St-Albans-Official-Visitor-Guide-2024-2025

WHAT’S ON

THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF LADYBIRD ARTISTS

The story of the talented illustrators who played such an enormous part in the success of the much-loved books at St Albans Museum + Gallery.

10 May-8 Sept

HERTFORDSHIRE COUNTY SHOW

Showjumping, equine classes, livestock competitions, shopping, entertainment and amazing stunts.

25-26 May

FOODIES FESTIVAL

A fab weekend of top chefs, tasty food, drinks and live music at Oaklands College.

31 May-1 June

OPEN AIR FESTIVAL

Enjoy creative versions of classic plays and stories outdoors in the stunning Roman Theatre.

31 May-8 Sept

INTERNATIONAL ORGAN FESTIVAL

A special gala concert will take place at St Albans Cathedral where last year’s winners are expected to perform.

8 June

Cecelina Tornberg

ST ALBANS FOLK FESTIVAL

A weekend of events including a day of dance, music in local pubs and other venues and a festival concert plus an annual concert in the Roman Theatre at Verulamium.

14-16 June

THE ALBAN FESTIVAL

Spectacular procession through the streets, telling the story of Alban, England’s first saint. Plus a street festival with music, entertainment and street food.

22 June

COMEDY GARDEN

The ultimate chuckle with stand-up comedians in Verulamium Park.

24-28 July

PUB IN THE PARK

A celebration of music and top-notch food, hosted by chef Tom Kerridge in Verulamium Park.

6-8 Sept

ST ALBANS FEASTIVAL

An incredible foodie city centre street festival with food and drink, live music, street entertainment and cookery demonstrations.

22 Sept

BEER & CIDER FESTIVAL

Enjoy real ale, craft beer, cider, food and entertainment at The Alban Arena.

25-28 Sept

GIN & JAZZ FESTIVAL

George Street businesses open their doors to late night shoppers and revellers as music, food stalls and gin bars fill the street.

4 Oct

FIREWORK SPECTACULAR

Amazing display at Verulamium Park raising thousands of pounds for local charities.

2 Nov

CHRISTMAS CRACKER

Street festival with Santa’s Grotto, live music, street food, fun rides and festive market stalls.

17 Nov

ENJOY ST ALBANS CHRISTMAS

Programme of magical events bringing joy and merriment to all.

Nov-Dec enjoystalbans.com

stunning

and

Cecelina Tornberg

DISCOVER ST ALBANS

SHOP

A juxtaposition of historic and modern architecture, quaint streets and medieval buildings alongside stylish shopping centres makes for a unique shopping experience in Hertfordshire. From trendy independents to wellknown brands plus regular markets, the city is the perfect shopping location.

EAT

St Albans has a remarkable history and reputation for food and drink, making it a modern-day foodie scene and mustenjoy culinary destination. Whether you are looking for a romantic meal for two, a quick bite on the go, a cosy pub or a celebratory meal, St Albans has the perfect venue. From pizza to fine dining and delis to street stalls, you’ll find something to satisfy your tastebuds.

KL Creative

Lee Romi

Lee Romi

STAY

As a historic inn-keeping city, St Albans is a place where its history is told through its beautiful buildings. With so much to explore and enjoy, why not stay a few days to make the most of your visit. Choose from a range of accommodation peppered around the city and surrounding areas from small charming B&Bs to large hotels.

ENJOY

The city is a vibrant place, bursting with things to see and do, whatever the time of year. From food festivals to theatre, exhibitions to kids trails, cinema to comedy and more. This is a city heralded by the Sunday Times as being “in a constant state of celebration.” It is also a place to enjoy quiet reflection with plenty of tranquil green and open spaces. Check the What’s On guide before you visit to make the most of the city’s action-packed events programme.

St Michael’s Manor

Stephanie Belton

Verulamium Park & Lake

48 HOURS IN ST ALBANS

DAY 1

Start your day with a coffee or freshly baked pastry from one of the many eateries on the characterful French Row or Market Place, before heading up the Clock Tower (open Apr - Sept). After ascending its 93 steps, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the city. Then head to St Albans Museum + Gallery which showcases the city’s fascinating history. Before your next stop enjoy the neighbouring shopping area and eateries for a spot of lunch.

