OUR Spotlight On column takes an indepth look at the best things to see and do in popular holiday destinations, as well as shining a light on the lesser-known spots.
This week, we look at the historic Hertfordshire city of St Alban’s, home to more pubs per square mile than any other UK destination.
The Sun’s Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski is a local, and knows all the best spots.
She said: “Despite being an action-packed city, just a 20-minute train ride from the UK’s capital, St Albans has managed to maintain a village-y feel with cosy cafes run by locals and tiny boutiques selling hand-painted homeware.
“It’s absolutely crawling with fascinating history and claims to be home to the oldest pub in Britain, Ye Olde Fighting Cocks – a local rumour claims that a set of old tunnels, dug by monks, lurk beneath the pub leading all the way up the hill to the cathedral.
“Every Saturday and Wednesday, the streets are full of traders flogging from tiny market stalls.
“First established in 860, it is said to be the second oldest market in the UK.”
Here are some other top tips including where to stay.
MUST SEE/DO
Hertfordshire’s only city has a fascinating history dating back more than 2,000 years.
St Albans was a huge hub in the Roman era and you can still see the remains of an ancient wall when you stroll around the 100-acre Verulamium Park.
The striking cathedral is one of the city’s main attractions, and daily tours are free.
Be sure to swing by the cafe there for some seriously tasty sausage rolls.
HIDDEN GEM
Not many people know that you can watch a play in an actual Roman theatre. Upcoming plays at the Roman Theatre include Sherlock Holmes, The Importance Of Being Earnest and Twelfth Night.
The venue is entirely outdoors so bring your own blanket, or you can rent one on site. There’s also a bar. BEST VIEW: The Clock Tower, dating back to 1405, stands in pride of place at the foot of the city’s cobbled high street.
It opens to the public every weekend and bank holiday from 10.30am until 5pm and visitors can climb to the top for great views of the town and surrounding countryside.
An action-packed market runs every Saturday from behind the tower, so you can use the Clock Tower as a vantage point from which to plot out which stalls you want to visit.
RATED RESTAURANT
The Silver Palate, a local deli just behind the Clock Tower, serves knock-out sandwiches and smoothies.
For something a little fancier, French restaurant Hazels puts some of London’s classiest dining spots to shame with its cracking sharing menu that changes weekly.
Expect dishes like smoked ham hock and Parmesan croquettes, as well as spiced lamb-ragu hummus.
Also drop into Glaze bakery for a pastry or dessert. You may recognise owner Oli from his witty videos on social media.
BEST BAR
The Boot, housed in a dinky Grade II-listed building, is slap-bang in the city centre.
But if the sun is shining, head to Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, which has an excellent pub garden that borders the park.
For something a little classier, Suckerpunch does sophisticated cocktails.
HOTEL PICK
McFly‘s Tom Fletcher and singer Rochelle Humes are among the stars who have stayed at swanky 5H hotel Sopwell House and enjoyed its lush spa.
Rooms there start from a hefty £329 per night, but for something a little less eyewatering, head to the Samuel Ryder Hotel.
This centrally located joint is part of the Hilton brand and has rooms from £149 per night. See hilton.com.