St Albans Clock Tower

Completed by 1405, the Clock Tower is the only surviving medieval town belfry in England and is designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument. The tower with its fine bell has survived over 600 years of use. The Clock Tower was first and foremost a political statement. The townspeople used it to assert their freedom, power and wealth in the face of the premier Benedictine Abbey of England (now St Albans Cathedral). The Clock Tower is generally open from Easter (Good Friday) to the end of September, every Saturday and Sunday and Bank Holiday, between 10.30am and 5pm. Last admission 4.45pm. It is also sometimes open on other special occasions like Heritage Open Days (September), the Food & Drink 'Feastival' (September) and the Christmas Lights switch-on (November). Admission: Adults: £1. Children: free. Unfortunately the Clock Tower is not wheelchair or buggy accessible or for those who experience claustrophobia. The climb up to the top is via 93 very narrow and steep steps.