Ye Olde Fighting Cocks: England’s Historic Riverside Pub
Step into England’s oldest pub, where medieval heritage meets riverside charm and authentic British ales in St Albans.
Ye Olde Fighting Cocks in St Albans is reputedly Britain’s oldest pub, dating back to the 8th century. Nestled beside Verulamium Park lake, this charming pub offers a unique blend of historic ambiance, traditional British fare, and a quality selection of real ales. Its quaint timber-framed building, lively atmosphere, and riverside garden make it a popular spot for locals and visitors seeking an authentic English pub experience.
A brief summary to Ye Olde Fighting Cocks
- 16 Abbey Mill Ln, St Albans, AL3 4HE, GB
- +441727869152
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-11 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-12 am
- Saturday 12 pm-12 am
- Sunday 12 pm-11 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays or early afternoons for a quieter experience and more attentive service.
- Try the Sunday roast for a traditional British meal with all the trimmings.
- Enjoy a pint of real ale certified by Cask Marque to savor authentic local flavors.
- Make use of the garden seating in good weather for a scenic riverside drink or meal.
- Be prepared for busy weekends; booking for events or parties is recommended.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Information Boards
Ye Olde Fighting Cocks location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Ye Olde Fighting Cocks
A Storied Past Rooted in Medieval England
Ye Olde Fighting Cocks claims a heritage stretching back to around 793 AD, making it one of the oldest pubs in England. Its timber-framed structure and historic setting beside Verulamium Park lake in St Albans evoke centuries of English social and cultural history. The pub’s name and character reflect a bygone era, where it served as a gathering place for locals and travelers alike, steeped in traditions that have endured through the ages.Architectural Charm and Riverside Setting
The building’s rustic, timber-framed design creates an intimate and cozy atmosphere that transports visitors back in time. Inside, low beams and traditional decor complement the historic fabric, while outside, the pub boasts a spacious garden overlooking the serene waters of Verulamium Park lake. This riverside location enhances the tranquil yet lively ambience, offering a scenic backdrop for enjoying a pint or a meal.Authentic British Pub Experience with Quality Ales
Ye Olde Fighting Cocks is renowned for its selection of real ales, many certified by Cask Marque, ensuring quality and authenticity. The pub serves classic British dishes such as pies, fish and chips, and hearty Sunday roasts, with a daily changing menu that keeps offerings fresh and interesting. While the menu is not extensive, it focuses on traditional, well-prepared fare that complements the pub’s historic character.Atmosphere and Social Vibe
The pub attracts a diverse crowd of locals, tourists, and history enthusiasts, creating a warm and welcoming environment. Despite busy periods, especially on weekends, the staff are generally praised for their friendliness and efficiency. The lively atmosphere is enhanced by occasional events such as open mic nights, adding to the venue’s charm and community spirit.Visitor Amenities and Practical Details
Open daily from noon until late evening, Ye Olde Fighting Cocks offers ample seating both indoors and in its garden area. The pub is family-friendly and dog-friendly, with facilities catering to various dietary needs including gluten-free options. While parking can be challenging nearby, the pub’s central location in St Albans makes it accessible by multiple transport modes.Legacy and Cultural Significance
More than just a pub, Ye Olde Fighting Cocks stands as a living monument to England’s rich pub culture and medieval heritage. Its enduring presence beside historic landmarks and Verulamium Park connects visitors to centuries of local history, making it a must-visit for those seeking both cultural insight and a genuine taste of traditional English hospitality.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Premier Inn London Elstree / Borehamwood hotel
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Panshanger Park
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Whitewebbs Museum of Transport
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Explore the rich history of transportation at Whitewebbs Museum of Transport, featuring vintage vehicles and fascinating memorabilia in Enfield.
Middlesex University London
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Manor Farm Library
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The King's Head Gantry
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Historic King's Head Gantry in Harrow on the Hill, a royal relic and iconic village landmark steeped in centuries of heritage.
St Martin's
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Experience the serene beauty and community spirit at St Martin's Church in Ruislip, a perfect blend of history and tranquility.
Pynchester Moated site
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Explore the historical charm of Pynchester Moated Site in Ickenham, a serene retreat into England's medieval heritage amidst picturesque landscapes.
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London
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Queen's Wood
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Explore the tranquility of Queen's Wood, a serene nature reserve in London perfect for leisurely walks and wildlife spotting amidst stunning greenery.
Down Barns Moated Site
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Discover the Down Barns Moated Site, a hidden historical gem in Northolt, rich in medieval history and surrounded by tranquil nature.
Rye House Gatehouse
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Discover the historical essence of England at the Rye House Gatehouse, a captivating landmark and museum in Hoddesdon, showcasing its rich heritage.
