St-Albans-Christmas-Gift-Guide-2022

Give the gift of choice this Christmas with a St Albans Gift Card

It can be spent in over 100 local outlets including fashion, lifestyle, beauty, food and drink, hospitality and entertainment venues.

Bought to you by St Albans BID, gift card values start from £10 up to £500.

STYLE SEEKERS

CHECK MATE £89 Up We Pop, The Maltings

THE GIFT OF GOLD £185 anthropologie.com

THINK PINK £350 thedressingroom.com

GO WILD £59 earleys.uk

WHAT A STAR £55

Husen Moda, Market Place

£105

DISCO FEVER £149

£105 £105

THAT’S A LIBERTY £50 waterers-menswear.co.uk

GOT TO HAVE SOLE £269.99 H + I = U, French Row

PALE & INTERESTING £30 validatefashion.com whistles.com

TRUE BLUE £345

ferrarimonti.com

scope.org.uk

frenchconnection.com

£105

PARISIAN CHIC £129 simplyfrench.me

PEAK PERFORMANCE £520

copperfieldshop.co.uk

TULLE BE MINE £59

chloejameslifestyle.co.uk

St Albans is an incredible shopping destination. The quaint streets are brimming with boutiques, independents, and big brand names and the twice - weekly Charter Market (Weds & Sat) is a must-visit for unique, artisan items.

VERY VICTORIA £85

rubyroomlifestyle.co.uk

RELAXED SEQUINS £99

mintvelvet.co.uk

NEW HEIGHTS £15

RED ALERT £69

This guide is packed with inspiration to find magical presents for all those on your list! Discover the key shopping areas and picturesque side streets on our map on pages 22-23 in this guide.

KIDS ACTIVITIES

Ignite the magic of Christmas with these captivating events this festive season.

Nutcracker Trail

Explore the city and nearby villages to find the 15 Nutcracker Soldiers marked on the map. Once you’ve found all the names, fill in your details and post your completed trail sheet. All completed forms will be entered into a free prize draw to win a prize. For more details visit EnjoyStAlbans.com/christmas

North Pole Post Office

Families can enjoy a free, interactive experience at Santa’s Post Office. Little ones can meet the elves and write their letter to Santa before posting it in the magic post box and watching as it is sent to the North Pole. Free event, various dates, visit EnjoyStAlbans.com/christmas

Spectacular Light & Sound Trail at Willows Activity Farm

Set to enchant visitors in the run-up to Christmas is a state-of-the-art, immersive light and sound experience at this popular activity farm near St Albans. The 1.2km circular trail features oversized light sculptures of mythical and wild animals, animated light tunnels, a unique light and water show, and a soundtrack specially composed for the experience. Visit with the whole family and create memories to last a lifetime. For more details and tickets visit lumagicauk.com/stalbans

St Albans Museum + Gallery – Henry Moore exhibition

Bring budding artists along to the largest collection of coalmining drawings by celebrated artist Henry Moore. See how quick pencil sketches developed into finished pieces and consider the range of techniques used including pencil, ink and wax. The exhibition opens on 16th December, just as the school holidays start! For more details visit stalbansmuseums.org.uk

© Stephanie Belton

BEAUTY BAY

£105 £105

HAIR CARE £21

CREAM OF THE CROP £46

trinderhair.com spacenk.com

PLUMP IT UP £23

prestigemedicalbeauty.co.uk

MAKES SCENTS £152

jomalone.co.uk

BATH HEARTS £0.30 jeffersoncrafts.com

JUST BALMY £4.50

raindropsonroses.org.uk

Get party ready with a visit to the many city centre hair and beauty salons offering everything from the latest treatments to seasonal treatments to sparkle and shine!

BLISS BAR FROM £7

cositas.co.uk/shop/

LASH LOVER £89-£120

eve-and-adam.com

KIDDING AROUND

raindropsonroses.org.uk

St Albans is one of the most family-friendly cities, bursting with fun things to do, child-friendly venues and fantastic shopping for all you could possibly want for your little person.

