st albans NOW Oct 25 by wendy robertson

st albans NOW st albans

October 2025

promoting local businesses, events and much more since 2006 Look inside for Oct & Nov events

Welcome to October

From Chimney Sweeps, Cleaners, Electricians and Gardeners to Locksmiths, Pest Control Specialists, Plumbers and Roofers - all these local businesses and more are featured in this month’s magazine. Don’t forget choosing local businesses like these benefits you and supports our whole community.

Run your own business? We‘d love to include you it’s quick and easy, just book your space online today!

Jane & Wendy @theNOWmagazines

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Book online NOW Deadline 8th Oct for Nov editions theNOWmagazines.com

I offer a wide range of footcare treatments on Tuesdays at Verulam Pharmacy (by Waitrose) King Harry Lane or I can visit you in the comfort of your own home. Fully insured, DBS Certified

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Out & About

The Secret Garden Adventure Golf

An immersive garden journey through 18 unique holes, each celebrating a theme from the natural world. From buzzing bees to native birds, soothing water features to magical folklore, it’s a relaxing, enriching mini golf experience for the whole family.

Van Hage, Great Amwell, Ware SG12 9RP secretgardenadventuregolf.com

St Albans Museum + Gallery

Generations: Stories from South Asian St Albans until 16th Nov

Exploring the relationship between the UK and South Asian countries using photos and storytelling.

Sunday Crafternoons until 30th Nov 1.30pm - 3.45pm

Different craft activities each week and a special museum trail. Families and children aged 5 - 11

Town Hall Tour 14th Nov 2.30pm

From glittering galas in the Assembly Room to the Cells below where prisoners were held, discover the stories of this local landmark.

Exhibition: Our Stories: Tracing Black Histories in Hertfordshire 2nd Oct - 2nd Nov

A powerful project by St Albans Black History Research Group, bringing together an exhibition with research spanning 2,000 years from Roman Verulamium to the lives of Black communities today.

Talk: Hidden History of the Countryside 15th Oct 7pm

British countryside is rarely seen as having anything to do with British colonialism. This talk brings rural life and colonial rule together with transformative results.

Exhibition: Worlds Connected 24th Oct - 22nd Feb

Multi-sensory exhibition exploring connections between St Albans and the Islamic World, from scientific discoveries to a fondness for coffee!

Half Term Events & Activities 27th - 31st Oct

Inspired by the Worlds Connected Exhibition create a printed book mark, decorate a tile or join in colourful crafts to make a lantern.

HorrorFest 8th Nov 7pm 18+

Hear from horror-film experts as they guide you

through a live technical demonstration of horror film makeup and prosthetics, led by an experienced prosthetics technician.

Spy Princess 12th Nov 7pm

The inspiring story of Noor Inayat Khan, a secret agent in WW2.

Exhibition: Inns & Alehouses in Victorian St Albans 28th Nov - 15th March

Looking at the nearly 100 venues that served the city from beer houses to taverns and the reasons why they flourished or failed.

St Peter’s Street, St Albans AL1 3DH stalbansmuseums.org.uk

Waddesdon

Cellar Tour & History of Rothschild Wines

Fridays until 24th Oct

Murder at the Manor

25th Oct & 1st Nov 6.30pm

Black-tie murder mystery dining experiences.

Haunted Half Term 25th Oct - 2nd Nov

closed Mon & Tues, 10am - 4pm

Have fun with spooky activities, family fun, an outdoor trail, the chance to explore the House and enjoy delicious treats.

Spooky Afternoon Tea

25th & 26th Oct & 29th Oct - 2nd Nov

Spine-tingling celebration of autumn flavours, ghostly delights and a touch of theatrical flair.

Christmas Fair

22nd Nov - 14th Dec Weds - Sun

Christmas at Waddeson

22nd Nov - 4th Jan various dates

Bucks HP18 0JH waddesdon.org.uk

Exhibition: Making Headway: Celebrating Sustainability in Hats

20th Sept - 15th Nov

Mon - Thurs & Sats 10am - 5pm free

See incredible hats of many leading UK milliners presented by The British Hat Guild.

Hat Works LU1 2NQ culturetrust.com

Wednesday Wanders

1st Oct & 5th Nov 12 noon - 2pm

Take an informal guided walk and see the diversity of wildlife that calls the reserve home at this time of year.

Rye Meads, Hoddesdon, Ware SG12 8JS events.rspb.org.uk

Harpenden Museum

Exhibition: Everyday Life in Edwardian Harpenden 2nd Oct - 31st Jan

Tues, Thurs & Sat 11am - 3pm free

See what living in Harpenden was like before World War One.

Eric Morecombe Centre, Harpenden AL5 2FR www.harpenden-history.org.uk

NOW for the Kids

Pumpkin Festival

Pick your pumpkin from the Pumpkin Patch, go on the Pumpkin Hunt, visit the Gourds Grotto and more. Willows Activity Farm, St Albans AL4 0PF willowsactivityfarm.com

Roald Dahl Museum

Titchy Toddlers: Nature & Outdoors

10th & 13th Oct 10am - 12pm 6 months - 4 years

Toddle around the galleries, enjoy special activities and storytelling.

Upside Down Rooms Clay Workshop

27th & 28th Oct age 5+

Make a 3D clay tile inspired by The Twits and their upturned home.

Disgusterous Clay Dinners

29th, 30th & 31st Oct age 5+

Take a tip from The Twits and make a clay version of some gruesome grub!

