st albans NOW FEB 25 by wendy robertson

st albans NOW

promoting local businesses, events and much more since 2006 February 2025

Welcome to February

With so many places to visit and things to do this month, we’ve squeezed in as much as we can from the Feb Fest, Football Legends, Feathered Friends, Lambing, Live Cinema and Luton Hoo to Star Gazing, Shuttleworth, Science, Workshops, Wildlife and Walks. To make sure you don’t miss out the magazines are available to read on line every month.

If you run your own business we‘d love to include you it’s so easy, just book your space online today.

Future

Nature Tree Surgery & Garden Care

Jane & Wendy @theNOWmagazines

It’s free to get the magazines each month in your inbox visit www.theNOWmagazines.com to subscribe

Advertising Rates

12 months 3 months

£33 per edition

£43 per edition 1/4 page

£40 per edition £52 per edition 1/3 page

£49 per edition £64 per edition 1/2 page

£84 per edition £110 per edition Full page other options are available

Book your advertising online NOW Deadline 8th Feb for March editions jane@theNOWmagazines.com 07983 588291 www.theNOWmagazines.com

All Aspects of Tree Work including Stump Removal Fruit Tree Specialist Garden Clearance & Fencing

St Albans Based 35 Years Experience

Contact Chris 01727 844243 07518 626938

chris.futurenature@gmail.com

“Always leaves a clean and tidy site”

Lambing

NOW for the Kids

Whipsnade Zoo

Walk of the Week

6th Feb Hidden Gems

Seek out some of Whipsnade's hidden animal treasures which even the most ardent visitors may have overlooked.

13th Feb Birds at Whipsnade Fly, flutter or simply walk as you hear about some of the incredible birds that call Whipsnade home.

27th Feb Nature's Safe with ZSL

Discover the vital work that ZSL and Natures SAFE are doing to save species, and preserve genetic diversity for the future.

Toddler Safari

25th Feb - 22nd July Tuesdays 11am

Go on a mini adventure to explore the natural world. Please ensure children have suitable clothing for playing outside.

All activities are included in admission

Whipsnade Zoo, Dunstable LU6 2LF www.whipsnadezoo.org

BFG Dream Bottles

7th Feb 11am

The BFG needs your help to make some wundercrump new dreams. Learn how Roald Dahl drew inspiration from the people and places in his life, explore the museum collection for inspiration and invent your own dream-story to take home in a dream bottle!

Ages 5-11, £6.50 per child, accompanying adults and under 3s free

Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury HP20 2QP www.discoverbucksmuseum.org

February Frolics

15th - 23rd Feb

With live lambing, newborn lamb bottle feeding demonstrations, visit the Lambing Pavilion to meet the shepherd, plus a full day’s programme of fleecy fun for a baa-rilliant day out.

Willows Activity Farm, St Albans AL4 0PF www.willowsactivityfarm.com

Week 15th - 23rd Feb

Watch the new-born lambs take their first steps in the Lambing Barn and keep an eye on the expectant ewes as you might even see a lamb being born. Have fun in the indoor playworld with drop slides, climbing frames and spinning platforms or adventure outside on the rollercoaster-esque Shaggy's Raceway.

Meet the other animals and get involved in the animal activities. From £16.75

Mead Open Farm, Leighton Buzzard LU7 9JH www.meadopenfarm.co.uk

Buckinghamshire Railway Centre

Steaming Days 16th - 19th Feb

With a full-size steam train to take you up and down the track, miniature ride-on trains (extra £1.50), the Railway Museum, Visitor Centre, Railway Cafe and 25-acres of Railwayland to explore. £12.50, £11.50, £8.50

Paddington 23rd Feb

Meet everyone’s favourite bear, tickets include entry to the Railway, unlimited steam train rides, Railway Museum entry and more. £14.50, £13.50, £10.50 www.bucksrailcentre.org

Burston Buds Spuds

17th, 19th & 21st Feb 11.30am & 1.30pm

Introducing children to the beauty of home-grown vegetables. Plant up seed potatoes, take them home and enjoy the rewards of your harvest. Teaching children about sustainability, responsibility, nutrition and the cycle of plant growth. £6, please book

Burston Garden Centre, St Albans AL2 2DS www.burston.co.uk

Ministry Of Science Live!

22nd Feb 12.30pm & 3.30pm

With 20ft liquid nitrogen clouds, exploding oxygen and hydrogen balloons, fire tornados, hydrogen bottle rockets, ignited methane and even a self-built Hovercraft! 100% educational, 300% explosive and 400% fun. £15.50 - £66

Watford Palace Theatre WD17 1JZ

www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk

Feb Fest

Stockwood Discovery Centre

The Bluebird

17th Feb 11.30am & 2pm £7 ages 5+

Join Mirtel, a Seer, and her tree spirit Micky, on their quest to find the elusive bluebird and help unlock its mystery.

