Vicarage Road - Watford stadium
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Last Update:
August 7, 2024
Vicarage Road Stadium has been improved recently, not only with the opening of the Sir Elton John Stand on the East side of the stadium but also with several cosmetic changes both inside and out. This has included new video screens, hospitality areas, and general improvements to the stadium corners, but also some smart external cladding, plus a new Reception and Club Shop. These have all been done very well and to a high standard making Vicarage Road not only a smart-looking and tidy-looking ground but one that has some individual character too.
Sir Elton John Stand as it has been named, opened in December 2014 and was further expanded six months later, by the addition of more rows of seating to the front of it. Although quite simple looking, this covered single-tiered stand has a capacity of 3,800 seats and its construction has greatly improved the overall look of the stadium. In a further tribute to Sir Elton John, some lyrics from one of his hit records; ‘Your Song’ are embossed in large letters across the back supporting wall.
Opposite to the new Sir Elton John Stand, is the Graham Taylor Stand, which is named after their former manager, who took the Club up from the old Fourth Division to Division One in just five years and firmly put the club on the map. This stand which was opened in 1986, is a two-tiered stand that has an interesting roof design, with several semi-circular arches. Light is also able to penetrate through the roof aiding pitch growth. It also has a row of executive boxes running across the back.
The ground has had both ends re-developed during the 1990’s along with the front of the Graham Taylor Stand. Both ends are similar-looking large single-tiered stands, with some strange-looking floodlights perched on the roofs. Away fans are housed in one of these ends in the Vicarage Road Stand. Whilst opposite the Rookery Stand is larger, housing some 6,950 supporters. There are two large video screens situated in opposite corners of the ground.
The teams come out to the old theme tune of the old Police series Z-Cars, as Watford fan Robert Hill explains; ‘this started in the 1963-64 season when Z Cars were at its height on television. It was a favourite programme of the then Manager Bill McGarry and he asked that it be played at Vicarage Road. That season turned out to be a successful one for the Hornets and it has been continued to be played at the ground.’ Outside the stadium in front of the club shop is a statue of former manager Graham Taylor, which was unveiled in August 2018.
Away fans are housed on the Eastern side of the Vicarage Road Stand at one end of the ground. This stand is shared with home supporters (with the obligatory ‘no-mans land’ comprised of empty seats covered in netting in-between). Around 2,200 visiting fans can be accommodated in this area. The stand has electronic turnstiles, meaning that you have to place your ticket into a barcode reader to gain entrance. You should also then expect to be searched by the stewards on the way in. Turnstiles open 90 minutes before kick-off.
I’ve always found this club friendly and the stewarding relaxed on my four visits and have never had any hassle, although at times there can be a heavy police presence around the ground and in the town centre. My only real gripe is that the size of the concourse at the back of the stand is one of the tightest that I have come across and is wholly inadequate when there is a large away following. If you manage to get to the serving hatch, then you will find on offer the usual fayre of Hot Dogs (£4.80), Pies (£4.30), Sausage Rolls (£4) and Vegetarian Pies (£4.20). Adam Hodson a visiting Stockport fan adds; ‘I was very impressed with the ground and the modern facilities. There was plenty of legroom in the way end and a good atmosphere. However, the concourses are very small meaning that they easily get crowded. There is also a betting outlet available.
On the first occasion that I visited Vicarage Road, I met a Watford supporter in a pub who gave me a free ticket to that night’s local derby against Luton. I was also impressed with this chap as at the time he had visited 91 League grounds with Watford. Perhaps he was in some part my inspiration for doing the ’92’.
The main entrance to Vicarage Road is outside the Rookery End. Here, you will find the main reception and ticket collection point for home fans.
To enter the stadium, home fans can use the following turnstiles in the following stands:
- The Graham Taylor Stand – Turnstiles 1 – 11
- Vicarage Road Stand – Turnstiles 12-14
- Sir Elton John Stand – Turnstiles 22-28
- The Rookery Stand – Turnstiles 29-43
Away fans should use turnstiles 15-20 in the Vicarage Road Stand as their entrance to the stadium.