READ ME £14.95

CUTE AND CUDDLY £9 SENSORY PLAY £20 JIGSAW JOY £149

BUILD + LEARN £6.95

£105 £105

PONYTAIL PLAY £6.20

BUNNY BOWL £27.50

RED £2.50

TIME OUT

COLLECTIBLES £17.99

chaoscitycomics.com

bricktraders.co.uk

books-on-the-hill.co.uk

stalbansmuseums.org.uk

St Albans has a wonderful selection of green, open spaces which are the perfect setting to enjoy a takeout. From the Vintry Garden to Verulamium Park why not take time from your shopping and soak in the stunning views and historic buildings.

lariatt.com

empirestalbans.com

ESCAPE ROOM £20-£200

ME UP £82

CORNER £9.99 ROLL WITH IT £49.99

JOY £28.99

STRICTLY SUSTAINABLE

SCENT

nealsyardremedies.com kidly.co.uk

raindropsonroses.org.uk lush.com

SITTING PRETTY

emmaus.org.uk

stalbansmuseums.org.uk

oxfam.org.uk

£105 £105

cositas.co.uk

Shop sustainably in St Albans and embrace low-impact living with ethically sourced, environmentally friendly and plastic-free products. From the twice-weekly charter market to our wonderful independent shops and hospitality venues, there is much to discover and enjoy

BAMBOO BLISS £22

PRELOVED READS £0.99

LET THEM GROW £9.95 BATH BLISS £8

WRAP WITH CARE FROM £5

BEES KNEES £4

TO SLEEP £10

£25

HOME INTERIORS

£105

HANGING AROUND

graphicsplusstalbans.co.uk

flowerbox.co.uk

anthropologie.com

whitewallgalleries.com

cositas.co.uk

From Scandi, to Luxe, whatever your interior style, St Albans is bursting with design shops for every home interior lover! Big brand names like Farrow and Ball sit side-by-side with independents like Cositas which makes finding that perfect lifestyle item an absolute breeze!

CATHEDRAL

stalbanscathedral.org

PICTURE

stalbansmuseums.org.uk

HEAVEN SCENT £35 HOUSE OF HACKNEY £16

MAJESTIC £1595 PEACE AND LOVE £21

HIVE VASE £45

PERFECT £19

£34.50

CANDLES £12.50

Emma’s House, George St

PETS CORNER

chloejameslifestyle.co.uk

RobertDyas.co.uk

chilternpetproducts.co.uk

robertdyas.co.uk

raindropsonroses.org.uk

keech.org.uk

From dog-friendly shops, cafes and pubs- dogs are welcome in many places in St Albans. Pick up a treat for your favourite pal this Christmas with everything from foodie treats, warmers and toys.

chilternpetproducts.co.uk

wilko.com

NEAT TREATS £5.99

MUTTS GO NUTS £6.99

TEAS ME £1

DROOL-WORTHY £14.50

GROOMING MIT £4.99

SMALL RETREAT £3.50

PUG POT £25

WAFFLE BUDDY £7.99

FOODIE FACTOR

SWEET

stalbansmuseums.org.uk

tomokaspiritsboutique.co.uk

stalbansmuseums.org.uk

stalbansmuseums.org.uk

lecreuset.co.uk

thepuddingstop.com

An historic inn-keeping city, St Albans is filled with award-winning eateries, characterful pubs, independent cafes and incredible street food on the twice-weekly Charter Market.

thedelionverulam.com

hotelchocolat.com

£105 £105

MATURE MALT £46.95

COOK LOCAL £14.95

READY TO RUM-BLE £38

KONE KETTLE £97

PUD PERFECTION £25

CHOCS AWAY £4.50

ST ALBANS £7.50

GRANOLOGY £9.90

DECK THE HALLS

HANGING

anthropologie.com

Panda

raindropsonroses.org.uk

paperchase.com

cardfactory.co.uk

whsmith.co.uk

cositas.co.uk

£105

£105 £105

rubyroomlifestyle.co.uk

From greeting cards, to wrapping paper, Christmas decorations and stockings – you’ll find everything you need to make the season one to remember

MUSICAL ADVENT £29.50 CHRISTMAS KISS £15.99

SACKS OF JOY £4.95 STOCK UP £16

LIGHT UP £7.99

WRAP & ROLL £3.50

COOL £18

PARTY ON £2.49

cards, Waddington rd

WHERE TO SHOP

There is no better place to shop than St Albans. A spectacular shopping destination, it’s the perfect place to pick up everything from stocking fillers to luxury gifts. The quaint streets and historic buildings house independent shops while shopping areas play host to well-known brands.

