The Ultimate St Albans Christmas Gift Guide for 2021 by st-albans-bid

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE ST ALBANS 2021

SHOP LOCAL

enjoystalbans.com

SEASON’S GREETINGS “Welcome to St Albans at Christmas. Besides its unique history and stunning architecture, it boasts a thriving arts and entertainment scene, incredible shops and outstanding food and drink, all the ingredients to make it a wonderful destination. Home to fantastic independents, some big brand names, and a vibrant Charter Market, we hope this gift guide gives you the inspiration to find magical presents for everyone. A historic inn-keeping city, hospitality is in our roots and this guide also has some great suggestions on where to eat. And with the most pubs per square mile in the country, you’re never far from a pint! This guide is packed with ideas on where to eat, drink, shop and enjoy this holiday period. Find all the information you need at enjoystalbans.com or scan the QR codes at the bottom of each page.” After a difficult 2 years, we all hope this holiday season will be more like the ones we have celebrated in the past. Now is the time to support our local retail, food, and drink community, as without them our city would not be as incredible as it is.

Wishing you a wonderful holiday season, from all at St Albans BID and our city centre businesses.

@enjoystalbans 3

enjoystalbans.com 3

KL CREATIVE Photography

There is no better place to shop for presents 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

“Do your Christmas Shopping in St Albans and experience a great day out.” @shopstalbans 4

Starting at the Clock Tower, enjoy a browse along High Street for award-winning 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 boutiques, 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.

WHERE TO SHOP IN THE CITY This crescent shaped shopping area is packed with luxury brands and Santa’s Post Office, so the kids can write and post their letters to Santa. Head back out on to Market Place and up to St Peter’s Street which is 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 including kids clothing, toys and books. Make your way back down and to the left of the Town Hall where

you will find The Maltings, the largest shopping area with big brand names galore 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.

enjoystalbans.com 5

STYLE SEEKERS 1.

EARN YOUR STRIPES

2. JUMP IN

Classic tee made using Coolmax ST Jersey

Alessandra sequin jumpsuit

copperfieldshop.co.uk

phase-eight.com

£179

£105

£55 SUNDAY SWEAT

Panel sweatshirt

frenchconnection.com

£169 5. STYLE BITE Statement Religion Ray coat in snake print fur

£79

chloejameslifestyle.co.uk

4. HOODED CLAW Luxurious, soft pink hoodie with cat embroidery

ferrarimonti.com

£239 1. 2 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 1. 11. 1. 12. 13. 1. 1. 14. 1. 15. 1. 16.

7. STEP IN

Copperfield (Chequer St)

Phase Eight (Christopher Pl)

Men’s designer soft leather trainer

French Connection (Christopher Pl)

@H+I=U

Atelier Ferrari Monti (George St) Chloe James Lifestyle (High St) Waterers (High St)

H+I=U (French Row)

8. MINI-MAX

Anthropologie (Market Pl)

Maeve Metallic Mini Skirt

The Dressing Room (High Street)

anthropologie.com

Simply French (Holywell Hill)

£80

Reiss (Market Pl)

Chesca (Market Pl)

Whistles (Christopher Pl) Husen Moda (Market Pl)

Earley’s Boutique (George St) Up We Pop (The Maltings)

6. PRINTS CHARMING Giordano black print shirt with birds

£89

waterers-menswear.co.uk

@shopstalbans 6

£195

£158

£89

9. ROLL WITH IT

11. QUILTED DREAMS

10. FRENCH FANCY

Multi stripe roll collar cashmere jumper

Mens Flintoff quilted hybrid Jacket in stone

Stunning, timeless print shirt

reiss.com

simplyfrench.me

the-dressingroom.com

£225

£40 14. RED ALERT Red dress with black edging detail

Husen Moda 01727 843929

£139

12. COSY UP

13. FRILL SEEKER

Ladies navy cable embroidered quilted coat

Abstract heart print dress

chescadirect.co.uk

whistles.com

£121 15. GREEN GODDESS Soft velvet jacket with button detail and belt

earleys.uk

Prices and availability may vary. Please check retail websites for details

£55 16. COSY CHIC Ladies padded longline gillet

@upwepop

enjoystalbans.com 7

ACCESSORISE ALL AREAS 1.