This was top tier fan shithousery 😅
Watford fans singing “you’re getting stung by the hornets” to Hull fans instead of “you’re getting mauled by the tigers” 🤣🐝👏pic.twitter.com/ELYm3kq3rW
— Second Tier podcast (@secondtierpod) June 19, 2024
- The Oddfellows – 14 Fearnley Street, WD18 0RD
- Moon Under Water – 44 High street, WD17 2BS
- Southern Cross – 41-43 Langley Road, WD17 4PP
- Nascot Arms – 11 Stamford Road, WD17 4QS
- The Victoria – 39 Chalk Hill, WD19 4BU
- The Railway Arms – 1 Aldenham Road, WD19 4AB
- Estcourt Tavern – 25 Estcourt Road, WD17 2PY
Pepperoni pizza at Watford FC (@WatfordFC)
💷 £10.95 pic.twitter.com/Vf4SXDEkhX
— Footy Scran (@FootyScran) May 12, 2022
Chicken bites and chips at Watford (@WatfordFC)
💷 £10 pic.twitter.com/rJtC1AvGd7
— Footy Scran (@FootyScran) December 28, 2021
Watford had hoped to relocate to a new, larger stadium at nearby Bushey Green where they’d be able to offer up a 33k capacity stadium along with another 6,000 seater arena. It’s all null and void now though with their application being binned off part way through 2021. At this moment in time, it looks like Watford’s stadium will remain as Vicarage Road but they’re obviously on the lookout for an alternative opportunity; how long that will take, who knows?
Watford played their home games at many stadiums in the early days after their formation but Cassio Road is perhaps the best known. The Hornets spent over three decades there. In 1922 they waved goodbye to that ground and a new Watford Stadium was born; it was Vicarage Road. For 80 years the stadium belonged to Benskins, a beer brewer, which meant development was largely out of their control. Despite this, changes were gradually made with proper terracing being introduced gradually before the current four stands were developed and opened across several decades; the most recent addition being the Sir Elton John Stand which opened in late 2014.
The club did briefly buy the stadium in the early 2000s but the nip and tuck of football and finances saw it all unwind pretty quickly. Eventually, the aforementioned Elton John repurchased the stadium. That gave control of things to Watford and the most recent addition to the ground was a few extra seats, which were installed in 2015.
From The North
Leave the M1 at Junction 5 and take the A4008 into Watford. If on nearing the town centre you can’t see the ground over on your left, just go left around the inner ring road (follow signs for Watford General Hospital as this is located behind the ground) and you will soon spot it.
From The South & West
Leave the M25 at Junction 19 and take the A411 towards Watford (be wary of speed cameras along this road). On nearing the town centre you will reach two roundabouts in quick succession. Go straight across the first but at the second turn right onto the A412 towards Rickmansworth. Then take the second left onto Merton Road (signposted Hospital). When the road forks keep to the right and then at the traffic lights where the road forks again turn left into Vicarage Road (still heading towards the Hospital). The ground is down on the left.
Car Parking
There are also some private match day car parks available at some industrial units near the ground, as well as the Watford Grammar School for Girls (WD18 0AE), which is close to the stadium and charges £10 per car and £15 per minibus. Around a five-minute walk away is Chater Junior School on Addiscombe Road WD18 0ND) which also offers parking at £10 per car. This car park opens 1 hour 45 minutes before kick-off and closes 45 minutes after the end of the match.
As Vicarage Road is situated near Watford town centre, then visiting fans can use several town-centre car parks which are within reasonable walking distance. On most of my visits, I have parked in the Church’s multi-storey car park (which costs £1 per hour and is located on the inner ring road). John Peake a visiting Bristol City fan tells me; ‘We parked in the Church Car Park which is a pay-on exit. Although it is an easy 15-minute walk from the ground, there were long queues to use the pay machines after the game and we had then queue again in our car to leave the car park. All in all, it took us about 45 minutes to get out and back onto the road’. Iain Bell adds; ‘There are some additional pay machines located outside the car park, by the High Street exit.’ Richard Sheppard informs me; ‘I parked in the into shopping centre multi-storey, which cost £4 for four hours. It is approximately a 15-minute walk to the ground and was easy to get out after the game and back onto the M1’.
Peter Laggan informs me; ‘I parked in the Gade multi-storey car park on Rosslyn Road (WD17 1NA), which is a 15-20 minute walk away from Vicarage Road. It cost £1 per hour and was relatively easy to exit after the game had ended.’ There is also the option of renting a private driveway near the Vicarage Road Stadium via YourParkingSpace.co.uk. Also around a 20-minute walk away is Bromet Primary School on Oxhey Road (WD19 4SG) which costs £5. It opens two hours before kick-off and closes one hour after the end of the match.
Post Code for SAT NAV: WD18 0ER
The nearest railway station is Watford High Street, a ten-minute walk away from the Vicarage Road ground. However, you are likely to come to Watford Junction Railway Station, which is about a 20-minute walk. Either get a train to Watford High Street from Watford Junction or if you have time to walk to the ground then:
Leave the station & take the main road straight opposite (Clarendon Road) all the way (over Ring Road at lights) up to the High Street. Turn left and go past Wetherspoons (Moon Under Water) on your right and then take the first right after 100 yards into Market Street. Continue along again crossing Ring Road to T junction & then left at an excellent chip shop. Vicarage Road is the next right turn. It should take around 15-20 minutes to walk.
