Sopwell Lane area

sopwell

Located in the old conservation area of the city, these pretty period streets are a stone’s throw from the historic cathedral (listen out for the bells) and Holywell Hill in the heart of the city, with its independent shops, bars and restaurants.

Cafes, shops, bars and restaurants

St. Albans is known for having the greatest number of pubs per square mile, and this area has five characterful and cosy pubs in and around Sopwell Lane: The Goat Inn, The Garibaldi, The White Hart Tap, Hare and Hounds and The White Lion. 

Nearby Holywell Hill offers a wide range of independent restaurants, cafes, bars and shops, including Chloe James Lifestyle for fashion and gifts, The Bishop’s Cave for cheese and wine and Per Tutti for authentic Italian food.

Schools

Popular local primary schools include St Peter’s School, the Abbey CofE Primary School and St Albans City School, all recently rated Good by OFSTED.

Parks and green spaces

Verulamium Park lies opposite Holywell Hill, with rolling parkland stretching from the Cathedral to Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre and down to pretty St Michael’s Village. The Park is home to the remains of the city’s ancient Roman Wall, as well as two lakes, a café and children’s play areas. Nearby Sopwell Nunnery is a quiet spot to enjoy a walk or picnic beside the backdrop of the remains of a Tudor mansion.