The story of Nicholas Breakspear
Hertfordshire has played its part in papal affairs. In the 12th century, a young boy from Abbots Langley near St Albans, called Nicholas, lived on a farm like many of his peers. Little did he know that as a result of unforeseen disappointments and his own strength of character, he would be the only Englishman to become a pope. This September marks the 850th anniversary of Nicholas Breakspear’s death.
A new website for the Sopwell area of St Albans
1st August sees the formal launch of an exciting new website celebrating the ‘living history’ of the Sopwell area of St Albans. Funded by the National Lottery the website, www.sopwellmemories.org.uk, contains stories and photographs contributed by local people, as well as an extensive and increasing archive of oral history interviews with both recent and long-standing residents. It aims to capture memories of living in Sopwell as it changed from a rural farming community to a culturally diverse suburb of St Albans.
What’s on in May
Market Days in St Peter’s Street: Wednesdays and SaturdaysST ALBANS CLOCK TOWER, High Street, OPEN Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays through until mid-September. Climb...
Alban, the Opera, is now being performed in London.
Last year, an ambitious new opera came to St Albans, premiering in the Abbey, the opera told the little known story of Alban himself, the first English martyr. After a sell out run, Alban the Opera is travelling to London for four nights only in October this year before heading to the US in 2011.
The 2011 Battle Proms at Hatfield House
The name Battle Proms comes from the Battle Symphony by Beethoven. On an annual basis, this popular event takes place on the grounds of 400 year old Hatfield House, home of the 7th Marquess of Salisbury.
Welcoming the New Year in St Albans
The New Year is almost upon us! If you have eaten too much pud and want to get out and about experiencing St Albans life, consider these events;
David Bellamy visits Butterfly World
Butterfly World, St Albans, will welcome David Bellamy this Sunday 10th October. David, the well-known conservationist, is patron to Butterfly World and will be there in person to meet visitors and speak about the decline in the butterfly species.
Who is Samuel Ryder?
There is a special gold trophy which weighs 4 pounds, stands 17 inches tall and known to the whole world as The Ryder Cup. Many locals are unaware that its founder Samuel Ryder was one of the greatest citizens that St Albans has ever had; as a business man, politician and churchman.
Japan Tsunami Appeal – St Albans
A fundraising event is taking place in St Albans to help support the Japanese Tsunami victims. It takes place in the Jubilee Centre (AL3 5NX) on Catherine Street tomorrow, Saturday 19th March between 11am - 3pm.
‘Ghost’ walks in St. Albans winter 2009
St Albans city has had its share of ghosts and spooky tales of bygone days. This year, the St Albans Tour Guides have lined up an exciting week of Ghost Walks suited to all ages.
Latest Reviews
Wilco Johnson Band and Glenn Tilbrook at the Alban Arena March...
The Alban Arena is a venue with a rich history of welcoming touring acts, some of which have gone on to world-wide fame - such as Dire Straits, who played there in 1978. I saw the legendary Rory Gallagher there in 1988, more recently The Waterboys and The Gorillaz have graced the stage. It is maybe a sign of the times that more tribute bands than original artists perform there these days. So when two of the UKs most respected musical artists were coming to the Alban Arena it was likely to be an evening not to be missed!
