This neighbourhood sits in at the heart of Watford and is split in two by the beautiful River Colne. An easy ride into London on the Overground from Watford High Street station, this suburb is much less isolated than many might think. Families who have been drawn to the area benefit from the plethora of green space. Aside from the tree lined streets, with affordable garden-equipped terraced houses - both Georgian style and post war - there are also multiple parks in the area. Residents love relaxing in Watford Fields and going for jogs through the Waterfields Recreation Ground. For those locals looking for more than just greenery though, there’s plenty of local attractions. Whether it’s shopping or eating at any of the major big box stores in the Intu Watford shopping centre, absorbing the area’s history at the Watford Museum, or catching a performance at The Pump House arts theatre - there’s little reason to venture further into London.

The small park called Watford Fields sits in this part of the neighbourhood, and now borders some of the towns largest shopping centres. Back in the 19th century, the fields were much larger though, consisting of a garden, orchard, meadows and a slate-roofed house known as Watford Field House. Back in 1890, the Watford Local Board of Health described the fields as 54 acres, and acknowledged that locals in the area loved using the space for recreation activities. Today, it might be much smaller, but it’s still a favourite amongst locals for picnics and strolls.

Of the many gems that the Watford Museum has on display, locals love the set of Watford Football Club paraphernalia. What’s unique about this display is that it includes a good portion of Elton John’s private collection. Elton is probably Watford’s most famous fan – his coat of arms is even in Watford’s colours.

Most of this part of Watford consists of larger chain stores, lacking the independent high street culture that many other suburbs possess. Still, residents like that there is a such a wide array of major stores in the area, ready to meet all of their needs.

In 2021, the current Watford Shopping Centre, rebranded as the Atria Watford, reopened its door following major redevelopment. Watford Borough Council invested over £1.5 billion in the project and has committed to adding new homes and jobs as part of the programme. The new complex boasts larger retail units, more eateries, as well as a 40,000 square foot cinema multiplex. Following the easing of lockdown restriction, it has seen its footfall steadily increase, signs that investments into its reactiviation seem to have paid off.