The present church, begun in 1077 and the largest building in the land at the time, replaced an earlier Benedictine abbey founded by King Offa in ad 793. Today the Cathedral is a busy centre for church, cultural and civic events.
The Abbot’s Kitchen is located in the Chapter House and is perfect for delicious hot or cold lunches, afternoon teas and refreshments. Other facilities include guided tours, exhibitions, concerts, shops and a warm welcome for visitors of all ages.
Price: no entry fee but a donation is suggested.
The Cathedral has a team of trained volunteer Guides who welcome visitors, lead formal tours and are available to provide information.
There are many unique sights to take in when you visit the Cathedral, plus an exciting programme of events, tours and concerts.
Please visit the website www.stalbanscathedral.org/news to find out about all the events happening in the coming months.
The Hot Cross Bun is said to originate in St Albans, where Brother Thomas Rocliffe, a 14th Century monk at St Albans Abbey, developed an original recipe and distributed the bun to the local poor on Good Friday, starting in 1361. Find out more on the St Albans Cathedral website.
The spectacular Pilgrimage Procession of giant puppets retells the story of Alban’s martyrdom, as pilgrims retrace the route from the place of Alban’s trial to the hill on which he was executed. It is not only a stunning spectacle; it is a profoundly moving experience. The procession starts at 1100 from St Peter’s Church and travels through the City Centre to the West End of the Cathedral. A Festival Eucharist follows at 1200 with a Festival Evensong at 1600.
The Alban Pilgrimage takes place annually on the Saturday nearest to 22nd June – St Albans Day.
Visit England VAQAS Quality Assured visitor attraction
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