Qu-Razy Quests

20th Feb 11.30am & 2pm £7 ages 5-11

The Myth Hunter needs your help to find the most treacherous stories known to humankind. Bring your best adventure outfit and join in with daring escapes, swordfights, weird creatures, interactive games and the chance to become an honorary member of The Myth Hunter Academy.

Stockwood Discovery Centre LU1 4LX

Hat Factory Arts Centre

Extra Super Mega Rockin’ Rock Show

17th Feb 11.30am & 2pm £7 ages 3-10

All the best bits from Kid Carpet & The Noisy Animals, with the catchiest songs, games, puppetry and video projection!

The Sticky Dance

18th Feb 10am & 2pm £7 ages 3 - 5

Three dancers' shimmy through the audience weaving a tapestry of sticky tape inviting you to tape, stick and groove, to see and feel sound or to be still, watch and listen. Audiences are encouraged to explore freely, and turn the rules upside down.

The Little Prince

19th Feb 11.30am & 2pm £7 age 7+

Take a whimsical journey with the Little Prince as he wanders the universe in search of the true meaning of friendship and learns how to notice the most important things in life.

The Rainbow Butterfly 20th Feb 10.30am, 12.15pm & 3pm £7 age 3+

An immersive experience, blending traditional storytelling with aerial circus, graceful contortion and dynamic contemporary and Hip Hop dance.

Sandscape

21st Feb 11.30am & 2pm £7 ages 2-7

This silent theatrical piece embraces the Beauty and Essence of Nature exploring the texture, weight and breath of sand on various materials, offering an ever-changing view of the sight of sand, swirling and creating shapes, prints, lines, games and landscape.

The Hat Factory LU1 2EY

Wardown House, Museum & Gallery

Roshni

18th Feb 11am & 2.30pm £7 all ages

Take an emotional journey, through wordless storytelling, percussive dance, and humorous upbeat audience interaction. This feel-good show is a treat for the senses and beautifully demonstrates the connection between music and dance.

The Mountain Witch

19th Feb 11.30am & 2pm £7 ages 3-8

An adventurous tale of seasons gone awry, an ancient witch and the determination of children to put things right. With inspiring dance, songs and original music played live on clarinet, flute and cello.

Wardown House, Museum & Gallery LU2 7HA www.culturetrust.com

Out & About

Moving More in the New Year

Walking helps you look and feel good, maintain a healthy weight, strengthen bones and muscles, and sleep better. Hertfordshire Health Walks are sociable, a great way to explore your neighbourhood and free. There are six regular, weekly walks in St Albans and the surrounding area, including a gentle ‘First Steps’ walk around Highfield Park and weekend walking opportunities for those seeking a longer, brisker walk. Everyone is welcome, simply turn up and if it’s your first walk please arrive 10 minutes early to complete a New Walker Form, or register online. To register your interest in becoming a Health Walk volunteer please call 01992 555888 or email healthwalks.cms@hertfordshire.gov.uk

Find a walk near you by visiting www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/healthwalks

Charity HubLuton & Dunstable Hospital

Have you ever thought about volunteering?

The Charity Hub based in the Maternity Unit at L&D Hospital are looking for volunteers at the following times:

Mondays 3.30pm - 6.30pm

Alternate Wednesdays 3pm - 6.30pm Sundays 10am - 1.30pm & 1.30pm - 5pm

They are also looking for volunteers to take the snack trolley round the hospital between Monday and Friday 9.30am - 12.30pm and 1.30pm - 4.30pm.

It’s a very friendly team, so if you’re interested and over 18 please contact CharityHub@bedsft.nhs.uk or 07800 711 370 for more information.

National Garden Scheme

Walkern Hall Stevenage SG2 7JA

1st & 2nd Feb 12 noon - 4pm

This eight-acre winter woodland garden, has a carpet of snowdrops and aconites. Home-made soup, tea, coffee and cakes will be available in aid of St Mary's Church and 10% to the National Garden Scheme. £6

8 Gosselin Road Bengeo, Hertford SG14 3LG

5th & 7th Feb 1pm - 4pm

With over 250 varieties of snowdrop, deep borders packed with perennials and grasses later

in the year and a small front garden with lots of foliage interest. £5

www.ngs.org.uk

Herts Wildlife Trust

Winter Tree Identification Workshop 1st Feb 10am - 3pm

Spend the morning in the classroom, learning how to identify trees using bud and twig characteristics, then walk around the Park Nature Reserve putting your learning into practice. Bring a packed lunch.

Cassiobury Park Watford WD18 7LG

Drop In Session At The Wildlife Garden 20th Feb 11am - 2pm

Explore the wildlife garden, make an apple bird feeder and meet Willoughby, the giant willowweaved hedgehog. Free, but weather dependent, aimed at children but all welcome.

