ABOUT ST. ALBANS

The ancient and beautiful city of St. Albans is built on the site of one of England's most important Roman towns - Verulamium. It is named after Britain's first Christian martyr, Alban, a citizen of Verulamium who was beheaded after being converted to Christianity in the third century. On the hill where his execution took place, rose a magnificent abbey and this is, perhaps, the focal point of the whole city today. It is the second longest church in the country and embraces many different types of architecture. Containing the shrine to St. Alban it has been a place of pilgrimage for over a thousand years. Modern pilgrims will find a visit to this holy and awe-inspiring place an unforgettable experience.

Beneath the Abbey lies a delightful park with a play area for children, a large lake full of herons and other waterfowl and a little café. Beneath this park lies buried most of the original Roman city. You can still see some remains of the stone walls and also the Tepidarium & Hypocaust belonging to what was once a large Roman villa. Across the park lies an area called St. Michael's which is very picturesque and has some picturesque old inns where you can refresh yourself. Here too is the fascinating Verulamium Museum packed full of exciting exhibits and information about the Roman City. Just across the road, you can also visit the excavated Roman Theatre.

Back at the Abbey, take a walk up to the "Fighting Cocks" Inn. This is a charming and very popular pub -once the scene of cock fights as its name implies. Beyond the tall clock tower, the city itself is bustling with life. The huge market takes place twice a week and attracts people from all over the neighbouring area. Here you are spoilt for choice for things to buy - from vegetables and clothes to antiques, paintings and rugs. There are also two modern shopping precincts, St. Christopher's Place and The Maltings. The whole of the centre is packed with interesting shops and good places to eat and to be entertained. There's a Leisure Centre, a swimming pool and an excellent local theatre.

On the outskirts of the city you will find The Gardens of The Rose, home to the National Rose Society. Here, during the summer months, you can admire the many beautiful and fragrant varieties of roses grown here.  Sometimes concerts and plays take place in these romantic surroundings on summer evenings. People bring picnics to enjoy among the roses before the performances begin.

All of this and more can be viewed from the comfort of your home with our video
"St Albans - A City to Inspire"

St Albans City & District Council