2. HANDS UP

HOOPS & DREAMS

Star leather gloves

Sir Jakobs earrings ellera x grande y 18 ct gold

galio.co.uk

accessorize.com

£25

£120

3. PEAKY BLINDER Snow Peak PVC camping bucket

£40

copperfieldshop.co.uk

£29.50 4. FIT THE BILL Original Duckhead umbrella - 13 colours available.

chloejameslifestyle.co.uk

£65 1. 2 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 1. 11. 1. 12. 13. 1. 1. 14. 1. 15. 1. 16.

Galio (George St)

Accessorize (The Maltings)

5. LAZY DAYS Woodland Shadows pyjama set with embossed mother of pearl buttons

jigsaw-online.com

Copperfields (Chequer St)

Chloe James Lifestyle (High St) Jigsaw (St Peter’s St)

Oliver Bonas (The Maltings) Galio (George St)

Wharton Goldsmiths (George St) Kings Hill Jewellery (Market Pl)

6. ROLL MODEL Rookie classic 78 pink roller skates

£74.99

oliverbonas.com

The Dressing Room (High St)

White Company (Christopher Pl)

@JoanneofCrewsHill (Charter Mkt) Amalily (George St)

H&M (The Maltings) Waterers (High St)

Amalily (George St)

7. STYLE DIVE Bell & Ross diver military watch

galio.co.uk

£3990 @shopstalbans 8

£6624

£375

BE DAZZLED

9ct white gold pendant with brilliant-cut diamond at its centre

kingshilljewellery.com

8. STRIKE GOLD Marco Bicego 18ct yellow gold bangle from the Lucia Collection

£120

whartongoldsmith.com

10. HAPPY FEET

£55

Veja Recife leather trainers - extra white & platine

the-dressingroom.com

12. BAGSY ME

11. HEAD TURNER

Soft leather camera bags

@joanneofcrewshill

Pure wool fedora hat

thewhitecompany.com

£35

13. SSSSSTYLISH Asymmetrical Snake Creeper earring set

£64

amalily.com

16. TIMELESS CLASSIC

£6.99

Remix mixed nugget necklace

amalily.com

14. COLOUR POP Bright one size beanie

hm.com

£45

£24

15. BRIGHT SIDE Liberty print tie and pocket square set

waterers-menswear.co.uk

Prices and availability may vary. Please check retail websites for details

enjoystalbans.com 9

The destination for sparkly, fabulous gifts for everyone on your list!

Shop online or at our George Street store 23 George Street, St Albans, AL3 4ES amalily.co.uk @amalilyjewellery facebook.com/amalilylondon 10

SHOP LOCAL THIS CHRISTMAS

Give the gift of choice with the ST ALBANS GIFT CARD. An ideal stocking filler, handy last-minute gift and perfect for that ‘hard to buy for’ person. Brought to you by St Albans BID. Find out more at stalbansgiftcard.co.uk

@shopstalbans 11

enjoystalbans.com

KIDDING AROUND £9.99

1. COOL & KIND

£49

2. HAMAZING!

Chase reflective puffa jacket

angelandrocket.com

Peter Porker arrives in this all-new, original graphic novel for younger readers!

chaoscitycomics.com

3. READY FOR ACTION Handy character back packs

A&C Hardwick, Charter Market

£4.99

£23

£7.99 4. TWISTED CLASSICS Zombierella: Fairy Tales Gone Bad by Joseph Coelho

books-on-the-hill.co.uk

Angel and Rocket (St Peter’s St)

5. FRIENDS FOREVER Kaloo Tendresse Manon K doll

jojomamanbebe.co.uk

£45

A&C Hardwick (Charter Mkt)

Book on the Hill Jojo maman bebe

CeX

(French Row) 8.

Pins & Things (Charter Mkt)

FAMILY FUN

7. SMASHING Gaming icons class Nintendo’s Super Smash Bros game

uk.webuy.com

@shopstalbans 12

£15 each

Mini Megan Turner (Catherine St)

8. IT FIGURES

Jumanji board game

(Christopher Pl) 6.