Grebe House, St Michael’s St, St Albans AL3 4SN

Walk: Herons, Egrets & Early Signs of Spring 22nd Feb 10am - 12.15pm

Learn about the Herons and Egrets that call this Nature Reserve home, and look for the early signs of spring. Wear sturdy boots or wellies, event is weather dependent and may be cancelled at short notice. Donations appreciated

Stocker's Lake, Rickmansworth Aquadrome WD3 1NB

www.hertswildlifetrust.org.uk

Herrings Green Farm

Furry Friends 1st Feb 10.30am & 1.30pm

Under the care of the animal keepers, children can meet and handle rabbits, guinea pigs, goats, Penelope the skunk, and lots more.

£4.50, child

£9.99

Feathered Friends 9th Feb 10.30am & 1.30pm

The falconer will introduce children to a variety of smaller owls, such as the Little Owl and Barn Owl, they can then handle some of the different species, before having the opportunity to fly them.

£4.50, child £9.99

Bird of Prey Encounter

23rd Feb 10am & 1st March 1pm

Spend time handling various Owls, Hawks, Eagles and Falcons, as well as free-flying some of the birds in the arena. Then watch one of the flying displays and see the birds in action. £29

Herrings Green Farm MK45 3DT www.birdsofpreycentre.co.uk

St Albans City Walks

Historic St Albans

2nd, 9th,16th & 23rd Feb 11.15am

Ghosts and Ghouls

6th & 20th Feb 7.30pm

City Centre Highlights

9th Feb 10.30am

Wars of the Roses

16th Feb 2.30pm

£6, please book online www.stalbanstourguides.co.uk

More Out & About

Highfield Helpers

4th, 11th, 18th & 25th Feb 9am - 3 pm

Highfield Helpers provide support to the grounds staff in keeping the park in tip-top condition. Tasks include improvement of the paths, clearing brambles, maintenance of borders, litter picking and tidying up. Volunteers are young and old alike, its good fun and keeps you fit. Stay as long as you like, tea, coffee and biscuits are provided. Please wear comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear.

So, if you’re free on Tuesdays, why not get involved, its a great way to help the environment, meet new people and support a charity. No experience is needed. Meet at the Visitor Centre Highfield Park, Hill End Ln, St Albans AL4 0RA

www.highfieldparktrust.co.uk

Sustainable St Albans

Thermal Imaging Cameras

Harpenden: 5th & 25th Feb 8pm Zoom

St Albans: 13th & 24th Feb 8pm Zoom

Watch a short online zoom session to learn how to use the camera, then book to borrow one.

Open Days - Victorian Terrace Eco House

8th Feb & 8th March

9.30am - 11am & 11.30am - 12.30pm

A tour of a Victorian terrace in Bernard’s Heath with owner Judith Leary-Joyce, author of the Beginner’s Guide to Eco Renovation.

Repair Fair 15th Feb 5pm

St Albans District Fixers will help repair household fabrics and electrical items. Please book

Quaker Meeting House, Harpenden AL5 1PD

Our Planet Our Future - Book Club

27th Feb 7.30pm

Blue Machine: How the Ocean Shapes

Our World - Helen Czerski

The Cross Keys, Harpenden AL5 2SD

www.sustainablestalbans.org

The Mum Club Brunch Club

7th Feb 10am - 12pm

For all mums, bumps and babies. Please book Beech House, St Albans AL1 3EG

www.themumclub.com

Dunstable Downs

Valentines Day: Blind Date With a Book

8th - 14th Feb 10m - 4pm

Let Cupid's clues guide you to find a new love with pre-loved books, guaranteed date success at this second-hand bookshop! Selected and wrapped by staff, the books will make the perfect 'me time' curl-up companion. £2 donation

February Fun for Everyone

15th - 23rd Feb 10am - 3pm

Get outdoors and closer to nature, pick up an activity sheet and set off on a mini adventure. With no set route, explore the beauty of the Downs your own way, no matter your ability. £2 donation www.nationaltrust.org.uk

St Albans South Signal Box

9th Feb 2pm - 5pm

19th Feb Half-term Opening 2pm - 5pm

Visit the largest preserved Midland Railway signal box in the UK open to the public and next to a main line railway. See signalling demonstrations, operate working signals, a point and more. Free

5 Ridgmont Road, St Albans AL1 3AJ www.sigbox.co.uk

Shaws Corner Volunteer Open Day

14th Feb 12 noon - 3pm drop in Interested in volunteering at Shaws Corner? If so register your interest, talk to staff and volunteers about the role, join a house tour, and see how volunteers help to look after this special place. Refreshments available

To reserve your place call 01438 820307 or email shawscorner@nationaltrust.org.uk

Shaw's Corner, Ayot St Lawrence AL4 9BX www.nationaltrust.org.uk

The Bishop of St Alban’s Garden

15th, 16th, 22nd & 23rd Feb 2pm - 4pm

Enjoy the snowdrop display (weather permitting). £5, child free, dogs on leads welcome. Please wear suitable footwear, proceeds to the Beds and Herts Historic Churches Trust.