Starting at the Clock Tower, enjoy a browse along High Street for awardwinning fashion and lifestyle stores. Don’t miss the Village Arcade, a corridor of wonderfully charming boutiques and Heritage Close boasting niche independents. From here, head to picture perfect George Street for fashion boutique, jewellery shops and also pubs in gorgeous Grade II listed buildings.

From the Clock Tower, make your way along French Row, picking up a delicious treat from one of the deli cafes, then turn left into Christopher Place. This crescent shaped shopping is packed with luxury brands and Santa’s Post Office, so the kids can write and post their letter to Santa.

Head back out on to Market Place and up to St Peter’s Street which is

KL CREATIVE Photography

home to the vibrant Charter Market every Wednesday and Saturday. It’s a great place to stock up on gifts including jewellery, ceramics, leather goods and much more.

At the top of St Peter’s Street, turn left on to Catherine Street for shops offering more gift inspiration and wonderful cafes to grab a quick snack. Make your way back down and to the left of the Town Hall you will find The Maltings, the largest shopping area with big brand names and independents. Head on to Chequer Street for fashion, art, and photographic goods as well as numerous food venues. Then turn left and explore London Road with health and beauty, music shops and sustainable independents. Carry on until you reach The Odyssey, an independent restored Art Deco cinema, then retrace your steps back up to the main junction. A final stroll down Holywell Hill should tick off those last presents with a whole host of stunning independents offering a selection of goodies including books, designer fashion, interiors, and food.

“Enjoy a magical day in St Albans this Christmas.”

CITY CENTRE MAP

INDEPENDENT SHOPS & RESTAURANTS

CENTRAL ST ALBANS

SHOP MOBILITY

MALTINGS ARTS

THEATRE/LIBRARY

PARKING

VISITOR INFORMATION

TOILET

PLACE OF WORSHIP

WALKING DISTANCE FROM CLOCK TOWER

VERULAMIUM PARK PLAY AREA – 18mins

VERULAMIUM MUSEUM – 20mins

ODYSSEY CINEMA – 11mins

ST MICHAEL’S VILLAGE – 18mins

CLARENCE PARK – 20mins

CITY STATION – 14mins

SOPWELL NUNNERY – 16mins

ABBEY STATION – 13mins

GORHAMBURY HOUSE – 53mins

ROMAN WALL – 15mins

MOSAIC AND HYPOCAUST – 21mins

WESTMINSTER LODGE – 12mins

st albans bid

FOOD & DRINK

St Albans has a remarkable history and reputation with food and drink. Did you know the hot cross bun originated in St Albans in the 14th century? With food and drink at its heart it is a modernday foodie scene and the perfect destination at Christmas.

With over 100 restaurants, bistros, pubs and cafes there is something to suit every taste and cuisine from every corner of the globe. Whether you are looking for somewhere special, a place that welcomes pets or a meal with friends, family or colleagues, this city has the perfect venue.

There are also lots of exciting events held throughout the year celebrating local hospitality including the St Albans Food and Drink Festival and the Feastival street festival.

At Christmas St Albans hospitality really shines and venues go the extra mile to make visitors feel special. Pubs and restaurants offer delicious festive menus while market stalls and street cafes offer welcome refreshments for weary shoppers.

KL CREATIVE Photography

Photo credit style

St Albans pubs deserve a special mention. An historic inn-keeping city, it has the most pubs per square mile in the country and is home to England’s oldest pub Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, as confirmed by The Guinness Book of Records. It is also the home of CAMRA so real ales are never hard to find.

