Escape to St Albans in Hertfordshire for the perfect bank holiday pick-me-up. Discover its 1,000-year-old bustling market, browse independent boutiques tucked inside medieval buildings, wander picturesque streets, climb ancient towers and explore historic attractions before meandering through beautiful parks.
And with a thriving indie foodie scene packed with traditional pubs and top-class eateries, alongside year-round cultural events and entertainment, there truly is something for everyone to enjoy. St Albans is often voted one of the best places to live in the UK – and visitors can quickly see why. Soak up the atmosphere of a city that feels a world away yet is just minutes from London.
Here are 10 reasons to visit St Albans this spring…
Named after the Roman City on which it stands, Verulamium Park boasts over 100 acres of parkland just steps from the city centre with an ornamental lake, outdoor fitness zone, children’s play areas, a rare Roman mosaic and hypocaust, football pitches, cafe and more.
Just a five-minute stroll from the city centre is Clarence Park, home to a traditional bandstand where bands play regularly. Verdis Italian Kitchen offers delicious Italian dishes plus ice cream and pizza best enjoyed from a deckchair on the lawn.
If you’re more of a sports enthusiast then Clarence Park recreation ground hosts cricket, hockey, bowls and croquet and it’s also the home of St Albans City Football Club which is always great buzz on match days.
Discover 100 acres of parkland at Verulamium Park ©Ricky Barnett
Step into centuries of living heritage with history at every turn in St Albans. Explore the Roman Theatre of Verulamium built in 140AD and the only example of its kind in Britain, being a theatre with a stage rather than an Amphitheatre. Discover remains of a 3rd-century fortification in Verulamium Park and admire the historic Abbey Gateway, once part of the great medieval abbey complex.
Nearly two thousand years ago, Verulamium – now St Albans – was one of the largest Roman cities in Britain. This summer, Romans Unearthed, a new augmented reality app, transforms Verulamium Park into a portal to the past, bringing the buried Roman city back above ground through stunning, location-anchored digital reconstructions. Visitors can stand before the monumental London Gate, explore intricate mosaics and hidden hypocaust systems, meet the people of Roman Britain and try hands-on games and challenges – all activated on-site through the power of a smartphone. Developed in partnership by St Albans Museums with leading UK-based creative innovation studio Sugar Creative, specialists in immersive digital storytelling, the experience blends outdoor adventure with rich historical exploration, inviting visitors to step into the story together in the open space of Verulamium Park.
For a glimpse into more recent heritage, visit the beautifully restored St Albans South Signal Box, a reminder of the city’s Victorian railway history.
Unique Roman Theatre of Verulamium ©Ricky Barnett
Towering Views – St Albans Cathedral Tower and Clock Tower Climbs
If you love a climb, this one’s for you. Ascend 211 winding steps to the top of the spectacular Norman Tower at St Albans Cathedral where on a clear day you may even glimpse the City of London skyline. The Cathedral is the oldest site of continuous Christian worship in Britain and has the longest nave of any cathedral in England, at 85 metre long. Alternatively conquer the 93 steps of the medieval St Albans Clock Tower, built in 1405 and be rewarded with panoramic views across Hertfordshire.
Spend the day at this impressive Grade I listed country home where Queen Elizabeth I enjoyed a happy childhood and learned of her succession to the throne. The estate has also provided the backdrop for major film and television productions including Enola Holmes, The Favourite, Bridgerton and Batman Begins. There are also gift shops and a restaurant, and a packed programme of events year-round.
St Albans Museum + Gallery and Verulamium Museum
At St Albans Museum + Gallery, enjoy amazing permanent displays and free regular-changing exhibitions plus workshops, talks, fun activities, trails and a unique café housed in an old courtroom complete with judge’s chair dock and underground cells make for a fantastic attraction.
Awarded a 2024 TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Award, Verulamium Museum brings Roman Britain to life with recreated rooms, hands-on discovery zones and some of the finest mosaics outside the Mediterranean.
St Albans Vintage Market ©Ricky Barnett
St Albans blends old and new beautifully. Independent boutiques offer cutting-edge and unusual items set in beautiful, Medieval buildings and three shopping areas play host to well-known brands.
Support small businesses at the award-winning St Albans Market established over 1,000 years ago. On every Wednesday and Saturday, shop for everything you could possibly want and enjoy the buzz and energy of the legendary market through the quirky cobbles streets that are at the heart of the St Albans story.
The Second Sunday Market specialises in local food and drink and sustainable arts and crafts while at St Albans Vintage Market you can find all manner of antiques, vintage, brocante and architectural salvage. St Albans Vegan Market brings a wide variety of vegan street food, artisan bakers, craft brewers, ethical jewellers, sustainable chandlers, local artists, zero-waste champions, environmental charities and loads more. See enjoystalbans.com for dates.
