A historic cathedral city where Roman heritage, riverside paths, and green open spaces create a rewarding walking base close to London.
St Albans is one of Hertfordshire’s most appealing destinations for walking holidays, combining a lively historic centre with easy access to open green space. Just 20 miles north of London and well connected by rail, the city offers walkers a rare mix of urban heritage and countryside escape. From the lakes and meadows of Verulamium Park to the River Ver Trail, walking routes lead directly from the city into surrounding villages such as Sandridge, Wheathampstead, and Redbourn.
Beyond the streets and markets, the landscape lends itself to slower outdoor adventures shaped by rivers, parkland, and gently rolling countryside. St Albans is famed for its Roman past, with the remains of Verulamium — including the Roman theatre, city walls, and mosaics — sitting alongside the striking St Albans Cathedral. Walkers can follow the River Ver north toward the Chilterns, explore estate walks around Gorhambury, or enjoy traffic-free routes like the Alban Way.
With a wide choice of places to stay — including hotels, inns, guesthouses, and nearby countryside B&Bs — St Albans works well for short breaks and longer self-guided trips. Its flat riverside routes, parkland paths, and traffic-free trails also make it suitable for relaxed cycling holidays, particularly along the Alban Way and into the wider Hertfordshire countryside.