10 Unique Things To Do In St. Albans
If you have a free weekend, St. Albans is a great place to visit! Here are some unique things to do in St. Albans!
1) St Albans Cathedral
Undoubtedly one of the most iconic buildings in St Albans, the cathedral is the oldest site of continuous Christian worship in Britain and dates back to 793AD. Rich in history, this beautiful building holds the shrine of Saint Alban who died for his faith 1700 years ago and after whom the city was named.
2) The Clock Tower
Situated in the city centre, this tiny belfry was built around 1405. Once you have climbed the narrow staircase inside, you can see for miles from the top. There are incredible views of St Albans City and the surrounding Hertfordshire countryside. Don’t forget your camera as this is one of the best things to do in St. Albans!
3) St Albans Museum
Beautifully refurbished and recently relocated to a historic courthouse in the heart of the city centre, this museum and its rich repository of St Albans history is well worth a visit!
4) Verulamium Park
This stunning 100 acre park is just minutes outside St Albans City centre. Filled with sites of historical interest, including the old city walls and excavated Roman mosaics, the park also has a playground and water features for younger visitors. Birdwatchers will be overjoyed by the variety of waterbirds, including herons, that live on and around the lake.
5) Verulamium Museum
Located in Verulamium Park, this museum is devoted exclusively to the city’s Iron Age andRoman history, from which the name ‘Verulamium’ derives. It also boasts a wealth of information about the Roman era in general, making the museum a must-see for history enthusiasts.
6) Ye Olde Fighting Cocks Pub
Reportedly the oldest pub in England still in use, Ye Olde Fighting Cocks is a fantastic place to stop for a pint. Located by the side of the River Ver, where it has stood since at latest 1756, this quaint public house sells pub lunches with a great selection of real ales.
7) The Watercress Wildlife Site
Nature lovers, look no further! A former commercial watercress farm, this beautiful 3 acre nature reserve on the banks of the Ver is a haven for wildlife, including kingfishers. Accessible via the Alban Way, which takes pedestrians or cyclists through some of Hertfordshire’s most beautiful farmland.
8) Old Gorhambury House
The ruins of an Elizabethan mansion surrounded by beautiful farmland. It makes for an amazing day trip, cycle ride and picnic spot, and those who visit by night might catch a glimpse of the owls who have made the ruins their home.
9) Shaw’s Corner
This is a must-visit for bookworms and theatregoers! Located outside St Albans in nearby Welwyn, Shaw’s Corner was the primary residence of George Bernard Shaw, a celebrated playwright whose play Pygmalion inspired the famous My Fair Lady. Now a museum, Shaw’s Corner makes for a truly unique day out.
10) Tring Natural History Museum
Once the private museum of the second Baron Rothschild, a famous zoologist, the Tring Natural History museum houses one of the UK’s most extensive collections of taxidermy animals. Located a short drive away from St Albans City, this wonderful museum is the perfect distance for a day trip.
