A well-connected, suburban pocket north of London, this neighbourhood is quickly getting more attention. Despite the fact that most of the homes are uninspiring post-war houses, Londoners in search of more affordable flats are beginning to move to Watford Junction. This is not to say that Watford is only as good as it’s cheap real estate: between its numerous top schools, and convenient transport options from Watford Junction station, it’s no surprise that more and more families are flocking to the neighbourhood. While the area doesn’t have a traditional high street filled with independent shops, there are still some gems amongst the large chain stores. Whether it’s a play at the historic Watford Palace Theatre, a night out at local club PRYZM, or live jazz at the speakeasy style Bar Bodega, there’s plenty to get excited about in Watford!

The town of Watford began as a market in the 12th century. Lord of the manor, the Abbott of St. Albans, chose to situate the market in this locale as it was close to an important thoroughfare that brought travellers from the north. Much later on, in the 1800s, the neighbourhood began to grow quickly due to the ease of transport on the Grand Union Canal. This, coupled with the opening of the railways, led to Watford’s transition into an industrial centre. Following the Second World War, residents were no longer predominantly employed by the railways, but instead by the area’s burgeoning printing industry. Today, these industries are not as popular as they once were, leaving service businesses as the main employers in the neighbourhood.

Famous actress, Maureen Lipman, began her performance career at Watford Palace Theatre. Among many of her TV and film jobs, she’s well known for her role in the 2002 film, The Pianist.

Located in Hertfordshire, Watford can feel fairly far from London at times. Still, residents are spoiled by their pick of transport options. Between Southeastern Railways, The Overground, and Virgin Trains, it’s never too hard to make the trip into London.

Housing development is slowly picking up in the Watford Junction area. Aside from a couple of large complexes having recently received the go ahead just north of the neighbourhood, there are also projects along the high street. Highfield Investments recently acquired a site referred to as The Parade. They’ve already received permission to create 8 luxury apartments on the site, equipped with private balconies.

Housing development is slowly picking up in the Watford Junction area, especially surrounding the station, such as the Watford Cross development by Weston Homes. Hertfordshire Council partnered with Berkeley Housing for the design and development of Eight Gardens, a new housing complex that is expected to provide over 1,200 new homes, many of which will be affordable. While the project is contreversial, with many local residents criticising its scale and impacts on overcrowding and congestions, it intends to capitise on the area’s proximity and connectedness to London. Most of these projects have yet to materialise, however, so it’s best to keep your eyes peeled and ears pierced for any changes and updates.

Despite plans for the redevelopment and enhancement of Watford Junction Station being shelved for now, many of the neighbourhood social and commercial facilities have received some much needed attention. In 2020, the Oxhey Activity Park reopened following enhancement works, which were conducted following the Mayor’s commitment to improve outdoor spaces in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. The park now boasts a skate park, new Tasty Bean café, a BMX track and an adventure playground. The Atria Watford, the local shopping centre, was also rebranded before reopening to the public in 2021 and it has seen its footfall steadily increase, signs that investments into its reactiviation following the pandemic seem to have paid off.