Watford, a bustling town with fantastic transport links into London and beyond, offers a plethora of activities suitable for families, couples, young professionals, and anyone seeking some weekend activities. From parks and green spaces to museums and a vibrant food scene, Watford is a popular place to live for those seeking more space for their growing family and access to green landscapes while remaining within an easy commute to central London for work and leisure.
Here are some of the best things to do in Watford, both on and off the beaten track, whether it’s with a partner, friends, or kids in tow.
Cassiobury Park is a verdant space with lush greenery, tranquil woodland areas, and picturesque canal. Families and couples alike can enjoy leisurely Saturday morning strolls with a coffee from one of the park cafes, a homemade picnic on the grass, or getting active with this sprawling landscape on their doorstep. The historic Cassiobury House and its gardens add to the park’s charm, and kids have endless opportunities for excitement with paddling pools, tennis courts, a miniature railway, and more.
Assemble your family and delve into Watford's rich history at Watford Museum showcasing the town's heritage through its exhibits and interactive displays. Perfect for a rainy day, anyone young or old with an interest in exploring the past will find themselves captivated by the museum's immersive experience, offering insights into Watford's evolution over the years.
Watford’s vibrant high street with a great variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, makes for the perfect destination for a day of retail therapy and dining out. Whether you’re boutique hopping solo, looking for a kid-friendly lunch spot or out for a browse and a coffee with a friend, a trip to the high street will deliver.
Watford’s food scene has a variety of choice, with flavours from all over the world and everything from cosy coffee shops to gastropubs and intimate restaurants. Coffee snobs will love The Daily Grind, which brings expertly brewed artisan coffee (and delicious toasties) to Watford in a chic, bright space. For brunch, head straight to The Florist for waffles or fresh sourdough topped with anything from smashed artichoke to prosciutto and burrata, or in the evening expect live music and sharing plates. For something special, The Glasshouse is an elegant restaurant with one of the world’s finest buffets, as seen on Netflix’s ‘Million Dollar Buffet’ documentary. Bring your appetite and sample from the various food stations including seafood, vegan, Asian and fresh pasta.
Whether you’re a Harry Potter superfan or not, a visit to the Warner Bros. Studio is an unforgettable experience and a wonderfully unique way to spend a family day together. Stepping into the world of Hogwarts will make you feel truly transported into the magic as you explore sets, props and costumes, and gain insight into the filmmaking process behind the beloved films.
Beyond the well-known attractions like the museum and Warner Bros. Studio, Watford has some hidden treasures to explore, too. How often have you spent an afternoon in a Hare Krishna Temple? Bhaktivedanta Manor invites you to do just that in Watford, and you can attend courses and retreats to deepen your spiritual knowledge. Then there’s Cheslyn House & Gardens, 3.5 acres of beautifully designed gardens and woodlands with an aviary, ponds and dog-friendly paths for a perfectly peaceful day out. Cassiobury Farm and Fishery is equally great for a relaxing but fun day out. Here, kids and adults alike will love the stunning farmland and seeing all the animals from the rare breed Old Spot Pig to exotic wildlife like monkeys and meercats.
With such a wide range of ways to spend your free time in Watford, from the excitement of exploring the Hogwarts set to the wholesomeness of a family day out meeting farm animals, Watford truly has something for everyone of all ages and preferences. Having Central London within easy reach is a bonus when living in Watford, but with so much to see and do you might like to stay local more than you thought.