Abbey Gate House, Abbey Mill Lane AL3 4HD

Winter Wednesdays Tea & Talks

Refreshments 10.30am, talk 11am

Book for your group, club or society, £10 per person (min 10 people) 2 weeks’ notice required

Choose from the following talks:

 A History of Luton Hoo Walled Garden

 Conservation at Luton Hoo Walled Garden

 The Women’s Land Army 1914-1919

 Successes and Setbacks in the Walled Garden in the 20th century

 Luton Hoo Opens to the Public 1947-1950

Luton Hoo Walled Garden LU1 4LF

www.lutonhooestate.co.uk

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- Renée BaumFoot Healthcare Professional MCFHP MAFHP 1stfootcare@gmail.com 1stfootcare

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NOW for some Entertainment

Abbey Theatre

Ladies’ Day

24th Jan - 1st Feb 8pm & 26th Jan 2.30pm

Hilarious comedy following the fortunes of ladies as they take advantage of Royal Ascot’s shift to York Racecourse for one year only. £14, £12

An Evening with David Pleat 11th Feb 8pm

David has lived a life at the heart of football, from his debut as an England Schoolboy International in 1960 to his time as a scout for Spurs up to 2024. He is joined by Brian Horton, Pleat’s captain, and Clive Allen who scored 49 goals for Spurs during the 1986/87. £30

Girls Like That 13th -15th Feb 8pm

This powerful play explores the impact of social media on teenage identity and relationships. It follows a group of high school girls who navigate the complexities of popularity politics, self-image and societal expectations surrounded by online pressures. £12, £10

All My Sons 28th Feb - 1st March & 4th - 8th March

8pm & 2nd March 2.30pm

It’s August 1947, Joe and his family are forced to confront their painful past. Tensions rise as secrets are revealed in this poignant reflection on materialism, moral responsibility, the consequences of dishonesty and the burden of guilt. £14 £12 Holywell Hill, St Albans AL1 2DL www.abbeytheatre.org.uk

The Pioneer Club

Bushrod + Yung Yusuf 1st Feb 7pm London-based Bushrod cultivates a brand of infectious, humble music, bridging the gap between alternative hip-hop and rap. And local rapper Yung Yusuf, who’s playful wordplay and unique energy keeps listeners on their toes. £10, age 14+

Book Club Battle Quiz Night - Noir At The Bar 6th Feb 7pm

Join hosts and local authors Luke Deckard and Heather Critchlow to see who has the best book brain. £30, tables of up to 6, age 18+

Heathlands Drive, Harpenden Rd, St.Albans AL3 5AY www.pioneerclub.co.uk

The Alban Arena

Johns’ Boys Choir 1st Feb 7.30pm

One of the most decorated British male choirs in history, the first British Male Voice Choir to win the Pavarotti ‘Choir of the World’ prize. £29.50

St Albans Scout & Guide Gang Show 12th - 15th Feb 7.30 & 15th Feb 2.30pm

A fun packed variety show. From £10

Jim Davidson - The Next Chapter 16th Feb 7.30pm

Jim invites you to join him for another evening of riproaring, grown-up comedy. £30

Northern Soul Live 22nd Feb 7.30pm

Hear this 10 piece band playing authentic style of Northern Soul Music, your feet won’t stop dancing. £30

The MozART Group 27th Feb 7.30pm

Two violinists, a violist and a cellist, hysterical, even if you don’t know your Mozart from your Bach! £32.50

80’s Live 28th Feb 7.30pm

Including hits Girls Just Wanna Have Fun, Tainted Love, Love Shack, Living on a Prayer and more. £34

The Alban Arena, St Albans AL1 3LD www everyonetheatres.com

The EMC

Phil Walker Happy Bunny 1st Feb 7.30pm

Come join this award-winning comedian in his brand new show for a night of laughter guaranteed. £17.50

Live at The EMC 6th Feb 8pm

A selection of the best circuit comedians and rising stars. £20

John Barrowman - Laid Bare 8th Feb 7.30pm

Unwavering and uncensored about his passion for life and his profound love of song and story. £30 - £40

Ward Thomas 14th Feb 7.30pm

Twin sisters Catherine and Lizzy Ward Thomas, hailed as the UK’s most successful country act are on an intimate, acoustic UK tour. £28.50 - £37.50

Teach Rex 15th Feb 10am & 12.30pm

Using life-like dinosaurs to teach children about the anatomy and life of one the most mesmerising creatures that ever roamed our planet. £11.25, age 3+ Arts Society Harpenden Area 20th Feb 10.30am

Making an Old Master: Apprenticeship and Studio Life for the Would-Be Artist.

