St Albans Market: A Historic Hub of Trade and Community
Experience centuries of vibrant trade and community spirit at St Albans Market, Britain’s award-winning outdoor marketplace.
St Albans Market, located on St Peter's Street in the heart of St Albans, is a vibrant outdoor market with roots dating back to 860 AD. Operating mainly on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, it offers a rich mix of fresh produce, artisan goods, vintage items, and street food. Recognized as the Best Large Outdoor Market in Britain, it blends centuries of history with a lively contemporary shopping experience.
A brief summary to St Albans Market
- St Peter's St, St Albans, AL1 3DP, GB
- +441727819227
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-3 pm
- Friday 9 am-3 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am-3 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Wednesdays or Saturdays for the full market experience, with stalls open from around 9am to 4:30pm.
- Check out the special Sunday markets for vintage finds, vegan products, and local artisanal foods.
- Bring cash as some smaller vendors may not accept cards, though many do.
- Arrive early to enjoy the freshest produce and best selection before the afternoon rush.
- Explore beyond food stalls to discover unique crafts, jewellery, and vintage clothing.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
St Albans Market 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 St Albans Market
Ancient Origins and Enduring Legacy
St Albans Market stands on a foundation of history stretching back over a millennium, established circa 860 AD by Abbot Wulsin. Its origins are even older, tracing to the Roman settlement of Verulamium and the Catuvellaunian settlement of Verlamion from 20 BCE. The market's right to operate was formalized in 1553 by letters patent from Edward VI, embedding it as a central feature of St Albans' civic life. This deep heritage is visible in the market’s continued role as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike, maintaining a tradition of vibrant trade through the centuries.A Diverse and Dynamic Marketplace
Today, St Albans Market thrives as a colourful twice-weekly event held on Wednesdays and Saturdays, with additional special markets on Sundays. It offers an eclectic mix of fresh fruits and vegetables, artisan foods, local cheeses, meats, baked goods, and a wide range of handcrafted items including jewellery, vintage clothing, and homewares. The street food section is notable for its global aromas and diverse offerings, reflecting the market’s role as a cultural crossroads. Seasonal and themed markets, such as the Vintage Market and Vegan Market, further enrich the experience, drawing niche audiences and supporting local producers.Community and Cultural Significance
The market is more than a commercial venue; it is a vibrant community hub. It supports multi-generational family businesses and emerging entrepreneurs, fostering local economic resilience. Regular events and festivals enliven the streets with music, entertainment, and artisan showcases, reinforcing the market’s role as a social and cultural focal point. The market’s recognition as the Best Large Outdoor Market in Britain underscores its importance and success in blending tradition with innovation.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Visitors to St Albans Market are greeted by a lively, friendly atmosphere filled with the scents of fresh produce and street food. The market’s setting along historic St Peter’s Street enhances its charm, with the backdrop of St Albans’ rich architectural heritage. Shoppers can find everything from everyday essentials to unique gifts, enjoying the convivial buzz of a well-established market that balances the old and new. The market’s layout encourages exploration, with stalls carefully curated to offer quality and variety.Supporting Local and Sustainable Trade
St Albans Market champions local producers and sustainable practices. Many vendors focus on organic, ethically sourced, and artisanal products, contributing to an eco-conscious shopping experience. The market’s emphasis on quality at fair prices supports the local economy and encourages environmentally responsible consumption. It also serves as a platform for community groups and charitable causes through donations and events, reinforcing its role as a socially engaged institution.Continuity and Future Developments
The market continues to evolve, with plans to introduce a hybrid format combining traditional stalls and market gazebos in the city’s blue and yellow colours. Discussions about expanding market days and enhancing the visitor experience reflect ongoing community involvement and commitment to preserving the market’s vitality. This blend of respect for tradition and openness to change ensures St Albans Market remains a cherished and dynamic destination for years to come.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Premier Inn London Elstree / Borehamwood hotel
11.9 km
Comfortable, accessible 3-star hotel near Elstree Studios with great dining and easy London connections.
Pinner Hill Golf Club
16.3 km
Discover Pinner Hill Golf Club, a beautiful golfing haven in Middlesex offering a stunning course and welcoming atmosphere for all golf enthusiasts.
Panshanger Park
16.5 km
Explore the beauty of Panshanger Park in Hertford, a natural paradise perfect for relaxation, adventure, and breathtaking scenic views.
The Weald Stone
16.5 km
An ancient sarsen stone marking centuries of history and identity at the heart of Harrow Wealdstone.
Whitewebbs Museum of Transport
18.5 km
Explore the rich history of transportation at Whitewebbs Museum of Transport, featuring vintage vehicles and fascinating memorabilia in Enfield.
Middlesex University London
19.6 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
20.3 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
20.4 km
Discover the hidden gem of Ruislip at Manor Farm Library, where literature meets community in a picturesque setting.
