The Maltings Shopping Centre in St Albans
A historic and vibrant shopping centre blending heritage charm with modern retail in the heart of St Albans.
The Maltings is a centrally located shopping centre in St Albans, offering a mix of high street brands and independent shops alongside cafés, a public library, and a studio theatre. Opened in 1988 by Princess Diana, it combines modern retail convenience with historical roots, situated near the historic Chequer Street and the former brewery district. The centre provides a welcoming, pedestrian-friendly environment with ample parking and a variety of amenities.
A brief summary to The Maltings
- 28 Victoria St, St Albans, AL1 3HL, GB
- +441727844226
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9 am-6 pm
- Friday 9 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays for a quieter shopping experience and easier parking.
- Explore the Maltings Art Theatre and public library within the centre for cultural enrichment.
- Take time to enjoy the cafés and eateries for a relaxing break during your shopping trip.
- Use the multi-storey car park which offers reasonable tariffs and 24-hour access.
- Combine your visit with a walk around nearby historic Chequer Street and St Albans Cathedral.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Parking
Getting There
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Train
From London, take a train to St Albans City station; the centre is a 10-15 minute walk from the station. Trains run frequently with fares typically ranging from £7 to £15 one way.
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Bus
Several local bus routes serve the city centre with stops near The Maltings, including routes 305 and 306. Journey times vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on starting point, with single fares around £2 to £4.
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Car
The Maltings has a multi-storey car park open 24 hours with parking charges starting at £2 for up to one hour and £7 for up to six hours. Access may be limited during peak shopping times.
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Walking
If staying nearby in St Albans city centre, The Maltings is easily accessible on foot via pedestrian-friendly routes, with flat terrain suitable for all abilities. Walking times from central hotels typically range from 5 to 15 minutes.
The Maltings location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Maltings
A Historic Heart of St Albans Retail
The Maltings Shopping Centre was officially opened on April 14, 1988, by Diana, Princess of Wales, marking a significant development in the retail landscape of St Albans. The site has deep historical connections, located near Chequer Street, one of the oldest streets in the city, once known as 'Maltchepyng' for its association with malt markets and breweries dating back to the 15th century. The centre's development preserved and restored surrounding historic buildings, blending the old with the new to create a vibrant shopping destination in the town centre.A Diverse Shopping and Cultural Experience
Today, The Maltings offers a wide range of shopping options including popular high street names like H&M, TK Maxx, Sports Direct, Oliver Bonas, Schuh, and The Body Shop, as well as independent retailers. Beyond shopping, the centre hosts a public library and a studio theatre, enriching the cultural fabric of the community. Cafés such as Costa Coffee provide relaxed spaces to meet and unwind, making The Maltings a hub for both commerce and social interaction.Architecture and Atmosphere
Designed as an open pedestrian shopping street, The Maltings offers a traffic-free, accessible environment that encourages leisurely browsing. The centre’s layout integrates restored historic structures alongside modern retail units, creating a unique blend of heritage and contemporary design. The multi-storey car park supports convenient access, while the centre’s central location places it within easy reach of St Albans’ other attractions, including the Town Hall and Market Place.Community and Convenience
The Maltings serves as more than just a shopping centre; it is a community focal point. The presence of a private health clinic and small business offices within the complex adds to its multifunctional character. With opening hours from 9am to 6pm Monday to Saturday and 10am to 5pm on Sundays, visitors have ample time to explore. Parking tariffs are reasonable, and the centre is well-equipped with amenities such as restrooms, seating areas, and information boards.Location and Surroundings
Situated at 28 Victoria Street, The Maltings is embedded in the historic core of St Albans, close to landmarks like the Cathedral and the vibrant market area. The surrounding streets, including Chequer Street, offer additional shopping and dining experiences, making the area a rich destination for visitors. The centre’s proximity to public transport links and train stations enhances its accessibility for both locals and tourists.Legacy and Ongoing Role
Over three decades since its opening, The Maltings remains a key part of St Albans’ retail and cultural scene. It has adapted to changing retail trends while maintaining its heritage charm and community focus. The centre continues to attract a mix of shoppers seeking both familiar brands and unique local offerings, sustaining its reputation as a welcoming and well-maintained shopping destination in Hertfordshire.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Premier Inn London Elstree / Borehamwood hotel
11.8 km
Comfortable, accessible 3-star hotel near Elstree Studios with great dining and easy London connections.
Pinner Hill Golf Club
16.2 km
Discover Pinner Hill Golf Club, a beautiful golfing haven in Middlesex offering a stunning course and welcoming atmosphere for all golf enthusiasts.
