If you’re looking for a weekend break or short getaway, the Cathedral city of St Albans in Hertfordshire is a wonderful choice. Easily accessible by road and rail and packed with unique things to see and do, it’s a must-visit destination for a top city break.
The city stands out from all others boasting incredible buildings, attractions, entertainment and more, much influenced by its fascinating history spanning more than 2000 years. Picture perfect streets with beautiful architecture and characterful houses are perfect for the ‘gram so come to St Albans, wander the cobbles, soak up the atmosphere, and capture the moment in this unique city.
10 unique finds in St Albans…
- Art Deco Dreaming
Dating to 1908 the Odyssey Cinema is a beautifully restored cinema boasting ornate Art Deco features alongside plush seats and two fully stocked bars serving delicious platters and a wide choice of drinks. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the latest box office hit, a favourite movie or cult classic.
- Medieval Marvel
In the centre of town, you’ll find St Albans Clock Tower, the only surviving medieval town belfry in England, completed in 1405. Today after climbing the 93 steps to the top, you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views across St Albans and the Hertfordshire countryside.
- Remarkable Roman Ruins
Wandering through beautiful Verulamium Park you’ll find impressive remains of Roman Wall built between AD 265 and 270 to defend the Roman City of Verulamium which at its peak reached a height of five metres, topped by a walkway. Most of its two-mile circuit can still be traced and the remains of two towers, bastions and London Gate can also be seen.
- Cake in a Courtroom
St Albans Museum + Gallery is a world-class centre for arts and culture housed in a beautiful Georgian Grade I listed building. As the former Town Hall, a surprise awaits visitors to the café which is set in the old octagonal courtroom complete with Judges’ chair, dock and cells. Venture down to the cells and soak up the eerie atmosphere before heading back up to the cafe for a delicious pastry, tasty lunch or refreshments.
- Awesome Cathedral
From the longest nave in England to the extensive collection of medieval wall paintings and an exciting programme of events there is something to suit everyone at St Albans Cathedral. Step inside and you’ll find the Shrine of St Alban, Britain’s first saint and who the city was named after, which has been a focal point for visitors and pilgrims alike for over 1700 years.
- Pub-tastic
The city has a long history with food and drink dating back to when it was the first coaching stop from London for those heading north. Many inns opened to offer lodging and refreshments and today there are still dozens of characterful pubs offering food and drink, served with a smile, including Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, heralded as England’s oldest pub.
- Waffle-mania
Since 1978 The Waffle House has been serving incredible, sweet and savoury Belgian waffles from within the 16th Century Grade II listed Kingsbury Watermill. Overlooking the River Ver in the tranquil Conservation Area of St Albans, this popular eatery invites diners to devour delicious waffles for breakfast, lunch and dinner with a wonderful choice of mouth-watering toppings.
- Blue Plaques
The city boasts many famous former residents who have been commemorated with blue plaques on buildings associated with their lives. The initiative, set up by Blue Plaques St Albans, resembles the well-known blue plaque scheme run by English Heritage. Find plaques of world-famous theoretical physicist, cosmologist and author Stephen Hawking, St Albans third lady Mayor Elsie Toms, and Pre-Raphaelite painter ER “Ted” Hughes, plus many more.
- Open Air Theatre Roman Style
Outdoor theatre is a wonderful spectacle but watching performances in the atmospheric setting of a Roman Theatre is utterly unique. Every summer OVO host a festival in this incredible location performing creative versions of classic plays and stories – quite different to the wrestling, armed combat and wild beast shows which took place in Roman times!
- Magical Music at St Albans Organ Theatre
See and hear the fascinating world of mechanical musical instruments in a magical atmosphere that has been all but lost in today’s digital age. The theatre with it’s incredible display of instruments is interesting, original and a delight to visit, bringing people together to appreciate the world of mechanical music.
