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St Albans is a truly unique city, effortlessly weaving 2,000 years of history into a lively modern hub. Once the ancient Roman city of Verulamium, its heritage is on display everywhere you look. The most dominant feature is the colossal St Albans Cathedral, which boasts the longest nave in England and beautiful medieval architecture. You can also climb the medieval Clock Tower, one of only two in the country, for fantastic views across the Hertfordshire countryside.
For a real trip back in time, a walk through Verulamium Park is essential. Here, you’ll find remnants of the Roman walls, the ancient Roman Theatre of Verulamium, and the stunning Hypocaust Mosaic. With charming independent pubs and a market that has been running for centuries, St Albans is the perfect blend of historical exploration and modern-day charm.
The best location for your St Albans hotel is one that balances proximity to the central city atmosphere with easy access to the historical heart of Verulamium and the main transport links.
The area surrounding the City Centre and the High Street is the most convenient choice. Staying here places you steps away from the medieval Clock Tower, the bustling traditional street market, and the wide selection of restaurants and ancient pubs, such as the historic The Fighting Cocks. This central location is excellent for those who want a lively atmosphere and easy walking access to the main shopping district.
For those prioritising the historical sites and a quieter base, consider a hotel near Verulamium Park and the Cathedral area. This position allows you to start your day by exploring the Roman ruins and the grounds of the Cathedral, including the nearby Verulamium Museum and the Roman Theatre. This area is also close to beautiful green spaces, offering a more tranquil environment.
St Albans is exceptionally well-connected, with two main stations: St Albans City and St Albans Abbey. St Albans City is the main hub, offering fast, direct train services to London St Pancras International. A hotel near this station provides the best commuter links. The St Albans Abbey station is closer to the historical Roman area. The city is very walkable, and local bus routes effectively link the two stations, the city centre, and the Verulamium Park area.
Hotel prices in St Albans are influenced by a strong demand from business travellers commuting to London and the surrounding area. Peak pricing often occurs during the mid-week, from Monday to Thursday, when corporate demand is at its highest.
For the best value, aim for a stay over the weekend, particularly a Saturday night, as corporate rates drop off significantly. The high season aligns with the summer months, June to August, and can see elevated prices during the St Albans Organ Theatre open weekends or major local festivals. A unique tip for St Albans is to look up the dates for the famous regular St Albans Street Market. Avoiding the busiest market days or choosing a hotel slightly further away from the main marketplace can offer quieter stays and potential savings.