Next absorb the heritage of the spectacular St Albans Cathedral which boasts the longest nave in England, then wander through Abbey Gateway to Verulamium Park, a 100-acre park perfect for a picnic or leisurely stroll. Include a stop at the Roman Mosaic and Hypocaust and visit The Verulamium Museum and the Roman Theatre for a true taste of Roman life.

At the end of the day enjoy some delicious food and a drink in one of the city’s traditional pubs, which have been part of life in St Albans for centuries, including Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, heralded as England’s oldest pub. Wherever you go, you are guaranteed a warm welcome.

KL Creative

DAY 2

Learn about the city’s history and discover the most picturesque and interesting areas by booking a guided walk with St Albans Tour Guides

Take a walk down the picturesque Fishpool Street to St Michael’s Village, home to St Michael’s Church which was built on the site of Verulamium’s Basilica and one of the most significant surviving Anglo-Saxon buildings in the county.

For an interactive experience, the St Albans South Signal Box is a great place to visit, or the de Havilland Aircraft Museum, the UK’s oldest aviation museum. For family fun, Willows Activity Farm is an enjoyable day for children of all ages.

Explore the surrounding countryside including Heartwood Forest near Sandridge with its stunning spread of seasonal bluebells, or venture to Nomansland Common where children will enjoy climbing trees and building dens. The village of Wheathampstead boasts historic buildings and trails, plus a wonderful selection of food and drink venues.

Back in the city centre, treat yourself to an evening at an award-winning pub and restaurant for the perfect end to a memorable stay.

St Michael’s Village

A CITY WITH MANY STORIES

Standing on the former Roman settlement of Verulamium, stunning St Albans Cathedral dates to Norman times and was built using Roman bricks. The city is also the home of Britain’s first Saint, Alban, the first battleground in the War of the Roses and has played its part in modern science as the home of English philosopher Sir Francis Bacon

Wherever you walk, the city is packed with reminders of its rich heritage. The unique medieval Clock Tower dates back to 1405 while the Roman Theatre is the only example of its kind in Britain. St Albans Charter Market retains the lively spirit it exuded 1,100 years ago, while St Albans School, where Professor Stephen Hawking was a pupil, is one of the oldest in the world.

Samuel Ryder, best remembered as the founder of the Ryder Cup, was also one of St Albans’ most notable citizens as a successful businessman - creator of penny packets of seeds, churchman and politician. Horticulturalist Frederick Sander - also known as “The Orchid King” was the Royal Orchid Grower to Queen Victoria and had a business on George Street.

Lee Romi

The world of entertainment has also stamped its mark on the city. Arthur Melbourne Cooper photographer and early filmmaker best known for his pioneering work in stopmotion animation, lived in St Albans and opened the first permanent cinema in Hertfordshire on London Road. While Stanley Kubrick, one of the 20th century’s greatest film directors also called it home. Legendary 60s rock band The Zombies formed in St Albans, as well as indie bands Enter Shikari and Friendly Fires.

The city’s journey through time makes it a unique must-visit destination with fascinating stories to tell on every corner. Discover more about our history at stalbanshistory.org or head out on our Blue Plaque Trail.

Lee Romi

Blacksmith Arms

MUST SEE

ST ALBANS CATHEDRAL

St Albans Cathedral stands over the place where Alban, Britain’s first saint, was martyred over 1,700 years ago. Surrounded by beautiful parkland, the Cathedral is a treasure trove of history providing tours, events and activities for all ages.

stalbanscathedral.org

ST ALBANS MUSEUM + GALLERY

A world-class centre for arts and culture set over 3 floors. This state-of-theart gallery presents over 2,000 years of priceless heritage with exceptional, ground-breaking exhibitions showcasing contemporary art sharing local, national and world treasures.

stalbansmuseums.org.uk

CLOCK TOWER

Completed by 1405, the Clock Tower is the only surviving medieval town belfry in England. Climb the 93 steps to the top of the tower and enjoy magnificent views. Open April to September, on Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays.

stalbansmuseums.org.uk/clocktower

DID YOU KNOW...