Watford also has its own London Underground tube station, which is on the Metropolitan Line and is situated just under one mile from Vicarage Road. However overland trains from London normally have a shorter journey time. Thanks to Albert Fuller for providing the above directions.
Adult: £30-£35
Senior: £18-£23
19-21: £15-£20
U18: £5-£10
Official Programme £3.50
Watford vs Luton rivalry
When you look at all the factors, it is little surprise that these two have a little bit of dislike for one another. Both are on the periphery of the capital, both were formed in the same decade in the late nineteenth century and there are just 18 miles between the two clubs. The two of them have spent plenty to of time facing off in the same league too.
For details of disabled facilities and club contact at the ground please visit the relevant page on the Level Playing Field website.
Record Attendance
34,099 v Manchester United
FA Cup 4th Round Replay, 3rd February 1969.
Modern All-Seated Attendance Record
21,634 v Liverpool
Premier League, 29th February 2020.
Average Attendance
2023-2024: 18,819 (Championship)
2022-2023: 19,172 (Championship)
2021-2022: 20,598 (Premier League)
2020-2021: 259 (Covid) (Championship)
2019-2020: 20,837 (Premier League)
Official Web Site:
www.watfordfc.com
Unofficial Web Sites:
Glory Horns
Blind, Stupid & Desperate
Vital Watford – Vital Football Network
WFC Forums
If anything is incorrect or you have something to add, please e-mail me [email protected] and I’ll update the guide.
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
Watford v Everton
Premier League
Saturday 1st February 2020, 3pm
Nick Schleising (Everton)
Watford v Everton
Premier league
Saturday 1st February 2020, 3pm
Craig Milne (Doing the 92)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting Vicarage Lane?
I was wanting to tick it off.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
I took the train down and back. No issues but on a local train for 3 hours and 15 mins. Phew! It almost stopped at every bus stop on the way.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
Popped into an O'Neills pub by the station. Apparently the pub was called the Flag before. It was a food pub with decent reasonably priced food and a variety of ales on offer.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of Vicarage Lane?
It is a tidy small ground and the fans are located very close to the pitch. There was a good atmosphere inside.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
It was a great game. Everton came from 2 nil down to win 3-2 with 10 men. I was in the Elton John stand and there were loads of room under the stand, with tv’s and different food outlets on the concourse.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
It was really quick getting out and back into town. I followed the crowds.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
Brilliant.
Watford v Tranmere Rovers
FA Cup 3rd Round
Saturday 4th January 2020, 3pm
Ben Castle (Tranmere Rovers)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the Vicarage Road Ground?
I was really looking forward to this game, for weeks before. Because it’s the third round of the FA cup playing at a Premier League ground with over 3,000 Tranmere fans making the journey down.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
I took a direct train from Liverpool Lime Street to Watford which took about 4 hours arriving at Watford around 1 pm.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
When I was on the train there was banter between our fans and Watford fans that came on the train from other stations. When I arrived in Watford, I went into their town centre and went into a Burger King to get some lunch. All around the town centre you could see white and yellow everywhere of Watford and Tranmere fans. Then I went for a walk around the ground which I thought was impressive with the modern look of the ground. The Watford fans I did encounter were nice and friendly.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Vicarage Road Stadium?
The outside of the ground looks impressive and modern. When I got inside the ground the stadium looks bigger than the 22,000 capacity looking more like a 30,000 seater, still, the inside looks quite modern as well.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Our fans arrived in their numbers quite early making a lot of noise before kick off. When the game began it looked like the same that we have been getting recently from the team, poor play costing us goals but the goals The Watford goals though were of high quality. There were even one or two fans leaving after 15 minutes when we went 2-0 down. They probably regret that now. It was 3-0 by half time to Watford.
The only problem with the ground is the concourse which is quite small for a Premier League stadium. The second half saw a different Tranmere team. We played with hard work and fight which ended up paying off. We got a goal back near the 70th minute, originally ruled out for offside but it was counted by VAR. We got another one back from a set-piece at the 78th minute. Then we had a penalty appeal which was given after being checked by VAR. We scored the penalty making it 3-3 with absolute limbs flying in the away end. It did get a bit nervous near the end with Watford trying to go for a late goal but we held on for a 3-3 draw taking it for a replay at Prenton Park.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
After staying in the ground for a long time and the town centre chanting with the fans, I headed back to the train station which I had to wait 40 minutes but the entertainment on the platform from our fans made the time go quickly. I got back to Liverpool Lime street just after 10 pm after a near 4 hour train journey back. The best moment of the ride back was at Birmingham International Station where our Chairman and Vice-Chairman Mark and Nicole Palios got on the train and were chatting with the supporters the ride back to Liverpool.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
I absolutely loved my awayday to Watford one of the best I’ve ever been to. The fact we came back from 3-0 down to a Premier League side is something special and will be something our fans always remember whatever happens in the replay. If I ever get an opportunity to go to Vicarage Road again I’ll definitely be going.
