St Albans city centre swings into action with event celebrating Ryder Cup heritage 

St Albans City Centre BID is delighted to announce a free pop up crazy golf event taking place on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th September at Civic Close, near The Alban Arena.

Inspired by the city’s rich golfing history and its special connection to the Ryder Cup which is taking place on the same weekend in the USA, this family-friendly activity invites people of all ages to putt their way through a course and raise an image of the Ryder Cup in good humour.

The event celebrates St Albans’ proud association with Samuel Ryder, the city’s famous seed merchant and founder of the Ryder Cup. BID encourages residents and visitors to the area to discover the stories behind notable local landmarks with Ryder connections, including The Samuel Ryder Hotel, the art deco seed hall on Holywell Hill (soon to be the restaurant Moka), the Old Town Hall (now St Albans Museum + Gallery), and Verulam Golf Club.

Joining the fun, The Samuel Ryder Hotel, Tapestry Collection Hilton, is offering a chance for one lucky crazy golf participant to win a complimentary overnight stay for two, including bed and breakfast in the remodelled Samuel Ryder Suite (if available at time of booking), which features his initials carved into the fireplace, making it a truly unique experience for golf enthusiasts. The hotel boasts 62 beautifully appointed rooms including two heritage suites where guests are welcomed by a sweeping staircase crowned with a mahogany and stained-glass dome leading to the top floor and the Samuel Ryder Suite.

To further immerse visitors in the city’s history, St Albans Tour Guides will be hosting a special walk on Sunday 28th September, exploring the legacy of Samuel Ryder and the city’s historic sites. Visitors can also pick up a Samuel Ryder Trail leaflet at St Albans Museum + Gallery to embark on a self-guided journey through the city’s Ryder-related landmarks.

BID Manager, Vivien Cannon said, “We are going to have some fun in the heart of St Albans. The pop-up crazy golf activity is a fantastic way for families, friends, and golf fans to celebrate our city’s unique connection to the Ryder Cup, the local history behind its creator  and enjoy everything St Albans has to offer.”

POP UP CRAZY GOLF 

Dates: Saturday 27th & Sunday 28th September 2025

Time: 10am – 4pm 

Location: Civic Close, near The Alban Arena 

Website: www.enjoystalbans.com/crazy-golf