorgantheatre.org.uk

Sustainable St Albans

Tour: Open Eco Home 7th Nov 9.30am & 11.30am £10 Judith Leary-Joyce will show you her Victorian terrace in Bernards Heath, explaining retrofitting for energy saving and the environment. Please book Harpenden Sustainability Market 15th Nov 10am - 3pm Harpenden Common Stay Warm for Less 30th Nov 7.30pm Talk: Stay Warm for Less Talk: What thermal imaging cameras can show Plus Q & A and opportunity to use the cameras Redbourn Parish Centre, The Park AL3 7LR sustainablestalbans.org

wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

Out & About

Firewalk 12th Nov

Walking with the Snowman

7th Nov - 10th Jan 10am - 4pm Pick up a trail map at the visitor centre, then wander around the grounds to see how many snowmen you can spot. Each one hides a secret letter. Collect all twelve to reveal a Christmas word. Included with admission Wrest Park, Silsoe MK45 4HR english-heritage.org.uk

Remembrance Day Services

Harpenden War Memorial 8th Nov The parade will move from Rothamsted Park, Leyton Road at 10.35am to the War Memorial on Church Green for a service at 10.50am. Visit harpenden.gov.uk for the Order of Service St Albans War Memorial 8th Nov The parade will leave St Peters Street at 10.30am walking to the War Memorial near St Peters Church for a service at 10.50am. A bugler will play The Last Post, followed by a two minute silence at 11am. RAF London 8th Nov 10.45am Two-minute silence at 11am, followed by a commemorative service. Please book London NW9 5LL rafmuseum.org.uk

St Albans South Signal Box Open Days 8th Nov & 13th Dec 2pm - 5pm 5 Ridgmont Road, St Albans AL1 3AJ sigbox.co.uk

Harpenden Gardening Society Talk 10th Nov: Joys & Problems of Making a Garden in France 1pm All Saints Church Hall, Harpenden AL5 4UU

Abbey Theatre Banksy: The A-Z of a Street Artist 11th Nov 10.30am Exploring the life and work of the anonymous street artist, with The Arts Society St Albans. £7.50 from janesayer110@yahoo.co.uk Dad’s Army 13th & 14th &18th - 21st Nov 8pm & 15th Nov 2.30pm £15 A riotously funny adaptation of the classic comedy, that will leave you smiling long after the final curtain. Night Terrors 24th Nov 8pm £15 A spine-tingling evening of three tales of the supernatural from E F Benson’s brilliant collection of ghost stories. On That Note 28th Nov 8pm £15 Dynamic cappella group performing jazz and pop to folk and gospel, with original arrangements and razor-sharp ensemble precision. St Albans AL1 2DL abbeytheatre.org.uk

07983 588313

St Albans Sleepout 13th Nov

Whether you're a family looking for a meaningful challenge, a community group wanting to rally together for a great cause, or a school seeking a powerful way to bring curriculum to life, this your moment. Sleep out for one night. Change lives for good. Registration is free with no minimum fundraising goal, and the community event supports local charities working to prevent homelessness and help vulnerable young people in Hertfordshire. Oaklands College, Evolution Building AL4 0JA stalbanssleepout.org.uk

Bach: Christmas Oratorio

14th Nov 7.30pm £20, student/child £10 High Street Methodist Church, Harpenden ticketsource.co.uk/harpendenchoralsociety

Chansons & Chorales 14th Nov 7.30pm St Albans Choral Society perform Lili Boulanger: Hymne au Soleil / Pie Jesu Gabriel Fauré: Cantique de Jean Racine Gustav Holst: Let all Mortal Flesh Keep Silence St Paul’s Suite / Turn Back o Man / A Festival Chime. Cecilia McDowall: Ave Maris Stella Ralph Vaughan-Williams: Five Mystical Songs £20-£25, student/child £5 St Peter’s Church, St Albans AL1 3HG stalbanschoralsociety.org

Herts Christmas Shopping Fair

14th & 15th Nov 10am - 4pm £5 An indoor shopping event with 150 exhibitors selling unique gifts, handmade crafts and festive foods. Herts County Showground AL3 7PT

St Albans Symphony Orchestra

Family Concert: Fairy Tales 15th Nov 2.30pm £8, child £2 Fancy dress is invited for audience and orchestra! St Saviour’s Church, Sandpit Lane AL1 4DF ticketsource.com/stalbanssymphonyorchestra

Mill Green Museum & Watermill

Christmas Craft Fair 15th Nov 11am - 3pm Gifts from local artisans. Christmas Wreath Workshop 29th Nov 10.30am Learn how to build a moss-based wreath on a wire frame, using fresh winter foliage. £65 Bush Lane, Mill Green, Hatfield, AL9 5PD millgreenmuseum.co.uk

wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

Showroom open: Mon, Wed-Sat 10am-4pm

07983 588313

wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

07500 801192

07983 588313

wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

01582 511867

enquiries@gjsmithroofing.com

07983 588313

wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

The Flooring Professionals You Can Trust

StallAlbans Experts in Types of Flooring Visit our Local Showroom 200 Watford Road, Chiswell Green, St Albans AL2 3EB

