Watford FC – Vicarage Road
Complete Away Day Travel Guide
🐝 ABOUT VICARAGE ROAD
Vicarage Road has been home to Watford Football Club since 1922, making it one of England’s historic football venues. Located in the heart of Watford town, just a few minutes’ walk from both the train station and High Street, the stadium’s location is nearly perfect for visiting supporters. The 22,000-capacity ground has evolved significantly over the years, particularly since the Pozzo family’s ownership began in 2012, transforming from a traditional English stadium into a more modern venue while retaining its character and intimacy.
Watford’s history is one of remarkable ups and downs – from the Fourth Division to the top flight under Graham Taylor in the 1980s, reaching an FA Cup Final, and more recently becoming Premier League regulars before their latest return to the Championship. The Hornets are a proper family club with passionate support and a strong community identity. Vicarage Road sits alongside the Colne and Grand Union Canal, giving it a distinctive setting. For away supporters, this is one of the most convenient trips in English football – quick trains from London Euston, a five-minute walk from the station, and excellent proximity to pubs and food options. It’s genuinely one of the easiest away days you’ll experience.
📋 KEY FACTS AT A GLANCE
| Postcode | WD18 0ER |
| Capacity | 22,220 (all seated) |
| Location | Watford town centre, beside the canal |
| Main Phone | 01923 496000 |
| Website | www.watfordfc.com |
| Nearest Train Station | Watford High Street (5-minute walk) |
🚂 GETTING TO VICARAGE ROAD
Watford is superbly connected to London and the wider rail network. Watford High Street station (London Overground) is just a 5-minute walk from Vicarage Road, while Watford Junction (mainline) is a 15-20 minute walk or short bus ride. Direct trains from London Euston to Watford Junction take just 20 minutes, making this one of the quickest and easiest away days for London-based fans and anyone coming via the capital. By car, Watford is easily accessible from the M1 and M25, with several parking options available. The stadium’s town centre location means everything you need is within walking distance.
🗺️ STADIUM LOCATION MAP
Vicarage Road Address: Vicarage Road, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER
🚂 BY TRAIN – The Absolutely Perfect Choice
Why Trains Are Unbeatable: This is genuinely one of the easiest away days in English football by train. Watford High Street station is just a 5-minute walk from the stadium, while Watford Junction (mainline) offers fast services from London Euston in just 20 minutes. The walk from either station is straightforward, flat, and passes through the town centre with pubs and shops. You can be in central London, on a train, and at the ground in under an hour. Perfect for a day trip or weekend away.
Journey Times to Watford:
🔴 London Euston to Watford Junction: 20 minutes (direct, very frequent service)
🟠 London Overground to Watford High Street: 40 minutes from central London
🟡 Birmingham New Street: 1 hour 15 minutes (direct to Junction)
🟢 Manchester: 2 hours (direct to Junction)
🔵 Milton Keynes: 15 minutes (direct to Junction)
Station Options:
Option 1: Watford High Street (London Overground) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Distance: 5-minute walk to the stadium
- Service: London Overground from central London
- Why it’s best: Closest station to the ground, direct onto Vicarage Road
- Route: Exit the station, walk straight down Vicarage Road – the stadium is on your left
- Absolutely the easiest option
- Pass pubs and shops en route
Option 2: Watford Junction (Mainline) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Distance: 15-20 minute walk (or 5 min bus)
- Services: Fast trains from London Euston (20 mins), Birmingham, Manchester
- Why use it: Better for long-distance travel, more frequent London services
- Route: Exit station, walk down Clarendon Road to High Street, then Vicarage Road
- Can take bus 8 or 321 towards town (3 stops to the stadium)
- The walk is easy and takes you through the town centre
- More pubs and food options on route
Taxi from Junction Station
- ~£6-8 from Watford Junction to the stadium
- ~5 minutes journey time
- Available from the station rank
- Only needed if you have luggage – the walk is easy!
🚗 BY CAR – Decent Parking Available
Postcode for Sat Nav: WD18 0ER
From M1 Junction 5: Follow A41 to Watford. Turn onto the A4145 and follow the signs to the town centre. The stadium is near the town centre on Vicarage Road. From M25 Junction 19: Take A411 towards Watford, follow signs to town centre and Vicarage Road.
| Parking Location | Cost |
| Vicarage Road Car Parks (official) | £15-20 (pre-book online) |
| Town Centre Multi-Storeys | £3-8 (10-15 min walk to ground) |
| Avenue Car Park | £5 (10 min walk) |
| Street Parking (residential) | Free (arrive early, check restrictions) |
⚡ Pro Tips:
- Arrive 90+ minutes before kick-off for best parking availability
- Town centre car parks offer good value and a short walk to the ground
- Pre-book official parking online for a guaranteed space
- Some street parking is available, but it can be limited on matchdays
- Consider parking at Watford Junction station and walking (15 mins)
- Post-match exit from official car parks can be slow
- Honestly, the Train is so easy, consider leaving the car at home!