Twilight Tricks: Halloween Late Night Special 30th Oct 4.30pm all ages

Stay late at the Museum for some Halloween fun with face painting £6, trick-or-treat trail £4, plus Museum entry

Charlie's Chocolate Christmas Storytelling 8th Nov - 14th Dec selected dates

All ages, free with Museum entry roalddahlmuseum.org

Standalone Farm

Pumpkin Patch 11th - 31st Oct

Wander through the pumpkin wonderland and discover pumpkins of every shape and size, perfect for picking, posing and snapping your fang-tastic photos.

Circus Workshop 25th - 31st Oct

Step right up for an electrifying Halloween adventure! Join the High Voltage Circus Workshop, a whirlwind of fun and skill where you’ll master stilt walking, diabolos, juggling and ribbon work. Wilbury Road, Letchworth Garden City SG6 4JN standalonefarm.com

Spook-Fest 11th Oct - 2nd Nov

Lots of spooky fun to be had with the spooky shack, giant puzzles, pumpkin bingo, spooky-oke, mini tractor play, bouncy castle, dance tunnel, bale play, scarecrow characters, pop up shows, pumpkin

picking and carving and more. Aldenham Country Park. Elstree WD6 3BA aldenhamcountrypark.co.uk

Halloween Spookfest 18th - 31st Oct

With a spooky farm trail, big bale play, tractors and digger ride-ons, creepy fairy woodland play, scarecrow trail, farm Sensory trail and stickers for best dressed boys, girls and dogs! Spooky rather than terrifying, so all ages welcome!

Church Farm, Ardeley, Stevenage SG2 7AH churchfarmardeley.co.uk

Stockwood Discovery Centre

The BIG Draw 25th - 31st Oct 11am - 5pm, free, all ages

Celebrate 25 years with the theme ‘Drawn Together’, highlighting how creativity unites us and how collaboration and connection are at the heart of making. Grab a pencil and paper and find something that inspires you and draw your very own unique interpretation. All artwork will be used to form a giant masterpiece at the end of the week.

Halloween 31st Oct

11.15am, 12.30pm, 2pm & 3.15pm £4 ages 3+

Calling all witches, vampires and ghouls, come and join in with eerie arts, ghostly crafts and the terrifying trail, enter at your own risk!

London Road Luton LU1 4LX culturetrust.com

The Centre of Hocus Pocus

25th Oct - 2nd Nov

Enjoy some spooky fun this Halloween, with creepy critter encounters, flying displays, meet and handle an owl, tractor rides and more.

Herrings Green Activity Farm & Birds of Prey Centre, Beds MK45 3DT birdsofpreycentre.co.uk

Mead Open Farm

Freaky Fun Fest

25th Oct - 2nd Nov £19.95

Be amazed at the Freaky Flamenco Fiesta Circus, journey through three haunted Halloween mazes, head to the Pumpkin Patch and pick a pumpkin, then take part in the ghoulishly great Halloween hunt to win a sweet surprise.

Fireworks & Farm Fun 8th Nov 2pm £20.50

Enjoy the spectacular fireworks display, SkyTrail, rock climbing wall, Shaggy’s Raceway, huge indoor play area and the adorable animals.

Stanbridge Rd, Leighton Buzzard LU7 9JH meadopenfarm.co.uk

Spooky Stories 9th Nov 2pm Age 8+

The spooky ruins of Sopwell Nunnery are the perfect setting for this unique storytelling performance exploring magic, myth and legend. with tales of fairies, werewolves and the Green Lady of Hertfordshire.

Sopwell Ruins, Cottonmill Lane, St Albans AL1 2BY stalbansmuseums.org.uk

When Unmarried Couples Separate

What does Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom’s break up highlight for cohabiting partners, and their legal rights. Their recent separation has reignited the conversation about the legal rights of unmarried but cohabiting couples.

Contrary to popular belief, there’s no such thing as a common law marriage in England and Wales. Even if a couple have been living together for many years or have children together, they do not have the safety net of marriage and consequent legal rights upon separation. This distinction is critical, particularly when it comes to property rights and financial claims.

Cohabiting partners cannot claim spousal maintenance or a share of each other’s pensions or income, no matter how long the relationship lasted or financial dependency of either partner. When unmarried couples split, the starting point for dividing the family home or other assets is legal ownership. If the home is in one person’s sole name, the other partner has no automatic right to a share, regardless of length of time lived there, or contribution to bills or renovations.

If the home is in joint names, the presumption is that they own it in equal shares, unless there is evidence to suggest otherwise, eg declaration of #trust stating unequal shares.

A partner who is not a legal owner can attempt to establish a beneficial interest through a claim under the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996 (TOLATA). These claims can be complex and highly fact-specific. To succeed, they must prove: a common intention that they would share the property, and that they acted to their detriment in reliance on that intention (e.g. contributing to the purchase price, mortgage, or significant renovations).

What Can Cohabiting Couples Do to Protect Themselves?

 Cohabitation Agreements: These can set out how property and finances will be dealt with if the relationship ends.

 Declarations of Trust: To clarify beneficial ownership of a property.

 Making a Will: Unmarried partners have no automatic inheritance rights under the intestacy rules.

If you are living with your partner and not married or in a civil partnership, it’s essential to understand your rights and plan ahead, especially if you share property or have children together. Seeking advice from a family lawyer should help you to secure your future with the right protections in place.

Rebekah Norman, Associate Rayden Solicitors St Albans

Autumn in the Garden

Ground Cover

Ground cover plantings are a wonderful way to create carpets of colour in your garden, so when should you start?

Autumn is a great time for planting. Trees, shrubs, climbers and herbaceous plants that are planted now establish well as they have the luxury of enjoying the relatively warm and yet moist soil, a perfect place for new roots to grow out and establish rapidly.

