COMMUNITY PULSE
Where Watford Connects
And Comes Together
Watford is shaped by the people who live, work and come together every day. From local news and shared spaces to sports, events and independent businesses, this is where community stories are told — reflecting the progress, pride and everyday moments that make Watford a place to belong.
News and Blogs
Watford Community News and Updates
Watford is a town that thrives on progress, with facilities, spaces and community projects continually shaping its character. Here you’ll find stories and updates that highlight those changes, giving a clear view of how the town is evolving. Whether it’s enhancements to leisure centres, additions to parks and trails or activities that broaden Watford’s sporting, cultural and community offer, each story reflects the energy and spirit of the town. From investment in local spaces to opportunities for families and milestones that mark Watford’s journey – here we offer a window into the life of the town and the people who make it specia
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08 Jan 2026
Cassiobury Park Celebrated as One of the UK’s Top 10 Parks
Cassiobury Park has been voted into the UK’s top 10 parks at the Green Flag People’s Choice Awards. The public-led recognition celebrates its special place in the community and the care given to Watford’s green spaces
08 Jan 2026
New Padel Courts Coming to Woodside Playing Fields
Watford is set to welcome five new padel courts at Woodside Playing Fields, introducing one of the UK’s fastest-growing sports. The new facility will offer accessible, community-focused play for all ages and abilities.
Sports Venues
Sports Venues in Watford
Watford is home to two major leisure centres managed by Everyone Active in partnership with Watford Borough Council: Watford Leisure Centre - Woodside and Watford Leisure Centre - Central. Together, they provide a comprehensive range of facilities for all ages, from swimming lessons for children to senior wellbeing programmes, holiday clubs and kids’ parties.
Watford Leisure Centre - Woodside
Located in Garston, Woodside Leisure Centre is one of Hertfordshire’s largest sports centres.
Gym and Fitness
A 140-station gym with cardio, resistance, suspension, and functional training zones, plus personal training and a dedicated FORTIS HIIT studio.
Swimming:
Two pools (25-metre competition pool and teaching pool) family swim sessions, aqua aerobics and award-winning kids’ swimming lessons.
Group Exercise:
Over 180 classes including Les Mills virtual sessions, yoga, Pilates, Zumba, Body Pump and Spin (indoor cycling).
Sports Hall:
Badminton, table tennis, five-a-side football, squash and emerging sports such as Pickleball.
Outdoor Facilities
A 3G artificial football pitch for training and matches.
Community Activities
Active Wellbeing suite designed for seniors, plus holiday clubs, gymnastics for children and birthday parties.
Watford Leisure Centre - Central
Situated at Peace Prospect, Central Leisure Centre offers a wide mix of fitness and community activities.
Gym and Fitness
A 140-station gym with cardio, resistance, suspension, and functional training zones, plus personal training and a dedicated FORTIS HIIT studio.
Swimming
An 80-station gym with modern equipment and fitness motivators to support all abilities.
Group Exercise:
: Classes include Body Combat, Body Attack, Pilates, Yoga, Zumba, HIIT, Legs Bums & Tums and Spin (indoor cycling).
Sports Hall
Badminton, table tennis, five-a-side football and Pickleball.
Wellbeing Facilities
Sauna and steam rooms for relaxation and recovery
Community Activities
GP exercise referral schemes, holiday clubs, kids’ gymnastics and birthday parties.
Beyond the Leisure Centres
Watford also caters for those who prefer private gyms and specialist clubs. Options range from boutique fitness studios to 24-hour gyms that suit night owls and early birds alike. The town is home to long-standing clubs such as West Herts Sports Club , offering tennis, squash, cricket and social facilities and Forest House Gym , known for its strength training and community feel. With this growing mix of private gyms, racket clubs and round-the-clock fitness centres, Watford ensures that everyone - from casual exercisers to dedicated athletes - can find a venue that fits their lifestyle. Watford’s sports venues, Woodside and Central, deliver everything from swimming lessons and fitness classes to squash, football and Pickleball. Alongside them, private gyms, racket clubs and 24-hour fitness centres broaden the offer, making Watford a town that truly caters for every type of exerciser.
Why These Venues Matter
Both centres are more than gyms - they are community hubs. They provide:
● Senior activities through Active Wellbeing programmes.
● Holiday clubs that keep children active during school breaks.
● Kids’ parties with swimming, sports and fun activities.
● Award-winning children’s swimming lessons, ensuring water safety and confidence from an early age.
Shop Local
Support Watford’s Community: Shop Local, Spend Local
Watford’s independent businesses are at the heart of the town. From family-run cafés and artisan food producers to unique shops and creative services, they bring character, choice and personality to our streets. Every visit, every meal, every discovery, every purchase helps sustain livelihoods, nurture creativity and keep Watford’s spirit alive. Choosing local means celebrating the uniqueness of Watford’s offering and supporting the people who make our community thrive.
Food & Drink
From cafés and restaurants to artisan producers, Watford’s food and drink independents offer flavour, variety and a personal touch. Supporting them means enjoying great taste while helping local talent flourish.
Shops & Services
Independent shops and creative services bring individuality and choice to Watford. Whether it’s a one-of-a-kind gift, a specialist service or a friendly local retailer - these businesses make the town distinctive and vibrant.
Are you a local business? Share your details with us at [email address] and join the Shop Local community — together we can celebrate Watford’s independent spirit.