10/01/2022
Vicarage Road in Watford is a well-known destination, primarily for its association with Watford Football Club. Whether you're attending a match, a concert, or another event, understanding the best ways to get there and where to park is crucial for a smooth experience. This guide will provide you with comprehensive information on parking facilities, public transport links, and general travel advice to ensure your visit to Vicarage Road is as convenient as possible.
Getting to Vicarage Road: Public Transport Options
Watford is well-connected by public transport, making it accessible from various locations. The town boasts an integrated network of buses, trains, and even a tube line, all contributing to ease of access to Vicarage Road.
Train Services
Several train lines serve Watford, offering convenient access. The closest station to Vicarage Road Stadium is Watford High Street, which is approximately a 10-minute walk from the ground. This station is on the London Euston-Watford Junction line. A journey from London Euston typically takes around 30 minutes and costs approximately £6.40 for a single ticket.
Another significant station is Watford Junction. While slightly further, it's only a 3-minute train journey from Watford High Street. Walking from Watford Junction to Vicarage Road will take around 20 minutes. For those choosing to walk, a recommended route is to take Clarendon Road opposite the station entrance, proceed to the High Street, cross the Ring Road, turn left, pass The Moon Under Water pub, take the first right onto Market Street, and then turn left at the T-junction; Vicarage Road will be on your right.
Tube Services
Watford is also served by the Metropolitan line of the London Underground. The Watford tube station is located at the northern end of the line. This station is about a mile's walk from Vicarage Road. While the tube offers connectivity, the overland train services are generally quicker for reaching the stadium area, making them the preferred option for many.
Bus Services
A wide array of bus routes operate in Watford, providing local and regional connectivity. Key bus routes serving the Vicarage Road area include:
- 142
- 258
- 322
- 328
- W1
- 20
- 320
- W21
- R2
- 336
- 385
For the most up-to-date information on specific routes and timings, using a journey planner app like Moovit is highly recommended. Moovit provides real-time directions and schedules, ensuring you find the best public transport options to Vicarage Road.
Parking at Vicarage Road
Finding suitable parking can be a challenge, especially on event days. Fortunately, Watford offers several car parks, with some being particularly convenient for Vicarage Road.
Town Centre Car Parks
Watford town centre offers multiple car parks that provide relatively easy access to Vicarage Road. These include:
- Church Car Park (WD18 0JD): Located on the inside of the ring-road, opposite the turn-off for Vicarage Road, this is often cited as one of the most convenient options.
- Gade Car Park (WD18 0JX)
- Sutton Car Park (WD17 2PS)
A 25% discount is available at these car parks for season ticket holders for Vicarage Road. It's worth noting that parking in the town centre means you might need to walk a short distance to the stadium, but it offers flexibility and numerous amenities.
Stadium Proximity Parking
For those seeking the closest possible parking, Vicarage Road girls' school is frequently mentioned as a very convenient option, situated very close to the stadium. Parking here typically costs around £5 per vehicle and is considered one of the easiest and best options due to its proximity.
Pre-Booking Parking
To guarantee a parking space and potentially save money, pre-booking through services like JustPark.com is an excellent alternative. This allows you to book a nearby space or even a private driveway, offering peace of mind, especially on busy match days.
Alternative Parking Strategies
Another popular strategy is to arrive early and park at the Intu shopping centre. This provides ample parking and allows you to explore the town centre's amenities before heading to the stadium. Many fans opt to park in town centre car parks and walk to the ground. While this is a common practice, be prepared for potential congestion when leaving after an event.
Vicarage Road Stadium: An Overview
Vicarage Road Stadium, the home of Watford FC, has a capacity of 20,877. The stadium is known for its good sightlines, with most seats offering unobstructed views of the pitch. Visiting supporters are typically housed in the Vicarage Road end of the ground, on the left-hand side of the stand. The stadium features a cantilever stand, meaning there are no supporting pillars, ensuring excellent views for all spectators.
Stadium Stands
- Vicarage Road Stand: Houses away fans.
- Rookery Stand: Known for its vociferous fans and a prominent drummer.
- Graham Taylor Stand: A two-tiered stand offering impressive, pillar-free views.
- Sir Elton John Stand: A modern, single-tiered, all-seated stand opened in late 2014, also offering excellent views.
Food and Drink Options
Within the stadium, catering facilities are available, offering typical football fare such as pies and hot/cold drinks. Beer is also available and can be consumed on the concourse. However, prices inside the ground are generally higher than external outlets. Many attendees prefer to purchase refreshments outside the stadium before the match.
Local Pubs and Restaurants
The town centre offers a good selection of pubs and restaurants. For visiting fans, The Hogs Head on the High Street is a spacious pub with reasonably priced drinks. The Moon Under Water, a Wetherspoons pub also on the High Street, is known for its affordable drinks and food in a relaxed atmosphere, and it accommodates children when they are dining.
Regarding dining, the High Street and the food court at the Harlequin Centre (a short walk from the ground) provide a wide variety of eating options. Closer to the stadium, on Vicarage Road itself, you can find a chip shop and a café, both just a couple of minutes' walk from the turnstiles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the closest train station to Vicarage Road?
A1: The closest station is Watford High Street, approximately a 10-minute walk away.
Q2: Where is the best place to park for Vicarage Road?
A2: Vicarage Road girls' school offers very close parking. Alternatively, town centre car parks like Church Car Park or pre-booked spaces via JustPark.com are good options.
Q3: Can I park at the stadium itself?
A3: While not directly at the stadium, Vicarage Road girls' school is immediately adjacent and offers parking.
Q4: Are there many pubs near Vicarage Road?
A4: Yes, the town centre, particularly the High Street, has several pubs like The Hogs Head and The Moon Under Water, which are within walking distance.
Q5: Is public transport a viable option for getting to Vicarage Road?
A5: Absolutely. Watford is well-served by trains (Watford High Street, Watford Junction), buses, and the Metropolitan tube line, making public transport a very convenient choice.
Tips for a Smooth Visit
- Plan Ahead: Check train and bus schedules in advance, especially if travelling on a match day.
- Arrive Early: Allow plenty of time to find parking, navigate public transport, and get to your seat, particularly for major events.
- Consider Walking: If you park in the town centre, the walk to Vicarage Road is manageable and can help you avoid post-event traffic.
- Utilise Apps: Moovit and JustPark are excellent resources for planning your journey and securing parking.
- Check Event Timings: Be aware of kick-off times or event start times to factor in travel and arrival buffers.
By utilising this guide, your journey to Vicarage Road should be straightforward and enjoyable. Whether you choose to drive and park or rely on Watford's excellent public transport network, a little planning goes a long way.
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