Beautiful red bow backed bodysuit

My Hero Academia all might action figure

(Holywell Hill) 5.

6. BOW BELLES

minimeganturner.shop

Chaos City Comics (Heritage Pl)

£19.99

pinsandthings.com

ANIMAL LOVERS £8.99

£19.99 2. PUP BY Sausage dog doormat

robertdyas.co.uk

1. ROLL PLAY Yule play log

robertdyas.co.uk

£3.99

3. DOTTY FOR YOU Zoon cat collar

£2.99

robertdyas.co.uk

POT LUCK

Tiger pencil pot

chloejameslifestyle.co.uk

4. CHASE IT Zoon laser chaser

£12.95

robertdyas.co.uk

£25

6. PUPPA TEE Cocker Spaniel mug

raindropsonroses.org.uk 1.

Robert Dyas

(St Peter’s St) 2

Robert Dyas

(St Peter’s St) 3.

Robert Dyas

(St Peter’s St) 4.

Robert Dyas

7. BOREDOM BUSTER Lickimat Slomo Slow feeder treat mat

chilternpetproducts.co.uk

(St Peter’s St) 5.

Chloe James Lifestyle

Raindrops and Roses

Chiltern Pet Products

(High St) (High St)

8. WONDER WALL

Original artwork “Gabe” by Simon Wright. Frame Size: 35 x 35 inches

(Charter Mkt)

8. Gallery Rouge (Chequer St)

£10.99

Prices and availability may vary. Please check retail websites for details

£895

galleryrouge.co.uk

enjoystalbans.com 13

BEAUTY BAY 1. BEAUTY COUNTDOWN Advent Calendar with fragrances, body and home delights

moltonbrown.co.uk

£195 2. CLEAN START

3. CHRISTMAS SPARKLE Jane Iredale limited edition dazzle & Shine Eye Shadow Kit

eve-and-adam.com

£150

£7

Machine washable make-up remover pads

jeffersoncrafts.com

£45

4. LET IT GLOW Environ microneedling skin serenity set

eve-and-adam.com

BRIGHT IDEA

light therapy face mask

£59.99

prestigemedicalbeauty.co.uk

1. 2 3.

Molton Brown (Market Pl)

Jefferson Crafts (Charter Mkt)

Eve & Adam Beauty Clinic (Catherine St)

5. EYE EYE Hand strung rose quartz eye mask

cositasgifts.co.uk

Eve & Adam Beauty Clinic (Catherine St)

£110

Cositas Gifts

7. RISE + SHINE Davines hair mask for extra shine

trinderhair.com

£9.50

(Village Arcade) 6.

Trinder

(George St) 7.

Prestige Medical Beauty (Village Arcade)

Cositas Gifts

(Village Arcade)

Prices and availability may vary. Please check retail websites for details

8. SOUND OF SLEEP Sublime sleep set for the Soul

£75.99

cositasgifts.co.uk

enjoystalbans.com

@bysophiesheridan sales@bysophiesheridan.com

www.BySophieSheridan.com

ECO-FRIENDLY 1.

MAGIC BOTTLE

Upcircle organic facial serum

therefillpantry.co.uk

£16

2. BLADE OF GLORY Jungle Culture - metallic rose gold safety razor

£18.99

tradeandretail.co.uk

£2.49 4. CHRISTMAS SPARKLE Vintage sequin cape

littlevikingvintage.com

3. WRITE ON Second hand books galore, like this brilliant children’s series by David Pilkey

£15

5. RAISE THE BAR Sulphate and paraben free solid shampoo bar

trinderhair.com

£14

£30

Oxfam Books 01727 861589 oxfam.org/stalbans

6. DESIGNER FINDS 1.

The Refill Pantry (London Rd)

Trade & Retail

(Inside Out Mkt) 3.

£ Various

Oxfam Books

Discover pre-loved designer pieces like this Lulu Guinness bag

Scope 01727 858199

(Catherine St) 4.

Little Viking Vintage

8. TECHS APPEAL

(George St) 5.

Trinder Hair

Pre-owned Apple air pods

(George St) 6.

(The Maltings) 7.

