Things to do in Hertfordshire
- Sort by:
- Popular
-
A
St Albans Cathedral
Set in tranquil grounds away from the din of the main streets, St Albans' magnificent cathedral is a lesson in architectural history. The church began life as a Benedictine monastery in 793, built by King Offa of Mercia around the tomb of St Alban. In Norman times, it was completely rebuilt using material from the old Roman town of Verulamium, and then, in the 12th and 13th centuries, Gothic extensions and decorations were added.
The deceptively simple nave gives way to stunningly ornate ceilings, semi-lost wall paintings, an elaborate nave screen and, of course, the shrine of St Alban. There's also a luminescent rose window from the 20th century. The best way to appreciat…
reviewed
-
B
Verulamium Museum & Roman Ruins
A fantastic exposé of everyday life under the Romans, the Verulamium Museum is home to a large collection of arrowheads, glassware and grave goods. Its centrepiece, however, is the Mosaic Room, where five superb mosaic floors, uncovered between 1930 and 1955, are laid out. You can also see re-creations of Roman rooms, and learn about life in the settlement through interactive and audiovisual displays. Every second weekend, the museum is 'invaded' by Roman soldiers who demonstrate the tactics and tools of the Roman army.
Adjacent Verulamium Park has remains of a basilica, bathhouse and parts of the city wall. You can pick up a map of the area with information on the site f…
reviewed
-
C
Ye Olde Fighting Cocks
Reputedly the oldest pub in England (a former manager allegedly proved a pub stood here in AD 795!), this unusual octagonal-shaped inn has oodles of charm. Oliver Cromwell spent a night here, stabling his horses in what's now the bar; underground tunnels lead to the cathedral. Drink in this historic atmosphere while you nurse your pint.
reviewed
-
Guided Walks
If you like guided walks, there's a selection of themed options including 'Monks, Mysteries and Mischief' and the intriguing combination 'Pubs & Chapels'. Check times (tours are usually on Wednesday and Sunday but it varies) and buy your ticket at the tourist office.
reviewed
-
Lussmanns Eatery
This bright, modern restaurant just off the High St is enduringly popular with locals despite ample competition around town. It serves a menu of mainly Mediterranean dishes, all in a bright, modern space with oak, leather and metal decor. Ingredients are ethically sourced with plenty of information on the menu about where your food has come from. Book ahead.
reviewed
-
D
Waffle House
Everything in this Saxon-era low-beamed snug comes with a Belgian waffle made with organic flour. Choose from savoury delights such as ham, cheese and mushroom, or satisfy your sweet tooth with a banoffee waffle. Yummy.
reviewed
-
E
Clock Tower
This fine flint edifice, built around 1410, is England's only medieval clock tower. 'Gabriel' (the original bell) is still there.
reviewed
-
F
Museum of St Albans
For an uncomplicated history of St Albans, this museum does a good job. Exhibits include tools used between 1700 and 1950 by English tradespeople, and artefacts dug up by archaeologists in the city.
reviewed
-
G
Rose & Crown
Another St Albans favourite, this 16th-century pub with beautiful beer garden features live music Mondays at 21:00 and Irish music on Thursdays at 20:00.
reviewed
-
H
Paton Books
Paton Books is a marvellous bookshop full of new and dusty old books (including hard-to-find titles) housed in an elegant 17th-century building.
reviewed
Advertisement
-
I
Goat
Tucked away on a residential lane, this delightful pub is a warren of little rooms including library and games room with Chesterfield sofas.
reviewed
-
J
Six Bells
Next door to the Rose & Crown, this popular, low-ceilinged spot has a cosy fireplace and good pub food.
reviewed
-
Lower Red Lion Freehouse
Has regular beer festivals. A little rough around the edges, but there's a charming outdoor beer garden.
reviewed
-
Black Lion Inn
Roman malting ovens were found here. Probably the least atmospheric of all St Albans pubs.
reviewed
-
K
Roman Theatre
Across the busy A4147 from Verulamium Park are the grassy foundations of a Roman theatre.
reviewed
-
L
Thai Rack
This peaceful and small restaurant has a meditative outdoor patio and excellent curry.
reviewed
-
M
Ye Olde Fighting Cocks
Reputedly the oldest pub in England, this unusual, octagon-shaped inn has oodles of charm. Oliver Cromwell spent a night here, stabling his horses in what's now the bar, and underground tunnels lead to the cathedral. Drink in this historic atmosphere while you nurse your pint.
reviewed
-
St Alban's Museum
For a potted history of St Albans, take a look at the local museum, which houses displays from Roman times to the present.
reviewed
-
Côte Brasserie
For classic French food head to this stylish but unpretentious place, which serves excellent quality traditional dishes such as steak frites and moules marinières. It's a chic but chilled-out kind of spot, with great service and simple bistro cooking.
reviewed