Fairport Convention 21st Feb 7.30pm

Featuring founding member Simon Nicol on guitar and vocals, Dave Pegg on bass guitar, Ric Sanders on violin, Chris Leslie on fiddle, mandolin and vocals. £35

My Heart Will Go On 22nd Feb 7.30pm Celebration of the music of Celine Dion. £30.50

Oasiz 28th Feb 7.30pm

Playing all the big anthems that you would expect from a greatest hits tour. £24

Eric Morecambe Centre, Harpenden AL5 2FR www.everyonetheatres.com

The Radlett Centre

Richard Herring: Can I Have My Ball Back 1st Feb 7.30pm £16.50

In 2021 Richard Herring had testicular cancer and had the murderous gonad removed. Hear him talk bollocks and answer the question on everyone's lips: Is a severed gonad a fitting prize for Taskmaster?

5, 6, 7, 8 - The Steps Experience 2nd Feb 7.30pm

High energy tribute to Steps, with hits One For Sorrow, Say You'll Be Mine and many more. £28.50

Evening with Teddy Sheringham 3rd Feb 8pm

Hosted by GB News Sport and Tottenham Hotspur

Matchday Pitch Presenter, Paul Coyte. £40 - £80

Diana & Lionel - Endless Love The Show 7th Feb 7.30pm

Celebrating artists Diana Ross & Lionel Richie. £28.50

Josh Widdicombe: Work in Progress 26th Feb 7.30pm £19.50

Join Josh as he warms up ahead of his brand-new tour

Sean Conway - Endurance 28th Feb 7.30pm 105 Iron Man competitions in 105 days, the first to swim the length of Britain, the fastest unsupported cycle across Europe and a 4200 mile continuous triathlon. £20.50

Aldenham Ave WD7 8HL www.radlettcentre.co.uk

Live Event Cinema

Les Misérables: The Staged Concert Live!

2nd Feb 2pm & 11th Feb 7pm

Enjoy this spectacular staged concert on the big screen with an all-star cast including Michael Ball, Alfie Boe, Carrie Hope Fletcher and Matt Lucas. £15, £14

Macbeth: David Tennant & Cush Jumbo 5th Feb 7.30pm & 9th Feb 2pm £17.50, £16.50

See a stellar cast in this enthralling new production, filmed at the Donmar Warehouse in London.

National Theatre Live: The Importance of Being Earnest 20th Feb 6pm & 23rd Feb 2pm

A joyful reimagining of Oscar Wilde’s celebrated story of identity, impersonation and romance. £17.50 £16.50

Royal Ballet & Opera: Swan Lake 27th Feb 7.15pm & 2nd March 2pm £20.50, £19.50 Campus West, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6BX www.campuswest.co.uk

Old Town Hall Arts Centre

Juicebox Live 6th Feb 8pm

An electrifying night of musical local talent. £10, 18+

Rob Newman: Where The Wild Things Were 7th Feb 8pm £20, age 14+

See Rob in his all new comedy show.

Alice Armstrong 8th Feb 8pm

Alice’s music creates a heady amalgamation of blues, soul, funk, rock, pop and country. £18

Eshaan Akbar: Can’t Get No Satisfakshaan 9th Feb 8pm £18.50

Refreshingly funny, a big talent in the making.

That Knave, Raleigh 13th - 15th Feb

The BRICK People

19th Feb 10am, 11.15am, 12.45pm, 2pm & 3.15pm

LEGO® related activities and workshops. £7.50

Fluff 21st Feb 8pm

A darkly comedic play exploring memories and the choices we make in life. £16

Connor Burns: 1994 26th Feb 8pm

Prolific joke writer with razor-sharp wit.

Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE

www.oldtownhall.co.uk

A Monster Calls

7th - 15th Feb 8pm & 15th Feb 2.30pm

Breath-taking fantasy, physical theatre and raw emotion. £15

Barn Theatre, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6ST www.barntheatre.co.uk

The Horn

The Rolling Clones 8th Feb 9pm

No better deliverers of masterly musicianship and charisma on the tribute circuit. £16

The DekkerTones 15th Feb 9pm

This 9-piece ska / reggae / rocksteady / 2tone covers band plays authentic ska and reggae. £16

U2 Tribe 22nd Feb 9pm £15

Taking you on a journey of the history of U2's music

Cutting Crew 26th Feb 8pm

Taking us on a journey through the astonishing highs and lows of the famous explorer, Sir Walter Raleigh.