Watford v AFC Bournemouth
Premier League
Saturday 26th October 2019, 3pm
Paul Sheppard (AFC Bournemouth)
Watford v Coventry City
League Cup Cup Round 2
Tuesday 27th August 2019, 7.45pm
Steve Bolland (Coventry City)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the Vicarage Road Ground?
Well, it's been a long time since we've been able to visit a Premier League ground. The fact that Watford hadn't won a league game all season and Coventry were unbeaten with a potential giant-killing on the cards may or may not have had an effect. A £10 bet at 15/2 says we'd do it.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Very easy. I work about 10 miles from Watford during the week so the fact that this was a midweek game meant that everything fell in to place. The traffic getting into Watford was a lot less than I expected to be honest and I was able to park on a colleague's driveway 15 minutes walk from the ground. Walking towards the town centre along Merton Road we amused ourselves for a few minutes watching a cricket match through the fence. The guy on strike looked like a player but the bowler was giving him too much room outside off in my opinion. We were only interrupted by a home fan asking us if we needed directions to the ground. Very thoughtful.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
Not wishing to violate one of the better pre-match traditions we went to the pub. We started at Mangans on Market Street where we were approached by a Watford fan genuinely asking about Coventry's current situation (this on the day that Bury lost their league status). We then went on to the Moon Under Water on the High Street which was pretty busy with away fans but the amply proportioned bar meant we were served in no time. I'm a big fan of Wetherspoons. A good choice of beer at ridiculously low prices. How do they do it? Then on to The Oddfellows on Fearnley Street which was absolutely heaving. Despite being three deep at the bar we were served in a couple of minutes and it took even less time to get a burger from the BBQ in the beer garden. It is an extremely well-run pub.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Vicarage Road Stadium?
Leaving the Oddfellows 20 minutes before kick-off we joined a swarm of both home and away fans sauntering down Vicarage Road, all in high spirits and with no aggravation. This is how football should be. The ground itself is situated very close to the town centre and nestles in a residential area without dominating the surrounding houses. A perfect ground in this respect. It was at this point that we realised just how close The Oddfellows is to Vicarage Road (no more than 2 minutes walk) so we doubled back for a final swift one and still made it back comfortably for kick off. This was aided by there being no queue to get access to the ground despite 3,600 away fans taking over the Vicarage Road Stand.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
As the evening progressed it became clear that my pre-match optimism was misplaced as the gulf between a Premier League outfit and a League One team became apparent as we were beaten 3-0. Despite this, the Coventry fans never stopped singing, including a 15 minute rendition of 'Twist and Shout' in their repertoire. Awesome. Other reviewers have commented on the narrow concourse behind the stand but I have to say it was not a problem.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Getting away was really easy, following the happy Watford fans towards the town centre and tarrying only long enough to deposit my betting slip into a rubbish bin.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
If Carlsberg did football grounds Vicarage Road would be the answer. A proper, traditional ground really well-situated and easy to access.
Watford v West Bromwich Albion
Premier League
Saturday 3rd March 2018, 3pm
Phillip Gardner (West Bromwich Albion fan)
Watford v Swansea City
Premier League
Saturday 30th December 2017, 3pm
Ceri Brace (Swansea City fan)
Watford v Manchester City
Premier League
Saturday 9th September 2017, 3pm
Stephen Welch (Manchester City fan)
Watford v Brighton
Premier League
Saturday 26th August 2017, 3pm
Mike Smith (Brighton & Hove Albion fan)
Watford v Bristol City
League Cup Second Round
Tuesday 22nd August 2017, 7.45pm
Joseph Jones (Doing the 92)
Watford v Southampton
Premier League
Saturday 4th March 2017, 3pm
Andrew Bartlett (Southampton fan)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting Vicarage Lane?
I always enjoy visiting Watford as Vicarage Road is about the least aggressive away trip in the country.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Very easy along the M1 as we were driving down from the Midlands. Parked at the Aqua Centre for £8 just a few minutes walk from away turnstiles. Thought it would be gridlocked getting away but they employ a one-way system that made it easy. Tip for anyone heading north after the game; avoid the heavy traffic to junction 5 of the M1 by following signs to 'North Watford' – the traffic is much lighter and you will soon be at Junction 6.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
Lunch at the Golden Arches on the High Street then visited the Odd Fellows pub, which is the main pub for away fans. Not a great selection of beer but comfortable enough and they show the lunch time kick off. Never ever had problems with Watford fans, as civilized as you could hope for.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of Vicarage Lane?