01727 869 692

www.kcflooring.co.uk

Out & About

ShowStoppers

Songwriting Meet Up 18th Nov 8pm free A creative community where musicians, lyricists, and songwriters collaborate and share. Dave Rowntree - Blur - No One You Know 19th Nov 7pm from £18 Hear from Dave, the Band’s drummer, who runs his own computer animation company, is a trained solicitor, was a Labour candidate and councillor, has a life-long interest in space, and was involved in the Beagle 2 Mars mission. Heathlands Drive, Harpenden Road AL3 5AY pioneerclub.co.uk

Batford Lights Switch On

The Pioneer Club

‘Twas the Night Before Christmas’

20th Nov - 2nd Jan from 4pm Follow the illuminated trail where enchanting light, sound and storytelling bring festive wonder to life, with a spectacular projection transforming the House, and immersive moments to delight all ages. Then explore the Christmas market, with seasonal treats, warming drinks and Christmas shopping. Ashridge House, Berkhamsted HP4 1NS ashridgehouse.org.uk

Sleepout 20th Nov

Local homelessness charity, DENS is asking Workplace teams, families and friends to join forces and give up their home comforts and spend a night sleeping outside to raise funds to make a difference for local people facing homelessness. There will be live music and games, and food from local street food vendors. Last year's event raised thousands of pounds to help rebuild the lives of local people at their time of need. The Dock, Kings Langley WD4 8LZ Please register at dens.org.uk/sleepout-26

St Albans Christmas Cracker 22nd Nov Enjoy live music from local bands and performers, appearances from stars of this year’s Alban Arena pantomime, school choirs, festive entertainment and more. St Albans City Centre enjoystalbans.com

Harpenden Christmas Carnival

22nd Nov 12 noon - 6pm free With entertainment, music, food and drink, stalls, fairground rides, Santas's Grotto, craft activities, a procession, the lights switch on, the Farmers Market and lots more. harpenden.gov.uk

Talk: Luton Hoo’s Many Links with Harpenden 23rd Nov 10.30am £7.50

Connections from owners to fireman, 17th - 21st century. Luton Hoo Walled Garden LU1 3TQ lutonhooestate.co.uk

Talk: Septimius Severus: The African Emperor 23rd Nov 7pm Verulamium Museum, St Michael's Street AL3 4SW stalbansmuseums.org.uk

07983 588313

25th & 26th Nov 7pm free A celebration of all things Musical Theatre, showcasing some of the greatest songs in the genre, along with fantastic choreography. Oaklands College, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6AH oaklands.ac.uk 26th Nov 4.30pm With carol singing by local schools, craft making and free refreshments.

Southdown Lights Switch On

27th Nov 5.30pm Entertainment, carol singing, fair ground rides and stalls and meet Santa.

Hertford Castle Christmas Market

27th Nov 3.30pm - 8pm 28th Nov 11am - 6pm 29th Nov 11am - 5pm With homeware, crafts, jewellery, gifts and more. Hertford SG14 1HR hertford.gov.uk

Wreath Decorating Workshops

28th & 29th Nov 10am - 12 noon £45 Decorate a real wreath to adorn your front door. Aylett Nurseries, North Orbital Road AL2 1DH aylettnurseries.co.uk

New Daytime Choir - and you don’t need to be able to sing!

A new daytime contemporary pop choir has launched in St Albans, led by experienced Disney Teaching Artist and Vocal Coach, Amy Cordina. No audition or previous singing experience is required, and beginners and experienced singers are welcome. As part of The Collaboration Choir, it’s built around singing, socialising and giving people a chance to do something that makes them smile. Tuesdays 10.30am - 12 noon St Mary’s Church Hall, 1 Sherwood Ave AL4 9QA Book your free trial: thecollaborationchoir.com

Making Local Dating Feel Human Again

After becoming increasingly frustrated with modern dating apps, local resident Christopher is trying something different, by building the kind of dating community he wished existed himself, by creating ‘Our Next Step’ initially just across St Albans, Harpenden and the surrounding Hertfordshire area. Rather than endless swiping, the emphasis will be on better, more thoughtful introductions. Currently in its pre-launch stage and building a genuine local community through a free waiting list, ‘Our Next Step’ is already beginning to grow. Christopher said, “The aim is very simple: real people, better introductions and hopefully helping people meet someone who eventually gives them a reason not to need us anymore.” ournextstep.co.uk

wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

Advertise here for as little as

M & M Decorators

£37 a month when booking 12 months

Please get in touch

Call Jane or Wendy 07893 588291/313 wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

theNOWmagazines.com

Fully qualified City and Guilds Over 25 years experience All interior and exterior work undertaken Specialist in all types of wallpaper All work finished to a high professional standard Free quotations at competitive prices Matthew Hayden 01582 270715 01727 867660 07970 720911 mandmdecs@gmail.com mandm_decorators

The woolly post boxes are back!

