How many pubs were in Victorian St Albans?

During the Victorian era, St Albans saw its number of commercial drinking establishments grow from about 40 in 1830 to nearly 100 by the late 19th Century.

What is the oldest pub in St Albans?

Ye Olde Fighting Cocks in St Albans is claimed to be the oldest pub in England, though this claim is disputed by some.

Why did pub numbers change in Victorian St Albans?

Pub numbers fluctuated due to social and economic changes, new licensing laws like the Beer Act, improved transport, and the Temperance Movement's influence.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / St Albans Pubs: 200 Years of History Endure

St Albans Pubs: 200 Years of History Endure

14 Dec

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Summary

St Albans retains nearly 100 pubs from its Victorian era.
Pub numbers stabilized, reflecting successful adaptation over time.
Exhibition explores pubs' resilience amidst social and economic change.

St Albans Pubs: 200 Years of History Endure

St Albans boasts a pub scene remarkably similar to its Victorian past, with an exhibition detailing its rich history. In the 1800s, the city housed approximately 40 drinking establishments, growing to nearly 100 by the late 19th century. Astonishingly, a similar number of pubs, 34, still operate within a mile of the city center today.

The exhibition, 'Inns & Alehouses in Victorian St Albans,' delves into the factors influencing pub numbers. Rapid social and economic shifts, new licensing laws, and the rise of the Temperance Movement all played significant roles. Public houses that survived often did so by diversifying services and adapting to changing community needs.

These enduring establishments, like the historic Ye Olde Fighting Cocks and The Peahen, have been integral to St Albans' social fabric for centuries. Their ability to reinvent themselves, from offering shops to hosting clubs, underscores their deep-rooted importance and continued relevance in the community.