St Albans Official Visitor Guide 2023-2024

ST ALBANS

2023-2024

TOP THINGS TO SEE & DO

SAINTS IN COLOUR

Technology brings history to life in this immersive and colourful projection experience at St Albans Cathedral

Until Aug

TIME FOR TEA

A free and immersive exhibition celebrating the social history of tea at St Albans Museum + Gallery

May - Oct

FOODIES FESTIVAL

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

2-4 June

OVO THEATRE

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

5 June-6 Sept

THE ALBAN WEEKEND

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

24-25 June

FILM FESTIVAL

A feast for film buffs with workshops, competitions and screenings

July

INTERNATIONAL ORGAN FESTIVAL

World renown International Organ Festival celebrating its 60th year

July

COMEDY GARDEN

The ultimate chuckle with stand-up comedians in Verulamium Park

26-30 July

PUB IN THE PARK

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

8-10 Sept

ST ALBANS FEASTIVAL

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

24 Sept

BEER & CIDER FESTIVAL

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

27-30 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 streets

6 Oct

FIREWORK SPECTACULAR

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

4 Nov

CHRISTMAS CRACKER

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

19 Nov

ENJOY ST ALBANS CHRISTMAS

Programme of magical events bringing joy and merriment to all Nov – Dec

Scan for full listings

WELCOME

Steeped in history dating back over 2,000 years, St Albans has plenty to offer beyond its famous Roman roots. With incredible shopping, over 100 top eateries, quality accommodation and an array of must-see attractions - you can easily stay a few days or longer.

Whether you enjoy theatre, live music, Roman history, sport, shopping or are a real foodie, there is something for everyone. Easily accessible by rail and road, St Albans is the perfect place to Shop, Eat, Stay and Enjoy.

SHOP

Visitors travel from far and wide to shop in St Albans. Quaint streets and medieval buildings house independent shops, while shopping areas play home to well-known brands and nearby retail parks host superstores and designer outlets. Famous St Albans Market has been at the heart of the St Albans story for hundreds of years and is still a regular fixture every Wednesday and Saturday, attracting visitors looking for a vibrant experience with unexpected treasures!

EAT

St Albans has a remarkable history and reputation for food and drink, making it a modern-day foodie scene and must-enjoy 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. Just wander the streets, you won’t have to go far to find just what you are looking for!

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, enjoying warm hospitality as you explore the city and district? Choose from a range of accommodation options peppered throughout the city and surrounding area, from small, charming B&Bs to large hotels and country houses.

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.

48 HOURS IN ST ALBANS

DAY 1

Start your day with a coffee and pastry in the stunning old octagonal courtroom at St Albans Museum + Gallery which showcases the city’s fascinating history. The Clock Tower (Apr-Oct) is a must, and after ascending its 93 steps, visitors are rewarded with stunning views of the city. Enjoy the buzz of the vibrant independent shops and twice weekly St Albans Market for everything from gifts to fresh produce.

Next absorb the heritage of 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 & Hypocaust and visit 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!

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 stroll 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 or restaurant for the perfect end to a memorable stay.

A CITY WITH SO MANY STORIES

Quaint streets, historic buildings and outstanding landmarks jostle for attention with award-winning restaurants, incredible shops and stunning parkland. Old meets new at every turn.

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 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.

Modern culture has also stamped its mark in the city. Netflix drama The Crown chose the city’s cathedral as a substitute for Westminster Abbey, Stanley Kubrick, one of the 20th century’s greatest film directors, called it home while legendary

The Art Deco Odyssey is a historic cinema on London Road with its origins dating back to 1908. It opened in 2014 following extensive renovations restoring the building to its 1930s glory with its name honouring Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey. Showing a wide selection of titles each month including new releases, foreign language films, cult rep screenings and classics the cinema also boasts two bars which remain open throughout the films.

The city’s journey through time makes it a unique mustvisit destination with fascinating stories to tell on every corner. Find out more about our history at stalbanshistory.org

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-the-art 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. Visitors are warned that the spiral staircase is steep and narrow.

stalbansmuseums.org.uk/clocktower

DID YOU KNOW...

Verulamium Museum contains some of the best Roman mosaics and one of the largest surviving hoards of Roman gold coins discovered in Britain.

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/verulamiumpark

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/visit/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/visit/ verulamium-museum

DID YOU KNOW...

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

MUST SEE

St Albans Market

Established over 1,000 years ago, 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

DID YOU KNOW...

The famous Ryder Cup is named after entrepreneur and golf enthusiast Samuel Ryder who resided in St Albans and was Captain of Verulam Golf Club in 1911, 1926 and 1927.

A CITY OF MANY STORIES

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

TOP 10 FOR FAMILIES

Climb the Clock Tower (Apr-Oct)

Kids will love the never-ending staircase and the magnificent views from the top. With 93 steps, it’s not for the faint-hearted.

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.

Check websites for opening times

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

For a daredevil ride 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.

