St Albans: The Best Commuter Town Comes with Caveats

St Albans is stunning but it has its drawbacks

Just a short 26 miles from Central London, lies St Albans, a city that’s been awarded the title of the best commuter town of 2024 by OnTheMarket. With its picturesque 16th-century cottages, Georgian mansions, and bustling city life, it’s easy to see why so many are drawn to make the daily journey from this charming locale into the capital. However, beneath the surface of this quaint city, potential newcomers might want to dig a little deeper before packing their bags.

While St Albans boasts excellent transport links, quality schools, and a vibrant community, its appeal is counterbalanced by several realities that may deter prospective residents. For example, commuters face frequent challenges, as nearly 63% of train services are reported to be delayed. Additionally, those who commute regularly will need to budget for a hefty season ticket, which can exceed £4,300 annually for a four-day work week.

Housing Market Insights

St Albans City Railway Station is where commuters flood from every weekday

Despite its many attractions, the housing market in St Albans reveals a daunting picture. Renowned as the most expensive city for first-time buyers outside of London, properties in this area come with a staggering average asking price of £635,680. Small terraced homes, which are the most commonly purchased properties, sell for an average of £556,293. For those eager to secure a flat, even entry-level options can command prices around £391,964, leading to a typical monthly mortgage payment of approximately £1,454 if financed over 35 years.

As someone who once rented a two-bedroom apartment at the heart of the city for £1,100 per month during the pandemic, I can attest to the rapid surge in rental prices. Following my departure, my landlord increased the rent by hundreds of pounds, illustrating the pressure in the market.

A Family-Friendly Environment

Families may be particularly interested in St Albans, as the city offers a plethora of highly-rated schools. Institutions like St Albans Girls School and St Albans Boys School are widely recognized for their academic excellence, supported by Ofsted’s ratings of ‘Outstanding’ and ‘Good’. The private St Albans High School and Loreto College add to the educational landscape tailored for girl students, while mixed-gender options such as Sandringham also shine with high praise.

Historical Charm

In addition to its educational offerings, St Albans is rich in history. The St Albans Cathedral, an architectural marvel and the site of continuous Christian worship in Britain, is located in the scenic Verulamium Park. Its Norman design highlights the city’s deep-rooted traditions and appeals to history buffs.

Visitors can explore the Verulamium Museum, a TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice winner, showcasing the city’s Roman origins and archaeological significance. Nearby, the Roman Amphitheatre and The Hypocaust offer captivating glimpses into the past, allowing a walk through historic landscapes that date back centuries.

St Albans Abbey or St Albans Cathedral is the oldest site of continuous Christian worship in Britain

As one enthusiastic visitor noted, St Albans offers a treasure trove of experiences, from Roman remains to enchanting parks, presenting a perfect getaway from London.

Retail and Dining Scene

If shopping is on your itinerary, prepare for a dose of luxury in St Albans. Well-known brands like Anthropologie, Reiss, and Whistles can be found amidst charming independent boutiques along George Street. However, expect to pay a premium for these fashionable finds. More affordable retailers, such as New Look and Sports Direct, can be found in The Maltings shopping area.

Anthropologie sits just across from Reiss and Christopher Place

St Albans’ vibrant market culture flourishes with stalls every Wednesday and Saturday, featuring everything from handmade wares to delicious street food. On the grocery front, the convenience of local favorites like Waitrose and M&S heightens the appeal, while the nearby Atria in Watford boasts over 140 shops and entertainment options for additional excursions.

A Culinary Haven

With its prolific pub culture, St Albans sets the standard for dining out. Renowned for having the highest number of pubs per square mile in the UK, options abound for sipping a pint in beautiful settings. The Six Bells, The Boot, and The Blacksmiths Arms are favorites among both residents and visitors alike, especially in the warmer months when outdoor spaces come alive.

For an iconic experience, Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, one of the oldest pubs in Britain, invites patrons to enjoy a meal with stunning views of swans gliding across local lakes. For breakfast lovers, Hatch offers exceptional breakfast choices, while The Beech House presents an impressive dinner menu that has attracted celebrities like Zendaya and Tom Holland.

The Blacksmiths Arms has an excellent beer garden with beech huts and heaters

Curry enthusiasts can indulge in Veer Dhara, a popular spot beloved even by A-list celebs like Tom Cruise.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while St Albans may have earned accolades as the best commuter town, prospective buyers and families should tread carefully. The housing costs, combined with a rollercoaster commuting experience, present challenges that require careful consideration. Nonetheless, for those captivated by a city steeped in history, excellent schooling, and a vibrant lifestyle, St Albans remains an undeniably attractive option.

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