They’ll win your hearts with their razor-sharp musicianship, wit and emotional performance including their USA No 1, (I Just) Died in Your Arms. £27 Victoria Street, St Albans AL1 3TE www.thehorn.co.uk

Love is in the Air 9th Feb 4pm

de Havilland Philharmonic Orchestra perform Glazunov: Winter and Spring (from The Seasons) and Concerto for Alto Saxophone, Prokofiev: Fifth Symphony. £18, concs £15, child £8

UH Arts, Weston Auditorium, Hatfield AL10 9EU www.herts.ac.uk

Bugsy Malone

10th - 22nd Feb 7.30pm & 22nd Feb 2.30pm £17.50

The Sandpit Theatre, St Albans AL4 9NX www.sandpittheatre.co.uk

Ladies Down Under 13th - 22nd Feb

Full of humour and fun but with real-life angst and pathos. £15

The Maltings Theatre, St Albans AL1 3HL

www.ovo.org.uk

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NOW at the Cathedral

Be a Chorister for a Day (Girls)

1st Feb 2pm

An opportunity for girls in year 3 to experience the life of a chorister at the Cathedral.

The day will include musical games, the chance to learn new songs, a tour of the Cathedral and meeting current choristers. The afternoon ends with the chance to sing at Evensong with the Cathedral Choir.

More to Explore Tour: The Nave Screen, Up Close & Personal 2nd Feb 1.30pm

Rory Young's engaging Martyrs' Statues have been installed on the nave screen since 2015.

This tour gives a rare opportunity to study them in depth looking at the crystal cross, angels ancient and modern and some striking graffiti. Free, but please book Tour: Divine Designs

6th Feb 2pm & 8th Feb 10.30am

Join this tour during UK National Astronomy Week (1st - 9th Feb) and encounter the work of a medieval abbot whose fascination for mathematics and astronomy led him to invent one of the most technologically advanced clocks of his time. £12

Talk: A Journey Back to the Beginnings of the Universe 6th Feb 7.30pm £12

Hertfordshire Chorus - JS Bach St John Passion 8th Feb 7.30pm

Ben Johnson Evangelist / Andrew Ashwin Jesus Zoë Brookshaw soprano / Diana Moore alto

Gwilym Bowen tenor / Ashley Riches bass

Hertfordshire Chorus and The Hanover Band. £35, £26, £10, £5

Music by Moonlight 9th Feb 4pm

The Cathedral Choir present an atmospheric concert of moon-themed music under the stunning Museum of the Moon, a captivating installation of a huge spherical illuminated model of the moon in the Nave of the Abbey. £12

Music Trust Lunchtime Concert 10th Feb 1pm

The St Albans Cathedral Music Trust presents this concert to highlight the great work being done by local students and to inspire others.

Talk: The Wars of the Roses 15th Feb 10.30am

Learn about how the power struggle for the throne between the two royal houses of York and Lancaster left its mark on the fabric and people of the monastery in the 1400s and 1500s. £12

Interstellar 10 15th Feb 7.30pm

Roger Sayer, the organist on the original film soundtrack will perform a suite of Hans Zimmer’s music from the film, plus intergalactic favourites from 2001: A Space Odyssey and Holst’s The Planets. There will also be an audience Q&A. £25, £21, £18, £15

Invisible Wonders: Nanotechnology & the God of Creation 26th Feb 7.30pm

Look down the microscope and discover a world of tiny wonders with Professor Russell Cowburn, FRS, Canon Scientist. £10, £6

Oaklands Shrines Exhibition 28th Feb - 10th March

Oaklands College Art students present an exhibition of works in print, ceramics, graphics, photography, textiles, painting and drawing put together after researching shrines across a range of religions and cultures. Free St Albans Cathedral AL1 1BY www.stalbanscathedral.org

Out of Town

Waddesdon

Winter Weekends until 9th Feb

Saturdays & Sundays 10am - 4pm

Enjoy a walk and admire the beauty of the gardens in winter. Entry to the grounds is free

Putting the House to Bed Tour 1st - 23rd Feb

Saturdays & Sundays 11am & 1pm

Discover how the house and collection are ‘put to bed’ and cared for by the conservation stewards while its closed during the winter months. £27.50

Winter Walking Tours 2nd Feb - 23rd March

Wednesdays & Sundays 11.30am

Highlights include the Elephant Family, Daffodil Valley and winter and spring blooms. Meet by Visitor Information Centre, included in grounds admission

Valentine's Stargazing Dinner

14th Feb 6.30pm

A night of indulgence, discovery and romance, enjoy a four course dinner with wine pairings, followed by a stargazing experience with expert guidance from UK Astronomy. £150

Spring at Waddesdon 15th Feb - 23rd March

Wednesdays - Sundays 10am - 4pm

Take a walk through the grounds, see the birds at the Aviary and enjoy refreshments from the Coffee Bar or Stables Café.