Empire St Albans (Heritage Cl)

uk.webuy.com

Scope

Cex (French Row)

7. RECORD BREAKER

£70

Classic pre-loved vinyl and CDs for music lovers

empirestalbans.com

Prices and availability may vary. Please check retail websites for details

enjoystalbans.com 17

HOME DÉCOR 1.

THROW-N IT

2. CALM + BRIGHT

Charcoal & cream donell throw

socosy.co.uk

Winter mini pillar candle

£109

thewhitecompany.com

£10 £22.50

3. SITTING PRETTY Filipa flower pattern cushion by Bloomingville

raindropsonroses.org.uk

£39

6. HEAVEN SCENT

4. HIGHER GROUND

£26.99

Beautifully scented candles and diffusers

Beaded hanging planter

rubyroomlifestyle.co.uk

frenchconnection.com

5. WARM GLOW Black and gold candle holder 1.

SoCosy

£25

@emmas_house_x

(Charter Mkt) 2

White Company (The Maltings)

Raindrops and Roses (High St)

French Connection (Christopher Pl)

Emma’s House

£24.50

(George St) 6.

Ruby Room

7. GROW UP

(Market Pl) 7.

Oliver Bonas

(The Maltings) 8.

Whitewall Galleries (Christopher Pl)

8. ICONIC ART Original and limited editions

oliverbonas.com

whitewallgalleries.com

Prices and availability may vary. Please check retail websites for details

Flower clear glass watering can small

enjoystalbans.com

KL CREATIVE Photography

TIME OUT 1. DONE DEAL

£90

Set of two beautifully illustrated Christian Lacroix playing cards

cositasgifts.co.uk

2. LAYER UP

£36

sweatybetty.com

Alpine base layer top

£29.99

4. STRIKE A POSE

£59.95

Form & Grace yoga mat

validatefashion.com

3. LIGHT OF MY LIFE Rechargable LED beanie

trespass.com

£12.99

5. EXPLORERS DREAM

(Large)

Detailed folding maps for walking and off-road cycling

millets.co.uk

6. HEARTFELT

£5.40

Opalite healing crystals in small, medium and large

oliviarosefairtrade.co.uk

Cositas Gifts for the Soul (High St.)

Sweaty Betty (Market Pl)

3. 4.

£13.99

Trespass

(The Maltings) Validate

(The Maltings) 5.

Millets

(The Maltings) 6.

7. WORTH A FLUTTER

Olivia Rose Fairtrade (Village Arcade)

7. 8.

Waterstones

(St Peter’s St) Waterstones

(St Peter’s St)

8. PUZZLE SOLVED

waterstones.com

£12.99

Winter themed jigsaw

waterstones.com

Prices and availability may vary. Please check retail websites for details

Butterfly garden kit

enjoystalbans.com 21

FOODIE FACTOR 2. BRIE-LIANT E-gift card so they can indulge in the finest cheeses, wine & craft beer

thebishopscavestalbans.co.uk

£15

From £10

3. WAX WORKS

SHOW STOPPER

Set of 3 wax wraps in gorgeous bird box print

Divine, handmade Christmas puds 150g and 1kg

jeffersoncrafts.com

thepuddingstop.com

£5 OR £25 4. GRAB + GO

£38.95

Circular and co coffee cups

therefillpantry.co.uk

£11 5. WANNA BEE Limited edition gin using honey from their own beehives 1.

The Pudding Stop (Verulam Rd)

Bishops Cave (Holywell Hill)

Jefferson Crafts (Charter Mkt)

6. FARE ENOUGH The ultimate resource for any vegan cook with mouth-watering recipes

georgestreetcanteen.co.uk

£25

books-on-the-hill.co.uk

The Refill Pantry (London Rd)

George St Canteen (George St)

Books on the Hill (Holywell Hill)

7. 8.