The UK’s oldest aviation museum is a fascinating trip with hands-on activities and the chance to get up and close to the iconic Mosquito. Three huge hangars and an outdoor aircraft park house the collection. Recently refurbished, the museum has a play area and picnic tables, a café plus a shop filled with model kits, books and merchandise. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, a student, or a family, the museum provides an inspiring journey through the legacy of British flight. Parking is free.
In addition to the picturesque, cobbled streets, there are some gorgeous places to enjoy the fresh air and wonder at the brilliance of nature. Whether you feel like a leisurely stroll, cycle or dog walk, there’s an abundance of green spaces to discover. Venture to Heartwood Forest for woodland and wildflower meadows, explore the historic parkland and sweeping countryside views at Gorhambury Estate, or take The Alban Way trail, a flat and traffic-free disused section of the Great Northern Railway, ideal for cyclists and walkers.
Indie Food Scene & Historic Pubs
The Waffle House at Kingsbury Mill ©St Albans BID
St Albans has a remarkable history and reputation with food and drink. With over 100 restaurants, bistros, pubs, cafes and coffee shops – you’ll be spoilt for choice. From cosy meals in historic pubs such as The Cock Inn and The Six Bells to inspired dining at indie favourites Little Marrakech and Per Tutti, the eateries provide the most memorable foodie experience.
Try delicious sweet and savoury waffles at The Waffle House set within the 16th Century, Grade II listed Kingsbury watermill overlooking the River Ver. Get your tastebuds tingling at wonderful bakeries in the city centre including Proto Artisan Bakery known for its sourdough bread, Cinnamon Knots and Sea Salt Brownies and Glaze Bakery, offering delicious cookies, irresistible pastries and other mouth-watering sweet treats.
Did you know that St Albans is home to the Hot Cross Bun? Created in the 14th century as the Alban Bun to feed the poor on Good Friday, this humble act of charity sparked a tradition that lives on in bakeries and homes to this day.
Film fans won’t want to miss the Art Deco Odyssey Cinema, a cinematic gem dating back to 1908. Recently named by The Telegraph as one of Britain’s 20 best cinemas, it offers an unforgettable movie-going experience. Sink into plush seats and enjoy a fantastic selection of drinks, snacks, and gourmet food plates while watching an incredible range of films.
The Alban Arena is a top entertainment venue boasting a huge programme of shows including musicals, tribute acts, comedians, dance, opera and kids’ productions.
For something truly special, experience open-air performances at the Roman Theatre of Verulamium, where OVO’s summer festival brings theatre and music to life in an extraordinary historic setting.
Art Deco Odyssey Cinema ©Odyssey Cinema St Albans
The Cathedral city is super convenient, positioned close to the M1, A1 and M25, and with two train stations plus excellent bus and coach connections, it’s perfectly placed for an easy city escape.
If you decide to stay a little longer, accommodation ranges from camp sites to luxury hotels so there’s always a place to lay your head whatever the budget.
Where to Stay…
Accommodation ranges from small and intimate bed and breakfasts to large hotels including the White Hart Hotel & Restaurant and the Hilton’s Samuel Ryder Hotel, both in the centre of town, the stunning country style Manor hotel, St Michaels Manor, luxurious Sopwell House and the Victorian Grade II listed Torrington Hall. Campsites nearby also make it easy to combine outdoor adventure with city exploration.
White Hart Hotel & Restaurant ©Cecelina Tornberg
Go to www.enjoystalbans.com for useful links, food and drink guides, store directory, What’s On, where to stay and more.
About St Albans
- St Albans is a must-visit UK destination. A historic gem of an English Cathedral City, the stunning cathedral is the oldest place of continuous Christian worship in the country
- The city’s colourful history and heritage can be seen in the beautiful medieval architecture and picturesque buildings that look spectacular all year round
- Formerly known as “Verulamium”, this is a city packed with Roman history with high quality roman artifacts and well-preserved mosaic flooring in a museum within walking distance from city centre
- A premier shopping destination outside London, St Albans is home to an array of innovative independent retailers and big brand names
- The city is a ‘Mini London’ for foodies with a plethora of old pubs, award winning restaurants and top chefs- plus, Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, reputed to be one of England’s oldest pubs
- Enjoy lots of green, open spaces and parks- making St Albans a family-friendly destination
- Easily accessible by road and train, St Albans is conveniently located close to the M25, M1 and A1(M) and just 20 miles and 20 minutes by train from London.
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