Moving to Watford
YOUR IDEAL BLEND OF CHARM, CONVENIENCE ANd COMMUNITY
Watford is a welcoming place to live, offering the perfect balance of character, connectivity and community spirit. Located in Hertfordshire and just minutes from London, the town combines excellent transport links with the comfort and pace of suburban life. Whether you’re a family looking for quality schools and green spaces, a professional seeking easy commutes and modern amenities, or someone wanting to feel part of a friendly, diverse community, Watford has something to offer everyone. With a population of nearly 100,000, Watford is a growing and dynamic town. It’s well connected in every sense—by rail and road, and digitally too. Average broadband speeds reach 133 Mbps, almost double the UK average, keeping residents and businesses seamlessly connected.
Watford continues to invest in greener spaces and sustainability, ensuring growth is balanced with environmental care and a healthier future for generations to come
Life in Watford
Day-to-day services in Watford are delivered by Watford Borough Council, while schools, highways and social care are managed by Hertfordshire County Council. Nearby areas such as Bushey, Rickmansworth and Abbots Langley are run by their own councils, and Watford is also part of Hertfordshire’s ongoing Local Government Reorganisation.
Transport
Watford is exceptionally well connected, with fast rail services into London Euston, Metropolitan Line access, and easy road links via the M1 and M25. Local bus routes and walkable streets make getting around simple. More detail is available in the dedicated [Getting Around] section.
Shopping
From Harlequin in the town centre to independent shops and high-street names along the High Street, Watford offers a wide choice of shopping. Watford Market adds local character, while retail parks like Waterfields Way provide everyday convenience—making the town easy to shop in for drivers and non-drivers alike.
Education
Education in Watford supports every stage of learning, from nurseries and early years settings to primary and secondary schools, many rated Good or Outstanding by Ofsted. Further and higher education options are available locally and nearby, with admissions managed by Hertfordshire County Council—details are covered in the Education and Schools section.
Leisure
Leisure in Watford is about balance, with gyms, fitness centres and facilities at Watford Leisure Centre Woodside and Central supporting active lifestyles. Award-winning parks, riverside walks and green spaces—including Cassiobury Park, Oxhey Park, the River Colne and Grand Union Canal—offer places to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
More details are available in the Community Pulse and Parks & Open Spaces sections.
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From the Palace Theatre to the Colosseum and the Pump House, Watford offers a rich programme of drama, comedy, concerts and community productions.
Eat & Drink
A diverse mix of restaurants, cafés and pubs means you’ll find flavours from around the world, as well as local favourites.
Activities
From fitness classes to family fun, there are countless ways to get involved and stay active.
Major Attractions
Highlights include the Warner Bros. Studio Tour and matchdays at Vicarage Road, home of Watford FC.
Watford’s calendar is filled with highlights such as festive lights, Christmas markets, summer festivals and community celebrations that bring residents together throughout the year.
Entertainment
Watford has a thriving cultural and social scene, with something to suit every taste. The town is home to theatres, live music venues, and community arts spaces, alongside a wide choice of restaurants, cafés and family attractions. Whether you’re looking for a night of drama, a relaxed meal or a day out exploring, there’s plenty to enjoy.