The Roman Wall of St Albans, which was built between AD 265 and 270 to defend the Roman city of Verulamium, can still be traced for most of its two-mile circuit.

Stephanie Belton

Cecelina Tornberg

KL Creative

VERULAMIUM PARK

Over 100 acres of parkland in the city centre are named after the Roman City of Verulamium on which it stood. The ornamental lake is home to a wealth of waterfowl while the Roman themed playground and splash park in summer are perfect for children.

enjoystalbans.com/verulamium

THE ROMAN MOSAIC & HYPOCAUST

Discovered during excavations in the 1930s, this mosaic floor of a large Roman townhouse also showcases a hypocaust – an ancient underfloor heating system and a marvel of Roman engineering.

stalbansmuseums.org.uk/hypocaust

VERULAMIUM MUSEUM

This award-winning museum displays beautiful objects from Verulamium, the third largest city of Roman Britain. See some of the finest Roman mosaics and wall plasters outside the Mediterranean, and discover the life and times of a major Roman city.

stalbansmuseums.org.uk

FREE TRAIL

You can pick up a free St Albans Map and Trail from St Albans Museum + Gallery, for a fun way to explore the city.

Cecelina Tornberg

KL Creative

MUST SEE

ST ALBANS CHARTER MARKET

Awarded Best Large Outdoor Market in Britain in 2024, the colourful twice-weekly market is one of the largest in the Southeast. Discover an enormous variety of quality goods from fresh local produce to gifts, clothing, jewellery and more.

stalbans.gov.uk/markets

ROMAN THEATRE

The remains of a Roman theatre, with a stage rather than an Amphitheatre, are the only example of its kind in Britain. Nearby are the foundations of a Roman town house, a sacred shrine and Roman shops.

gorhamburyestate.co.uk

THE GORHAMBURY ESTATE

Old Gorhambury was completed in 1568 by Sir Nicholas Bacon. Whilst little remains, you can still visualise its previous grandeur. Impressive Gorhambury House was later built and includes a 17th century painted glass window.

gorhamburyestate.co.uk

TALKING BUILDINGS

Walked past a building and wondered about its history? Discover the secrets of the city’s historic buildings

Lee Romi

Cecelina Tornberg

Cecelina Tornberg

SOPWELL NUNNERY

Visit the ruins of Sir Richard Lee’s Tudor country house, built on the side of a 12th century nunnery. An ideal spot for a picnic with a wildlife meadow and River Ver chalk stream nearby.

stalbansmuseums.org.uk

HEARTWOOD FOREST

A vast new forest of more than half a million trees, pockets of ancient woodland, wildflower meadows and fantastic wildlife spotting.

woodlandtrust.org.uk

ST MICHAEL’S CHURCH

Built on the site of Verulamium’s basilica, this church marks the place where Alban was tried for being a Christian. The most extant AngloSaxon building in Hertfordshire, it contains architecture and art in stone, wood, metal and glass from across a millennium.

stmichaels-parishchurch.org.uk

KL Creative

Cecelina Tornberg

ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES

CLIMB THE CLOCK TOWER (APR-OCT)

Kids will love the never-ending staircase and the magnificent views from the top.

WESTMINSTER LODGE LEISURE CENTRE

With swimming pools, climbing wall, inflatable sessions and soft play, kids of all ages will find something to do.

ALBAN WAY

A safe and flat traffic-free trail dotted with play areas and recreation grounds so bring your bike or walk and explore.

ST ALBANS MUSEUM + GALLERY & VERULAMIUM MUSEUM

Amazing exhibits and fun activities including crafts, dressing up and a free city trail map.

RECREATION AREAS

Visit Clarence Park or Bernard’s Heath Recreation Ground for playgrounds and pitches where kids can play.

ST ALBANS CYCLE HUB

Try the Pump Track and Dirt Jumps, or build your skills and confidence on the Cyclocross or Leisure Track.