🏨 WHERE TO STAY IN WATFORD
Watford has a decent range of accommodation, primarily business hotels and chains, given its proximity to London and role as a commuter town. The compact town centre means most hotels are within walking distance of both the stadium and station. Staying in Watford itself is good value compared to London, while still offering quick access to the capital (20 minutes to Euston). Alternatively, many away fans choose to stay in London and make a day trip to Watford – the journey is so quick it’s entirely practical. The town also has good access to the Hertfordshire countryside and attractions like Warner Bros. Studio Tour (Harry Potter).
💷 BUDGET OPTIONS (£50-£85/night)
Travelodge Watford Central
Why it’s good: Budget chain, excellent town centre location, walking distance to station and stadium, clean and functional
Premier Inn Watford Central
Why it’s good: Reliable quality, good breakfast included, modern facilities, near High Street
Holiday Inn Express Watford Junction
Why it’s good: Next to the mainline station, breakfast included, modern hotel, suitable for train travellers.
Ibis Budget Watford
Why it’s good: Very budget-friendly, basic but clean, near M1, good for drivers
🎯 MID-RANGE OPTIONS (£85-£140/night)
Watford Aparthotel
Why it’s good: Modern aparthotel, town centre location, self-catering facilities, suitable for more extended stays
Hampton by Hilton Watford
Why it’s good: Quality chain hotel, near Junction station, breakfast included, modern facilities
Hilton Watford
Why it’s good: Central location, leisure facilities, good restaurant and bar, reliable quality
Holiday Inn Watford Junction
Why it’s good: Next to the mainline station, leisure facilities, good for families, and an on-site restaurant
👑 PREMIUM OPTIONS (£140+/night)
The Grove Hotel
Highlights: 5-star luxury country house hotel, championship golf course, spa, multiple restaurants, 18 miles from Watford
Pendley Manor Hotel
Highlights: Country house hotel, historic building, near Tring (8 miles), beautiful grounds, good restaurant
London Hotels
Alternative: Stay in London (20 mins to Watford) – endless options, combine a match with a capital visit
💡 ACCOMMODATION TIPS
- Book Early: Watford hotels can fill quickly due to business travel and events
- Best Location: Town centre near High Street – walking distance to station and stadium
- London Option: Consider staying in London – only 20 minutes away by train
- Junction Station: Hotels near Watford Junction are perfect for train travellers
- Good Value: More affordable than London while offering easy access
- Harry Potter Fans: Warner Bros. Studio Tour is nearby – combine with a match!
- Weekend Rates: Often more competitive than weekdays (opposite of London)
🎫 GETTING AROUND THE STADIUM
🎫 AWAY SUPPORTER ALLOCATION
| Your Section | Vicarage Road Stand (behind the goal) |
| Allocation | Standard: ~2,200 seats / Can be extended to a complete stand (~3,200) for bigger fixtures |
| Views | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very Good – Behind the goal, close to the pitch, good sightlines |
| Facilities | Decent concourses, standard food and drink, clean facilities |
| Atmosphere | Generally friendly, good family atmosphere |
🚪 ENTERING THE STADIUM
Designated Turnstiles: Away supporter entrance in the Vicarage Road Stand
⏰ Turnstile Opening Times:
- Opens: 90 minutes before kick-off
- Recommended arrival: 60 minutes before kick-off
- Why early? Grab refreshments, settle in, and enjoy the pre-match atmosphere. Coming from the station is so quick that you have plenty of time!
- Note: Watford is generally welcoming to away fans
✅ WHAT TO BRING & WHAT NOT TO BRING
✅ DO BRING:
- Digital match ticket (mobile or printed)
- Comfortable outdoor clothing
- Waterproof jacket (weather can be unpredictable)
- Your team’s colours (wear them with pride!)
- Cash/cards for concourse purchases (contactless accepted)
- Good walking shoes for the station walk
❌ DON’T BRING:
- Large bags (bag restrictions in place)
- Cigarettes or vapes (smoking/vaping banned inside stadium)
- Outside food or drink (not permitted)
- Glass bottles, cans, or alcohol
- Anything that could cause trouble
🍽️ PLACES TO EAT & DRINK
Watford town centre has a good selection of pubs and restaurants, all within easy walking distance of Vicarage Road. The High Street and surrounding areas offer chain restaurants, independent eateries, and traditional pubs. Watford fans are generally welcoming to away supporters, and most pubs in the town centre accept visiting fans. The proximity of the station to the stadium and town centre means you can easily hop between locations. For a quick bite, there are also plenty of takeaway options near the ground.