Clear the area of weeds, fork over the soil, and then add in plenty of well-rotted manure or garden compost, and some slow-release feed too. Don’t cram the plants in too closely, if you do they are more likely to become stressed, prone to disease and will need thinning out. Keep the plants moist at the roots until they’re established and feed occasionally. By choosing plants recommended for ground cover you won’t have much pruning to do. Choose foliage that is attractive and interesting with variegated leaves and you can add a few more colourful flowering plants to the mixture too. If you want a reasonable effect all year round, select some evergreens so you’ll never be left with totally bare soil.

Shrubs

Heaths and Heathers, Cotoneaster horizontalis and Cotoneaster microphyllus, Stephandra incise ‘Crispa’, groundcover roses eg the ‘Flower Carpet’ roses.

Shade-Tolerant Plants

Sarcococca hookeriana var.humilis, Mahonia repens, Gaultheria procumbens, Hypericum calycinum, many hebes including Hebe pinguifolia, Euonymus fortune cultivars such as ‘Emerald n’ Gold’, ‘Emerald Gaiety’ Herbaceous Plants for Shadier Spots

Sweet violets, pulmonaria (lungworts) eg the whiteflowered ‘Sissinghurst’, Bugle (the ajugas eg Ajuga reptans ‘Burgundy Glow’), Lysimachia nummularia (Creeping Jenny), Lily-of-the-valley, Lamium ‘White Nancy’ and Lamium ‘Silver Beacon’, Bergenia

Sunnier Groundcover

Snow-in-summer, thymes, oregano, many of the sedums and chamomile.

Leaf Mulching

If you’re swamped with huge quantities of fallen leaves why not turn them into an environmentally friendly and very effective soil conditioner or mulching material known as leaf mould. You can make a leaf mould cage, simply drive four treated softwood stakes into the ground, each stake marking out one corner of the cage. The stakes need to be about 5ft long so they can be driven in well to a depth of 1-2ft, leaving 3-4ft above ground. Attach some galvanized chicken wire to the stakes to create the sides of the cage and cram it full of leaves. If they’re dry add some water after every six inches of leaves. Most deciduous leaves rot down well, especially oak and beech trees as do leaves from fruit trees, garden shrubs and climbers. Avoid including too many twigs or evergreen leaves as these take longer to rot, as do tough, leathery leaves from sycamore, horse chestnut and plane.

If your leaves are varied just mow the lawn with the leaves on it. You will then have a brilliant mix of chopped leaves and even the slower-to-rot-down types will rot speedily as they have been chopped up quite finely. Mixed with the lush, high-nitrogen grass clippings, the whole process is sped up. You can also make leaf mould in a bin bag. Cram it full of leaves, again adding water. Then stab a few holes in the bag with a garden fork, loosely fold over the top and weigh it down with a stone. You should have a useable product in 12-18 months, but the longer you leave it the better. Leaf mould will help to improve the moisture-retaining capacity of a light, sandy soil and reduce the aeration and drainage of a heavy clay soil. It also makes wonderful mulch that can be used on flower beds and borders, the vegetable plot, around trees and shrubs and on your fruit plants as well.

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.

Formerly Lanwarne Landscapes, only the name has changed

NOW for some Entertainment

Abbey Theatre

Sunday in the Park with George 1st - 4th Oct £24

An unmissable award-winning musical.

The Harmony Test 10th - 18th Oct £15

A sharply-written comedy about love, life and everything in between.

It’s a Wonderful Life 14th - 22nd Nov £15

A story of hope, redemption and community in a magical stage adaptation of the beloved film. Abbey Theatre, Holywell Hill, St Albans AL1 2DL abbeytheatre.org.uk

The Old Town Hall

Fagin's Last Hour 1st Oct 8pm

'Oliver Twist', Charles Dickens' dark tale of crime and punishment, is stunningly re-imagined in this multi award-winning adaptation.

It's a Mystery! 3rd Oct 8pm

A hilarious and moving exploration of the enduring appeal of murder mysteries.

Looking for Me Friend 4th Oct 8pm

An evening of pure joy filled with Victoria Wood’s bestloved songs, including the iconic ‘Ballad of Barry & Freda’ (Let’s Do It) and the classic ‘It Would Never Have Worked’.

Third Class: A Titanic Story 8th Oct 8pm

A one-man theatre show based on the life of Titanic survivor, Edward Dorking.

Lady Nade Sings Nina Simone 10th Oct 8pm

Ruthless: A Night With Ruth Ellis 15th Oct 8pm

Award-winning actor Katherine Moran uses Ruth's own words to create an exciting, visceral reclaiming of the true story of Britain's last woman to be hanged.

WiFi Wars Halloween Special (family-friendly) 19th Oct 3pm

A spooky live comedy game show, where you play along: log in with your smartphone and compete in games, puzzles and quizzes to win the show, and prizes!

Goosebumps of Delight 22nd Oct 8pm

Two of Dickens' ghost stories adapted with a comic element.

The Ripper Files 24th & 25th Oct

A spine-tingling whodunnit based on the world's most famous case!

Screaming Blue Murder 27th Oct 8pm

Resident monthly comedy club.

A Halloween Evening of Burlesque & Cabaret 31st Oct 8pm

An evening of bizarre burlesque, queer cabaret and sublime circus entertainment.

