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A location of medieval travel importance, the city was founded in the south-central region of Hertfordshire. Celtic tribes inhabited the area long before Roman occupation. Once the second largest Roman/Britain city in the land, the city is sometimes referred to as Verulamium, which was the name of the Roman settlement. Emperor Diocletian's distaste for Christian religion prompted the beheading of Saint Alban in 308 AD. This spot would mark the site of the future abbey. After the Romans deserted the city, the Mercian king, Offa constructed an abbey an named the building for the martyred saint. The village too would take the saint's name and began growing around the north, east and west sides of the abbey.
Though frequented as a Christian pilgrimage during medieval times, the town had a sizable market consisting of fish, meats and grains along with puddings, leathers and wool. The important town buildings were constructed around the central market area. French Row and Cordweiner's Row were more than likely established before the 1300s. During the late 1800s, a shipbuilding industry was established accompanied by a large experimental water tank in 1912. One of the first wind tunnels was constructed here in 1915. St. Alban's has been used as a backdrop for many film and television projects and has a long list of notable former citizens, including comic Benny Hill, film producer Stanley Kubrick, and physicist Stephen Hawking.
Activities and Attractions
St. Alban's is filled with medieval architecture, particularly on the streets surrounding the market place. Constructed in 1365, the Abbey Gatehouse is the original structure and was once used as a prison, but now houses a section of St. Alban's school. St. Alban's Cathedral contains the longest nave in England. The facility conducts regular public tours for adults and children. The building contains numerous medieval structures and artefacts including the bell tower, high altar screen and the Lady Chapel, along with wall paintings and the 1290 Sanctus Bell.
The city's Clock Tower was constructed sometime after 1403 and rang at four in the morning to awaken residents and again at eight in the evening signalling curfew. The bell was also used to signal emergencies or bring the townspeople together.
The Verulamium Museum houses numerous artefacts depicting the local Celtic and Roman civilizations. The exhibits display various aspects of typical daily living during the times of Roman rule. Guests have the opportunity of viewing everything from decorative mosaic tiles to pottery and weaponry. the location additionally contains an authentic ancient heating system, the remains of city walls, an ancient theatre and the London gate.
Butterfly World is an ongoing project featuring 11 hectares (27 acres) of flowering gardens designed to attract butterflies. The facility also contains breeding and educational centres and is in the process of constructing an unique circular biome. The structure will measure 100m (328 feet) in diameter and contain thousands of butterflies, hummingbirds and other insects along tropical forest walkways and caves.
Places to Stay and Dining
Lodging in St. Alban's might include staying at a distinguished estate featuring modern decor and furnishings along with all the comforts of home. Workout in the facility's cardio/fitness centre or enjoy one of many soothing body treatments in the spa.
Darcy's restaurant combines provides meals adopted from Asian, Australian and European cuisines. Regular options include pork schnitzel on mash or creamy fish and pea pie. Children's selections include battered chicken or fish fillets with fries.
Accommodation in St. Albans
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