Come and experience this city at Christmas, there’s no better place to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.

“Enjoy fantastic wine at MUST Wine Bar and The Bishop’s Cave or for the festive season purchase the best from Cellar Door Wines.”

SOMETHING SPECIAL

With many award-winning restaurants, you’ll be spoilt for choice when looking for top-notch dining and exemplary service.

For a real treat, visit Thompson St Albans, the only 3 AA Rosette fine dining restaurant in Hertfordshire which serves wonderful dishes imaginatively created by Head Chef Phil Thompson. Lussmanns independent fish and grill brings relaxed, sustainable dining to the high street while Loft, delivers accomplished British food and impeccable service – both are award-winning restaurants. Firm favourite The Ivy offers brasserie style dining and a modern British menu with Ivy-inspired classics.

Albans Well serves new and old-world wines, beers, ales and boasts a gin emporium while the restaurant provides a social yet luxurious dining experience. For something a little different try Sauté and Tabure both offering authentically spiced modern Turkish Fare perfected over generations.

St. Villa, is a stylish restaurant and bar with outside pods so you can dine in all weathers. Mouth-watering dishes burst with seasonal flavours, it’s the perfect spot for a special night out.

Cool interiors create an intimate dining experience at Prime Steak & Grill Based on the concept of a classic New York Steakhouse, here you can savour the highest quality ethically reared beef, grilled to perfection with a unique British twist.

“Many restaurants offer delicious Christmas and party menus so book early for a festive treat with friends, work colleagues and family”

PUBS

From live music to open mic nights and pub quizzes to live sport St Albans pubs are a great night out.

In the heart of the Cathedral Quarter is The Boot Inn dating back to 1420 is a wonderful pub serving delicious pub fare, and a great selection of real ale and fine wine - perfect for a Christmas tipple.

Escape the cold and drop by The Cock Inn, a characterful 17th century pub with gorgeous, beamed ceilings and a log fire. With fantastic food and outstanding service, pop in for a pint, dinner or a light bite.

Bursting with character, The Peahen boasts a fascinating history dating back to 1480. Today it is a lively venue with a great cocktail menu, seasonal dishes and attentive service.

There is always something happening at the Blacksmiths Arms to get the party started. Their fantastic Christmas food and drink menu has a dish to suit all tastes and great buffet options for groups.

Don’t forget to explore side streets as there are many charming pubs tucked away. The Portland Arms is a hidden gem with real heritage and an irresistible menu of delicious pub classics.

If you like a challenge, then a Christmas pub crawl could be for you. Head to SaveStALbansPubs.co.uk for suggested routes.

©Stephanie Belton

© Stephanie Belton

FAMILY FRIENDLY

Families with children of all ages will have no problem finding somewhere perfect to eat in St Albans.

Per Tutti Ristorante Italiano on Holywell Hill make delicious pizza and pasta and offer a great value kids’ menu. At Zizzi kids can create their own pizza or choose from other tasty options plus tiny tummies are catered for. Kids will love the choice at Alloro where everyones favourite Italian dish is on the menu.

Nandos is always a popular choice and St Albans boasts its own on Chequer Street. Here kids can feast on legendary flame-grilled chicken with the famous PERi PERi sauce. Top notch burgers are served at The Meating Room, and kids can choose from a selection of burgers or chicken nuggets from the kids’ menu.

Inspired by the bistros of Paris, Côte offers relaxed all day dining and a kids menu featuring French classics. Crêpeaffaire is a favourite with mini pancakes, creamy milkshakes, refreshing smoothies and ‘babycinos’.

For the more adventurous palette, Wagamama has a fantastic range of miniJapanese dishes which are both healthy and delicious. Ice cream or a natural fruit ice lolly top off a taste of the orient.

©Kate Lindeman

PET FRIENDLY

If you’re in town with your four-legged friend, grab a bite at these eateries who welcome pets and festive shoppers.