Tomoka Spirits

(Christopher Pl) Leafy

(Christopher Pl)

8. SEASONED GREETINGS Stylish gift pack with Himalayan salt rocks and Java long peppers

leafy.co.uk

£25

Prices and availability may vary. Please check retail websites for details

7. HIGH SPIRITS

£48.95

Dalmore 12 in Christmas gift tin

tomokaspiritsboutique.co.uk

enjoystalbans.com

KL CREATIVE Photography

CITY MAP 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23

Abbey Gateway Abbey Theatre Alban Arena Cathedral Christopher Place Civic Centre Clarence Park Clock Tower Kingsbury Watermill The Hypocaust - St Albans Museums 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

15 18

10 23

P C

Car Parks Coach Parks Visitor Information CD Coach Drop Off Point Main Shopping Centre Footpaths WC Public Toilets Churches, Places of Worship

6 3

16 11

Maps & Guides at enjoystalbans.com 25

WHAT’S ON From the moment the Christmas decorations go up, a buzz fills the air, and a packed schedule of festive fun begins. NOVEMBER

Winterscapes Art, City Centre, Museum Railings (Nov & Dec) 20th - Christmas Tree Lights switch-on, St Christopher Place 21st - St Albans Christmas Cracker, Central St Albans, 12 to 6pm 21st - Nutcracker Trail (until 4th Jan) 21/11 - 24/12 (Weds & Sat’s & every day from 20/12 to 23/12) - Write a letter at Santa’s Post Office, Christopher Place

DECEMBER

St Albans Arts Teams Tinseltown Live Music, Wed & Sat, St Albans Clock Tower Live Nativity Trail, St Albans Cathedral 3rd – Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs Pantomime, The Alban Arena (Until 2nd Jan 2022) 5th – Festive Garland Workshop, St Albans Museum + Gallery, 2.30pm 5th – The Hospice of St Francis Carol Concert, St Albans Cathedral, 3pm 7th, 10th, 12th & 23rd Live Street Entertainment, outside St Albans Museum + Gallery

11th – Bach Choir Carol Concert St Albans Cathedral, 3pm & 7pm

12th & 19th – Covent Garden Street Performers, Central St Albans 18th – Carols on the Hour, St Albans Cathedral, 11am to 4pm

enjoystalbans.com

EXPLORE ST ALBANS St Albans has so much to offer, not just great shops and top-notch food and drink, it also boasts incredible history from ancient times through to modern day.

town house, a sacred shrine and Roman shops. The Roman Mosaic and Hypocaust in Verulamium Park is a marvellous example of Roman engineering and the Park itself, named after the Roman city of Verulamium, boasts 100 acres of parkland.

St Albans Cathedral, where Alban Britain’s first saint, was buried over 1,700 years ago is a treasure trove of history and at Christmas the concerts and services are especially magical. St Albans Museum + Gallery is a world-class centre for arts and culture. Set over 3 floors it showcases over 2,000 years of priceless heritage.

Award-winning Verulamium Museum displays some of the finest Roman mosaics outside the Mediterranean and nearby St Michaels Village, with its Anglo-Saxon Church is worth a visit.

The Roman Theatre is a unique site with the foundations of a Roman

The Clock Tower, the only surviving medieval town belfry in England, boasts fantastic views from the top while on Wednesdays and Saturdays the historic Charter Market will enchant you.

enjoystalbans.com 28

WATCH OUR CHRISTMAS TV ADVERT... Welcome To St Albans at Christmas 2021

SEASON’S GREETINGS FROM ST ALBANS BID We at St Albans Business Improvement District (BID) work in partnership with St Albans District Council to achieve a vibrant and thriving city for those who work, shop, live & play here. To ensure the city is a true shining star at Christmas, many of the festive events are brought to you by St Albans BID including Santa’s Post Office, St Albans Christmas Cracker, Nutcracker Trail, festive light installations, the Christmas market and much more. However, our plans don’t stop at Christmas as throughout the year we plan many exciting events and initiatives to make St Albans a wonderful place for businesses, residents and visitors. A lot of the great things happening in St Albans are due to the exciting projects and activities funded and delivered by the BID - to read more about our work and achievements go to stalbansbid.com