From the end of November, colourful hand-knitted and crocheted creations will once again start appearing on post boxes across St Albans, Harpenden and the surrounding villages, raising money for local charities. Since 2018, the project has raised over £200,000. Behind the scenes, the wonderful team of volunteer yarnbombers have been knitting and crocheting throughout the year. Before the toppers head out onto their post boxes, There’s a rare chance to see more than 100 together in one room, admire the extraordinary amount of work that goes into them - and perhaps spot a few favourites before they appear on the streets. There will be 103 locations on this year’s trail, and new ways to explore them. Thanks to sponsorship from St Albans BID, additional maps will be available in hard copy and online, including dedicated walking, running and family routes. Sponsorship got off to a flying start, with the first 25 post boxes sponsored and more than £5,500 donated soon after bookings opened - and there is still time to get involved. Sponsors don’t have to be businesses. Families, individuals, streets, neighbourhood groups, residents’ associations, schools, pubs, cafés, clubs and community groups can all sponsor a post box and help raise even more for the two charities. Find out more, sponsor a post box and plan your Christmas trail at stalbanspostboxes.org.uk Viewing Day: 26th Nov 10.30am - 2.30pm The Pioneer Club, St Albans Official Launch: 27th Nov 9.30am Clock Tower, St Albans Everyone is welcome

Crown Reducing  Stump Grinding Hedge Trimming  Dead Wooding Felling & Dismantlement Seasoned Firewood  Pollarding Tree Reports Fully Qualified & Insured Staff Local Authority Approved Contractor

A local family business offering regular, occasional and one off gardening and maintenance services Lawn Mowing I Hedge Cutting Weeding I Garden Clearance Fencing I Power Washing/Sealing Turfing I General Maintenance + Much more… Contact us now for a free quote!

01582 529429 I 07854 449371 info@detailgardening.co.uk DetailGardening

www.detailgardening.co.uk

07983 588313

wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

www.arlandscapes.co.uk

01582 766728

Home Grown Seasonal Plants

Index of Businesses Accountants Hicks Verulam Tax

22 7

Air Conditioning Cool Solutions Engineering Ltd

Architect Hampshire Build Building AJR Building Services Highpoint Construction Open Plan Solutions

Finance Lumin Wealth

Flooring The Bespoke Flooring Company KC Flooring Specialists

11 33

Funeral Directors Austin’s

Garage Doors Complete Garage Door Co

Pest Control The Verminator

Garden Nursery Bridge Valley Nursery

Plumber DJ&M Plumbing Services Ltd

10 & 39

10 28 30

Car Body Repairs Prestige Paint Shop Ltd

Car Servicing / Repairs RTI Auto Services Ltd

Children’s Art Classes ArtShed!

Chimney Sweep Home Sweep Home Cleaning Merrivac

Back Cover 12

College Oaklands College

Gardening / Landscaping AR Landscapes Ltd 37 Detail Gardening & Maintenance 36 Gutter Cleaning Gutter Busters

Hairdressing Image Mobile Hairdressing

Healthcare Spire Harpenden Hospital

20 & 21

Hearing Services Hearing Healthcare Practice

Home Care Alina Homecare

Dance & Drama Penny Waterman School of Dance Stagecoach

39 8

Locksmiths Lock Around the Clock Locksmith Services

27 27

Driveways & Patios Hertsmere Driveways Ltd

Loft Ladders Home Counties Loft Ladders

Electrician St Albans Sparks

Painters & Decorators CB Decorators M & M Decorators The Beautiful House Pantomime Rapunzel

Front Cover

Property Maintenance The 50 Plus

Rubbish Removal Monster Junk

Singing Club Clover Singing Club

Smart Home Solutions Visionary Smart Home

Solicitors Abbey Law Rayden Solicitors

23 22

Tree Surgeons Fircroft Tree Surgery Ltd

Will Writing Westminster Law

Windows Cloud 9 Glazing Kings Windows

33 32

7 Days a week covering the St Albans District, Radlett and Shenley

www.nannies4grannies.co.uk 01727 857 988 01582 764 305

We have made every effort to ensure that any material published in harpenden NOW is correct and can accept no liability for any errors or delays in publication or distribution, harpenden NOW accepts no responsibility for its advertisers.

07983 588313

Roofing GJ Smith Roofing 31 Residential Roofing & Repairs 31

Providing personalised home support and companionship you can trust “A local friendly home help service”

35 35 4

wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

Discounts

DJ&M

PLUMBING SERVICES LTD ●

●

Bathrooms, Shower Rooms, Cloakrooms and Kitchens from Design to Completion

Electric and Power Showers ● Repair/Renew Stopcocks, Taps and Outside Taps ● Blocked WC’s, Sinks, Baths and Basins ● Leaking Pipes and Overflows ● Washing Machines and Dishwashers Installed ●

Local Family Run Business, Over 40 Years Experience Honest and Reliable Service Free Consultation/ Quotation for all Enquiries

given on all Bathrooms & Kitchens supplied

Tiling Plastering Electrical

Dean Herrington

07830 159010

info@djmplumbing.co.uk

01727 764217

www.djmplumbing.co.uk

07983 588313

wendy@theNOWmagazines.com