WILLOWS ACTIVITY FARM

With children’s shows, tractor rides, farmyard petting, funfair rides and huge indoor and outdoor play areas, they won’t want to leave!

DE HAVILLAND AIRCRAFT MUSEUM

The UK’s oldest aviation museum is a fascinating day out with lots of hands-on activities and the chance to get up close to the iconic Mosquito.

THE PIONEER CLUB

All ages welcome to practice new tricks, or learn basic skills, on skateboards, scooters and in-liners.

ST ALBANS SOUTH SIGNAL BOX

Pull levers and watch signalling demonstrations at this unique interactive attraction.

VERULAMIUM PARK

Huge green parkland with lakes, children’s play area, seasonal splash park and footgolf at Abbey View Sports Complex

Drovers Way

The Alban Arena

in the heart of St Albans with a programme that boasts a wide variety of genres. Enjoy national touring shows, rock and pop concerts, films, comedy, pantomime, children’s shows and lots more!

Vintry

90 minute guided walks covering 2,000 years of St. Albans’ history

From the Romans to modern times, via medieval life, Tudor upheaval, Victorian innovation and more.

For more details about all the walks, and to book, visit:

www.stalbanstourguides.co.uk

St Peter’s Church has over 1,000 years of history and is set in an oasis of green in the heart of St Albans. The church is available to hire for concerts and events. Visitors welcome.

www.stpeterschurch.uk.com

VISI

Free Entry | Tours | Café | Shop

Immerse yourself in 1700 years of history.

Explore our Roman heritage, Norman tower, medieval wall paintings, and a Victorian West End at the end of Britain’s longest nave. All bound together by the remarkable story of Alban, Britain’s first saint.

Open daily 8.30am to 5.30pm

Village Arcade © KL Creative

THEATRE FOR EVERYONE

Welcome to the Abbey Theatre, home of the Company of Ten.

The Abbey Theatre is St Albans’ community theatre where everyone is welcome – including visitors to the city.

Our varied programme includes contemporary drama, comedy, classics and musicals. The resident Company of Ten has been producing shows to the highest standards for ninety years.

We’re in Verulamium Park, just a short walk from the centre of town and next to a large car park. Our bar’s open before the show and during the interval. All in all, it’s a great night out (or matinee!) for everyone.

Check out our web site and social media pages to see what’s on during your visit.

Check our website for details of current productions and to book tickets.

abbeytheatre.org.uk

01727 857861

SHOPPING

INDEPENDENTS & BOUTIQUES

Market Place, the heart of St Albans shopping for hundreds of years, offers a range of fashion and eateries. Picturesque George Street and adjoining High Street are a must for boutiques, award-winning fashion and independent shopping. St Peter’s Street, the main thoroughfare of the city is filled with well-known brands and high street services, while at the top of town Catherine Street boasts everything from barbers to quirky cafes. Explore Chequer Street and London Road for interiors and health and beauty. Holywell Hill is where to shop for sustainable fashion, food, books and more.

SHOPPING CENTRES

The city centre hosts a number of shopping centres including Christopher Place, a hub for luxury brands, whilst The Maltings is full of high street favourites, Heritage Close features niche independents and Village Arcade offers a corridor of wonderfully charming boutiques.

Lee Romi

Lee Romi

RETAIL PARKS

The Galleria designer outlet in Hatfield is just a short drive or bus ride away with shops, cafes, restaurants, a nine-screen cinema and giant adventure playground. Colney Fields is a popular shopping destination close to St Albans with a line-up of big retail names.