WHAT’S ON AT ALBAN ARENA

CALLING PLANET EARTH – FRIDAY 5TH MAY

SIMON BRODKIN: SCREWED UP OVERVIEW – 6TH MAY

DAVE GORMAN – POWERPOINT TO THE PEOPLE - 10TH MAY

RUMOURS OF FLEETWOOD MAC – 11TH MAY

THE SEARCHERS ‘THANK YOU’ TOUR – 13TH MAY

AN EVENING WITH ANTON DU BEKE AND FRIENDS – 17TH MAY

TIGER LILLIES – 20TH MAY

ANYTHING FOR LOVE THE MEAT LOAF STORY – 25TH MAY

BABATUNDE ALÉSHÉ: BABAHOOD – 26TH MAY

DON’T STOP BELIEVIN’ – 27TH MAY

THE LITTLE MERMAID – 28TH MAY

IN THE NIGHT GARDEN – 31ST MAY – 1ST JUNE

MILKSHAKE LIVE – 2ND JUNE

UK PINK FLOYD EXPERIENCE – 3RD JUNE

MIDNIGHT TRAIN TO GEORGIA – 9TH JUNE

...and so much more!

Check out our website for all listings.

www.alban-arena.co.uk

SAVOUR THE SIGHTS, & SCENTS OF THE RIGHT ON YOUR VISIT THE HOUSE, AND DISCOVER HISTORY

A SPACE TO LIVE, WORK,

SHOPPING

INDEPENDENTS & BOUTIQUES

Picturesque George Street is a must for boutiques selling everything from bridal wear to bathrooms. Market Place, the heart of St Albans shopping for hundreds of years, offers fashion, interior and gift shops while at the top of town Catherine Street boasts everything from salons to quirky cafes to LEGO® specialists. High Street and Chequer Street are perfect for award-winning fashion and lifestyle stores plus gifts galore, while famous Holywell Hill is where to shop for independent fashion, food, books, interiors and more. St Peter’s Street, the main artery of the city centre is dotted with outlets offering everything from recycled furniture to jewellery. Explore London Road for health, beauty and sustainable independents.

SHOPPING CENTRES

The city centre has a host of shopping centres including Christopher Place for luxury brands and a central space for relaxing, The Maltings with big brand names galore and independents, Heritage Close with niche independents and Village Arcade, a corridor of wonderfully charming boutiques.

RETAILS PARKS

The Galleria designer outlet in Hatfield is just a short drive 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 lineup of big retail names.

Looking for the perfect gift? The St Albans Gift Card can be spent in a huge variety of high street shops, restaurants, salons and pubs. Make a weekend of it, visit enjoystalbans.com for ideas on where to stay.

Scan for store directory

The Maltings is open Mon to Sat 9am - 6pm* Sun 10am - 5pm*

*some stores may vary

Maltings is the premier shopping destination at the heart of St Albans.

It has something for everyone and whether you are looking for retail therapy, a bite to eat or simply to meet up with friends over a coffee, Maltings has it all.

Adjacent to the centre you will find its own multi-storey car park which offers nearly 800 easy and convenient spaces.

www.maltingsshoppingcentre.co.uk

PARKING

VISITOR INFORMATION

TOILET

PLACE OF WORSHIP

INDEPENDENT SHOPS & RESTAURANTS

CENTRAL ST ALBANS

SHOP MOBILITY

MALTINGS ARTS THEATRE/LIBRARY

CHRISTOPHER PLACE SHOPPING CENTRE

HERITAGE CLOSE SHOPPING CENTRE

VILLAGE ARCADE SHOPPING CENTRE

THE MALTINGS SHOPPING CENTRE

WALKING DISTANCE FROM CLOCK TOWER

CLARENCE PARK – 20mins

CITY STATION – 14mins

SOPWELL NUNNERY– 16mins

ABBEY STATION – 13mins

GORHAMBURY HOUSE – 53mins

ROMAN WALL – 15mins

MOSAIC AND HYPOCAUST – 21mins

WESTMINSTER LODGE – 12mins

MARKETS

St Albans 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.

Discover several visiting markets that take place throughout the year. Scan the QR code below for full details and timings.

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, plastic-free and charity stalls. All created by a handpicked selection of talented, ethical and sustainable businesses.

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.

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.

Brand-new for 2023 is 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.

FOOD AND DRINK

FINE DINING

Get ready for your tastebuds to be tantalized! THOMPSON St Albans, the only 3AA Rosette status restaurant in Hertfordshire, offers a fantastic modern fine dining experience while Lussmanns independent fish and grill offers incredible sustainable and ethical dining. Or try Loft for top-notch contemporary British cuisine.

STREET FOOD

Thanks to vibrant markets and festivals throughout the year, the city offers some of the best street food you’ll ever taste! Try something new with exotic dishes from countries including Peru, Brazil, Thailand and Spain – with plenty of vegan, gluten and dairyfree options available.

