st albans clock tower

Travelguidebarbie

Stand the kids by the small door in the clock tower under the sign which you will find carved in it. This will make sense when you visit it and take a photo to keep.

N2739WEjohnb

It is at the very centre of the city, at the junction of Market Place and High Street, and is the only medieval belfry left in the country. It was built between 1403 and 1412 by the townspeople of St. Albans as a symbol of their resistance against the power of the abbot of St. Albans.This year it will be officially opened on Friday 3rd April and then will be open every Saturday and Sunday until the end of September, at a cost of only £1. The interior is not wheelchair accessible and there are 93 very narrow and steep steps to the top. The 4th floor still houses the original bell, and the excellent guide on our walking tour today informed us that it was last sounded for the death of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother (in 2002) and before that for the death of Queen Victoria (in 1901).I really enjoyed viewing this and hearing about its significance, and will definitely return one day to ascend it even though my legs are not so good nowadays.

ponytailpoet

This is supposed to be an architectural rarity, and it is certainly not something you are likely to see elsewhere in the UK. There is an amazing tiny door(locked) in the base which has the words "COMMIT NO NUISANCE" painted on it! Most bizarre! It really helped add a medieval charm to the day. Only view-able from the outside of course, but do make a point of seeing it from all angles! Its already inspired my writing!

julietrent

Great view from the top over the whole city. The stairs get thinner the higher you go ~ be warned! Very old and loud when the clock chimes.

MartyMcFly2011

It is in the middle of the town centre but be warn, it can get very busy if you want to take some photos of it..

jessjess2015

great value for money with lovely staff. my kids love going here and we often have to lie about whether it is open or not or we would have to go up every time we go past. great view, only takes 1/2 an hour.

reggief340

At the main juncture of pedestrians and old quaint shops. On a Saturday you can climb this small tower and look across St Albans.

GRAHAMMMCFARLANE

The Clock Tower is well worth a visit - you get a great view of the environs of St. Albans - the grandchildren loved it also.

CharlesGraham79

While not actually that tall due to Alban hill location this bell tower offers impressive view of the city, the catherdral, and surround countryside from the top you also get to see th bell learn about the various uses the bell tower had over century well worth a quick look

LolaBarr

A great little piece of history, surrounded by nice shops and pubs. Easy to find in the middle of downtown. The bell dates to the 14th century!

ClaireR185

Loved it, stairs are steep and small but view is amazing - come along and visit. It is not always open though.

Ashleysmash1984

Such a good way to view the city from above. Not many people realise you can gain access and for only £1. Not for people who like small spaces as the steps to the top can be a challenge.

646mk

Small tower, old tower, amazing history and bell that will leave you speechless! Worth the climb of just under 100 steps. Bonus if it's a sunny day- the views are outstanding and worth the £1 entrance for the adults only( kids go free). Hope you don't miss this attraction of visiting St. Albans as it's amazing and quick tour that can leave you talking about it all day long.

PaulE466

Lovely people manning the pay point - helpful too. Very narrow steep climb up the ??? steps but a lovely view of St Albans from the top! Well worth a climb.

Wain_L

Its only £1 and you get a great view. On a clear day you can see surprisingly far! The stairs are rather narrow and the head room can be limited when going up. Good to see the mechanics of the clock as well.