The Weald Stone
16.4 km
An ancient sarsen stone marking centuries of history and identity at the heart of Harrow Wealdstone.
Panshanger Park
16.4 km
Explore the beauty of Panshanger Park in Hertford, a natural paradise perfect for relaxation, adventure, and breathtaking scenic views.
Whitewebbs Museum of Transport
18.4 km
Explore the rich history of transportation at Whitewebbs Museum of Transport, featuring vintage vehicles and fascinating memorabilia in Enfield.
Middlesex University London
19.5 km
Discover Middlesex University London, where education meets culture in a vibrant campus setting, just a stone's throw from the heart of the city.
The King's Head Gantry
20.1 km
Historic King's Head Gantry in Harrow on the Hill, a royal relic and iconic village landmark steeped in centuries of heritage.
Manor Farm Library
20.3 km
Discover the hidden gem of Ruislip at Manor Farm Library, where literature meets community in a picturesque setting.
St Martin's
20.4 km
Experience the serene beauty and community spirit at St Martin's Church in Ruislip, a perfect blend of history and tranquility.
Pynchester Moated site
21.8 km
Explore the historical charm of Pynchester Moated Site in Ickenham, a serene retreat into England's medieval heritage amidst picturesque landscapes.
Queen's Wood
23.1 km
Explore the tranquility of Queen's Wood, a serene nature reserve in London perfect for leisurely walks and wildlife spotting amidst stunning greenery.
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London
23.3 km
Europe's first traditional Hindu stone temple: a masterpiece of faith, craftsmanship, and community in North London.
Down Barns Moated Site
23.7 km
Discover the Down Barns Moated Site, a hidden historical gem in Northolt, rich in medieval history and surrounded by tranquil nature.
Rye House Gatehouse
23.8 km
Discover the historical essence of England at the Rye House Gatehouse, a captivating landmark and museum in Hoddesdon, showcasing its rich heritage.
Downhills Park
24.9 km
Explore Downhills Park, a tranquil oasis in London offering picturesque gardens, expansive green spaces, and enjoyable recreational activities for all.
Unmissable attractions to see
St Albans Market
0.2 km
A historic and bustling outdoor market in St Albans offering fresh produce, artisan goods, and vibrant community spirit every Wednesday and Saturday.
St Albans
0.2 km
Explore St Albans, a historic cathedral city blending Roman heritage, medieval grandeur, and vibrant market life just outside London.
The Clock Tower
0.2 km
Discover the rich history and breathtaking views at The Clock Tower, a must-see landmark in St Albans that embodies the city's heritage and charm.
St Albans Cathedral
0.4 km
Discover the historic St Albans Cathedral, a majestic blend of architecture, history, and spirituality in the heart of England.
Roman Wall of St Albans
1.0 km
Explore the enduring Roman Wall of St Albans, a monumental relic enclosing the ancient city of Verulamium within scenic Verulamium Park.
Abbey View Retail Park
1.1 km
Modern retail park with major stores, free parking, and convenient access south of St Albans town centre.
Verulamium Park
1.1 km
Explore 100 acres of Roman history, scenic lakes, and family fun in the heart of St Albans at award-winning Verulamium Park.
Verulamium Museum
1.2 km
Step into Roman Britain at Verulamium Museum, where history, mosaics, and ancient ruins bring St Albans’ past vividly to life.
St Michael's Church
1.3 km
Discover the oldest Anglo-Saxon church in Hertfordshire, built on Roman ruins and steeped in over a millennium of history and artistry.
Roman Theatre of Verulamium
1.5 km
Britain's only Roman theatre with a stage, blending ancient ruins with live summer performances in historic St Albans.
The Galleria
6.7 km
Hatfield’s covered outlet hub with 80+ stores, dining, cinema and family play, all under one roof just off the A1(M).
Longspring Wood
7.0 km
A serene 1.2-hectare woodland retreat in Kings Langley, famed for its bluebell carpets and rich local wildlife.
Enchanted England Tours
8.6 km
Discover England’s magic and history with bespoke private tours from Hatfield, blending folklore, royal heritage, and scenic beauty.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London
8.8 km
Walk the actual sets where Harry Potter magic came to life—an immersive journey through eight films' worth of filmmaking brilliance.
Hatfield House, Park and Gardens
8.9 km
A grand Jacobean mansion set in 420 acres of parkland and gardens, once home to Elizabeth I and now a captivating blend of history, architecture, and nature.
Essential places to dine
The Ivy St Albans Brasserie
0.3 km
Sophisticated British brasserie with Art Deco charm, generous portions, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of historic St Albans.