ST ALBANS GIFT CARD If you are stuck for a gift idea, how about giving the gift of choice with a St Albans Gift Card? This nifty card works in the same way as a shopping centre gift card and can be used at over 100 local businesses including shops, restaurants and entertainment venues across town, so the choice is theirs. You can purchase a Gift Card online at stalbansgiftcard.co.uk or in person at St Albans Museum + Gallery. There is complete flexibility as you can choose to spend any amount from £10 upwards and the lucky recipient doesn’t need to redeem the full amount in one go. They can also check their balance as they spend. Cards bought online will be posted so allow time for delivery, the last postal date for standard delivery is 18th December. You can also arrange local pick up from the St Albans BID office, please email info@stalbansbid.com to arrange. To purchase a gift card online scan the QR code below. This perfect present is ideal for friends, family and colleagues and supports local businesses too – what’s not to love!

enjoystalbans.com 31

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, today St Albans is a modern-day foodie scene, making it the perfect destination at Christmas. With over 100 restaurants, bistros, pubs, cafes and coffee shops, there is something to suit every taste for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Whether you are looking for somewhere special, a place that welcomes pets, a restaurant with a great kids’ menu or something else, St Albans has it all. There are also lots of events throughout the year celebrating local hospitality, including the St Albans Food and Drink Festival and the incredible ‘Feastival’ street festival.

Details may vary. Please check websites.

St Albans pubs deserve a special mention. A 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. At Christmas St Albans really shines and venues go the extra mile to make visitors feel special. Come and experience this city, there’s no better place to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.

enjoystalbans.com 33

SOMETHING SPECIAL With many award-winning restaurants, you’ll be spoilt for choice when looking for topnotch dining and exemplary service. It’s not hard to find a special place in St Albans so dress up and head out for an exquisite dining experience. 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.

Details may vary. Please check websites.

Firm favourite The Ivy offers brasserie style dining and a modern British menu with Ivy-inspired classics. A newer addition to the High Street is Alban’s Well, on St Peter’s Street. New and old-world wines, beers, ales and a gin emporium are available in the pub, while the restaurant provides a social, yet luxurious dining experience. If you feel like something a little different, Sauté and Tabure both offer delicious modern Turkish Fare boasting authentically spiced cuisine perfected over generations. Just off London Road is St. Villa, 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.

[LOCAL TIP]

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

enjoystalbans.com 35

VEGANS & VEGGIES Whether it’s breakfast, elevenses, lunch or dinner speciality diets are well catered for in St Albans. A great place to go, before you start your Christmas shopping is Hatch on Holywell Hill. The menu includes fantastic vegan and veggie options for breakfast or brunch, so fuel up for the day ahead. Co.Natur Artisan Gourmet Deli is a feast for the senses. Stacked with natural and organic produce, it’s a great place for a gourmet sandwich, sweet treat and even foodie gifts. The market has some super options for vegans and veggies. Tara’s Vegan Treats has earned an enviable reputation for her mouth-watering puds; she also sells plant-based lunches just look for the rainbow-coloured stall. Papa Paella is a popular stall serving fresh Paella with vegan and vegetarian options perfect for a warming and satisfying lunch. [LOCAL TIP]

“The Charter Market has an incredible selection of Streetfood trucks offering plenty of vegan and gluten free options.”

Details may vary. Please check websites.

A lovely independent in tranquil St Christopher Place is Leafy. This wonderful outlet serves super delicious and nutritious “build your own” salad bowls and healthy drinks, too. Treat yourself to a delicious dish from the menu at Bill’s which has loads of choices for vegans, vegetarians and gluten free diners. The Beech House is also a popular eatery catering for all diets and with some exciting festive menus throughout December. Lovers of Thai food are promised authentic dishes at awardwinning restaurant Thai Square. Thai chefs create heavenly dishes for speciality diets using only the finest ingredients.

WORLD FOOD Explore the world with your tastebuds, you’ll be amazed at the variety of food on offer. For a taste of Morocco, head to Little Marrakech on Market Place. Absorb the essence of North Africa through authentic recipes passed down through generations. Awardwinning restaurant Al Farid is another great choice combining Moroccan and Lebanese cuisine. A new restaurant to the city, this eatery offers fine dining and an authentic Hookah/Shisha Bar. A little piece of Turkey is captured at Aspava. You’ll be spoilt for choice with their extensive food and drink menu where every dish perfectly fuses Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavours. Bar Meze provides delicious fresh Cypriot food and friendly service. Recipes are influenced by Greek, Ottoman and Arabic flavours and you can expect exceptional customer service. Ever popular Indian cuisine is served to perfection at independent restaurant

