Explore Further Afield

DISTRICT DISCOVERIES

Picturesque, historic and full of character, a visit to some of the pretty villages around the district is highly recommended.

One stop away on the train, and a short drive north leads to the town of Harpenden. Recently named one of Britain’s top 10 high streets, Harpenden boasts a wide array of independent shops and restaurants as well as a monthly Farmers Market that sells the finest fresh produce. There is no shortage of green space here;

Harpenden Common

hosts regular cricket matches, Rothamstead Park’s 56 acres includes a play area and skateboard park, while

Rothamstead Manor

has beautiful gardens.

Harpenden Sports

Centre provides pools, gym and outdoor courts and in a district known for exceptional entertainment, Harpenden Public Halls showcases the latest films, musicians, comedy and theatre performances. Nearby, Redbourn Village Museum offers visitors a glimpse into a varied past. Cricket is still played on Redbourn Common and The Cricketers pub offers a warm welcome. Quaint cafes and shops adorn the village while surrounding countryside offers scenic walking trails – see redbournvillage.org.uk. 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 a picture-perfect countryside.

Elephant & Castle Pub, Wheathampstead

Wheathampstead is a charming village with an extraordinary history. Explore some of its lovely countryside walks, a highlight being Devils Dyke which dates back to around 50BC. Measuring 32 feet deep and 100 feet across – it was the scene of a battle between Julius Caesar and local tribes. See wheathampsteadheritage.org.uk.

Wheathampstead Heritage Trail includes 21 historical properties. Savour the architecture, history and geology of the village on a self guided tour where walkers can start and end anywhere. There is more to Wheathampstead than at first meets the eye. 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. Tours are available and with a well stocked shop it’s definitely worth a visit. The enchanting River Lea runs though the village and with places to paddle, kids will love it. There are plenty of open spaces, shops, cafes and restaurants so be sure to drop by. Nearby Sandridge Village is a popular place for walkers and cyclists who often stop at the pubs and tea room for refreshments. Must see attractions include Heartwood Forest, the largest native forest in the country with wildflower meadows, arboretum and community orchard. Nearby Nomansland Common is a wild heathland, abundant with wildlife. Great places to get out and enjoy nature.

ST ALBANS GIFT CARD

Treat someone to a St Albans Gift Card and they can enjoy spending it on their next visit. For details and to purchase online, please click link below:

stalbansgiftcard.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 FACILITIES

Toilets and changing places are available at Civic Centre, Westminster Lodge, and Cunningham Hub. See Changing-places.org for more details.

Main information point: St Albans Museum + Gallery

Open: 10am-5pm Mon-Sat and 11am-5pm Sun. Town Hall, St Peter’s Street, St Albans AL1 3DH

Tel: 01727 864511

Email: vic@stalbans.gov.uk

Other information points: Verulamium Museum

Open: 10 am – 5:30 pm Mon-Sat and 2pm-5:30pm Sun St Michael’s Street, St Albans AL3 4SW

St Albans Cathedral

(open daily) Sumpter Yard, St Albans AL1 1BY

Harpenden Town Hall

Leyton Road, Harpenden AL5 2LX

Tel: 01582 768278

Email: Harpenden.town.

council@harpenden.gov.uk

Web: harpenden.gov.uk

Friendly, knowledgeable staff are to here to help. For more details on visitor information points please click link below:

enjoystalbans.com/traveland-maps/st-albans-visitorinformation-points/