Megan’s at the Old Bell offers Mediterranean inspired cuisine with plenty of space for dog loving diners and their friend. A few doors along is popular Bill’s restaurant and bar where you can enjoy brunch, lunch, dinner and cocktails, while your pooch relaxes.

Social enterprise Café on the Corner supports adults with learning difficulties and mental health issues. Serving everything from freshly baked cakes to soups and sandwiches, this cosy café will welcome you and your pet. Waddington Road Coffee + Kitchen is another dog friendly café, perfect for brunch and offering lots of gluten free options.

If you are looking for great coffee, try Nkora on Market Place. This outlet welcomes dogs and is a great place to rest and recharge. Close to Verulamium Park is The Waffle House, a well-known restaurant in St Albans. While you enjoy a tasty sweet or savoury waffle, your four-legged friend can relax on the patio. The Cathedral and Abbot’s Kitchen Café is also dog-friendly, with dogs on their leads.

With a huge garden the Prae Wood Arms is ideal for dogs. Kids can explore the grounds while you sample delicious pub fare. Another good option is Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, in Verulamium Park which welcomes dogs with open arms.

KL CREATIVE Photography

BOTTOMLESS BRUNCH

Christmas and bubbles are the perfect pairing so head into town and let the fizz flow.

St Albans has an array of restaurants offering this divine combo: try Slug and Lettuce for 2 hours of freeflowing sparkle and a yummy dish from their brunch menu or Megan’s at the Old Bell which offers 90 mins of free-flowing sparkle in a stylish setting.

Prime Steak & Grill and the Beech House both guarantee to get the party started with unlimited fizz accompanying delicious dishes from their menu.

Book a weekend table at the Craft & Cleaver for 90 mins of bottomless bubbles, mimosas, craft lager and margaritas to accompany a delicious melt-in-the-mouth main course.

Close to pretty Clarence Park is The Crown which every Saturday

offers Prosecco, Pimm’s jugs, house cocktails, draught Amstel and a delicious brunch dish to celebrate this festive time of year!

Quaint George Street is home to Old Tom’s Bar Bistro, the ultimate destination for drinks and a wonderful choice for bottomless brunch with friends. Stay for the afternoon and watch as the bistro transforms into a low-lit cocktail bar with top mixologists putting creative spins on the classics.

The Blacksmiths Arms is a popular local pub in the centre of town and offers a fabulous Bottomless Brunch. Here, you can enjoy 2 hours of your favourite tipple whether it’s beer, prosecco or cocktails, accompanied by a delicious brunch dish from a menu including everyone’s favourites.

GATHER ROUND

Christmas is the time to gather friends, colleagues and family to eat, drink and be merry.

From office parties to family lunches, festive drinks with friends to boxing day brunch, the Beech House know how to serve up delicious Christmas fare with some exciting festive menus available throughout December.

Cosy and characterful, the Prae Wood Arms is a great option with a wonderful choice of festive favourites topped off with a tasty mince pie. Book early and enjoy delicious seasonal fayre with your fellow diners.

Whether you are planning a large party or just a few friends, Lussmanns will make it a celebration to remember.

Whether booking a table in the stylish main restaurant or reserving an area for private dining, their creative Christmas menu is not only delicious, but it’s also ethical.

Family run Bar Meze guarantees a

lively night out with a delicious menu featuring flavourful meze dishes perfect for everyone to share. Once the plates are cleared away the music starts so bring your dancing shoes.

A little piece of Turkey is captured at Aspava. Their Christmas lunch and dinner menus perfectly fuse Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavours, with no pigs in blankets in sight!

Indian cuisine is popular year-round and perfect for a group celebration. Independent restaurant Infuse combines old favourites with new flavours to create mouth-watering dishes.

The Ivy St Albans Brasserie is a cool choice for a festive night out. Decorated with Art-Deco detail and with beautiful leather banquettes, sit back, relax and savour incredible dishes from their festive menu.

In a city renowned for its warm hospitality there are many places to stay to suit all budgets and tastes from small, intimate B&Bs to large hotels. There are lots to choose from but make sure you book early to avoid disappointment. Find out more at enjoystalbans.com.