🍺 PRE-MATCH PUBS
The Moon Under Water ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: High Street, town centre
Vibe: Large Wetherspoons, good value, all fans welcome, multiple screens
Why Go: Reliable, affordable, central location, food available, perfect pre-match base
The Flag ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: Vicarage Road (very near stadium)
Vibe: Traditional pub, matchday favourite, decent beer, busy on matchdays
Why Go: Closest pub to the ground, good atmosphere, mixed home and away fans
The Estcourt Arms ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: St John’s Road (near station)
Vibe: Traditional pub, friendly atmosphere, good beer selection
Why Go: Welcoming to away fans, decent location, nice traditional pub feel
Nascot Arms ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: Stamford Road (10 min walk from station)
Vibe: Real ale pub, friendly locals, good selection of beers
Why Go: Proper pub atmosphere, away fans welcome, good beer
The Horns ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: High Street, town centre
Vibe: Traditional pub, central location, decent atmosphere
Why Go: Good High Street location, mixed crowd, easy to find
🍴 WATFORD RESTAURANTS
Côte Brasserie ⭐⭐⭐⭐
French Cuisine: Harlequin Centre • Classic French food • Good value set menus • Reliable chain
Perfect for: Pre-match meal, groups, French food lovers
Zizzi ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Italian: High Street • Pizza and pasta • Family-friendly • Good value
Perfect for: Italian food, families, quick pre-match meal
Nando’s Watford ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Peri-Peri Chicken: Harlequin Centre • Quick service • Consistent quality • Good value
Perfect for: Fast pre-match meal, families, reliable option
Five Guys ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Burgers: Harlequin Centre • American burgers • Customizable • Good fries
Perfect for: Burger lovers, quick meal, good quality
Turtle Bay ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Caribbean: High Street • Jerk chicken and cocktails • Lively atmosphere • Good for groups
Perfect for: Something different, Caribbean food, groups
Wagamama ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Asian Cuisine: Harlequin Centre • Japanese-inspired • Quick service • Good for groups
Perfect for: Asian food lovers, quick dining, and a reliable chain
🎨 PLACES TO VISIT IN WATFORD & HERTFORDSHIRE
Watford’s main claim to fame is being the gateway to one of the world’s most popular attractions – the Warner Bros. Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter. Beyond that, Watford is a working town but benefits from easy access to the beautiful Hertfordshire countryside, historic towns like St Albans, and, of course, London itself (just 20 minutes away). The county offers stately homes, pretty villages, and lovely walking country. Combine your football with exploring the area, or make it a London weekend with a quick trip to Watford for the match.
⚡ WARNER BROS. STUDIO TOUR – THE MAKING OF HARRY POTTER ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: World-famous Harry Potter film studios with authentic sets, props, and costumes
What You’ll See: Great Hall • Diagon Alley • Hogwarts Express • Dumbledore’s Office • Costume displays • Wand collection • Butterbeer
Details: 📍 Leavesden (3 miles from Watford, shuttle bus available) • ⏱️ 3-4 hours • 🎫 Must pre-book online (sells out)
Why Go: One of the UK’s most popular attractions. Absolutely magical for Potter fans. Perfect to combine with the Watford match. Book ahead!
🏛️ ST ALBANS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: Historic cathedral city with Roman ruins and medieval streets
What’s Here: St Albans Cathedral • Roman Theatre • Verulamium Museum • Medieval streets • Great pubs • Twice-weekly markets
Details: 📍 6 miles from Watford (~15 min drive or train) • ✅ Free to explore • ⏱️ Half day
Why Go: Beautiful historic city. Roman heritage. Stunning cathedral. Excellent pubs and restaurants. Perfect for a day visit.
🦁 WHIPSNADE ZOO ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: UK’s largest zoo set in 600 acres of beautiful Chiltern countryside
What’s Here: Over 3,500 animals • Lions, elephants, rhinos • Butterfly house • Children’s farm • Steam train • Beautiful grounds
Details: 📍 15 miles from Watford (~30 min drive) • ⏱️ Full day • 🎫 Admission fee (book online)
Why Go: Perfect for families. World-class zoo. Beautiful Chilterns location. Great day out.
🏰 HATFIELD HOUSE ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: Stunning Jacobean house where Elizabeth I spent her childhood
What’s Here: Historic stately home • Beautiful gardens • Art collection • Elizabeth I connections • Tea rooms • Events
Details: 📍 10 miles from Watford (~20 min drive) • ⏱️ 2-3 hours • 🎫 Admission fee
Why Go: Magnificent historic house. Beautiful grounds. Royal history. Perfect heritage visit.
🎭 LONDON ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: One of the world’s greatest cities – just 20 minutes away
What’s Here: Literally everything • Museums • Theatres • Restaurants • Shopping • Historic sites • Nightlife
Details: 📍 20 mins from Watford Junction to London Euston • ⏱️ As long as you want!