Normal grounds admission applies Outdoor Adventure Workshops

15th & 19th Feb

A 2-hour adventure where children can explore the woods, enjoy den building, fire lighting, animal tracking, bushcraft, nature education and games. £28, ages 6 - 9, please book

Eythrope Parkland Spring Tours

19th - 21st Feb 10.15am

Wednesdays 26th Feb - 30th April 10.15am

Visit this private park and woodland garden accompanied by Eythrope’s guides. Tickets include transport to and from Eythrope, lunch, grounds admission to Waddesdon Manor. £50 Waddesdon, Bucks HP18 0JH

www.waddesdon.org.uk

IWM Duxford

Scramble! The Summer of 1940 until 23rd Feb 11am & 1.30pm

Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays

Go 'behind the ropes' and learn about the history of the aircraft and aircrew who fought in the skies over France and Britain. From Hawker Hurricanes and Supermarine Spitfires to a Bristol Blenheim and the last airworthy Curtiss Hawk-75, a guide will take you up close to the exhibits and aircraft.

IWM Duxford, Cambridgeshire CB22 4QR

www.iwm.org.uk

Afternoon Tea at Cafe Van Hage until 26th April

Enjoy a selection of sandwiches, freshly baked scones cream and jam, pastries and cakes. £20.95

Van Hage Garden Centre, Great Amwell SG12 9R www.bluediamond.gg

Dark Skies 1st Feb 5pm - 8pm

Celebrate the night skies with an evening of stargazing, educational talks and activities including a mobile planetarium. Artificial lights will be switched off to allow stars to be seen without glare or local upward light. Experts and enthusiasts, including The University of Hertfordshire: Bayfordbury Observatory and the Hertford Astronomy Group, will come together to raise awareness of the effects of lighting at night on humans and the surrounding ecology. £2 The Castle, Hertford SG14 1HR www.hertford.gov.uk

Learning Lunchtimes

All free, no need to book

Taking Good Photographs 3rd Feb 11am

Photography enthusiast David Knapp, will share practical tips on how to take better photos using cameras and smartphones, that will instantly elevate your photography.

From Big Stripes to Small Spikes: How your local safari park is contributing to native and global conservation efforts 10th Feb 11am

With conservation being a key role of a modern safari park, Woburn Safari Park partnered with the Forest of Marston Vale. Katie Chapman will present the park’s native and global conservation efforts, while touching on the stories of some of the species living there.

Gardens an Hour (or so) from Bedford 17th Feb 11am

Discover a selection of hidden garden gems and hear about unique and lesser-known gardens like Rousham Park and Copped Hall, each with its own charm and history.

Forest of Marston Vale, The Forest Centre, Marston Moretaine, Beds MK43 0PR www.marstonvale.org

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More Out of Town

Wrest Park

Filming Tour & Bridgerton Afternoon Tea 5th - 29th Feb 1.30pm Weds & Sats

Featured in series such as The Crown, Antiques Roadshow and Bridgerton, take a tour round Wrest Park which has been the back-drop for some of TVs most dramatic moments. There’ll be a chance to strike a pose in costumes from the Georgian era. After the tour, afternoon tea will be served in the dining room. £46.50, please book

Half Term History Makers

15th - 23rd Feb 10am - 4pm £14, child £8.50

Join characters from the past for heritage-inspired hijinks and hands-on shenanigans.

Silsoe, Beds MK45 4HR www.english-heritage.org.uk

Ashridge House

Champagne House Tour 9th Feb 2pm

Led by resident history expert, uncover secrets nestled behind ancient bookcases, and dive into 700 years of captivating history. £30

Afternoon Tea 23rd Feb

Enjoy a selection of homemade cakes and savouries, accompanied by teas and coffees. Ashridge House, Berkhamsted HP4 1NS www.ashridgehouse.org.uk

RAF Museum STEM Week

The Bubbly Maths Show 15th - 18th Feb 11am & 2pm

Guinness World Record holding artist Caroline

Ainslie will take you on a journey full of bubbles, giant balloons and laughter as she encourages children to love learning and enjoy maths and science, with lots of audience interaction and massive visual props. £6.50, ages 4-10

Airfix Make-and-Take Workshops

17th - 19th Feb 11am, 1pm & 2.30pm

Build a model of the Sopwith Pup, kits can be made on-site or taken away and completed at home. £5, age 7+

Paper Airplane Designing Contest

19th - 21st Feb 11am, 12pm, 2pm & 3pm £3

Have you got what it takes to make a stream-lined jet that will go the distance? Find out by designing and refining your paper plane to try and win the Museum’s Paper Airplane Designing Contest, the current record is 19 metres. Age 4+

Laser Tag 20th - 23rd Feb 11am, 12noon, 1pm & 2pm

Young cadets can shoot fellow participants to claim their place at the top of the leader board. There’ll be lots of games planned so don’t miss out on being the top space cowboy! £6.50, age 8+

Grahame Park Way, London NW9 5LL www.rafmuseum.org.uk

Shuttleworth

Scale Model Exhibition 16th Feb 10am £12.50

Explore the Engineering hangar where you’ll find plenty of modellers showcasing their work.

Engineering Open Workshops

22nd & 23rd Feb 10am

Take a look behind the scenes at what it takes to restore, rebuild, maintain and operate one of the world’s most extensive collections of working vintage agricultural exhibits. Sit in a genuine 1942 Mark Vc Spitfire, AR501, which among other duties in WW2 escorted the infamous USAAF B-17

‘Memphis Belle’, for which tickets are £20.

