Set over three floors, the newly created state-of-the-art gallery spaces showcase over 2,000 years of priceless heritage and display contemporary artworks – sharing local, national and world treasures with all.
Promising fresh experiences each time you visit, come and enjoy regularly changing exhibitions and cutting edge art installations, take part in the vibrant programme of events, and explore the fascinating histories of the Town Hall, its Assembly Room, Courtroom and Cells.
Explore our permanent timeline of the story of St Albans: The City That Went Uphill and our changing display St Albans on Demand.
With the restoration and further additions, the Town Hall has been given a new lease of life.
The beautiful historic spaces, such as the octagonal courtroom and subterranean cells, have now been fully restored and preserved for future generations. Visitors are encouraged to soak up the atmosphere in these unique spaces and learn more about how they were used.
In addition to the restoration of the Town Hall's historic spaces, several new spaces have been created. Glazed links have been added to the first floor providing wonderful rooftop views. A new basement gallery has been hand excavated and will house the museum's flagship exhibitions.
The ground floor has also been renovated to accommodate a brand new learning studio, visitor information point, gift shop and café.
Originally used for balls, galas and concerts, the Assembly Room has been fully restored to its former glory. Admire the stunning Georgian architectural flourishes, ornate chandeliers and lustrous gold leaf when you step inside. With its double height ceiling and large windows which flood the space with light, this breath-taking room will host cutting edge art installations throughout the year. When the museum and gallery first opened, Susie MacMurray presented Masquerade, showcasing a range of artworks as well as a never-seen-before site-specific installation. This specially commissioned piece took inspiration from the history of St Albans' Georgian Town Hall. Since then, the Assembly Room has hosted a series of immersive installations in partnership with UH Arts.
These beautiful historic spaces have been fully restored and now reveal the dramatic stories of law and order in the district. The subterranean cells where defendants were once held lead up directly to the dock in the Courtroom. Experience what it may have felt like to stand as the accused or oversee court proceedings from the Judge’s chair. You can also soak up the atmosphere of the Courtroom with freshly prepared food and drink from our servery.
Start your day with a barista-made coffee and pastry or enjoy freshly made hot and cold lunch options in the Courtroom. Made with locally sourced ingredients, our café offers tempting cakes, freshly baked scones and a selection of speciality teas throughout the day. Have a look at a sample menu and details about our suppliers here.
Pick up a souvenir in our museum shop after a visit to St Albans Museum + Gallery. Inspired by our city, our collections, our exhibitions, and great art, you’ll find a unique selection of must-buy gifts, books and souvenirs.