Why Go: Combine the Watford match with a weekend in London. Quick and easy access. World-class city on your doorstep.
🚶 CASSIOBURY PARK ⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: Watford’s main public park with 190 acres of green space
What’s Here: Beautiful parkland • Walking trails • Paddling pool • Miniature railway • Play areas • Canal walks
Details: 📍 1 mile from town centre • ✅ Free • ⏱️ 1-2 hours
Why Go: Nice green space. Good for families. Pleasant walks. Free activity before or after the match.
⚡ TOP TIPS FOR YOUR VISIT
📋 BEFORE YOU GO
🎫 Book Train Tickets Early: Advance tickets from London can be very cheap if booked ahead of time
⚡ Harry Potter Fans: Book Warner Bros. Studio Tour in advance – combine with the match!
🏙️ London Connection: Consider making it a London weekend with a day trip to Watford
🚌 GETTING THERE
🚂 Train is Unbeatable: Watford High Street is a 5-minute walk, Junction is 15-20 mins – incredibly easy
⚡ From London: Just 20 minutes from Euston to Junction – one of the quickest away days
🚗 If Driving: M1 Junction 5 is close by, but honestly, the train is so easy!
🎭 WATFORD EXPERIENCE
👥 Friendly Fans: Watford supporters are generally welcoming – good family atmosphere
🏙️ Gateway to London: Perfect for combining a match with capital exploration
⚡ Harry Potter: Warner Bros. Studio Tour is THE attraction – book ahead!
⚽ MATCHDAY EXPERIENCE
🏟️ Compact Ground: Vicarage Road has character and atmosphere – proper traditional feel
👥 Good Atmosphere: Hornets fans are passionate, especially when the team is doing well
📍 Perfect Location: One of the most convenient grounds in England – station to ground in 5 mins!
🤝 HOW TO BEHAVE
✅ DO: Show your colours proudly • Be respectful • Enjoy the easy journey • Visit Harry Potter studios • Explore London • Try the local pubs
❌ DON’T: Cause trouble • Drive when train is so convenient • Rush away – explore Watford, Hertfordshire or London • Miss the Warner Bros. Studio Tour if you’re a Potter fan
🔗 QUICK REFERENCE
| Stadium Postcode | WD18 0ER |
| Away Allocation | ~2,200 seats (up to 3,200) in Vicarage Road Stand |
| Nearest Train | Watford High Street (5 min walk) or Watford Junction (15-20 min walk) |
| Best Transport | Train – one of the easiest away days in England! |
| From London | Just 20 minutes from Euston to Junction |
| Must Visit | Harry Potter Studio Tour, St Albans, London! |
💭 FINAL THOUGHTS
Visiting Vicarage Road is genuinely one of the easiest and most convenient away days in English football. The location is absolutely perfect – Watford High Street station is just a 5-minute walk from the stadium, while Watford Junction offers mainline services from London Euston in a remarkable 20 minutes. You can literally be in central London, on a train, and at the ground in under an hour. The compact ground retains character and atmosphere, while Watford fans are generally friendly and welcoming, creating a good family atmosphere rather than anything intimidating.
But Vicarage Road is just the start of your adventure. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter – is right on the doorstep, offering one of the UK’s most magical attractions that’s perfect to combine with the match. Historic St Albans is just 15 minutes away with its stunning cathedral and Roman heritage. Beautiful Hertfordshire countryside, stately homes such as Hatfield House, and family attractions such as Whipsnade Zoo are all easily accessible. And of course, London itself is just 20 minutes away, making it easy to combine the match with a capital weekend. Whether you’re a Harry Potter fanatic, history buff, or want to explore London, Watford makes the perfect base for a football-plus-culture weekend.
Take the train to Watford (it’s ridiculously easy!), enjoy one of football’s most convenient away days, visit the Harry Potter studios, and explore London or Hertfordshire. It’s genuinely one of the easiest trips you’ll ever make!
🐝💛 Come On You Hornets! 💛🐝
💬 SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCE
Have you visited Vicarage Road before? Got tips for other away supporters heading to Watford? Drop your thoughts in the comments below – we’d love to hear about your experience!
Whether it’s your first trip to Vicarage Road or you’re a regular visitor, your insights help build a community resource for supporters everywhere. Please share your favourite Watford pubs, Harry Potter tips, travel advice, or any other recommendations that might help fellow fans make the most of their away day in this brilliantly accessible Hertfordshire town!
John Herman is a Leeds-based, would-be football writer and founder of Football Nonsense. Blending fan passion with sharp opinion, he tackles the game’s biggest debates—from the terraces to the boardroom—with honesty, humour, and heart.