I first visited Vicarage Road in 1980 to stand on terraces. It has changed completely since then. It looks smart and modern if rather small, by Premier League standards.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
One negative point, the concourse behind the away end is far too cramped and in my opinion is a potential accident waiting to happen. At half-time people couldn't get down the steps to get to the toilets. And the entrance to the toilets is ridiculously narrow. For a generally go ahead and fan friendly club the away end lets Watford down badly.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Easy to get away and back in the car in a few minutes. On the M1 by 5.30pm.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
A 4-3 win made the trip to Watford even more pleasant than usual.
Watford v Middlesbrough
Premier League
Saturday 14th January 2017, 3pm
Steve Burke (Middlesbrough fan)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting Vicarage Road?
I have been to Vicarage Road on many an occasion to watch the Boro and in all honesty, I had never found it much of an occasion and we don't have a particularly great record there. Sadly, today's trip encompassed the first game since Graham Taylors death and therefore there was always going to be a different feel about it.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
As a Surrey based Boro fan, Watford is counted as one of my "home" games. As such, I normally the train but today I decided to drive. I had a fairly straightforward drive round the M25 and found plenty of car parking spaces in a large retail park about a mile from the ground. Finding the ground was easy and took about 15 minutes from where I was parked.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
Traditionally I normally go to the pubs in the town as they are on the way to the ground from the station but today, I did not have as much time and so ended up in a pub call the Oddfellows which is literally just round the corner from Vicarage Road. It was full of away fans and the beer was served in glasses which is always a bonus. On the walk to the ground you have a chippy/burger stand and bookies which is convenient for before and after the game.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of Vicarage Road?
I have been to Watford loads of times but today was the first time that I have seen it look like a proper football ground. The turnstiles are now electronic, the old side terrace is now built up and the corners are filled in. To see the stands named after Graham Taylor and Sir Elton John, the stadium fees modern but still holds a real local, community, family tie to the club. I was also impressed to see that the club have a large sensory room for people who may need it. Having a son with severe cerebral palsy myself, this is a great addition to see at a football ground and one that I could see myself using in future.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The game itself was always going to be a bit of a scrappy game based purely on the football systems that both teams played and so that is how it turned out – A scratchy 0-0 draw that Watford could have and should have won. The game was the first since Graham Taylor's death earlier in the week and there was a sombre feeling in the air. Equally for all that there was somberness, Watford did a great job in celebrating the life of the great man. Both sets of fans sang his name on numerous occasions throughout the game and it made for a warm feeling. It is fair to say from the flowers, scarves and messages outside the ground that he was a much loved man at Vicarage Road. RIP Graham.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
I got out of the ground with relative ease and walked the mile or so back to my car and was out of Watford within about 15-20 minutes. I got in my car at 17:14hrs and was walking through my front door in Epsom by 18:20hrs so overall, it was a very good journey and I would definitely advise anyone wh o is driving, to stay away from the town centre if they want a quick getaway.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
Today was undoubtedly my best trip that I have ever had to Watford. The football was drab but that could happen on any given day. The drive to and from Watford was easy, I didn't have to pay for parking and the stadium is much improved. Vicarage Road will never be one of my favourite trips but today made me realise that Watford FC is much like Middlesbrough FC. It belongs to the people of the town and is ran by people who love their club. Well done Watford.
Watford v Hull City
Premier League
Saturday 29th October 2016, 3pm
Debra Cassar (Hull City fan)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting Vicarage Road?
I have always had a soft spot for Watford as they were the opponents at my first ever match in 1978 (City beat them 4-0!) and I had a Watford supporting pen pal in the 80s.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
I went on train from Wilmslow, Cheshire, Changed at Euston for another train to Watford High Street. That's the station nearest the ground and is only a fifteen minute walk away.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
I always visit a local chippy if I can. Following a recommendation from a Watford fan, I headed for one that was on the way to the ground. All heads turned in the chippy when they heard a Northern voice! Fans I spoke to were friendly including the Vicarage Roadies, a group of fans welcoming supporters from both clubs. A nice touch. Also visited the club shop which was well stocked with retro kits.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of Vicarage Road?
Absolutely beautiful. Right in the heart of the community. If time permits I always have a walk around the outside of the ground. As a fifty year old woman on my own, this was met by friendly bemusement by one of the security guards! I love the fact the stands are named after Elton John and Graham Taylor. I had a terrible view from my seat though. A crush barrier was right in my eye line and I kept having to move my head. However not a major issue as that would only affect a handful of people.
