Tourism

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.

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.

Alban is a two act community opera involving over 150 performers which has been commissioned by the St. Albans Cathedral Music Trust. It will be given five performances (including a matinee) in St. Albans Cathedral between May 20-24 2009, bringing together a wealth of local talent. Singers, actors, dancers and musicians of all ages drawn principally, though not exclusively, from parish and school choirs across Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire will join a core of experienced professional performers.

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.

If you have children in our around the St Albans area, you may already be well aware of the recently opened Butterfly World in Chiswell Green and the ever-popular Willows Farm Village near London Colney.

St Albans is covered in a pretty thick blanket of snow. It happens to be one of the busiest weekends of the year with people buying last minute gifts and preparing for parties. Yet the state of the roads make this extremely difficult.

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;

The pretty snowdrops are out and so is the snow! Yes, St Albans is experiencing the familiar sight of snow yet again. Nearby Luton airport has had to cancel many flights due to heavy snowfalls on the runway. However, local schools have remained open.The road conditions are reasonably good, if you manage to ignore the huge potholes! More snow is expected tomorrow night.

You live in St Albans, you are wondering what’s on to entertain you this month…..so we have listed a few of our top choices for you to choose from!

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.