ACCOMMODATION GUIDE CHARACTER

The Samuel Ryder Hotel St Albans, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

This boutique hotel enjoys a wonderful history previously owned by golf legend Samuel Ryder. Perfectly positioned opposite St Albans Cathedral and minutes from the city’s incredible shops and restaurants it offers contemporary en-suite guestrooms, free parking and a stylish cocktail bar where you can rest after a busy day with the drink of your choice. If you are looking for a hotel with character and comfort, this is the perfect choice when visiting St Albans. HERE

White Hart Hotel St Albans

Set in one of the oldest buildings in St Albans, this characterful hotel is an old coaching inn which today offers charming accommodation opposite magnificent St Albans Cathedral. All guestrooms are ensuite with excellent amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. For fine contemporary dining and delicious freshly prepared dishes, book a table at Tudors Restaurant and enjoy pre or post dinner drinks at the bar which features a wonderful selection of real ales, lagers, wine, spirits and cocktails. HERE

St Michael’s Manor, Fishpool Street

Ardmore House Hotel

This charming Edwardian Residence with a Victorian Annex has been converted into delightful accommodation. The rooms have good amenities, and some enjoy views over the grounds and pretty garden. There is a restaurant and bar where you can enjoy leisurely drinks and free parking is provided. Located in a quiet residential area yet just a short walk from the city centre it is an ideal choice when looking to stay within walking distance of all the city’s main attractions. HERE

LUXURY

St Michael’s Manor

This stunning hotel enjoys an enviable location on one of the prettiest streets in St Albans with the River Ver and Verulamium Park as its backdrop. Set amongst five acres of private gardens, guests can choose from a charming selection of individually designed rooms, each with en-suite, sumptuous

furnishings, ample space and splendid views of the gardens, lake or pretty Fishpool Street. The Lake Restaurant with its magnificent views is a “must” so be sure to book dinner, Sunday lunch or afternoon tea to create more wonderful memories of your stay in St Albans. HERE

Sopwell House

This beautiful Georgian country house nestles in 12 acres of countryside just a short drive from the city centre. The hotel boasts a rich royal history and was once the home of Princess Alice, mother of the late Duke of Edinburgh. Today it is a luxurious hotel and tranquil haven offering first-class service and a range of accommodation options including rooms, suites and individually designed Mews Suites. Exemplary dining is provided in Omboo restaurant and the Brasserie, while the Conservatory Bar and Cocktail Lounge are perfect places to complete your day with a drink of your choice. A real highlight of any stay is a visit to the award-winning

Sopwell House, Cottonmill Lane

Spa at Cottonmill which offers world class facilities and a sanctuary for relaxation with a wonderful range of treatments available. HERE

Torrington Hall

A characterful Victorian red-brick mansion which has been converted into delightful self-catering accommodation set within beautiful grounds. All rooms have ensuite facilities, sumptuous beds and many have original period features including high ceilings and exposed brick walls with some boasting wonderful cathedral views. Offering unique charm and proximity to the city centre with its plethora of cafés, bars and restaurants, it is a wonderful option for both short and long stays. HERE

B&B/RENTALS

Ragged Hall Lane

This pleasant B&B is a short drive from the city centre and offers comfortable en-suite rooms with a delicious breakfast served daily. There is a shared lounge and tranquil garden with an outdoor dining area where you can enjoy a morning coffee. The B&B is conveniently located for the M1 and M25, with the closest station St Albans Abbey just over a mile away. Free parking is available for your convenience. HERE

Aubrey Park Hotel

Sitting in a tranquil location between historic St Albans and the old town of

Hemel Hempstead is this charming independent hotel. All rooms enjoy contemporary furnishings in neutral tones and guests are never far from beautiful views of the woodland grounds. Dining at the hotel is a delight with a beautiful outdoor balcony and terrace, 24-hour lounge and AA rosette restaurant where you are assured top-notch cuisine, idyllic views and excellent service. HERE

