22 Jul 2025
It’s a busy summer already for St Albans city centre BID (Business Improvement District), which has unveiled its new guide to independent local businesses and revealed plans for a pop-up beach near the Civic Centre.
Designed to help visitors and residents discover what’s on offer, the new Independent Shopping & Services Guide lists businesses in the BID area. Focusing on businesses that have a retail offering and provide consumer services, the directory also includes information on businesses that are dog-friendly and those that accept the St Albans Gift Card.
As part of the BID’s Destination Marketing objective, the BID also produce the St Albans Official Visitor Guide and the City Centre Food & Drink Map which was launched last year.
BID manager Vivien Cannon said: “Our independent businesses provide a diverse product offering and personalised service which contributes to the distinctive character of our city. Independents are key drivers encouraging footfall and visitors into the city. This new guide helps raise their profile along with people’s awareness of the huge variety of city centre businesses. When you spend your money locally with Independents, you invest in your high street which creates local employment and supports the city community.”
The guide is available to pick up from visitor information points at St Albans Cathedral and St Albans Museum + Gallery.
Meanwhile, get ready to feel the sand between your toes when Civic Close is transformed into a fun, family-friendly sandy beach, complete with buckets, spades and faux ocean views.
Bringing a summery atmosphere to the city centre and a free area for children to play, the BID has organised for a giant sandpit to be installed just outside The Alban Arena.
The Pop Up Beach will be available for the public to enjoy for free from 12pm on Sunday August 3 and then daily from 10am to 4pm until Sunday August 17.
Vivien added: “The Pop-Up Beach provides summer fun in the very heart of our city and its perfect for families when visiting St Albans. Make a day of it and explore our fantastic shops and attractions and there’s no need to pack your lunch as you will be surrounded by our city’s eateries. So, pack your sunscreen, grab your bucket and spade, bring a chair or blanket, and join us for sun, sand, and smiles.”
Managed by Odin Events, the Pop-Up Beach will be manned by a “Lifeguard” on site to keep the site tidy and welcoming. Seating is limited, you are welcome to bring a camping chair or blanket.