Comment on the game its elf, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
We took quite a number of fans to the game so the atmosphere was good in the away end. I only had a brew as I'd eaten earlier. Some Hull City fans were complaining as alcohol wasn't served on the concourse. The reason was given that it's too small an area and it really is a small concourse. I loved the posters that the Club had put up detailing our previous meetings and welcomed our players. One tip for women. The toilets aren't on the concourse, they're in the stand next to the lift. I think we deserved a draw. However I was happy to see City playing miles better than in the previous couple of games I'd been too. Watford won 1-0 thanks to a Michael Dawson own goal late on. Watford are the first team to win a Premier League game without directing a single shot on target since Sunderland beat West Brom in January 2006!
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Easy. Fifteen minute walk maximum back to High Street station. Although if you ask for directions to the station, be very specific as they have two train stations and one underground station!
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
A great day out. No aggro, just friendly banter. Vicarage Road has a great family atmosphere.
Watford v Newcastle United
FA Cup 3rd Round
Saturday 9th January 2016, 3pm
Peter Laggan (Doing the 92 + Conference)
Why were you looking forward to visiting the Vicarage Road Football Ground?
I haven't visited Vicarage Road before and I have never seen Watford play live. My team is Newcastle United, but I was sat with the Watford fans – so I had to be on my best behaviour!
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
I used Satnav to get me up from my home near Portsmouth. Easy route/drive using A3(M)/M25 which took 1 hour 15 mins to J19 for Watford. The worst part of the journey is from the M25 to Watford (A41/411) which is only three miles but takes 45 minutes in traffic. I followed online advice and went to the Watford Girls School (WD18 0AD) but due to its limited capacity it was full (1 hour before kick off). I was not too concerned as the price has gone up to £8 a car (or was that just because it is the FA Cup?). The next best option in terms of locations was the Church Car Park – though I have read that it can take a long time to get out of it after a match. In the end I plumped for the Gade Car Park which proved easy to find (WD17 1NA) and, at £1 an hour, reasonably priced. There was plenty of spaces, though the queue to get in was long. The Gade is a 15-20 minute walk to the ground.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
Walking to the ground is a bit tricky because of al the twists and turns, but just follow the supporters and you will be fine. Programme sellers are on the main routes to the ground (£3 per programme). There are plenty of take away/chippies on the way to the ground from the town car parks and a couple of pubs. A few NUFC fans were letting the side down by shouting obscenities as they were walking past women and children, but the home fans were well behaved.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of Vicarage Road?
First impressions of Vicarage Road are odd, as the ground is sunk into the ground and it gives the impression from the outside of being an extremely small stadium, however it is much better/bigger inside. I bought my ticket online the day before (easy) and printed off my ticket at home. However the barcode reader didn't like it and a steward had to 'swipe me in'.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Inside the ground, Vicarage Road is impressive, the toilets were spacious and clean and catering facilities were good. Tea is £1.70 and Steak Pie £3.40 (and very tasty). I was in the Sir Elton John Stand which, like all sides, is covered – although the first rows are open to the elements. The home fans in the Rookery Stand were in good voice and the way many home fans waved team flags made for a colourful spectacle. The Geordie fans were in good voice, although their team let them down with poor finishing. Watford won 1-0 with a goal gifted by the Newcastle Number.5.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Getting away was relatively easy. You may need Google Maps or to ask a local to find the car parks unless you can remember all the twists and turns to get there. Exit from the Gade Car Park was easy and the 3 mile journey back onto the M25 was 15 minutes as opposed to 45 minutes coming in.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
A very good day out (even though my team lost and couldn't take their chances). I much prefer Watford's smaller, more intimate, ground to some of the mega-clubs. I would definitely go again.
Watford v Manchester City
Premier League
Saturday 2nd January 2016, 5.30pm
Francis Summerbell (Manchester City fan)
Why were you looking forward to visiting the Vicarage Lane football ground?
I had never been to Vicarage Road before, so I was looking forward to it.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Not too bad, although it looked to be a busy afternoon in the local shopping centres which probably made the the matchday traffic even more heavier. We parked in the Watford Girls Grammar School for 8 quid. It was fairly easy to get away from this car park afterwards.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
We had a bite to eat in the Watford football cafe on Vicarage Road, which I can highly recommend. It is a bit of a "greasy spoon " but good cheap food and very friendly.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Vicarage Road Stadium?
It was pouring with rain, so didn't hang around and got in quick . It was a very sparse concourse, with a severe lack of ladies loos and beer! Food looked okay but usual expensive rates .
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The atmosphere inside Vicarage Road was good, but the stadium not great. The wind blowing the rain into our end. The Watford fans seated at the front of the Sir Elton John Stand got it even worse. The stewarding poor as a lot of fans were stood in gangways, which were slippy due to rain. As regards the game itself, Watford took the lead on 54 minutes through a Kolarov own goal. But two goals in the last ten minutes of the game by Toure and Aquero saved City's blushes.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Decent enough. We were back on the M1 within 30 minutes.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
Good result , great food pre match , stadium etc.. average.