Lussmanns Sustainable Kitchen
0.3 km
Savor modern British cuisine with a sustainable focus in a stylish, welcoming setting in the heart of St Albans.
Thompson St Albans
0.3 km
Experience refined modern European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting with seasonal dishes and expertly paired wines at THOMPSON St Albans.
Phil Thompson Dining Ltd
0.3 km
Refined British fine dining with seasonal flair and impeccable service at Darcy's in St Albans.
Loft St Albans
0.4 km
Stylish Mediterranean and Greek dining in St Albans with fresh seasonal dishes, a cozy lounge, and a welcoming wine bar atmosphere.
Harvester Ancient Briton St Albans
1.6 km
Family-friendly British dining with hearty grills, fresh salads, and a welcoming atmosphere in St Albans’ charming Harvester Ancient Briton.
The Wicked Lady
6.1 km
A charming Hertfordshire gastropub blending rustic tradition with modern British cuisine in a warm, inviting countryside setting.
Lussmanns Sustainable Kitchen & Garden
7.1 km
Historic coach house dining with a sustainable British menu, charming garden, and warm hospitality in Harpenden’s heart.
Le Moulin Restaurant
7.6 km
Experience authentic French fine dining in the cozy charm of Wheathampstead at Le Moulin Restaurant.
Auberge du Lac
8.5 km
Elegant Modern British dining with estate-grown ingredients in a historic lakeside lodge at Brocket Hall Estate.
The Waggoners
9.9 km
A charming French bistro nestled in a traditional English country pub setting, offering authentic cuisine and warm hospitality in Ayot Green.
Cock o’ the North
10.6 km
A charming English pub in Bell Bar offering classic British fare, cozy fires, and a spacious beer garden near Hatfield.
St James Restaurant
12.0 km
Creative Modern British dining with exceptional service in the heart of Bushey’s vibrant High Street.
Roy's Restaurant
12.1 km
A warm, modern British restaurant in Welwyn offering diverse dishes, attentive service, and a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere.
Hatche Bistro Grill & Bar
12.7 km
Family-owned Mediterranean bistro with charcoal-grilled specialties and warm hospitality on Potters Bar High Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Dressing Room
0.2 km
Discover contemporary women's fashion and personalized service at The Dressing Room, a stylish boutique in the heart of St Albans.
Chloe James Lifestyle
0.2 km
Discover ethical fashion, unique jewellery, and curated gifts in the heart of St Albans at Chloe James Lifestyle boutique.
Christopher Place Shopping Centre
0.2 km
A stylish open-air shopping and dining destination at the heart of historic St Albans with top brands and family-friendly charm.
Olivia Rose Fairtrade
0.2 km
A colourful fair-trade gift shop in St Albans’ charming Village Arcade, offering handmade jewellery, bags, toys and homewares with a conscience.
Im Fine Wellbeing - St. Albans
1.5 km
A unique St. Albans wellness centre blending holistic therapies, mental health support, and mindful shopping under one welcoming roof.
Pebble Home Interiors
4.7 km
A charming boutique blending rustic charm with stylish homewares and gifts, perfect for thoughtful decorating and gifting.
Dela's Gift Shop
9.1 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and spiritual treasures in a warm, welcoming boutique at the heart of Hemel Hempstead.
The Marlowes Shopping Centre
9.3 km
A spacious and accessible shopping hub blending popular brands with unique local stores in the heart of Hemel Hempstead.
The Howard Centre
10.7 km
Welwyn Garden City’s vibrant shopping centre offering diverse stores, dining, and community events in a welcoming, accessible setting.
Spry Scents
11.7 km
Explore the enchanting world of fragrances at Spry Scents in Welwyn Garden City, where every scent tells a story.
The Copper Collection
16.5 km
Discover unique handcrafted treasures and local artistry at The Copper Collection, a charming gift shop in Pinner open daily.
Miss Boutique
16.6 km
Discover curated fashion and unique gifts in Knebworth’s cozy and stylish Miss Boutique on London Road.
Chamak Craft Art & Decor | Handmade Gifts for Home and Business | Stanmore, Harrow
16.6 km
Discover authentic Indian handmade crafts and unique gifts at Chamak Craft Art & Decor, a vibrant cultural hub in Stanmore.
Retail Therapy
18.3 km
Discover unique, stylish women's fashion curated globally in Hertford’s charming boutique since 2003.