ST ALBANS GIFT CARD

Looking for the perfect gift? The St Albans Gift Card can be spent in a huge variety of city centre shops, restaurants, salons and pubs. To purchase a gift card visit stalbansgiftcard.co.uk

George Street

The Maltings

George Street

Lee Romi

St Peters St © Lee Romi

Abbey Gateway

Abbey Theatre

Alban Arena

Cathedral

Christopher Place

Civic Centre

Clarence Park

Clock Tower

Kingsbury Watermill

Roman Mosaic & Hypocaust

Maltings Arts Theatre

Maltings Shopping Centre

Odyssey Cinema

Police Station

Roman Theatre

St Albans Museum & Gallery

St Albans South Signal Box

St Michael’s Church

Verulamium Museum

Verulamium Park

Village Arcade

Vintry Garden

Ye Olde Fighting Cocks Inn

Car Parks

Coach Parks

Visitor Information Points

St Albans Museum + Gallery

Please note:

French Row © KL Creative

St

Albans Museum + Gallery

Promising fresh experiences every time you visit, come and explore beautifully restored historic spaces, world-class exhibitions and a dynamic programme of events.

St Albans Museum + Gallery

St Peters Street

St Albans AL1 3DH

stalbansmuseums.org.uk

Church

MARKETS

ST ALBANS CHARTER MARKET

This award-winning market is a regular fixture every Wednesday and Saturday. A focal point for locals and a huge draw for people from far and wide, it’s a great destination for quality items and a buzzing atmosphere.

ST ALBANS VEGAN MARKET

Find up to 60 stalls at the St Albans Vegan Market including a huge variety of vegan fast food, healthy eats, artisan savouries, craft cheeses, handmade cosmetics, ethical clothing and jewellery, plasticfree and charity stalls. All created by a handpicked selection of talented, ethical and sustainable businesses.

ST ALBANS & HARPENDEN FARMERS MARKETS

Stock up on local specialities at St Albans and Harpenden Farmers Markets for

mouth-watering cheeses, seasonal fruit and vegetables, fresh herbs, top quality meat and game, freshly baked cakes and local hand-crafted goods.

ST ALBANS VINTAGE MARKET

Inspirational deals and fascinating finds are aplenty at the St Albans Vintage Market. With all manner of antiques, vintage, brocante and architectural salvage this is a much loved and celebrated monthly market.

ST ALBANS ART MARKET

Featuring affordable, vibrant and a diverse mix of original art from oil paintings to ceramics, prints and photography. It’s an opportunity to purchase art directly from artists, enabling buyers to find out more about the piece, the creative process and support local artists.

Stephanie Belton

FOOD & DRINK

FINE DINING

The only 3AA Rosette status restaurant in Hertfordshire, THOMPSON St Albans offers a fantastic modern fine dining experience. Lussmanns near the Cathedral is an incredible sustainable and ethical dining experience. Whilst The Ivy offers relaxed, sophisticated all-day dining.

STREET FOOD

Thanks to its vibrant markets, the city offers some of the best street food you’ll ever taste. Try something new with dishes from countries including Peru, Brazil, Thailand and Spainwith plenty of vegan, gluten-free and dairyfree options available.

CAFÉ CULTURE

You’ll find a plethora of independent coffee shops, cafés and high street favourites across the city centre. From the stunning Courtroom Cafe at St Albans Museum + Gallery to Silver Palate by the Clock Tower and Cathedral views at George St Canteen, there is plenty to choose from

DID YOU KNOW...

The Alban Bun, the precursor to the famous Hot Cross Bun, originates in St Albans. The recipe was developed by a 14th Century monk to feed the poor on Good Friday.

THOMPSON St Albans

Stephanie Belton

GLOBAL FLAVOURS

St Albans is a culinary melting pot, featuring authentic flavours and award-winning restaurants. For a taste of the Mediterranean head to Tabure, Saute or Loft Experience Italian hospitality at Bellaccino’s, Per Tutti and L’Italiana For Asian flavours try Infuse, Tikka Nation, Thai Rack or Sushimania.

FAMILY DINING

Families with children of all ages are brilliantly catered for in St Albans, with kid’s menus available at Bill’s, Pizza Express, Saint & Sinner, Zizzi to name a few. Or for a sweet treat head to Knoops, HiTea or during the summer months grab an ice cream at Darlish

DOG FRIENDLY

St Albans is an incredibly dog-friendly place with over 100 businesses welcoming your four-legged friends. Just look out for a “Dogs Welcome” sticker in shop windows. For a full list of shops, businesses and places to eat that allow dogs search “Dog Friendly” on enjoystalbans.com.