St Martin's
20.5 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
21.9 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
23.2 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
23.4 km
Europe's first traditional Hindu stone temple: a masterpiece of faith, craftsmanship, and community in North London.
Down Barns Moated Site
23.8 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
23.9 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
25.0 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
The Maltings
0.2 km
A historic and vibrant shopping centre blending heritage charm with modern retail in the heart of St Albans.
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
0.2 km
Explore St Albans, a historic cathedral city blending Roman heritage, medieval grandeur, and vibrant market life just outside London.
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.
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
1.1 km
Step into Roman Britain at Verulamium Museum, where history, mosaics, and ancient ruins bring St Albans’ past vividly to life.
Abbey View Retail Park
1.2 km
Modern retail park with major stores, free parking, and convenient access south of St Albans town centre.
St Michael's Church
1.2 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
1.4 km
Britain's only Roman theatre with a stage, blending ancient ruins with live summer performances in historic St Albans.
The Galleria
6.8 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
8.7 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
8.9 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
0.2 km
Sophisticated British brasserie with Art Deco charm, generous portions, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of historic 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.
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.
Loft St Albans
0.3 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
1.4 km
Family-friendly British dining with hearty grills, fresh salads, and a welcoming atmosphere in St Albans’ charming Harvester Ancient Briton.
The Wicked Lady
6.0 km
A charming Hertfordshire gastropub blending rustic tradition with modern British cuisine in a warm, inviting countryside setting.
Lussmanns Sustainable Kitchen & Garden
6.9 km
Historic coach house dining with a sustainable British menu, charming garden, and warm hospitality in Harpenden’s heart.
Le Moulin Restaurant
7.5 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
10.7 km
A charming English pub in Bell Bar offering classic British fare, cozy fires, and a spacious beer garden near Hatfield.
Roy's Restaurant
12.1 km
A warm, modern British restaurant in Welwyn offering diverse dishes, attentive service, and a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere.
St James Restaurant
12.1 km
Creative Modern British dining with exceptional service in the heart of Bushey’s vibrant High Street.
Hatche Bistro Grill & Bar
12.8 km
Family-owned Mediterranean bistro with charcoal-grilled specialties and warm hospitality on Potters Bar High Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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.
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.
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
1.6 km
A unique St. Albans wellness centre blending holistic therapies, mental health support, and mindful shopping under one welcoming roof.
Pebble Home Interiors
4.6 km
A charming boutique blending rustic charm with stylish homewares and gifts, perfect for thoughtful decorating and gifting.
Dela's Gift Shop
9.0 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and spiritual treasures in a warm, welcoming boutique at the heart of Hemel Hempstead.
The Marlowes Shopping Centre
9.2 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.
Miss Boutique
16.5 km
Discover curated fashion and unique gifts in Knebworth’s cozy and stylish Miss Boutique on London Road.
The Copper Collection
16.6 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
16.7 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.
Magpie Amore
18.4 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and gifts at Magpie Amore, Hertford’s curated boutique for exceptional style and sustainable shopping.
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
6.2 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
8.6 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
8.7 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
11.5 km
A cherished Hertfordshire country pub famed for its real ales, hearty fare, sunny garden, and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Alford Arms
13.3 km
A charming Victorian gastropub in the Chilterns offering seasonal British fare, local ales, and warm community spirit in a scenic rural setting.
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.
The Beehive
14.8 km
A charming Hertford country pub offering hearty British fare, warm hospitality, and a cozy rural atmosphere in Epping Green.
Coach & Horses
15.5 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
18.1 km
Classic British pub charm meets quality dining and warm hospitality in Hertford’s welcoming Millstream.
The Black Horse Hertford
18.2 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
18.4 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
18.4 km
Classic British pub charm meets modern dining and lively atmosphere in the heart of Hertford’s Castle Street.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Havana
0.2 km
Vibrant late-night nightclub and bar in St Albans offering energetic music and lively weekend entertainment.
The Forum Hertfordshire
6.7 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
9.3 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
11.4 km
Experience vibrant nights of music, dancing, and cocktails at Canvas Bar & Nightclub in the heart of Watford’s High Street.
Popworld Watford
11.4 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
14.6 km
Luton’s lively Romanian-themed night club and sports bar with authentic football culture and late-night weekend vibes.
—
18.5 km
Vibrant nightclub and Asian fusion lounge blending historic charm with lively nightlife in Hertford’s Parliament Square.
The Hertford Club
18.6 km
A historic private members’ club in Hertford, renowned for real ales, hearty home-cooked meals, and a vibrant social scene.
Penthouse Playrooms
20.3 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
26.7 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
26.8 km
Historic Camden stables turned electrifying nightclub: dance in Victorian horse stalls amid live music, cabaret, and pulsing beats in London's nightlife epicenter.
TWC
26.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
Lockside
27.0 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
27.3 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
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
