DAY OUT: St Albans, Hertfordshire

A Christmas cracker

Start the festive season right with a vibrant late-November street festival in this ancient city on an old Roman road, says Abigail Hamilton-Thompson

The cathedral city of St Albans offers a host of events during the festive period, from the Christmas Cracker street festival on 20 November to charter markets on Thursdays and Fridays in the lead up to the big day.

In the city centre, the Christmas Cracker promises thrilling fun fair rides and illuminations, live music, seasonal food, Christmas decorations and gift stalls. Be sure to stay until the festive lights are switched on at 5pm.

Charter markets have been held in St Albans since 860; today you can shop for local arts, crafts, food and drink, such as apple juice, fudge and home fragrances. Don’t forget to stop by the cathedral, too – its series of carol concerts starts on 3 December.

Why not start your day with a seven-mile circular walk to Gorhambury Estate and its fascinating Roman ruins?

About the market: Christmas Cracker, 12–6pm, 20 November. enjoystalbans.com

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Abigail Hamilton-Thompson is a Hertfordshire-based outdoor writer.