Fabulous Woman Limited
18.3 km
Explore luxurious beauty and wellness at Fabulous Woman Limited, the ultimate health and beauty destination for tourists seeking rejuvenation.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ye Olde Fighting Cocks
0.7 km
Step into England’s oldest pub, where medieval heritage meets riverside charm and authentic British ales in St Albans.
The Elephant and Castle
6.3 km
Historic 18th-century pub with spacious gardens, unique tepees, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Wheathampstead.
The Crooked Chimney
8.0 km
A cozy, rustic country pub in Lemsford offering hearty British fare and a warm, inviting atmosphere near Welwyn Garden City.
The Great Northern
8.5 km
A vibrant Hatfield pub blending classic fare, lively events, and a welcoming community atmosphere near the Odyssey cinema.
Red Lion
8.6 km
A lively Hatfield pub-restaurant blending hearty British classics, quirky charm, and a welcoming atmosphere for families and friends.
Horse and Groom
8.6 km
Historic 17th-century pub in Old Hatfield offering cozy ambiance, real ales, and classic British fare in a charming timber-framed setting.
The Woodman Wildhill
11.4 km
A cherished Hertfordshire country pub famed for its real ales, hearty fare, sunny garden, and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Alford Arms
13.4 km
A charming Victorian gastropub in the Chilterns offering seasonal British fare, local ales, and warm community spirit in a scenic rural setting.
The Beehive
14.7 km
A charming Hertford country pub offering hearty British fare, warm hospitality, and a cozy rural atmosphere in Epping Green.
Plume of Feathers
14.7 km
Historic 400-year-old country pub in Tewin offering traditional British fare, family-friendly gardens, and lively community events.
Coach & Horses
15.4 km
Quintessential British pub in Hertford offering traditional fare, local ales, live music, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere every day from noon till late.
The Millstream
18.0 km
Classic British pub charm meets quality dining and warm hospitality in Hertford’s welcoming Millstream.
The Black Horse Hertford
18.1 km
Historic 1642 timbered pub in Hertford with wood-fired pizzas, real ales, a large garden, and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
Old Cross Tavern
18.3 km
Historic Hertford pub renowned for award-winning ales, traditional charm, and a welcoming community atmosphere in a Grade II-listed setting.
The White Horse Hertford
18.3 km
Classic British pub charm meets modern dining and lively atmosphere in the heart of Hertford’s Castle Street.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Havana
0.1 km
Vibrant late-night nightclub and bar in St Albans offering energetic music and lively weekend entertainment.
The Forum Hertfordshire
6.6 km
A lively nightclub and live music venue at University of Hertfordshire, hosting diverse cultural events and vibrant nightlife in Hatfield.
VOLTS NIGHT CLUB/ COPPER BAR
9.4 km
A vibrant nightlife hotspot in Hemel Hempstead, Volts Night Club offers energetic music, friendly staff, and a lively dance floor for unforgettable nights out.
Canvas Bar & Nightclub
11.3 km
Experience vibrant nights of music, dancing, and cocktails at Canvas Bar & Nightclub in the heart of Watford’s High Street.
Popworld Watford
11.3 km
A vibrant late-night hotspot in Watford playing all your favorite 90s and 2000s pop classics with fun cocktails and a lively dancefloor.
Mia Musica
14.7 km
Luton’s lively Romanian-themed night club and sports bar with authentic football culture and late-night weekend vibes.
—
18.4 km
Vibrant nightclub and Asian fusion lounge blending historic charm with lively nightlife in Hertford’s Parliament Square.
The Hertford Club
18.5 km
A historic private members’ club in Hertford, renowned for real ales, hearty home-cooked meals, and a vibrant social scene.
Penthouse Playrooms
20.4 km
A vibrant adult nightclub in Dunstable offering themed events and lively weekend entertainment for an energetic night out.
Winkers Nightclub
21.3 km
A lively, budget-friendly nightclub in Gerrards Cross offering energetic music and a casual local vibe for weekend partygoers.
Monster Queen
26.6 km
Dive into Camden's dark heart at Monster Queen: intimate club nights pulsing with goth electronica, historic vibes, and non-stop energy till dawn.
Club Stable
26.6 km
Historic Camden stables turned electrifying nightclub: dance in Victorian horse stalls amid live music, cabaret, and pulsing beats in London's nightlife epicenter.
Lockside
26.9 km
Canal views, craft cocktails, and DJ-fueled nights atop Camden Market's vibrant West Yard—a daytime diner turned electric nightlife escape.
TWC
26.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
Electric Ballroom
27.1 km
A gritty, multi-level Camden music hall where loud live bands and club nights collide beneath theatrical lighting and raised balconies.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Casual
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
