Watford FC Ground & Tickets
Ground: Vicarage Road
Capacity: 22.220
Location: Vicarage Road, Watford
Country: United Kingdom
The Ground
Vicarage Road, nestled in the town of Watford, Hertfordshire, has been the home of Watford FC since 1922. Originally opened as a multi-purpose sports ground, the stadium became permanently associated with the club after Watford’s relocation from Cassio Road.
The stadium is owned by Watford FC itself, having been repurchased by the club in 2002 after a period of financial uncertainty that had forced a temporary sale. Today, Vicarage Road stands as a secure and permanent home for the Hornets, safeguarded for the club’s future generations of supporters.
With a seating capacity of approximately 22,200, Vicarage Road offers an intimate yet vibrant matchday atmosphere. Its record attendance stands at 34,099, set during an FA Cup match against Manchester United in 1969.
Architecturally, the ground reflects nearly a century of gradual evolution and redevelopment. Key milestones include the construction of the modern Sir Elton John Stand—named after the club’s former chairman and lifelong supporter—which opened in 2014, replacing the old Main Stand. The Rookery Stand, built in 1995, provides home supporters with excellent views and a central role in the stadium’s acoustics. Other stands, such as the Graham Taylor Stand, honor legendary figures in the club’s history, blending Watford’s rich heritage with modern comfort and safety standards.
Official Tickets
Watford FC Hive Live Membership is essential for priority access to match tickets. Membership offers early access to ticket sales for home matches at Vicarage Road, with priority windows based on membership level. Members may also build loyalty through attendance history, which can be crucial for high-demand fixtures.
General Sale. For matches where demand is lower (often early cup rounds or mid-table league fixtures), remaining tickets may go on General Sale to non-members. These tickets can be purchased directly through Watford’s official website, but availability is limited and popular fixtures rarely reach this stage.
Ticket Exchange (Official Resale). Watford operates an official Ticket Exchange system, allowing season ticket holders to list their seats for resale at face value when they cannot attend. Availability varies depending on demand and fixture category, with access often limited to official club members.
Hospitality & Premium Packages. For matches where standard tickets are sold out, Watford offers a variety of hospitality packages via the official club website. Packages may include premium seating, exclusive lounges, dining experiences, and hosted matchday services — providing an alternative route to secure tickets while enjoying an enhanced matchday atmosphere.
Fanshop
Stadium Store (Vicarage Road).
The Hornets Shop, Vicarage Road, WD18 0ER, Watford. The main physical store is located at Vicarage Road Stadium
How to get to the Stadium
Via underground (Tube) or Overground
Metropolitan Line > Watford Station: The closest Underground option. Approx. 40-45 min from central London (e.g. Baker Street), followed by a 15-minute walk through Cassiobury Park or along Rickmansworth Road to the stadium entrance.
London Overground > Watford High Street Station: Often the most convenient choice for many fans. About 35-40 min from central London (e.g. Euston), followed by a short 10-minute walk directly to Vicarage Road.
National Rail > Watford Junction Station: A key hub with fast services from London Euston (approx. 20 min). From the station, it’s around a 15-20 min walk to the stadium or a short local bus ride.
Airport
London City Airport (LCY)
0–15 min DLR/TfL to central London, then Metropolitan Line from Baker Street to Watford Station. Travel time approximately 60-75 minutes.
Heathrow Airport (LHR)
Heathrow Express (15 min) to Paddington, then Circle or Hammersmith & City Line to Baker Street, followed by Metropolitan Line to Watford Station. Travel time approximately 60-75 minutes.
Eurostar: London St Pancras International
From St Pancras take the Victoria Line to Euston, then National Rail to Watford Junction. Journey time approximately 35-40 minutes.
Around the Stadium
Before and After the Match
The Red Lion – Directly opposite the stadium entrance on Vicarage Road. A classic Watford home fans’ pub with plenty of matchday buzz. Always busy before and after kickoff.
The Oddfellows – Less than 1-minute walk from the ground. Cosy interior with outdoor space, very popular with season ticket holders for pre-match pints.
The Estcourt Arms – Around 5-minute walk from the stadium. Spacious beer garden, decent selection of ales, often packed with Watford supporters enjoying pre-match build-up.
The Horns Watford – Roughly 7 minutes away on Hempstead Road. A lively sports pub with big screens and occasional live music. Popular for both pre- and post-match drinks.
The Flag – Right next to Watford High Street Station (10 min walk). Lively atmosphere on matchdays, good beer selection, and a solid option for those arriving via Overground.
The One Crown – About 10 min from the stadium. Classic Watford town centre pub, traditional feel with quick service and a good pint selection.
The Prince George – 12–15 min walk on St. Albans Road. More relaxed atmosphere, reliable service, often less crowded—ideal for a quieter pre-match drink.
The Wellington Arms – A solid traditional pub 15-20 minutes from the ground, serving cask ales with a friendly local atmosphere. Less crowded, offering a proper British pub experience.
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