The area bounded by London Road, Holywell Hill, Sopwell Lane and Keyfield Terrace is one of the oldest areas of St. Albans. The route along Sopwell Lane and up Holywell Hill was once the main road from London to the Midlands and the North West - until it was replaced by London Road in the 1790’s, and then the by the M1. Until the M1 was opened the London Road, Holywell Hill junction was said to be the busiest road junction outside London. This area is packed with interesting pubs, some open, and some no longer with us.
2 minutes
On leaving the pub, turn left and follow the road to the next pub.
Note also: What was the Crown & Anchor, on the corner of Sopwell Lane and Holywell Hill. It dates from the first half of c15th and is one of the few remaining unreconstructed medieval inn buildings (now a private residence). There were another 6 pubs on Holywell Hill alone – spot the clues!
1 minute
Turn left out of the front entrance of the pub and you will see the Hare and Hounds in front of you.
1 minute
On leaving the pub, cross Sopwell Lane and walk a very short way up Keyfield Terrace before turning left into Albert Street where you will find the next pub.
1 minute
Turn left as you leave the pub, and turn left back into Keyfield Terrace. You will see the next pub in front of you.
1 minute
Turn left as you leave the pub. Walk along Keyfield Terrace, continuing as the road becomes a pedestrianised path. You will find the next pub on your left.
Note also: Key Field was a large open area used for grazing up to the time London Road was built – thus Keyfield Terrace – and was separated from St. Albans proper by a large Celtic ditch – the Tonman Ditch – now filled in.
This area is packed with history and interesting pubs, some open, and some no longer with us.
Discover real ale from your route
Tap a result for details & Taste Match.
Your photo
Not the right beer?
TasteMatch
Is it a match?
| ABV | |
| Style | |
| Container Type | |
| Colour | |
| Vegan | |
| Gluten Free |