Watford v Liverpool
Premier League
Sunday 20th December 2015, 1.30pm
Rob Lawler (Liverpool fan)
Why were you looking forward to visiting Vicarage Road?
My friend managed to get me a ticket as a few people sold their tickets on due to it being so close to Christmas. Not many people I know, had been to Vicarage Road to see a game and with Watford recently promoted from the Championship, I went for the novelty factor and a day out on the ale.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Watford Junction Railway Station is quite far from Vicarage Road, but as our train from Liverpool Lime Street stopped there we decided to get off and walk into town. The ground is a bit of a trek and a few of the people we came with on the train got lost.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
We went to a Wetherspoons on Watford High Street and then went up to Vicarage Road. The Police approached us to tell us that we should arrive earlier at the ground and handed out leaflets published by the club informing us that the away end was being renovated and two temporary turnstiles were in place. The Police were very helpful and friendly and talked to us like we were football fans rather than potential trouble causes. Credit to them. There were a variety of Watford stewards and club employees around the away end to help us. Home fans just minded their own business and everyone mingled okay. Apparently the pub at the back of the away end called the Red Lion is owned by the Watford chairman but is boarded up. If anyone buys that off him it will be a potential gold mine as the is only one other pub that I could see nearby.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of Vicarage Road?
The outside of the away end looks a bit dated but inside the ground is fine and two of the other stands have been modernised. Not the most spectacular ground but certainly not the worst I've ever been to
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Liverpool produced an embarrassing and abject performance as Watford overpowered them. The Watford fans obviously enjoyed it and got behind their team.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Getting away was fine, our train was not until 5pm so we stayed in Watford town centre for a few drinks. Went into a pub called the One Bell which is like a Watford version of the Penny Farthing or Blob Shop in Liverpool. It had some characters in there putting it mildly. All were friendly and the beer was cheap so no complaints from me.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
Overall it was a good a day out. Pity though that the Liverpool team were so poor.
Watford v Norwich City
Championship League
Saturday, February 21st 2015, 3pm
Mike McCarthy (Norwich City fan)
1. Why you were looking forward to going to the ground?
I had travelled over from Ireland to follow the Canaries, my first time since since 2007, so I was itching to just see them again.
2. How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
I stayed in Kings Cross London and got an underground train from there to Euston. From Euston we got an overground train to Watford High Street (trains run every 15 mins with every second train being a fast one). Our train was a 'slow' one and took 40 minutes. Upon exiting the train station it is quite clearly signposted how to get to Vicarage Road.
3. What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
After reading the Football Ground Guide we tried a pub called 'Oddfellows' on Fearnley Street. It is only 100 yards from the away end. Upon entry it was quite clearly an Irish pub with only away fans in attendance before the match which suited me on both counts! Plenty of banter, singing etc.. and it got fairly wild at times but nothing troublesome and the bar staff were pretty laid back. It was though hard to get a drink as it was that jam packed. For the people who prefer the peace and quiet there is a beer garden at the back. It even had a screen showing the early kick off with plenty seating etc. I also noticed that there are plenty of food outlets around the ground as well.
4. What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
My first impressions of Vicarage Road was that it looked old from the outside. The away end concourse is tiny and with a large away following it was thronged. Also no alcohol being served in the away end is a bit of let down. The new Sir Elton John Stand on one side of the stadium looks much better than the old stands that it replaced. The rest of the ground looked good particularly the Graham Taylor Stand with its curvy roof.
5. Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
A 3-0 away win was the perfect result for a fan who doesn’t get to see much of his team! The game itself was poor (until our three goals flew in!) which probably reflected on the atmosphere of the home fans although I thought the Watford fans did little to try and get it going. The sold out away end did most of the singing. I didn’t sample any food or drink in there as the queues were massive due to the small concourse. Stewards were very relaxed in the away end.
6. Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Away fans leave the ground and walk same direction as home fans to get to coaches etc.. We returned to the Oddfellows pub to find it was full of Watford fans with only a few Norwich fans calling for a quick beer before the journey home. In no way intimidating for an away fan after the game I thought. The home fans were friendly and seemed to take the 3-0 defeat on the chin.
7. Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
The result made it a great day out plus the banter in the bar beforehand. Vicarage Road is very accessible.
Watford v Derby County
Championship League
Saturday January 15th, 2011, 3pm
Mark Cooper (Neutral fan)
1. Why you were looking forward to going to the ground (or not as the case may be):
I had heard how unique in some ways Vicarage Road iss, and living in Cambridge (who were away at Alfreton) and seeing that Derby were there on the Saturday I got my brother to get some tickets for the Derby section. I was also intrigued as to how the ground was, especially the much talked about East Stand.