Stephen K Amos: Now We’re Talking! 9th Nov 8pm

Christmas Gothic 22nd - 23rd Nov

A Christmas Carol 25th - 26th Nov

The Old Town Hall, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE oldtownhall.co.uk

Duruflé’s Requiem

4th Oct 7.30pm £20, £10, £5

Hertfordshire Chorus present Maurice Duruflé’s Requiem plus Abendlied - Josef Rheinberger

Spirituals from A Child of Our Time - Michael Tippett

Motets - Anton Bruckner

Crossing the Bar - Rani Arbo

17 Days (excerpts) - James McCarthy

St Peters Church, St Albans AL1 3HG

hertfordshirechorus.org.uk

Pioneer Club

Day Rave - Dance for a Cause! 4th Oct 2pm £10

A chance to let loose and party while raising funds for

local charities, The Pioneer Club and Youth Talk.

The Preloved Runway 9th Oct 7pm £15

With rails of preloved fashion, a fabulous runway show, and the chance to shop unique finds.

We're with PULP are you? - In conversation with Mark Webber 12th Oct 7pm from £10

An evening with PULP guitarist Mark Webber discussing his life and times.

Book Club Battle 16th Oct 7pm £30 table of 6

If you're a member of a book club, or just a book enthusiast then this is the quiz for you!

It's A Sin - The Alternative 80s Night 18th Oct 8am £12

Playing Yazoo, The Smiths, The Cure, Depeche Mode, Buzzcocks and more!

Empire Records Music Quiz

6th Nov 7.30pm £30 table of 6

Get a team together with your mates.

Common People/Get Free 90s/00s Indie Night 15th Nov 8pm £12

A night of banging anthems.

Big Fish Little Fish - Pyjama Party Family Rave 16th Nov 2pm free

Family fun for 0-8 year olds, at this party filled with beats, bubbles, foam and balloons.

Dress code: glam PJ’s, fun onesies, teddy bears Heathlands Drive, St Albans AL3 5AY pioneerclub.co.uk

The Alban Arena

The Smyths 4th Oct 8pm £22.50

For anyone mourning the live absence of the original band, this is the closest you’ll get to being there.

40th Anniversary of The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain 6th Oct 7.30pm £33.50

An astonishing revelation of the rich palette of orchestration afforded by ukuleles and a menagerie of voices in a collision of post-punk and old classics.

Sandi Toksvig – Friends of Dorothy 8th Oct 7.30pm £32.50

An evening celebrating Sandi’s love and passion for writers and books.

The Bootleg Beatles 9th Oct 7.30pm £39

It’s all there, the costumes, the hairstyles, the banter and the gear.

Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour 14th Oct 7.30pm £18

An unforgettable evening of thrilling adventure on the big screen!

Sensational 60’s Experience 16th Oct 7.30pm

Packed with timeless classics like: The Legend of Xanadu, Storm in a Teacup, Needles and Pins, Hippy Hippy Shake, Hitchin’ a Ride, and more.

Jimeoin – Pandemonium 18th Oct 7.30pm £26

A not-to-be-missed, hilarious evening with one of live comedy’s true masters.

Queenz - Drag Me To The Disco 19th Oct 7.30pm

Prepare to sing your heart out, laugh until it hurts, and even shed a tear as these queens take you on a highenergy rollercoaster of emotion.

Jason Manford: A Manford All Seasons 20th Oct 7.30pm £36.50

Jason is back with his brand-new live show.

Ross Noble - Cranium Of Curiosities 22nd & 23rd Oct 8pm £32.50

The Wizard of Waffle, The Rambler Royale, The Noodlers’ Noodler is back with a tornado of tangents.

Milton Jones: Ha!milton 27th Oct 7.30pm £35

A new show of daftness. You know it makes sense.

Kevin Bloody Wilson: Dilligaf Legend, Live 29th Oct 7.30pm £38

He’s more than a storyteller - he’s a way of life.

Illegal Eagles 31st Oct 7.30pm

Featuring the best classics including Hotel California, Desperado, Take It Easy and many more.

Maximum Rhythm & Blues With The Manfreds 1st Nov 7.30pm £40.50 & £42.50

Including iconic songs Do Wah Diddy Diddy, Pretty Flamingo, 5-4-3-2-1, The Mighty Quinn and more.

Step Into Christmas 18th Nov 7.30pm £34

From heart-warming ballads to upbeat festive anthems. The Irish House Party 19th Nov 7.30pm £26

Musicians and dancers bring a unique blend of light hearted audience interaction with fascinating stories about the music and the instruments themselves.

Ben Portsmouth: This Is Elvis 21st Nov 7.30pm

Regarded as the closest living performer to Elvis! That’ll Be The Day 25th Nov 7pm

Packed with Christmas classics, laugh-out-loud comedy sketches and heart-warming festive cheer.

Trevor Nelson’s Soul Nation 28th Nov 7pm £32.50

Award-winning DJ and champion for RnB music.

St Albans AL1 3LD everyonetheatres.com

Barn Theatre

Ward/Dawkins Quintet 10th Oct 8pm

An evening of hard-hitting swing, bop and Latin.

Midsummers Night Scream

17th - 25th Oct 8pm & 25th Oct 2.30pm

A spooky, laugh-out-loud reimagining of Shakespeare’s classic, reinvented as a family-friendly horror-comedy.

Shirt & Sweet

28th Oct - 2nd Nov 8pm & 1st & 2nd Nov 2pm

A festival of new short plays by local writers.

Felix Fardel Quartet 7th Nov 8pm A rising Jazz star.

The Children’s Hour

14th - 22nd Nov 8pm & 22nd Nov 2.30pm

Between the dark and the daylight, when the night is beginning to lower, comes… the Children’s Hour.