Infuse. Old favourites are combined with new flavours to create mouthwatering dishes. For a unique dining experience try Chez Mumtaj. Elegant and intimate, in a club-like setting, this boutique restaurant showcases an exceptional blend of modern French and Asian cuisine. A popular choice with locals is Thai Rack serving delicious dishes with the flavours and aromas of Thailand. Cooked by Thai chefs and always served with a smile, you will feel you have just walked into the Far East. The Charter Market has stalls selling food from all over the world. Sweet aromas fill the streets as vendors create exotic dishes from countries [LOCAL TIP] including Peru, “Pick up some Brazil, Mexico street food and and Spain.

enjoy it with breath-taking views of the Cathedral in the Vintry Gardens”

enjoystalbans.com 37

PET FRIENDLY If you are out in the city with your four-legged friend, there are lots of eateries that are very happy to welcome you and your fluffy companion. 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, open all day long. Here, you can enjoy brunch, lunch, dinner or 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 with lots of gluten free options. [LOCAL TIP]

“If venturing outside the city, The Rose and Crown Pub in Sandridge welcomes dog walkers and offers dog biscuits at the bar.”

If you are looking for extremely good coffee, try Nkora on Market Place. This outlet welcomes dogs and is a great place to stop 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 fourlegged 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 will also enjoy exploring the grounds while you can sample traditional pub fare. Another good option is Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, in Verulamium Park. Not only is this pub the oldest in England, but it also welcomes dogs with open arms.

Details may vary. Please check websites.

enjoystalbans.com

KL CREATIVE Photography

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 everyone’s 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 Petit Menu for kids featuring French classics. Crêpeaffaire is a favourite with mini pancakes, creamy milkshakes, refreshing smoothies plus much more, and ‘babycinos’. For the more adventurous palette, Wagamama has a fantastic range of mini-Japanese dishes which are both healthy and delicious. Ice cream or a natural fruit ice lolly top off a taste of the orient. [LOCAL TIP]

“Verulamium Museum is great for kids with stories and craft activities that kids will love.”

enjoystalbans.com 41

NUTCRACKER TRAIL Free family trail with fun for all ages! Nutcracker trail 21st Nov to 4th Jan. Explore the city and nearby villages to find the 15 Nutcracker Soldiers marked on the map. As you find each one, write his name down on the trail sheet. Once you’ve found all the names, fill in your details and post your completed trail sheet by 4th Jan 2022 for a chance to win a prize! All completed forms will be entered into a free prize draw to win a £250 St Albans Gift Card, with two runners up each winning a £50 St Albans Gift Card. Sheets can be collected from various city locations including outside St Albans BID offices on French Row, or you can download one from the website. Find more details on where to collect and return trail maps or to download one please visit enjoystalbans.com/nutcrackertrail or scan the QR code below

enjoystalbans.com 42

Special Lunch Menus

Home or Office Delivery

Infuse Modern Indian Bistro is your space to socialise and share plates of comfort food with retro wine and cocktail bar. Quote ‘GIFTGUIDE’ to get a round of party shots with your Christmas Party booking 44

4-5 Waddington Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 5EX

info@infuselounge.co.uk infuselounge.co.uk @infusestalbans

BE-SPOKE EVENTS AND CATERING WEDDINGS • CORPORATE • HOME

TO CREATE WONDERFUL MEMORIES CONTACT: Sameer Berry on 07709545235 or email info@infuselounge.co.uk infuselounge.co.uk

@infusestalbans 45

PUBS Home to England’s oldest pub, St Albans is the ideal place if you like your pint served with character. Whether you are meeting friends, family or work colleagues, you’ll find quality food and beverages, a friendly atmosphere and historic surroundings. Many pubs offer entertainment including live music, open mic nights and pub quizzes, plus, if you want to watch live sport on a big screen, there’s no shortage here.