Lee Romi

Infuse Modern Indian Bistro

Stephanie Belton

Beech House © Lee Romi

Surround yourself in history at Britain’s oldest public house

We boast a stunning seasonal menu, carefully chosen wines and a great selection of real ales.

In addition, we also have music every Friday and a large garden with stunning views over Verulamium

An absolute must for anyone visiting our magnificent ancient City

www.fightingcockssa.com

Email: reservations@fightingcockssa com

Tel: 01727 869152

THE LOCALS’ FAVOURITE SUSTAIN ABLE RESTAURANT

TWO COURSE SET MENU 18.95

THE GOOD FOOD GUIDE

Join us for a relaxed, ethical and most of all, delicious meal.

Every dish we servemeat, fish or plant-based - champions ingredients from the UK’s very best farmers, fishers and producers.

All our meat is free-range and/or organic, our seafood is from healthy stocks, as certified by the Marine Stewardship Council, and 95% of our fruit and vegetables come from UK growers. Even better – our prices are affordable.

Scan to view our menus

PUBS

When it comes to offering a traditional British pub experience, there is no better place than St Albans. A historic inn-keeping city, St Albans has the most pubs per square mile in the country, so you’re never far from a perfect pint and a characterful setting.

Pubs remain a big part of the St Albans story with dozens of historic inns being the social hub for locals and visitorsalike. Most famous is the Ye Olde Fighting Cocks in Verulamium Park which dates back to 793.

The whole city is dotted with hidden gems including The Boot, The Six Bells, The Cock Inn and the Lower Red Lion. So wander the side streets and discover a brilliant selection of charming, quintessentially British pubs.

As the home of CAMRA - Campaign for Real Ale, you can expect a wonderful selection of real ales on tap – be sure to ask the bar staff for a recommendation. And check out the Beer & Cider Festival in September.

Find out more about the history of St Alban pubs by booking a Coaching Inn Guided Walk with St Albans Tour Guides. This fascinating walk also looks at the architecture and the people who were part of this vibrant area of St Albans.

Cecelina Tornberg

VIBRANT ST ALBANS

St Albans has a thriving arts and entertainment scene. Head to The Alban Arena for national touring shows, rock and pop concerts, comedy, film and the must-see annual panto. The Sandpit Theatre hosts concerts, dance, comedy and film while Trestle is known for its mask and physical theatre shows. Abbey Theatre and The Maltings Theatre host a kaleidoscope of productions, musicals and kids shows. Offering a unique experience, theatre company OVO annually present the Roman Theatre Open Air Festival in Verulamium Park during the summer months.

For film, you won’t find a more special moviegoing experience than at the Art Deco style Odyssey Cinema. Showing a varied range of current releases, hits, cult movies and arthouse offerings. The Hub on Verulam cinema rooms offer busy schedule of independent films, kids cinema as well as screening major sporting events.

You can find an array of art exhibitions from local to internationally acclaimed names at St Albans Museum + Gallery, the Collective Gallery or at one of the many art shops in the city centre.

St Albans has a vibrant music scene including The Horn which hosts live music, tribute bands and DJ nights. Looking for a big night out? Head to Havana or Club Veeda for an electrifying party atmosphere.

MORE ART & CULTURE

Ricky Barnett

Holywell Hill © KL Creative

FURTHER AFIELD

The River Ver Trail from Kensworth Lynch to Bricket Wood is a must for walkers. Pick it up anywhere along the route and follow this rare chalk stream through stunning scenery.

Harpenden is one stop on the train or a short drive away and offers independent shops, restaurants and a wonderful common hosting regular cricket matches. Visit Rothamsted Park’s 56 acres which includes a play area, skateboard park and Rothamsted Manor, a stunning Grade I listed manor house with beautiful gardens.

Nearby Redbourn Village Museum offers visitors a glimpse into a varied past. Cricket is still played on Redbourn Common in summer and The Cricketers pub offers a warm welcome. Quaint cafes and shops adorn the village while surrounding countryside offers scenic walks.