Welwyn Garden City AL8 6ST barntheatre.co.uk

St Albans Organ Theatre

Organ Concert 11th Oct 3pm Michael Wooldridge

Mechanical Instrument Concert 12th Oct 3pm

Camp Road AL1 5PE stalbansorgantheatre.org.uk

Dvorak & The Romantics 18th Oct 7.30pm

Enjoy choral music by The Music Makers Choir. High Street Methodist Church, Harpenden AL5 2RU musicmakerschoir.wordpress.com

Maltings Arts Theatre

Talking Heads 30th Oct £12 - £15

A Lady Of Letters & Soldiering On, two dramatic monologues written by playwright Alan Bennett. Where the Wild Things Were 7th Nov £20

New stand-up show from Rob Newman.

The Art of Guitar: An Evening of Classical & Spanish Favourites 15th Nov £16

With maestro Mark Jennings.

The Maltings Theatre, St Albans AL1 3HL ovo.org.uk

St Albans Choral Society 15th Nov 7.30pm

Mark Hogan: Hear my Prayer / Leonard Bernstein: Chichester Psalms / John Rutter: Requiem

St Peter's Church, St Albans AL1 3HG stalbanschoralsociety.org

NOW at the Cathedral

Abbey by Night

1st, 22nd Oct & 12th Nov 8pm & 8.30pm

Be transported back in time to the medieval abbey as you encounter the fantastic stories of the past under candlelight.

Flora & Fauna Tours

4th, 11th & 29th Oct 10.30pm

Exploring how the natural world of Hertfordshire has been depicted in stone, wood, glass and textile in the Cathedral over the centuries.

All Creatures Great & Small

- Pet Blessing Service 5th Oct 2pm

A short informal service for visitors and their pets, to give thanks for the joy and companionship they bring to us.

Grand Designs Tour 6th Oct 10.30am

Discover the skill and artistry of the medieval builders and craftsmen, including stone and wood carvings, stained glass, bell casting, wall painting and illuminated manuscripts.

Magna Carta 800: How 1215’s Crisis Became 1225’s Constitution 9th Oct 7.30pm

Discover the differences between the Charters of 1215 and 1225, and find out how the latter was much better equipped to sink deep roots into the English political community.

George Michael by Candlelight 9th & 10th Oct 7.30pm

Over 25 years of hits from Club Tropicana to the Edge of Heaven will have you dancing in the aisles!

Tour: Let the Women Speak!

17th Oct 10.30am & 25th Nov 2pm

Giving voice to women across the ages who were associated with the history of the cathedral and abbey church.

Royal Choral Society: Verdi Requiem 18th Oct 7pm

Referred to as Verdi's ‘greatest opera without a

stage’, this is one of the most extraordinary choral works in western classical music.

The Teacher of Auschwitz 20th Oct 7.30pm

Discover the true story of the young German Jew Fredy Hirsch who persuaded the SS to let him establish a children’s block in the heart of Auschwitz.

More to Explore Tour: The Graveyard Slot 26th Oct 1.30pm

Hear the stories of people who lie buried in the graveyard and the part they played in the Abbey’s history, and see how death has been portrayed down the ages.

Poppy Fields by Luxmuralis

28th Oct - 1st Nov 5.45pm - 9pm

A moving sound and light show reflecting on the end of WWI and WW2, and looking at the hopes and wishes for peace in our world and the future.

Making Your Mark Tours

31st Oct & 21st Nov 10.30am

Discover how visitors across the centuries have ‘scratched’ their mark on this building. From pilgrims and monks to knights and soldiers, the graffiti they left tell a unique story of ordinary folk. Look for hidden gems from signatures to skeletons, discover animals, crosses and kings and search for hard-tofind examples like the mythical beast.

Tour: Lest We Forget 11th Nov 2pm

Discover some of the memorials in the Cathedral, and hear how those who died, many in the service of others, are commemorated in different ways.

The Music of Coldplay by Candelight

19th Nov 7.30pm

St Albans Bach Choir: Haydn's 'The Seasons' 22nd Nov 7pm

This captivating oratorio portrays the changing seasons through music and text.

More to Explore Tour: Christmas is Coming 23rd Nov 1pm

Learn how Christmas was celebrated in the past. How much of what we are familiar with now was a Victorian invention, and what pre-dated Christmas trees and familiar carols.

Speak Your Mind - Sixth Form Conference

26th Nov 1.30pm

Inspired by BBC's Question Time, this event provides a chance for students to discuss and debate with a platform of speakers on subjects, including ethical, political and global questions.

The Christmas Orchestra 29th Nov 6.45pm

Experience compositions from favourite Christmas films, as well as popular sing-a-long classics, performed by a 16 piece chamber orchestra

Advent Procession 30th Nov 6pm

A beautiful candlelit service with readings and music to mark the start of the Advent season.

Out & About

Whipsnade Zoo

Guided Tours: The Whipsnade Story 10.30am

Hear about the lives of the animals and people that have been a part of the Zoo over the years.

2nd & 12th Oct

Trailblazing, tea parties & train robberies

1950 - 1990s

4th & 16th Oct

Success, bombs & spies 1931 - 1945

18th Oct

Roses, royalty & a breeding revolution 1931 - 1945

Boo at the Zoo 25th Oct - 2nd Nov

Filled with spooky fun, animal secrets, and Halloween surprises.

Dunstable LU6 2LF whipsnadezoo.org

George Street Gin & Jazz

3rd Oct 6pm - 10.30pm

Music, bars, shopping and more. See page 4

George Street, St Albans

Hatfield House

Live Music at The Coach House Kitchen with Roxy Searle 3rd Oct 6.30pm

Hatfield House Music Festival:

The Gift of Music 9th - 12th Oct 5pm - 8.15pm

Enjoy a long weekend of concerts.

