Discover St. Albans: A Guide to Its Historic Charms and Attractions
St. Albans, a charming market town in Hertfordshire, is steeped in history, from the 14th-century Abbey Gateway to the ancient Roman settlement of Verulamium. It's named after St. Alban, a Roman soldier who became a Christian martyr. Today, the town offers a blend of historical sites, shopping at places like Christopher Place Shopping Centre, and sports activities, with nearby Stanborough Lakes providing water-based fun. For a comprehensive guide to St. Albans' attractions, visit top tourist attractions.
1. Tour St. Albans Cathedral
![St. Albans Cathedral](/media/st-albans-cathedral.jpg)
St. Albans Cathedral stands on Britain's oldest Christian worship site. Built in 1077, it's renowned for its length and historical features like 13th-century frescoes and the Monks' Chancel. The Saint's Chapel holds St. Alban's tomb. Visitors can enjoy free guided tours, a shop, and a café.
2. Explore the Old Town and Climb the Medieval Clock Tower
![Clock Tower, St. Albans](/media/england-st-albans-top-attractions-old-town-medieval-clock-tower.jpg)
The Clock Tower offers panoramic views of St. Albans. The town center features a historic market and the Town Hall. Don't miss Ye Olde Fighting Cocks Inn, Britain's oldest inn.
3. Visit the Roman Ruins in Verulamium Park
![Roman Theatre in Verulamium Park](/media/united-kingdom-england-st-albans-top-attractions-things-to-do-verulamium-park.jpg)
Verulamium Park hosts the remains of a significant Roman city. The Verulamium Museum displays artifacts, while the Roman Theatre showcases ancient entertainment venues.
4. St. Albans Museum + Gallery
![Verulamium Museum](/media/united-kingdom-england-st-albans-top-attractions-things-to-do-st-albans-museum-verulamium.jpg)
The museum, housed in the former Town Hall, offers a blend of history and art with rotating exhibits and educational programs. It includes a courtroom and prison cells.
5. St. Michael's Church
![St. Michael's Church in St. Albans](/media/united-kingdom-england-st-albans-top-attractions-things-to-do-st-michaels-church.jpg)
St. Michael's Church, built on the Roman forum site, contains the tomb of Francis Bacon. Nearby is the picturesque Kingsbury Water Mill.
6. International Organ Festival
![Organ pipes, St. Albans Cathedral](/media/england-st-albans-organ-festival.jpg)
This biennial festival features a range of performances and concerts centered around the cathedral's Harrison & Harrison organ.
7. Enjoy a Performance at St. Albans Organ Theatre
Home to a collection of mechanical musical instruments, the theatre offers regular performances and special seasonal shows.
8. Old Gorhambury House
![Old Gorhambury House](/media/united-kingdom-england-st-albans-top-attractions-things-to-do-old-gorhambury-house.jpg)
Explore the ruins of Sir Nicholas Bacon's Elizabethan mansion, set in scenic grounds.
9. de Havilland Aircraft Museum
![de Havilland Aircraft Museum](/media/england-st-albans-top-attractions-de-havilland-aircraft-museum.jpg)
Preserving Britain's aviation heritage, the museum showcases aircraft and memorabilia from the de Havilland company.
10. Heartwood Forest
![Bluebells in Heartwood Forest](/media/united-kingdom-england-st-albans-top-attractions-things-to-do-heartwood-forest.jpg)
England's largest new forest, Heartwood Forest, offers trails for walking, biking, and horseback riding, especially beautiful in spring.
11. Willows Activity Farm
![Willows Activity Farm](/media/united-kingdom-england-st-albans-top-attractions-things-to-do-willows-activity-farm.jpg)
A family-friendly farm with animal interactions and educational activities.
12. Redbournbury Watermill and Bakery
![Redbournbury Watermill and Bakery](/media/united-kingdom-england-st-albans-top-attractions-things-to-do-redbournbury-watermill-bakery.jpg)
Visit this working mill and bakery to learn about traditional bread-making and enjoy freshly baked goods.
Where to Stay in St. Albans for Sightseeing
For a comfortable stay, consider these hotels near St. Albans Cathedral:
- St. Michael's Manor Hotel
- Clarion Collection Hotel St. Albans
- Holiday Inn Express St. Albans - M25, Jct. 22
- Premier Inn St. Albans City Centre Hotel