Just 20 minutes from London, St Albans is a vibrant cathedral city rich in history, culture, food, and natural beauty. Here are five unmissable things to do in St Albans, Hertfordshire proving why it deserves a top spot on your travel list—any time of year.
Best Things to Do in St Albans in 2025
Here are five reasons why St Albans is a gem of Hertfordshire and is worthy of a visit at any time of the year
Explore Spectacular Shopping in St Albans
Old meets new with independent shops and boutiques offering cutting-edge and unusual items set in beautiful, medieval buildings and three large shopping areas play host to well-known retail brands. From charming boutiques and quirky interior shops to artisan jewellers and health and beauty independents, you’ll enjoy spending hours browsing.
St Albans is also renowned for its markets – the legendary twice-weekly Charter Market offers an eclectic mix of fresh produce, diverse artisan goods and world foods, simply fantastic for atmosphere and a vibrant place to shop.
Discover Historic Attractions and Roman Roots
The colourful city is full of history – it was the site of England’s most important Roman settlement and it’s where the hot cross bun originated. The impressive landmark of St Albans Cathedral stands on the site where Alban, Britain’s first Saint, was buried over 1,700 years ago.
The St Albans Museum + Gallery is a world-class centre for arts and culture, set over three floors and showcases over 2,000 years of momentous history – spend a few delightful hours learning about the iconic flora, fauna and habitats of the county at the Wild About Hertfordshire exhibition, on until 06 July 2025.
Also head to Verulamium Museum to explore the city’s Roman past, and stop at the Clock Tower, the only surviving Medieval town belfry in England and climb the 93 steps for magnificent views.
History is around every corner, making this one of the most fascinating things to do in St Albans.
Relax in Beautiful Parks and Green Outdoor Spaces
Wrap up warm and enjoy taking in the views of Verulamium Park. It’s a beautiful, serene area with an ornamental lake that is home to a wealth of wildlife and plenty of facilities for children. The Alban Way is a safe, flat and traffic-free route that is great for cycling and is dotted with pretty views, play areas and recreation grounds and reminders of its previous use as a railway line.
Nearby Heartwood Forest offers a wilder escape, with over half a million trees planted across rolling countryside—ideal for families, dog walkers, and nature seekers alike.
Indulge in Food and Drink, and Britain’s Oldest Pub
St Albans has a remarkable history and reputation with food and drink. With over 100 restaurants, bistros, pubs, cafes and coffee shops, you’re spoilt for choice. From fine dining restaurant experiences to cosy intimate meals in the pub, the eateries in town will provide the most memorable foodie experience.
It’s also the home of Britain’s oldest pub, Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, which is always worth popping in for a refreshment. Look out for a sumptuous selection of healthy new year options on the menus.
Immerse Yourself in Arts, Entertainment and Cultural Events
Birthplace of 60s rock band, The Zombies, and home to Stanley Kubrick, St Albans retains a thriving arts and entertainment scene. The Sandpit Theatre hosts concerts, dances, comedy and film, while The Maltings Arts Theatre and The Abbey Theatre offer a kaleidoscope of productions from musicals to Shakespeare and folk to children’s shows. St Albans has a packed programme of vibrant and fun cultural events, including everything from live music, family entertainment, street festivals and more.
Download the official St Albans visitor guide at EnjoyStAlbans.com
How Absolutely Picks the Best for You
At Absolutely Magazines, we pride ourselves on curating only the finest recommendations for our refined readers. Our editors leverage their extensive expertise in lifestyle journalism to ensure that every selection meets the highest standards of quality and relevance. From scouring local insider tips to understanding trends and feedback, we leave no stone unturned in identifying the most exceptional venues for you. Guided by an appreciation for your taste, we prioritise venues and events that epitomise luxury, style, and premium experiences. You can trust us to bring you the Absolute best, every time.