Willow Family Fun Run, 10k & 5k

12th Oct 10am

Explore the picturesque grounds of Hatfield House. Minimum sponsorship £50, to provide special days for seriously ill 16 - 40 year olds.

John Michael Wright: Conservation & Context

17th Oct 6pm

A rare opportunity to view an important 17th century portrait not normally on public display.

Champagne Carriage Tours

18th Oct 10am - 6pm

Step back in time with this tour of the Old Palace.

Witches & Wizards Week

25th Oct - 2nd Nov 11am - 7pm

Dust off your broomsticks for a spook-tacular adventure from haunted forests to wicked workshops.

Live Music at The Coach House Kitchen with Bob Halford 7th Nov 6.30pm

Winter Walks & Workshops

29th Nov - 21st Dec 11am - 4pm

From festive woodland walks to Christmas decoration workshops at this family event. Hatfield House AL9 5HX

hatfield-house.co.uk

Quilt St Albans Exhibition

4th Oct 10am - 4pm £2

With over 100 handmade quilts and wall hangings on display and a fabric and haberdashery stall. Profits to Peace Hospice and St John Fisher Church

St John Fisher Church Hall, Redbourn AL3 7PN quiltstalbans.com

Oaktober Fest

4th Oct 11am - 4pm from £7.21

A festive day in the orchard with pumpkin decorating, live shows, zoo visits, tractor rides and street food.

Oaklands College, St Albans AL4 0JA oaklands.ac.uk

Herts Wildlife Trust

Autumn Bird Walk 4th Oct 10am

Enjoy a walk to discover the autumn wildlife, please dress appropriately for the weather.

Stocker's Lake, Rickmansworth WD3 1NB

Bat Walk 7th Oct 6.30pm & 30th Oct 4.45pm

Discover the amazing life of bats, and hopefully see Pipistrelle and Daubenton bats and learn how to identify them using a bat detector.

Stocker's Lake, Rickmansworth WD3 1NB

Smartphone Safari 30th Oct 10.30am

Learn how to take amazing wildlife photos using your smartphone.

Grebe House, St Albans AL3 4SN

Half Term Drop In Session

31st Oct 11am - 1pm

Come and explore the wildlife garden. Grebe House, St Albans AL3 4SN hertswildlifetrust.org.uk

Apple Day 5th Oct 10am - 3.30pm

Step into the legacy of Bernard Shaw, whose orchard was the apple of his eye, whether you’re an apple enthusiast, an orchard owner, or looking for a family day out, there’s something for everyone with tastings, tours, apple identification and apple themed treats.

Shaw's Corner, Welwyn AL6 9BX nationaltrust.org.uk

Apple Day 5th Oct 1.30pm - 3.30pm free

With live music, homemade cakes, apple juice and cider available to buy, apple juicing demonstrations and apple based games.

Highfield Park, Hill End Lane, St Albans AL4 0RA highfieldparktrust.co.uk

The Eric Morcambe Centre

Guys & Dolls

8th - 11th Oct 7.30pm & 11th Oct 2.30pm

A timeless tale of finding love and redemption in the most unexpected places.

Wishbone Ash 12th Oct 7.30pm

Featuring much-loved classics such as The King Will Come, Throw Down the Sword & Blowin’ Free.

The Arts Society Harpenden Area

16th Oct 10.30am

Lecture: Sandro Botticelli, one of the most popular painters of the Italian renaissance.

Imagine Lennon 16th Oct 7.30pm

Celebrating the legacy of John Lennon, brought to life by the internationally acclaimed Tyson Kelly.

Some Guys Have all the Luck 17th Oct 7.30pm

Celebrating the 80th birthday of Sir Rod Stewart, and bringing to the stage an incredible live concert.

Dr John Cooper Clarke 22nd Oct 8pm

Having created some of the most iconic poetry of the modern era, his cultural influence spans literature, music and fashion.

Georgie Carroll: Infectious 24th Oct 7.30pm age 14+

Georgie is razor sharp and riotous, an undeniable comedy powerhouse and a natural storyteller.

Round the Horne 31st Oct 7.30pm

A radio comedy classic live on stage from the producers of the UK tours of the Goon Show and Hancock’s Half Hour.

Thank Abba for the Music 1st Nov 7.30pm

Expect hits Dancing Queen, Mamma Mia, Super Trouper, SOS, Take a Chance on Me and many more!

Strange, But True Crime 3rd Nov 7.30pm

Join former forensics lecturer Jennifer Rees to explore some of the most shocking and hard-tobelieve crimes.

Pirates Love Underpants 5th Nov 1.30pm

Join the swashbuckling party of pirates on their quest to find the fabled pants of gold.

Adventures in Modern Recording - an Intimate Evening with Trevor Horn 7th Nov 7.30pm

Responsible for music from Marc Almond, Peter Gabriel, Phil Collins, Tina Turner and many more.

Fleetwood Bac 8th Nov 7.30pm

Regarded as the UK’s most authentic Fleetwood Mac tribute show, focusing on the bands ‘Rumours’ era.

An Audience with Bill Fellows 13th Nov 7.30pm

With a career spanning over 3 decades, he shares the highs, challenges and unforgettable moments that have shaped his journey through film, TV and theatre.

Annabel Croft from Tennis Balls to Glitter Balls 15th Nov 7.30pm

Former tennis pro shares her experiences from the world of tennis broadcasting to dancing on ‘Strictly’.