Open House & Tours 22nd & 23rd Feb 11am

Immerse yourself in the history of the Shuttleworth family at Old Warden Park and visit the Grade II House. Entry as part of Engineering Open Weekend, buy an event ticket to visit the House. £10. You can also book to take a more in depth guided tour for £10 per adult.

Shuttleworth, Biggleswade SG18 9DT

www.shuttleworth.org

Half Term Family Activities

17th - 21st Feb

Learn about Enigma, one of the cipher machines and find out how different parts of it worked, create a strong cipher and have a go at breaking one yourself. Make a rotor, set up a plugboard, have a go at cribbing and more Age 5-15, must be accompanied by an adult. Included in admission Bletchley Park, Milton Keynes MK3 6EB www.bletchleypark.org.uk 07785 563364

StAlbans

NOW at the Museums

Harpenden Museum

Harpenden: From Village to Town: 1860-1914

January - March

Tuesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays 11am-3pm

An exhibition telling the story of how Harpenden in the period up to WW1 was transformed from a rural village to a town. Triggered by the coming of the railways, when the population tripled and the core of the Town we know today was created. The story is explained and illustrated through displays, and commentary on original photos, maps, documents and individual memories from Society archives. Downstairs at the EMC, Rothamsted Park AL5 2FR

www.harpenden-history.org.uk

Verulamium Museum

Exhibition: Mapping an Uneven Path: Stories of Health & Disability at Verulamium until 23rd Feb

Exploring the ways in which Romans practiced and understood medicine and healing, as well as their cultural attitudes towards disability.

Talk: Roman Coins 11th Feb 7pm

Join curator David Thorold, as he shares his extensive knowledge of Roman coins from Verulamium and across the Roman world. £10, please book Archaeology for Families

18th - 21st Feb 10.30am

Learn how archaeologists record what they find in the ground by analysing genuine finds.

Age 7 - 12, free with admission

Clay Workshop for Families - Make a Roman Cup 20th Feb 10.30am & 11.30am

Craft and decorate a Roman style cup or beaker. Age 7+ £6.50

Talk: Living in Comfort? 28th Feb 7pm

Focusing on the multisensory experience of living in Roman residences at the heart and edge of the Roman Empire. £10

St Albans AL3 4SW

www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk

St Albans Museum + Gallery

Exhibition: Catching the Chain until 25th April

Inspired by the Museum's cells and courtroom

this explores the history of criminal justice and the ways in which local communities have dealt with crime from the Iron Age to today.

Exhibition: Outsiders - a Journey Through Homelessness 17th Jan - 16th March free

A documentary photography project which captures a snapshot of homelessness in modern Britain. Including personal testimony from the participants alongside environmental monochrome portraits taken using a mix of digital and vintage film cameras.

Messy Monday Mornings

3rd, 10th, 17th & 24th Feb 10.15am - 11.45am

Enjoy messy play and creative activities with your child. Drop in, under 5’s, £6.50

Generations: Drop in!

8th - 22nd Feb 10.30am -12.30pm

The Museum is looking for those with a connection to South Asian countries to get involved in their next community co-curated exhibition - Generations: Stories from South Asian St Albans. Do you have objects you could share? How do you tell your stories, and what does 'South Asian St Albans' mean to you.

Museum Minis 14th Feb 10am & 11am

A story, a craft activity and a museum treasure hunt. Age 2 - 4, £6.50

Make a Thingambob!

18th Feb 10.15am, 11.30am, 1.30pm & 2.45pm

Fun and creative craft workshops inspired by the imaginative work of Maria Meyer, currently on display in the gallery. Let your imagination run wild and invent your own quirky Thingamabobs! Age 5+ £6.50

Make a Model Lion & Unicorn 19th Feb 10.15am, 11.30am, 1.45pm & 3pm

Look for the lion and the unicorn behind the magistrate’s chair in the courtroom, then make your own pair of animals from colourful polymer clay. Models will need to be baked in the oven at home. Age 5+ £7.50

St Albans AL1 3DH www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk

Natural History Museum Tring

Bird Feeders with the RSPB 18th Feb 10am

Make an apple bird feeder while hearing all about the work of the RSPB and how you can become involved in helping nature. Free, drop in

Explore Reptiles

18th, 19th & 20th Feb 10.30am & 2pm

Get hands on with some scaly specimens and discover what makes reptiles so turtle-y amazing! Free, drop in

Behind the Scenes Tour 27th Feb 2,30pm

Themed around the Voyages of Discovery, this tour gives you the unique opportunity to get up close to some historical specimens, including those linked to Charles Darwin, Alfred Russel Wallace and Ernest Shackleton. Adult £10

Tring HP23 6AP www.nhm.ac.uk