BOTTOMLESS BRUNCH

Say cheers with a bottomless brunch! The ideal pairing of top-quality food and free-flowing bubbles is available in many venues across the city including Megan’s at the Old Bell, Slug & Lettuce, The Blacksmiths Arms, Craft & Cleaver and Prime Steak & Grill

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.

SWEET TREATS

Craving something sweet? Savour Belgian waffles at the Waffle House set in a stunning Grade II listed building. Experience exquisite handmade puddings at award-winning Pudding Stop, or shake it up with a hearty milkshake from Shaken Cow or an exotic bubble tea at Mooboo.

FAMILY DINING

Families with children of all ages are brilliantly catered for in St Albans. Bill’s offers firm family favourites with pancakes and fish and chips on the menu, whilst independent Per Tutti has the Italian classics covered with divine pizza and pasta options.

PET FRIENDLY

St Albans is an incredibly dog-friendly place! Many pubs and cafes across the city centre and district accept dogs of all sizes whilst restaurants including Beech House, Hatch and Megan’s are welcoming of well-behaved four-legged friends.

Scan for food and drink inspirations

Scrumptious & luxurious T urkish C uisine

We now have a 3-course set Menu with a complimentary drink for £23.50

From Tuesday to Thursday

Offer is not valid on Valentine's Day, Mothers Day & Christmas (Dec). Available for group bookings, parties & private venue hire. Table bookings & easy online ordering via www.sauterestaurant.co.uk

CALL 01727 811 889 TO BOOK A TABLE 52 - 56 ADELAIDE STREET, ST ALBANS, AL3 5BG

YOFC FINAL:Layout 1 2/7/23 2:35 PM Page 1

Soak up the atmosphere at Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, Britain’s oldest pub

Check out our menu of fine food, wines and a great selection of real ales. The tastiest Sunday roast in the city, live music every Friday and a garden with stunning views over Verulamium Lake

www.fightingcockssa.com

Redbournbury Watermill and Bakery

organic flours, artisan

Millers of stoneground organic flours, artisan bakers

• An eighteenth century working flour mill on the bank of the river Ver.

• Producing a range of stoneground, organic flours.

• Onsite bakery baking artisan loaves, cakes & biscuits.

• Four floors of the mill museum to explore.

• Regular baking classes. Gift vouchers available.

• Crossley HD11 oil engine.

Open

Bakery:

VIBRANT ST ALBANS

Birthplace to rock bands The Zombies and Enter Shikari plus home to film director Stanley Kubrick , St Albans retains a thriving arts and entertainment scene.

The Art Deco style Odyssey Cinema shows a varied range of hits, cult movies and arthouse offerings.

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 Theatre Production Company OVO at the Roman Theatre offer a kaleidoscope of productions from musicals to Shakespeare and folk to kids shows.

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.

Listen to the fascinating world of mechanical musical instruments at the magical St Albans Organ Theatre and don’t miss the prestigious International Organ Festival in July. For some classical music enjoy a performance from the de Havilland Philharmonic Orchestra based at the University of Hertfordshire.

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 visitors alike. Most famous is the Ye Olde Fighting Cocks in Verulamium Park which dates back to 793. However, the whole city is dotted with hidden gems, sso wander the side streets and discover a brilliant selection of charming, quintessentially British pubs.

As the home of CAMRA, you can expect a wonderful selection of real ales on tap –be sure to ask the bar staff for a recommendation!

Find out more about the history of St Albans 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. Scan the QR code or head to enjoystalbans.com for full pub listings and inspired pub crawl maps.

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.

Nomansland Common

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

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

Locating yourself in St Albans means you have a fantastic scenic and historic yet modern working environment for your workforce offering easy access to the capital when needed. The City provides strong B2B support and networks.

The City of Expertise is a Special Interest Group created to represent and promote the interests of the professional service firms which:

• Highlights to young professionals all the benefits and advantages of working in St Albans.

• Hosts events for professionals at all levels, to help them network and build professional relationships, whilst learning new skills.

• Attracts and retains talent at all levels within St Albans.

• Facilitates the sharing of information regarding local plans and developments from national and local government and other relevant bodies.

• Partners with organisations that offer clear business development opportunities, such as showcase events, to promote business in St Albans.

St Albans is a great city to locate your top-class key professional service no matter what your discipline.

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, but there are lots more, see enjoystalbans.com

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

Ragged Hall is a pleasant B&B a short drive from the city centre while tranquil Aubrey Park Hotel is a charming independent hotel in a tranquil location between St Albans and Hemel Hempstead.

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.

HELPFUL INFORMATION

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

ACCESS ST ALBANS

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

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

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. Visit enjoystalbans.com for full listings and contact details.

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 https://www.stalbansbid.com

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.

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: See the CITY MAP for car parks. Blue Badge holders can park free for 3 hours (please display permit and clock). Visit stalbans.gov.uk for more information including charges, EV charging point and options for motorcycles and people with disabilities.

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

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

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