The Arts Society Harpenden Evening 19th Nov 8pm

Lecture: James Campbell : Shepard’s Christmas

The Arts Society Harpenden Area 20th Nov 10.30am

The science and exact art of colour in English garden design and why gardening can rank as a fine art.

The Crooners Christmas Special 21st Nov 7.30pm

Packed with laugh-out-loud antics, sharp oneliners, and a dazzling dose of big band swing.

One Night in Dublin 22nd Nov 7.30pm

Danny Muldoon and award winning musicians and singers take you on a trip through the emerald isle.

An Evening with Harry Redknapp 27th Nov 7.30pm

Hear stories from Harry’s football and TV career, one of most entertaining, funny talk shows on the circuit.

Rabbit Rabbit: A Tribute to Chas & Dave 28th Nov 7.30pm

With hits Gertcha!, Margate, Ain’t No Pleasing

You and of course, Rabbit plus plenty more and some surprises!

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Out & About

Live Cinema: Love Never Dies

5th Oct 3pm & 16th Oct 7.30pm

This continues the story of The Phantom of the Opera. Featuring one of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s finest musical scores performed by a 21 piece orchestra, a cast including Ben Lewis and Anna O'Byrne, over 300 costumes and a magnificent set illuminated by 5000 dazzling light bulbs! Campus West, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6BX campuswest.co.uk

Shuttleworth

Race Day Airshow 5th Oct 9am - 6pm

Experience the early days of Edwardian racing as both visiting vehicles and those from the Collection take to the grass track for high-speed sprint demonstrations.

Murder at the Mansion 31st Oct 7pm

A tongue-in-cheek murder mystery where everyone has a motive and the opportunity, but will the evidence separate the guilty from the innocent.

Remembrance Weekend

8th & 9th Nov 10am - 3pm

Explore a range of history exhibitions, including the House's time as a convalescent home during both WWI and WWII, and take guided tours with the knowledgeable volunteers. Shuttleworth, Biggleswade SG18 9DT shuttleworth.org

L & D Hospital

Quiz Night 8th Oct

In support of the new Intensive Care Unit. Volunteers Needed

There’s lots of opportunities, from supporting patients with Dementia, helping mums to be, or working in the new retail shop. Please contact voluntaryservices@bedsft.nhs.uk bedfordshirehospitals.nhs.uk/charity

Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care

24hr Bikeathon 10th & 11th Oct

This unique challenge brings together teams and individuals to ride four static bikes in hourly slots across 24 hours. The aim is for each hour of the Bikeathon to raise enough money for 24 hours of care. £32 per bike per hour Firewalk 13th Nov 6.30pm

This exhilarating Firewalk isn’t just a test of bravery, it’s a chance to support your local

hospice as they deliver care to those who need it most.

Peace Hospice, Watford WD17 3PH renniegrovepeace.org

Apple Fest 11th Oct 11.30am - 4pm

Highfield Oval, Harpenden AL5 4BX ywamharpenden.org

Dunstable Downs

Autumn Wreath-Making Workshop 11th Oct 6pm

Create a stunning, vibrant wreath using fresh autumnal foliage, dried flowers, seed-heads, berries and more, combining rich colours and interesting textures. No experience needed, please book, £60

Knights' Quest

25th Oct & 2nd Nov 10.30am - 4pm

A dragon has escaped the castle dungeon with the king’s jewels, using them to fuel its fiery mischief. The Knights of Dunstable Downs must retrieve the jewels and restore them to the royal treasure chest. Are you up for the challenge? You will need a sword to take with you, the more creative you are, the more protective it will be on your quest!

Halloween: After Dark at the Downs

31st Oct 4.30pm - 6.30pm

Follow the Dragon's trail, get crafty and create a mini paper dragon and listen to some (not-tooscary) spooky tales. Fancy dress encouraged! Please book

Introduction to Watercolour 4th Nov 10.30am

You’ll be guided through watercolour painting techniques, helping you create beautiful art work. No experience needed, please book, £47.50 Chiltern's Gateway Centre LU6 2GY nationaltrust.org.uk

Young Miscellany Folk Dance Group

12th Oct 10.30am - 12.30pm free

A fun, beginner-friendly dance session for ages 6-17yrs to try maypole and folk dancing with live music. No need to book Park Hall, Leyton Road, Harpenden AL5 2LX

Facebook: Young Miscellany

The Great St Albans Challenge

12th Oct starting from 1pm

£60 per team 2 - 6 people

Superhero-themed GPS treasure hunt, starting at St Albans Cathedral and finishing at The Alban Arena. With approximately 2 miles of walking over 2.5 hours with buggy-friendly routes. Medals for all, trophies and prizes for top teams, with some extra surprises along the way. Helping to raise crucial funds for Youth Talk, St Albans based charity that has been providing free, confidential counselling to young people for almost three decades. greatstalbanschallenge.org.uk

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Out & About

Ashridge House

The Mud Pack Challenge:

Hospice of St Francis 12th Oct 10am

Choose the 7K or 14K route and raise a minimum sponsorship of £50 to help fund Hospice care. Minimum age 15 stfrancis.org.uk

Hertfordshire's Biggest Christmas Light Trail

27th Nov - 1st Jan from 4pm

Discover over 20 dazzling installations across the Grade II listed gardens, with new features, festive favourites and magical moments.

Ashridge, Berkhamsted HP4 1NS ashridgehouse.org.uk

Halloween Haunt Fest

17th Oct - 1st Nov 5pm - 10.30pm

With immersive scare attractions, speciality acts, street theatre, themed bars and a fun fair. Herts County Showground, Redbourn AL3 7PT halloweenhauntfest.co.uk

Dacorum & Chiltern Potters Guild

19th Oct 9.30am - 4.30pm £45

A day of creative exploration with talks and discussions in poetry, sculpture and pottery.

