Watford on a Budget: A Fun Day Out

Explore Watford's charm without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Watford, United Kingdom on a limited budget can be a fun and rewarding experience. With a variety of affordable attractions, such as the Watford Colosseum and the Cassiobury Park, visitors can explore the city without breaking the bank. Additionally, cheap food and accommodation options can be found in the city center.

Day trip plan

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Day

A Budget Day in Watford

  • Get a hearty breakfast at The Breadhouse on St. Albans Road. Try their bacon sandwich or the breakfast roll for under £3.
  • Head over to Cassiobury Park for a morning stroll and a picnic. Bring your own food and enjoy the greenery.
  • Visit the Watford Market on Market Street for some budget shopping. Grab a few souvenirs or necessities to take home.
  • Have a delicious late lunch at The Horns Pub on Hempstead Road. Their burgers and fries are mouth-watering and budget-friendly.
  • Go for a walk at the Intu Watford Shopping Centre and admire the architecture. Window shop and grab some deals at Primark and other discount stores.
  • End your day with a cup of coffee or tea at the Cosy Club on King Street. Their quirky decor and tasty drinks make it the perfect place to relax after a long day.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Watford by plane is to fly into London Heathrow airport and take the Heathrow Express train to London Paddington. From there, switch to the Bakerloo line and get off at Watford Junction station. It takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can fly into London Luton airport and take a direct train to Watford Junction, which takes approximately 20 minutes.

Car

The best way to get to Watford by car is to take the M1 motorway and exit at junction 5 or 6, depending on your final destination. From central London, it takes approximately 1 hour to reach Watford by car, depending on traffic.

Train

The best way to get to Watford by train is to take the West Midlands Trains from London Euston station to Watford Junction, which takes approximately 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can take the London Overground line to Watford High Street station, which takes approximately 40 minutes.

Boat

There is no direct way to get to Watford by boat as the nearest river is the Thames, which does not connect to Watford. The nearest marina is the Rickmansworth Canal and River Trust, which is a 10-minute drive from central Watford.

Bus

The best way to get to Watford by bus is to take the National Express coach from Victoria Coach Station in London to Watford Junction station, which takes approximately 55 minutes.

More travel plans

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As a tourist visiting Watford, United Kingdom, you are in for a lovely time. You can explore the scenic countryside filled with Royal Parks, nature reserves, and enchanting waterways. Visit the Warner Bros. Studio Tour to see where your favorite Harry Potter movie scenes were filmed or take a leisurely stroll around the Watford Museum to learn about the town's impressive history.

5 Days in Watford: Harry Potter, Parks, and More!

As a tourist visiting Watford in the United Kingdom, you can explore the Harry Potter Studio Tour and witness the making of the famous movies. You can also visit the Watford Colosseum, a venue for music concerts and theater productions. The Cassiobury Park and Whippendell Woods offer scenic beauty, bike riding, jogging and a chance to relax in nature.

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Watford, located just 30 minutes by train from London, offers a perfect option for a day excursion away from the busy city. Visitors can explore the historic Watford Palace Theatre, shop at the Harlequin Shopping Centre, or spend the day at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour of the Making of Harry Potter, where they can relive the magic of the beloved films.

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Watford is a charming town with picturesque parks and gardens to explore, perfect for romantic walks. The Harry Potter Studio Tour is a must-visit attraction for Harry Potter fans, where you can experience the magic of the movies together. Finish off your day with a romantic dinner at one of Watford's many cozy restaurants.