Episode 160 Day Trips from London

In episode 160 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy is joined by Vivian Cannon, manager of the St Albans City Centre BID, to spotlight the charm and rich history of St Albans – just 20 minutes by train from London.

Discover why this lively city, with its Roman ruins, stunning cathedral, medieval clock tower, bustling markets, and vibrant food scene, is the perfect destination for a day trip or base for exploring Hertfordshire.

Tune in for insider tips on walkable attractions, family-friendly activities, award-winning pubs, and must-see annual festivals. Don’t miss this episode – St Albans might be your next UK itinerary highlight!

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Episode 160 – Show Notes

What you’ll learn in this episode

Just 20 minutes from London by train, St Albans is a fantastic day trip or base to explore Hertfordshire, offering a blend of Roman ruins, medieval charm, and vibrant modern-day culture 🏛️🚂
Discover St Albans’ impressive Roman heritage, including the open-air Roman theatre, mosaic floors, ancient city walls, and the Verulamium Museum filled with interactive exhibits and local archaeological finds 🏺🎭
Walk through centuries of history, from the first battle of the War of the Roses to the only surviving medieval clock tower in England and ancient traditions that live on throughout the city’s architecture ⏰⚔️
Explore England’s oldest site of continuous Christian worship at St Albans Cathedral, boasting the country’s longest nave, medieval wall paintings, and a lively calendar of events, from music festivals to yoga under an art installation 🕍🎶
St Albans’ award-winning outdoor market (Best Large Outdoor Market in Britain, 2024) is a must-visit for shopping, souvenirs, and soaking up buzzing local life 🛍️🍎
It’s a walkable city! Stroll from the train station via museums, galleries, and parks, all within easy reach and perfect for family outings, with splash parks and interactive trails for children 🚶‍♀️🌳👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
Film buffs will love the lovingly restored Art Deco cinema, featuring everything from Hollywood blockbusters to foreign and retro films, with unique touches like on-site commentary and a cocktail-bar vibe 🎥🍸
Follow the blue plaque trail celebrating famous residents, including physicist Stephen Hawking, horticulturist Frederick Saunders, pioneering women, and more 🏅🔬
St Albans is a foodie’s paradise, known as “Mini London” for its diverse and high-quality dining, including acclaimed restaurants and independently-run historic pubs like the ancient Ye Olde Fighting Cocks 🍽️🍻
Experience unique festivals and events year-round, from foodie fests and outdoor concerts to the St Albans Day pilgrimage, where Roman reenactments and giant puppets bring local history to life 🎉🦄🦅
Getting there is easy: St Albans is just a 20-minute direct train ride from London St Pancras, making it simple to add to your UK itinerary 🚆📍
Pro tips: Check out Enjoy St Albans online or on Instagram for up-to-date event info, historic tidbits, and planning resources. Don’t miss hidden gems like ancient prison doors in modern businesses and the city’s famous wall of firsts! 📲🔍
Whether you love history, great food, unique shopping, or family fun, St Albans has something for every UK traveller!

UK places, foods and words/concepts mentioned

Places

St Albans – historic city in Hertfordshire, just 20 minutes by train from London
London – capital city of the UK, primary access point for St Albans day trips
Hertfordshire – county in England where St Albans is located
Verulamium – Roman-era name for the area that is now St Albans; location of Roman ruins, park, museum, and open-air theatre
Verulamium Park – large green space in St Albans with Roman remains, a splash park, and event spaces
St Albans Cathedral – oldest site of continuous Christian worship in Britain, notable for its long nave and medieval wall paintings
Clock Tower – only surviving medieval town belfry in England, built in 1405
St Albans Museum and Gallery – housed in a historic courthouse, features exhibitions and visitor facilities
The Cock Inn – 17th-century pub on St Peter’s Street in St Albans
The Old Fighting Cocks – reputedly England’s oldest pub, dating back to 793 AD, located on the edge of Verulamium Park
The Boot – historic pub next to the Clock Tower, associated with the start of the War of the Roses
George Street – notable street in St Albans, featuring Dylan’s restaurant and the Gin and Jazz Festival
Art Deco cinema – restored cinema in the city centre, supported by the local community
St Pancras (London St Pancras International) – London station for direct trains to St Albans

Foods

Award-winning food at The Old Fighting Cocks pub
Thompson Restaurant – fine dining with three AA Rosettes, headed by chef Phil Thompson
Dylan’s (George Street) – well-regarded independent restaurant
The Cock Inn St Albans – pub known for high calibre food
Real ales – especially highlighted at pubs and through the local CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) movement
Food and drink festivals – including Pub in the Park and the Gin and Jazz Festival
Gale’s – café with varied food options near the Clock Tower
Café Roma – continental-style café, ideal for people watching
Artisan market – part of St Albans’ award-winning outdoor market
Feasting tents and local food at festivals

Words / Concepts

Roman ruins and mosaics – testament to St Albans’ ancient history
Open-air Roman Theatre – site for re-enactments and performances, built AD 140
Peasants’ Revolt – medieval uprising relevant to St Albans’ history
War of the Roses – first battle took place in St Albans
Shrine of Saint Alban – focal point for pilgrimages at the Cathedral
Pilgrimage and festivals – especially the Alban Day pilgrimage and festival, with re-enactments and giant puppets
Blue plaque trail – highlights famous residents of St Albans
Camera (CAMRA) – Campaign for Real Ale, founded in St Albans
Medieval, Tudor, and Victorian history – eras represented throughout the city
Pilgrim badges – historic mementoes recreated for visitors
Enjoy St Albans – official tourism platform, recommended for event and planning information