The setting of Redbournbury Watermill couldn’t be more idyllic. The working mill provides ingredients for the on-site bakery, and walking trails around the mill allow visitors to enjoy picture-perfect countryside.

Knebworth House and Hatfield House offer magnificent historic houses and stunning grounds with lots to do, you can easily spend the day.

Charming Wheathampstead has an extraordinary history and countryside walks including Devils Dyke which dates to around 50BC and was the scene of a battle between Julius Caesar and local tribes. The Village Centre Trail includes 21 historical properties on a 1.5 km walk. Savour the architecture, history and geology of the village on this self-guided tour.

Farr Brewery set in the Ayot Estate is a micro-brewery producing award-winning craft ales. The brewery supplies local pubs and visitors can sample a pint in its taproom.

Sandridge Village is a popular place for walkers and cyclists who often stop at the pubs and tearoom for refreshments. Heartwood Forest and Nomansland Common attract dog walkers, families, model aircraft enthusiasts and horse riders – great for fresh air, open space and nature.

The Hertfordshire Way is a stunning circular walk around the county of Hertfordshire, 312 km in total. Information and routes at FHW.org.uk

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter is just down the A405 North Orbital, making St Albans a great stop before or after for potterheads visiting the area.

Head to Visit Herts the official tourism website for Hertfordshire to discover more days out visitherts.co.uk

The Hertfordshire Way

STAY

There are many places to stay to suit all budgets and tastes from small, intimate B&Bs to large hotels. Here are some suggestions:

CHARACTER

The Samuel Ryder Hotel St. Albans, Tapestry Collection by Hilton and White Hart Hotel are just steps from St Albans Cathedral and boast character and comfort set in historic buildings.

LUXURY

St Michael’s Manor is located steps from Verulamium Park on one of the prettiest streets in St Albans and Sopwell House is a beautiful Georgian country house with an award-winning spa.

B&B/RENTALS

Torrington Hall is a beautiful Grade II listed building, right in the heart of St Albans and overlooks the Cathedral. The Goat Inn public house is an award winning historic pub and also offers a unique stay.

HOTEL CHAINS

Premier Inn St Albans and Travelodge St Albans both offer a central location and comfortable rooms,perfect as a base to explore the city.

Torrington Hall

HELPFUL INFORMATION

VISITOR INFORMATION POINTS

St Albans Museum + Gallery 11am - 5pm daily

St Albans Cathedral 8:30am - 5:30pm daily

Verulamium Museum Mon - Fri 10am - 4:30pm, Sat 11am- 3:30pm

ACCESS ST ALBANS

Major tourist attractions St Albans Cathedral, Verulamium Museum and St Albans Museum + Gallery are accessible by wheelchair and provide large print guides. The venues also welcome assistance dogs and guide dogs. Check individual sites for further information.

SHOPMOBILITY

A charitable scheme which provides free wheelchairs and battery powered scooters to anyone that needs help getting around the city.

Drovers Way Car Park Ground Floor

Mon, Wed & Fri 9:30am - 4pm

Tue & Thurs 10am - 2pm

For more information call 01727 819339 or visit stalbansshopmobility.com

CHANGING FACILITIES

Toilets and changing places are available at Civic Centre, Westminster Lodge, and Cunningham Hub. For more details visit changing-places.org

PLAN YOUR VISIT

For further information on access, facilities, maps and parking visit enjoystalbans.com

st albans bid

St Albans BID proudly promotes the wealth of attractions and features St Albans and the wider District offers. For more information about what the BID does for our city and contact details please visit stalbansbid.com

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 Parks: There are several long and short stay car parks within the city, as well as limited on-street parking. For more information on car and motorcylce parking, EV charging points and Blue Badge parking visit enjoystalbans.com

By Rail: St Albans City station is only 20 minutes from London on the Thameslink line between Bedford and Brighton, connecting St Albans to London Luton Airport, Gatwick Airport and London St Pancras International for Eurostar services.

St Albans Abbey station links to Watford Junction, for connections to London Euston, the West Midlands and the North via the West Coast mainline. Both railway stations are a ten minute walk from the city centre.

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

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

Kl