There are many incredible things to do in St Albans, from visiting its beautiful cathedral to exploring the scenic Heartwood Forest nearby, and many are suitable for families with young kids.
St Albans is one of the most popular UK city breaks by train because of how easy it is to get to from London, taking just 20 minutes from St Pancras, so it’s a great destination for a weekend away or even just a day out.
To help plan your visit to this part of Hertfordshire, check out these fun things to do with kids in St Albans.
1. Willows Activity Farm
If you’re seeking an enjoyable family outing, Willows Activity Farm is an ideal destination to spend a day with your kids, and it’s located just on the outskirts of St Albans.
This venue offers a wide array of attractions, including hundreds of farm animals, a variety of engaging activities, and an exciting maize maze, ensuring that the little ones will be thoroughly entertained.
There’s also a range of fun activities like softplay, trampolines, and the uniquely exciting chance to go panning for gold.
Plus, there is a convenient on-site café that caters to your snack, lunch, and tea needs, although you are welcome to bring a picnic if you prefer.
2. Verulamium Park
Located on the site of an ancient Roman town, Verulamium Park is one of the nicest and most popular parks in St Albans, attracting families, dog walkers, and strollers who wish to enjoy a pleasant outing.
With its range of amenities, including a play area, café, boating lake, and football fields, the park offers is a great spot for families to spend some time, especially on a sunny day when can really enjoy a picnic of the dry ground.
Bring some bird food and kids can also have a lot of fun feeding the ducks, swans, and other waterfowl that inhabit the picturesque lake in the centre of the park.
What’s more, from Verulamium Park, it’s a convenient stroll to other nearby attractions, such as the Verulamium Museum, the Roman walls, Westminster Lodge, and St Albans Cathedral, so you can easily explore the area’s rich heritage and landmarks.
3. Heartwood Forest
Featuring over half a million trees, including ancient woodland nestled amidst expansive newly-planted forests, Heartwood Forest offers some of the best trails for those looking for walks near St Albans.
Spanning an impressive 858 acres, it contains a varied network of walking routes through woodland, fields, and hills that kids can have a lot of fun exploring.
One of the best things to do in St Albans with kids is to follow one of the designated trails – the Magical Meander – which is an easy 1.5-mile route. Taking just an hour, it’s perfect for families and takes you to the Magical Wood, which is a great spot for a picnic.
Heartwood Forest not only provides a refreshing countryside retreat just a short drive north of St Albans, but it also ranks among the finest locations in the UK to witness the enchanting beauty of blooming bluebells during springtime.
Head into the ancient Langley Wood, especially in late April and early May, and kids can have a fun time following the marked trails through the gorgeously vibrant bluebells.
Parking at Heartwood Forest doesn’t cost a thing either, so a visit here is also one of the best free things to do in St Albans.
4. The Odyssey Cinema
The Odyssey is an independent cinema located in St Albans that has a rich history, tracing its origins back to 1908. Following a period of neglect, it underwent a renovation in 2014 and now showcases a charming design reminiscent of the 1930s.
While this single-screen cinema is a popular spot for a date night in St Albans, it also shows matinees on the weekend that often cater for kid-friendly films, both recent releases and family classic.
The Odyssey also sells a family ticket that provides discounted seats to two adults and two childre.
A well-stocked bar at the cinema also serves a tempting array of snacks and refreshments, so there’s always an option if anyone’s feeling a little peckish.
5. De Havilland Aircraft Museum
Located a short drive out of St Albans, just off the M25 near London Colney, the De Havilland Aircraft Museum is a fun spot to visit for families with children.
With free parking and no need to pre-book tickets, it’s easy to access this unique museum that’s perfect for curious young minds.
A range of aircraft can be seen both outside and within the three different hangars, where you can see the famous de Havilland Mosquitos on display.
You can even book an experience to sit inside the cockpit of a Mosquito FB Mk.VI and get a special commentary from a guide covering the history and controls of the aircraft.