Trestle Arts Base, St Albans AL4 0JQ trestle.org.uk

Apple Day 19th Oct 12 noon - 4pm

Celebrating all things apple, with many unusual varieties to try and buy, apple juice, produce and craft stalls, children's activities. £1

Shenley Park Walled Garden, Herts WD7 9DW shenleypark.co.uk

Rothamsted Manor

Wedding Show 19th Oct 11am - 3pm

See the beautiful Manor House and gardens, speak to the experienced wedding team and meet their most trusted suppliers.

Murder at the Manor 8th Nov 6pm

A thrilling night of drama, intrigue and excitement. Harpenden AL5 2JQ rothamstedmanor.com

Knebworth House

Wedding Showcase 19th Oct 11am - 1pm

Knebworth House and Barns, is a stunning venue for your special day, meet the experienced Wedding Planners and a hand-picked selection of local suppliers.

Halloween Adventure 28th - 30th Oct

Get your broomsticks, hats and magic wands at the ready and venture into the gardens for fun, games and a pumpkin carving competition.

Hertfordshire Half Marathon 2nd Nov

Half Marathon: 9am / 10k: 9.30am

Starting and finishing at Knebworth House this popular event takes you around the beautiful surrounding rural roads.

Christmas Fair 21st - 23rd Dec

Knebworth House, Stevenage SG1 2AX knebworthhouse.com

Wine Tasting 25th Oct 7.30pm £22

Organised by Friends of Cosne, the French town twinning society. Park Hall, Leyton Road

Meetings are also held on the first Wednesday of each month in the Oddfellow Arms AL5 2TG at 7.30pm. All welcome friendsofcosne.com

Chiltern Open Air Museum

Diwali Celebration 25th Oct 11am - 4pm

Enjoy this festival of light, colour and community with dancing, drumming workshops, storytelling, arts and crafts and mouth-watering South Asian food.

Terrible Tuesday 28th Oct 11am - 4pm

Enjoy crafts, clay modelling, storytelling and family activities.

Halloween Spectacular 31st Oct 5pm - 9pm

Listen to spine tingling storytelling, watch out for spooky horses, warm yourself by the bonfire, brave the scary walk, enjoy the amazing fireperformance and more. Please book Newland Park, Chalfont St Peter HP8 4AB coam.org.uk

Wrest Park

Halloween Half Term

25th Oct - 2nd Nov 10am - 5pm

From ghostly tales to spooky sword school, there’s plenty to keep little monsters busy. Learn how to fend off vampires, zombies and werewolves, join in with silly games, and hear stories of eerie local folklore.

Christmas at Wrest Park 22nd Nov - 21st Dec Sat & Sun

A magical way to start the festive season. Wrest Park, Silsoe, MK45 4HR english-heritage.org.uk

Hertford Castle

Open Day - Guided Tours

26th Oct 12 noon - 4pm free

Discover the Castles history.

Christmas Gala 28th Nov 3pm - 8pm

Christmas Market

28th Nov 3.30pm - 8pm

29th Nov 11am - 6pm

30th Nov 11am - 5pm

Castle Street, SG14 1HR hertford.gov.uk

Out & About

Verulamium Museum

Archaeology for Families 27th & 31st Oct 10.30am & 30th Oct 1.30pm Age 7+

A fun family friendly introduction to archaeology. Mosaic Making Workshops

28th Oct 10.30am, 11.25am & 12.20pm Age 5+

Create your own Halloween themed mosaic!

Evening Explorers at Verulamium 29th Oct 5.30pm

A chance for families to explore the Museum after hours, remember to bring your torch! St Michael's, St Albans AL3 4SW stalbansmuseums.org.uk

Samhain Celebrations 27th - 31st Oct

Enjoy the Haunted Forest, while experiencing the art and culture of prehistory and the Celts. Celtic Harmony Camp SG13 8NY celticharmony.org

Climb the Clock Tower

28th Oct 2.15pm & 3pm

Climb to the top of the Clock Tower and hear why it was built and how it has been used throughout history. St Albans Clock Tower, High Street AL3 4EL stalbansmuseums.org.uk

Natural History Museum Tring

Autumn Owls 28th, 29th & 31st Oct 10.30am -12 noon & 2pm - 3.30pm drop in

Discover the secret lives of owls by taking a closer look at the wonderful specimens and getting crafty! Free, Museum by Torchlight

30th Oct 5pm, 5.30pm 6pm & 6.30pm

Have your torch at the ready, don your best scary animal or ghoulish costume and join in with a spooky time in the galleries. Free, please book Akeman Street, Tring HP23 6AP nhm.ac.uk

Sweeney Todd

30th Oct - 1st Nov 7.30pm & 1st Nov 2.30pm

The unsettling tale of the barber who returns home to Victorian London after 15 years in exile to take revenge on the corrupt judge who ruined his life. The SandPit Theatre, Sandringham School St Albans AL4 9NX sandpittheatre.co.uk

St Albans Sleepout 7th Nov 7.30pm

Will you give up your bed for one night to support young people facing homelessness in Hertfordshire? This community-led event with live music and entertainment is an important reminder of what many young people are going through. Oaklands College, St Albans AL4 0JA hyh.org.uk

St Albans Fireworks Spectacular 8th Nov 6pm Verulamium Park

Talk: Leigh Family at Luton Hoo 24th Nov 10.30am £7.50

Hear about their impact on local railways Luton Hoo Walled Garden LU1 4LF lutonhooestate.co.uk