HfH St Peters Mews Apartment

Enjoying a central location, this penthouse apartment has bags of character and offers everything you need for a wonderful stay. Accommodating up to four guests, there are two elegantly styled bedrooms, a modern bathroom, fully equipped kitchen with dining area, lounge with comfy sofas and onsite parking to make your stay as seamless as possible. Bright, stylish and just steps from all the main attractions in St Albans, this apartment is the perfect choice when looking for a city centre location. HERE

Park House B&B

Conveniently located and offering all the comforts of home, this charming B&B is set on a quiet residential street. The guestrooms are bright and cosy and there is a spacious lounge where you can enjoy a morning coffee or tea in front of the wood burning stove. A cooked or continental breakfast is served each morning in the dining room and there is a quiet garden where you

can relax with a book. This B&B is well placed to access the city centre and St Albans City train station which are just over a mile away and offers easy access to the M1 and M25. HERE

Innkeeper’s Lodge

Offering a warm welcome and friendly atmosphere, this hotel is just a short drive from historic St Albans with its fantastic shops and restaurants. The guestrooms are stylish and offer comfort and charm alongside good amenities. Adjoining the B&B is The Colney Fox pub which offers a delicious menu of seasonal pub food, cask ales and fine wine. Located close to the M25 and sitting alongside the river Colne, it is a great option for both leisure and business travellers. HERE

Appleside B&B

This warm and welcoming B&B is in The Park, a quiet residential area of St Albans, just over a mile from the city centre and St Albans City train station. All rooms are cosy and modern with shared shower facilities and delightful views of the garden. A delicious continental breakfast is served daily and is the perfect way to start your day. HERE

HOTEL CHAINS

Premier Inn St Albans

Situated in the heart of historic St Albans, just a stone’s throw from the city’s attractions and easily accessible from public transport hubs is this wonderful, contemporary

hotel. Guestrooms offer comfy beds, excellent room amenities and enjoy contemporary furnishings in neutral tones. If you don’t want to venture far for dinner, the hotel restaurant serves a range of delicious dishes with some tasty treats for kids included. HERE

Travelodge St Albans

This conveniently located hotel is a great base to explore St Albans being just a few steps from St Albans Museum + Gallery, the Clock Tower and the main shopping and restaurant areas. All guestrooms are en-suite and enjoy contemporary décor, comfy beds and a desk area to perfectly suit both leisure and business travellers. The stylish Bar Café is a wonderful place to enjoy a wide range of drinks and food 24 hours a day. HERE

Holiday Inn Express

Conveniently located just off the M25, this hotel offers contemporary style just a short drive from St Albans city centre. All rooms are modern and well equipped with family rooms available. A delicious breakfast is served daily, and the bar offers an extensive snack menu as well as a variety of beverages. Complimentary parking is provided. HERE

HELPFUL INFORMATION

Visit Herts is the official tourism website for Hertfordshire: visitherts.co.uk

ACCESS ST ALBANS

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

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

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

stalbansshopmobility.com accessable.co.uk

CHANGING PLACES FACILITY

Toilets and changing places are available at Civic Centre, Westminster Lodge, and Cunningham Hub.

See changing-places.org for more details.

If you require furher information regarding this guide contact the BID office on 01727 251 310 st albans bid

Disclaimer: Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, St Albans BID cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions.

@enjoystalbans

TRAVEL TO ST ALBANS

By Car: Close to the M1, A1(M) and M25 (Junctions 21a & 22), St Albans is easily accessible from all parts of the UK.

PCar Parking: See the CITY MAP for car parks. Blue Badge holders can park for 3 hours free (please display permit and time clock). Visit stalbans.gov.uk/parking for more information on where to park, charges, electric charging points and options for motorcycles and people with disabilities.

By Rail: St Albans City station is only 20 minutes from London on the Thameslink line between Bedford and Brighton, connecting St Albans to London Luton Airport, Gatwick Airport, and London St Pancras International for Eurostar services. St Albans Abbey station links to Watford Junction, for connections to London Euston, the West Midlands and the North via the West Coast mainline. Both railway stations are a ten minute walk from the city centre.

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

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