For a festive feast, many pubs offer seasonal menus so you can enjoy a sumptuous meal without doing any of the work. Don’t forget to explore side streets and residential areas as there are lots of charming pubs tucked away which attract a local crowd. Many pubs will cater to individual needs and welcome families and groups, as well as pets. If you like a challenge, then a Christmas pub crawl could be for you. Head to savestalbanspubs.co.uk for suggested routes or scan the QR code below.

[LOCAL TIP]

“For full listings of live music and Carols in pubs across St Albans check out lemonrock.com”

Details may vary. Please check websites.

enjoystalbans.com 46

KL CREATIVE Photography

SWEET TREATS Christmas is a time to indulge, so head into St Albans for some festive foodie treats. The Waffle House enjoys a picture-perfect spot and is the place to go for heavenly sweet and savoury Belgian waffles. If baked delights are your weak spot, then the handmade treats at The Pudding Stop will tempt you, while kids will love a festive themed milkshake from Shaken Cow with lashings of lush toppings. If the reviews are anything to go by, then Mooboo Bubble Tea is the place to go. Originating from Taiwan, this tea-based drink comes in a great choice of flavours from Brown Sugar to Crème Brulée so go on and indulge yourself!

[LOCAL TIP]

“St Albans Cathedral is a truly magical place at Christmas and hosts wonderful carol concerts during the festive period.”

Christmas and bubbles are the perfect pairing and there is nothing better than a bottomless brunch - St Albans has an array of restaurants offering this divine combo: try The Slug and Lettuce or Megan’s at the Old Bell which offers 90 mins of free-flowing sparkle. Prime Steak & Grill and The Beech House both guarantee to get the party started with unlimited fizz accompanying delicious dishes from their menu.

Details may vary. Please check websites.

enjoystalbans.com 49

IT’S A WRAP With the big day almost here all that’s left to do is wrap the gifts, put up your tree and make your house look super Christmassy. A great place to head for festive wrap, gift tags, cards and colourful ribbon is the Charter Market. As you wander the stalls you might even pick up lastminute stocking fillers. Paperchase is another great option for cool bows, bags, tags and crackers and Panda Cards on Waddington Road has some of the finest greeting cards you will find. St Albans Museum + Gallery have an amazing choice of Christmas baubles featuring images of the city which also make great gifts. The Cathedral Gift Shop has a wide range of seasonal decorations which will give your house that extra special sparkle. Independent shop Cositas on Holywell Hill is one of the best interior shops in town and at Christmas their festive, quirky decorations will certainly impress your guests. For a sprinkle of magic visit Flower Box [LOCAL TIP] on George Street where expert florists create amazing bouquets guaranteed “Local Charity to look and smell incredible shops are a throughout Christmas. fantastic place to pick up unique decorations cards and wrapping paper ”

Prices and availability may vary. Please check retail websites for details

enjoystalbans.com

KL CREATIVE Photography

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.

STAY A LITTLE LONGER From small, intimate bed and breakfasts to large hotels, make the most of your visit and book a stay at one of the city’s fantastic accommodations. Visit enjoystalbans.com for full listings and contact details.

St Michael’s Manor, Fishpool Street

Sopwell House, Cottonmill Lane

For more freedom and flexibility, St Albans has many self-catering options including apartments and Air bnbs available to rent close to the city centre. Torrington Hall, Holywell Hill

enjoystalbans.com 54

TRAVEL TO ST ALBANS P

By Car: Close to the M1, A1(M) and M25 (Junctions 21a & 22), St Albans is easily accessible from all parts of the UK. Car Parking: See the CITY MAP for car parks. Blue Badge holders can park for 3 hours free (please display permit and time clock). Council car parks are free after 6.30pm daily and £1 all day on Sundays. 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.

HELPFUL INFORMATION Visit Herts is the official tourism website for Hertfordshire: visitherts.co.uk If you require this information in large print, on tape or in another language please call: 01727 864511 @enjoystalbans

@enjoystalbans

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.

MAGICAL

Christmas in

Shop. Eat. Stay. Enjoy. SHOP LOCAL

Visit Hertfordshire’s only Cathedral City this Christmas. Enjoy our independent shops, explore our heritage sights, and don’t forget to try some of our award-winning food and drink. Just 20 mins from London St Pancras or just off the M1/M25.

@enjoystalbans

enjoystalbans.com 56