If you’re staying at The Comet Hotel in Hatfield, you’ll find yourself perfectly situated to explore the historic and vibrant city of St Albans—just a 15 minute drive away. It’s a charming blend of Roman heritage, market buzz, green spaces, cultural festivals, and local pubs. Here’s your insider guide to making the most of August and September 2025.
Getting Around with Ease
St Albans is a quick and easy 15 minute drive away from us at The Comet. Alternatively, thanks to Hatfield’s rail links, you can leave the car behind and hop on the train direct to St Albans City Station, right next to the park and cathedral. From the hotel it’s around a 30 minute stroll to the station, making days out blissfully straightforward.
Once you’re there, everything is walkable: Verulamium Park, the Market Place, Clock Tower, museums, cafés, pubs—the lot.
Historic Highlights & Green Spaces
Begin with Verulamium Park, a beautiful first-century Roman town site spanning over 100 acres. You’ll find pretty lakes, Roman walls, a mosaic-covered hypocaust, and plenty of peaceful places to sit and watch the ducks and swans.
Right beside the park is the Verulamium Museum, full of archaeological marvels—from Roman gold coins to intricate mosaics and interactive galleries. Don’t miss the nearby Roman theatre, the only known stage-style Roman theatre in Britain.
If you’re up for a climb, the Medieval Clock Tower stands proud above the High Street. With 93 steps and views across Hertfordshire on clear days, it’s a fun way to appreciate the city’s layered history. It’s open most weekends and bank holidays through September.
Events & Festivals to Catch
In early September (5–7), Pub in the Park arrives in Verulamium Park, hosted by chef Tom Kerridge. Expect live bands, food stalls from award‑winning eateries, and a fantastic festival atmosphere.
If you’re around the following weekend, look out for the St Albans & Harpenden Food & Drink Festival—a weekend of pop-up eateries, local drinks, live music and community spirit.
Later, from 24–27 September, St Albans Beer & Cider Festival brings thousands of drinks, street food, music, and good cheer at the Alban Arena. Maybe take the train for this one!
Pubs, Culture & Evening Ideas
St Albans allegedly claims more pubs per square mile than anywhere in the UK—even featuring Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, said to be one of the oldest pubs in England. It’s right beside the park—perfect for a pint after a walk.
For something different, catch a film at the beautifully restored Odyssey Cinema, a single-screen art‑deco gem just east of the cathedral.
If you’re into local arts, St Albans Museum + Gallery hosts contemporary art alongside historical exhibits—ideal for a quiet stroll indoors.
So, whether you’re after Roman ruins, delicious festivals, market browsing, or riverside pubs with history, St Albans in August and September 2025 offers all this and more—and The Comet puts you in the perfect place to enjoy it.