The Blue Anchor

The Blue Anchor is a Grade II listed brick building on Fishpool Street with a symmetrical facade and rectangular windows characteristic of Georgian design. The traditional construction and regularly spaced openings define the appearance of this historic street today.

The building was constructed in the eighteenth century as a coaching inn on the main route of stage coaches leaving St Albans toward the northwest. It later converted to residential use, reflecting broader economic and transportation changes in the region.

The building shows how English public houses changed over time and reflects the social shifts that came with its transition from a coaching inn to residential use.

The listed building requires special permissions from local authorities for any modifications to preserve its historic features. Visitors should note that it is a private property and access may be restricted.

The building sits among several other historic pubs on Fishpool Street and witnessed the decline of thousands of such establishments across the United Kingdom since the early 2000s. The closure of these venues fundamentally changed the culture and daily life of this historic street.

Location: St Albans

GPS coordinates: 51.75428,-0.35139

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:43