Smallford is a hamlet within three miles of both St Albans and Hatfield, and surrounded by countryside. We found out more about it...
With the Alban Way at its heart, Smallford offers an array of scenic walking and cycling routes.
The hamlet originally had its own railway station on the former St Albans branch line to Hatfield, which opened in 1866 - a year after the line became operational.
Although the railway line closed to passengers in 1951, it continued to be used for freight until 1969.
The Alban Way provides access to a number of different walking and cycling paths, including one route across fields to The Plough at Sleapshyde.
Along the route walkers can see the remains of most of the station platforms, some of which have been recently refurbished.
Walkers and cyclists can also explore the vast Ellenbrook Fields - part of what was once Hatfield Aerodrome.
Useful signage along the way offers information about the history of the site.
Travel
Smallford is ideally situated between Hatfield and St Albans, both of which offer direct trail links into London.
The hamlet is also convenient for drivers due to its location a short distance from both the A414 dual carriageway and the A1(M).
Sport and leisure
The recreational ground on Oaklands Lane is home to both St Albans Rugby Club and Harvesters Football Club.
The ruby club, which was formed in 1970, was the first open rugby club in St Albans.
Harvesters train youth teams from reception age upwards, as well as inclusive teams and a walking football team.
Amenities
One of the area's greatest draws is the Smallford Farm Shop, which is popular with foodies due to its wide range of fresh produce.
The on site café offers a range of hot and cold light bites, from smoothies to cupcakes, which are available to eat in or take away.
Notcutts Garden Centre is another well-used attraction in the area, and also has its own café.
The only pub in Smallford is The Three Horseshoes, which offers a well-stocked bar and an extensive menu of hearty pub classics and lighter bites.
The pub has a beer garden out back, and dogs are also welcome.
Property
Most of Smallford’s housing is arranged along Oaklands Lane and Station Road.
Construction is underway for four four-bedroom detached properties at Mulberry Place, for £1,080,000. Completion is anticipated for Spring/Summer 2024.
Education
Smallford's nearest primary school and nursery is Colney Heath JMI, situated in the nearby village of the same name.
The school received a 'good' rating in its latest Ofsted report.
Although Beaumont School in St Albans is the closest non-denominational secondary school, its catchment area is so tight that students from Smallford are unlikely to secure a place.
Nearby alternatives include Nicholas Breakspear Catholic School in St Albans ('good') and Bishop's Hatfield Girls' School (rated 'outstanding').
Oaklands College - rated 'good' - offers A-level, vocational studies and higher education courses from its Smallford campus.
The 'outstanding' rated St Albans Nursery and Montessori Pre-school on Hatfield Road provides childcare for children aged three months to five years.
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