2. How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Journey was about 80 minutes from Cambridge, no problems at all even with the nightmare that is the ring road, possibly allow time if your driving is patchy! We parked in the Harlequin Shopping Centre though probably wouldn't again as it seemed a bit archaic in there.
3. What you did before the game pub/chippy…. home fans friendly?
Went to the Wetherspoons in town for a fry up and to soak in the previous nights excess. Home and Away fans were in there and no bother at all. Then visited the Odd Fellows pub, as recommended on this website. Good, quick and friendly service and a large space outside for smokers. The outside BBQ smelt lovely.
4. What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the ground?
Approaching the ground I had never really seen an outside of a ground like it, we saw the half demolished East stand and therefore had a peek through one of the gaps. Its clear this ground is older then what my Brother is used too at Pride Park though I thought this had far more character. Had a good view of the game from the Vicarage Road end and the other three sides of the ground looked decent, I definitely prefer grounds like this when you see all the shiny new identigrounds cropping up. Asking staff outside for directions to the club shop and away pubs were met with polite and friendly answers.
5. Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, toilets etc..
The game as a neutral wasn't the best, the pitch (thanks egg chasers) made for a lack of quality in the opening 30 minutes until Derby's defending became a bit of a comedy of errors, this led to goals from Buckley, Graham and Sordell to make it 3-0 at half time. Fair play to the (long suffering) Derby support who sang throughout and were noticeably nosier then the home fans. Didn't bother going down into concourse seeing as how tight it was though the prices are no better or worse then most Championship grounds. The Stewards seemed pleasant enough and didn't seem too picky, let us stand throughout. The match petered out a bit in second half and ended 3-0 which to be fair was fair reflection on the game.
6. Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Getting away was straightforward enough (despite other drivers not being able to grasp the ring road concept) and a 5.15 departure had us back just before 7 which isn't too shabby considering the usual post match traffic.
7. Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
Was all in all quite enjoyable, good pubs nearby, Watford seems a nice atmosphere to enjoy a game (probably gives it its reputation as a good family club). I will definitely go back every now and again. Especially worth a visit if you enjoy your grounds traditional.
Watford v Reading
Championship League
Saturday November 20th, 2010, 3pm
Will O'Shea (Reading fan)
1. Why you were looking forward to going to the ground (or not as the case may be):
Given the unpredictability of recent Reading results and a positive start for Watford, I knew that this trip to Vicarage Road was not going to be an easy one. However, there is always that lingering spark of optimism ahead of most games for the Royals, knowing that on their day, they can beat pretty much anyone in the Championship. Surely the ingredients for a top game.
2. How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
The relatively short trip from the Madejski to Vicarage Road was a fairly easy one. We took the M4 and until turning off at M25 and following this to Junction 18. Follow signs for Rickmansworth and then Watford, and the ground is easy to find. Parking permits do restrict parking close to the ground, but there is parking 15 minutes walk from the ground, adjacent to Watford Grammar.
3. What you did before the game pub/chippy…. home fans friendly?
Before the encounter, we stopped off in the local chippy. Service and quality is of an average standard but to be fair prices do reflect this. All in all, the standard, stereotypical pre match meal.
4. What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the ground?
The away end, to my surprise was actually fairly accommodating. I had heard negative tales of an old fashioned, run down stand but giving Watford their due, the stand was one of the best I have experienced away with the Royals. On the left of the away stand it has to be said, a lot is left to be desired. This undeveloped side of the ground gave one a glimpse of what terracing life used to be like before the change to all-seater stadiums. This offered very little to the aesthetics of the ground, but did give the stadium that quaint and old fashioned feel.
5. Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, toilets etc..
Now given the build up and Reading with the ability to score at will but also the ability to concede with consummate ease, a high scoring affair had to be on the cards. The atmosphere, it has to be said was very dismal from the Watford fans. The occasional chant from the North stand drifted our way, upon a Watford corner or long range effort, but that was it. After a fairly dry first 10, the game came alive for a brief moment as a ball from Ian Harte found its way over the top of Watford’s defence and Long pounced, took it to the by line before crossing for a potent Noel Hunt to tuck away in the 15th minute. The game returned to the doldrums after this brief interlude. However a dubious free kick was awarded to Watford, the resulting cross then led to a corner. Sure enough from the corner a leaping Deeney, out jumped all the ball watching Royals defenders to head home, 1-1. The second half meandered along, without real incident, the final whistle blew, and the game was drawn. It had to be admitted this was a fair result.
6. Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Leaving the road was very quick and the return journey home was also fairly swift.