With stunning greenery and spectacular scenery, St Albans is the place to be for an intoxicating springtime stroll through some of England’s most beautiful woodlands and green spaces. Enjoy walking trails, wildflower meadows, impressive ancient woods and picture-perfect countryside in and around the city.
And, as May is National Walking Month, it’s the ideal time to take a walk or two and establish a habit that can last and lead to a happier and healthier you. So, go on, hug the great outdoors and feel alive in St Albans!
8 Amazing Places for a Springtime Stroll…
1. For a mesmerising carpet of flowering bluebells, head to Heartwood Forest, the largest continuous new native forest in England. Owned and managed by the Woodland Trust, the forest comprises almost 900 acres with over half a million trees planted and meadows sown. Follow paths through ancient woodland and marvel at the blue haze created by these magical flowers.
2. Natural and rugged Nomansland Common is a popular place for dog-walking, model aircraft flying, horse riding, den building, cycling and hiking. The area’s history is fascinating; it was a place for grazing as early as 4000BC, reputedly named because of the bitter rivalry between the monasteries of St Albans and Westminster, and in the 1700s, it was a regular meeting place for notorious highwaymen Dick Turpin and Tom John. Today, it’s a more tranquil place with wildflowers and meadows, making it an ideal place to relax, unwind and enjoy the wonders of spring.
Verulamium Park © CL Creative Photography.
3. A stone’s throw from the centre lays magnificent Verulamium Park, boasting over 100 acres of parkland and named after the Roman City of Verulamium on which it stands. Paths lead through the park and around an ornamental lake home to a wealth of waterfowl. Plus, with play areas, a café and remains of ancient Roman walls, it’s a great place to discover.
4. Feel miles from anywhere with a walk or cycle along Gorhambury Drive. Savour pretty views across fields dotted with sheep and horses as you reach Old Gorhambury House, once an immense mansion built by Sir Nicholas Bacon and frequently by Queen Elizabeth I, now a ruin waiting to be explored. Both long and short trails can be enjoyed at Gorhambury Estate on permissive paths surrounded by nature.
5. The charming village of Wheathampstead offers lovely countryside walks and extraordinary history, including Devil’s Dyke dating to around 50 BC and the scene of a battle between Julius Caesar and local tribes. The Village Centre Trail includes 21 historical buildings, all within easy walking distance.
6. Celebrate National Walkers Month with a walk along a section of the River Ver Trail stretching between Kensworth Lynch and Bricket Wood. Flex those muscles and breathe fresh spring air on this trail through stunning scenery following the curve of a rare chalk stream.
7. Head to Redbournbury Mill just north of the city to experience some beautiful rolling countryside. Set in an idyllic location surrounded by farmland and water meadow, choose a well-signed route for a relaxing walk enjoying the sights and sounds of spring
8. The Samuel Ryder Walking Trail is a self-guided walk offering fascinating insights into the golfing legend Samuel Ryder, a former city resident. The trail takes in 9 or 18 places linked to his business, domestic life, civic work, church, and sporting life and lasts between 45 minutes and 2 hours.
So, whether you live locally or are visiting for a few days, soak up spring in magnificent St Albans, brilliantly located just 20 minutes from London and close to the M1, A1 and M25.
Discover more green spaces and spectacular scenery at EnjoyStAlbans.com and make the most of your visit to sensational St Albans.
Where to Stay…
Accommodation ranges from small and intimate bed and breakfasts to large hotels, including the White Hart Hotel & Restaurant and the Hilton’s Samuel Ryder Hotel, both in the centre of town; the stunning country-style Manor hotel, St Michaels Manor; luxurious Sopwell House; and the Victorian Grade II-listed Torrington Hall.
Some Reasons to Visit St Albans
- St Albans is a must-visit UK destination. A historic gem of an English Cathedral City, the stunning cathedral is the oldest place of continuous Christian worship in the country
- The city’s colourful history and heritage can be seen in the beautiful medieval architecture and picturesque buildings that look spectacular all year round
- Formerly known as “Verulamium”, this is a city packed with Roman history with high-quality Roman artefacts and well-preserved mosaic flooring in a museum within walking distance from the city centre
- A premier shopping destination outside London, St Albans is home to an array of innovative independent retailers and big brand names
- The city is a ‘Mini London’ for foodies with a plethora of old pubs, award-winning restaurants and top chefs- plus
- Britain’s oldest pub, Ye Olde Fighting Cocks
- Enjoy lots of green, open spaces and parks- making St Albans a family-friendly destination
- Easily accessible by road and train, St Albans is conveniently located close to the M25, M1 and A1(M) and just 20 miles and 20 minutes by train from London.
St Albans is waiting to be explored; discover more at www.enjoystalbans.com.
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