Battle of Britain Bunker
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Explore the Battle of Britain Bunker: a historical museum in Uxbridge revealing the courage and strategies that changed the course of World War II.
Royal Free Hospital
25.0 km
Discover the Royal Free Hospital, a historic healthcare institution in London, blending tradition with modern medical excellence.
Downhills Park
25.2 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 Cathedral
0.4 km
Discover the historic St Albans Cathedral, a majestic blend of architecture, history, and spirituality in the heart of England.
Verulamium Park
0.4 km
Explore 100 acres of Roman history, scenic lakes, and family fun in the heart of St Albans at award-winning Verulamium Park.
The Clock Tower
0.5 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
0.5 km
Explore St Albans, a historic cathedral city blending Roman heritage, medieval grandeur, and vibrant market life just outside London.
Verulamium Museum
0.7 km
Step into Roman Britain at Verulamium Museum, where history, mosaics, and ancient ruins bring St Albans’ past vividly to life.
St Albans Market
0.7 km
A historic and bustling outdoor market in St Albans offering fresh produce, artisan goods, and vibrant community spirit every Wednesday and Saturday.
The Maltings
0.7 km
A historic and vibrant shopping centre blending heritage charm with modern retail in the heart of St Albans.
St Michael's Church
0.8 km
Discover the oldest Anglo-Saxon church in Hertfordshire, built on Roman ruins and steeped in over a millennium of history and artistry.
Abbey View Retail Park
0.8 km
Modern retail park with major stores, free parking, and convenient access south of St Albans town centre.
Roman Theatre of Verulamium
1.0 km
Britain's only Roman theatre with a stage, blending ancient ruins with live summer performances in historic St Albans.
Longspring Wood
6.2 km
A serene 1.2-hectare woodland retreat in Kings Langley, famed for its bluebell carpets and rich local wildlife.
The Galleria
7.4 km
Hatfield’s covered outlet hub with 80+ stores, dining, cinema and family play, all under one roof just off the A1(M).
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London
8.2 km
Walk the actual sets where Harry Potter magic came to life—an immersive journey through eight films' worth of filmmaking brilliance.
Riverside Shopping Centre
8.7 km
A vibrant and accessible shopping hub at the heart of Hemel Hempstead, offering diverse retail and dining experiences for all visitors.
Enchanted England Tours
9.4 km
Discover England’s magic and history with bespoke private tours from Hatfield, blending folklore, royal heritage, and scenic beauty.
Essential places to dine
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.
Lussmanns Sustainable Kitchen
0.4 km
Savor modern British cuisine with a sustainable focus in a stylish, welcoming setting in the heart of St Albans.
The Ivy St Albans Brasserie
0.5 km
Sophisticated British brasserie with Art Deco charm, generous portions, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of historic St Albans.
Thompson St Albans
1.0 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
1.0 km
Refined British fine dining with seasonal flair and impeccable service at Darcy's in St Albans.
Harvester Ancient Briton St Albans
2.0 km
Family-friendly British dining with hearty grills, fresh salads, and a welcoming atmosphere in St Albans’ charming Harvester Ancient Briton.
The Wicked Lady
6.7 km
A charming Hertfordshire gastropub blending rustic tradition with modern British cuisine in a warm, inviting countryside setting.
Lussmanns Sustainable Kitchen & Garden
7.3 km
Historic coach house dining with a sustainable British menu, charming garden, and warm hospitality in Harpenden’s heart.
Le Moulin Restaurant
8.1 km
Experience authentic French fine dining in the cozy charm of Wheathampstead at Le Moulin Restaurant.
Auberge du Lac
9.2 km
Elegant Modern British dining with estate-grown ingredients in a historic lakeside lodge at Brocket Hall Estate.
The Waggoners
10.6 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
11.2 km
A charming English pub in Bell Bar offering classic British fare, cozy fires, and a spacious beer garden near Hatfield.
St James Restaurant
11.6 km
Creative Modern British dining with exceptional service in the heart of Bushey’s vibrant High Street.
Roy's Restaurant
12.8 km
A warm, modern British restaurant in Welwyn offering diverse dishes, attentive service, and a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere.
Hatche Bistro Grill & Bar
13.2 km
Family-owned Mediterranean bistro with charcoal-grilled specialties and warm hospitality on Potters Bar High Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Olivia Rose Fairtrade
0.5 km
A colourful fair-trade gift shop in St Albans’ charming Village Arcade, offering handmade jewellery, bags, toys and homewares with a conscience.
Chloe James Lifestyle
0.5 km
Discover ethical fashion, unique jewellery, and curated gifts in the heart of St Albans at Chloe James Lifestyle boutique.
The Dressing Room
0.5 km
Discover contemporary women's fashion and personalized service at The Dressing Room, a stylish boutique in the heart of St Albans.
Christopher Place Shopping Centre
0.5 km
A stylish open-air shopping and dining destination at the heart of historic St Albans with top brands and family-friendly charm.
Im Fine Wellbeing - St. Albans
2.2 km
A unique St. Albans wellness centre blending holistic therapies, mental health support, and mindful shopping under one welcoming roof.
Pebble Home Interiors
4.0 km
A charming boutique blending rustic charm with stylish homewares and gifts, perfect for thoughtful decorating and gifting.
Dela's Gift Shop
8.4 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and spiritual treasures in a warm, welcoming boutique at the heart of Hemel Hempstead.
The Marlowes Shopping Centre
8.6 km
A spacious and accessible shopping hub blending popular brands with unique local stores in the heart of Hemel Hempstead.
The Howard Centre
11.4 km
Welwyn Garden City’s vibrant shopping centre offering diverse stores, dining, and community events in a welcoming, accessible setting.
Spry Scents
12.4 km
Explore the enchanting world of fragrances at Spry Scents in Welwyn Garden City, where every scent tells a story.
The Copper Collection
16.1 km
Discover unique handcrafted treasures and local artistry at The Copper Collection, a charming gift shop in Pinner open daily.
Chamak Craft Art & Decor | Handmade Gifts for Home and Business | Stanmore, Harrow
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Discover authentic Indian handmade crafts and unique gifts at Chamak Craft Art & Decor, a vibrant cultural hub in Stanmore.
Miss Boutique
17.2 km
Discover curated fashion and unique gifts in Knebworth’s cozy and stylish Miss Boutique on London Road.
Fabulous Woman Limited
18.1 km
Explore luxurious beauty and wellness at Fabulous Woman Limited, the ultimate health and beauty destination for tourists seeking rejuvenation.
En Route
18.3 km
Explore En Route in Chesham for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the essence of this charming community.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ye Olde Fighting Cocks
0.0 km
Step into England’s oldest pub, where medieval heritage meets riverside charm and authentic British ales in St Albans.
The Elephant and Castle
6.8 km
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The Crooked Chimney
8.7 km
A cozy, rustic country pub in Lemsford offering hearty British fare and a warm, inviting atmosphere near Welwyn Garden City.
The Great Northern
9.3 km
A vibrant Hatfield pub blending classic fare, lively events, and a welcoming community atmosphere near the Odyssey cinema.
Red Lion
9.3 km
A lively Hatfield pub-restaurant blending hearty British classics, quirky charm, and a welcoming atmosphere for families and friends.
Horse and Groom
9.3 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
12.1 km
A cherished Hertfordshire country pub famed for its real ales, hearty fare, sunny garden, and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Alford Arms
12.9 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
15.3 km
A charming Hertford country pub offering hearty British fare, warm hospitality, and a cozy rural atmosphere in Epping Green.
Plume of Feathers
15.4 km
Historic 400-year-old country pub in Tewin offering traditional British fare, family-friendly gardens, and lively community events.
Coach & Horses
16.1 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
18.8 km
Classic British pub charm meets quality dining and warm hospitality in Hertford’s welcoming Millstream.
The Black Horse Hertford
18.8 km
Historic 1642 timbered pub in Hertford with wood-fired pizzas, real ales, a large garden, and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
The Old Orchard
19.0 km
A charming gastropub in Harefield offering stunning views, refined British cuisine, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Old Cross Tavern
19.0 km
Historic Hertford pub renowned for award-winning ales, traditional charm, and a welcoming community atmosphere in a Grade II-listed setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Havana
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Vibrant late-night nightclub and bar in St Albans offering energetic music and lively weekend entertainment.
The Forum Hertfordshire
7.2 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
8.7 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
10.8 km
Experience vibrant nights of music, dancing, and cocktails at Canvas Bar & Nightclub in the heart of Watford’s High Street.
Popworld Watford
10.8 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
14.8 km
Luton’s lively Romanian-themed night club and sports bar with authentic football culture and late-night weekend vibes.
—
19.2 km
Vibrant nightclub and Asian fusion lounge blending historic charm with lively nightlife in Hertford’s Parliament Square.
The Hertford Club
19.2 km
A historic private members’ club in Hertford, renowned for real ales, hearty home-cooked meals, and a vibrant social scene.
Penthouse Playrooms
20.2 km
A vibrant adult nightclub in Dunstable offering themed events and lively weekend entertainment for an energetic night out.
Winkers Nightclub
20.6 km
A lively, budget-friendly nightclub in Gerrards Cross offering energetic music and a casual local vibe for weekend partygoers.
TWC
26.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
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
26.7 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.
Electric Ballroom
27.2 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
- Historic
- Lively
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
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
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly