Watford has always fascinated me as one of those towns that effortlessly balances the energy of being close to London with the calm, green expanses that families crave when they need a break. Living in the UK, I often find myself looking for destinations that are easy to reach but still feel like a proper getaway, and Watford fits that description beautifully. Just about 20 minutes from central London by train, it feels almost unfair that such a compact town offers so many experiences for families—from Harry Potter magic to vast parks, fascinating museums, and cozy cafés.
This article is my personal take on exploring Watford as a family destination. I’ve handpicked ten attractions that, in my opinion, are absolute must-visits if you’re traveling with children, parents, or even grandparents. I’ve been to each of these places more than once, and every time I notice new details that make me love them even more.
1. Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter
Location: Studio Tour Drive, Leavesden, Watford WD25 7LR
No list about Watford would be complete without mentioning the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. This is not just an attraction—it’s an entire experience that transports you into the wizarding world of Harry Potter. I still remember the first time I stepped into the Great Hall; my children’s eyes widened so much I thought they might burst from excitement.
The studio houses original sets, costumes, props, and behind-the-scenes secrets that show how the films were made. Highlights for us included standing on Platform 9¾, sipping a frothy Butterbeer in the Backlot Café, and strolling through Diagon Alley where the cobblestones look like they’re hiding stories of their own.
Special Features for Families:
- The interactive wand experiences let kids “cast spells” on set.
- Green screen technology gives you a chance to “fly” on a broomstick.
- Seasonal themes (like “Hogwarts in the Snow” around Christmas) add fresh magic.
Tickets & Booking:
Tickets start from around £55 per adult and £45 per child. Booking is only available in advance via the Warner Bros. Studio Tour website. These tickets sell out months ahead, so my advice is to book as early as possible. Platforms like GetYourGuide sometimes have packages that include transport from London, which is very handy if you don’t want to navigate on your own.
Tips:
Arrive at least half an hour before your time slot; security checks and queues can be long. Don’t skip the gift shop at the end—it’s one of the few places in the UK where you can find authentic Harry Potter merchandise, though I warn you: your kids may never want to leave.
2. Cassiobury Park
Location: Gade Avenue, Watford WD18 7LG
If there’s one place in Watford that feels like the heart of the community, it’s Cassiobury Park. With over 190 acres of green space, this park has been my go-to for picnics, leisurely walks, and, most importantly, letting the kids run wild.
The park features two children’s playgrounds, a miniature railway (which my son adores), and even a paddling pool in the summer. For adults, the river walk is incredibly calming, with birds, squirrels, and the occasional heron putting on a quiet show.
Special Features for Families:
- The Cassiobury Park Hub has a café, toilets, and community rooms.
- The miniature railway (£2.50 per ride) is a huge hit with younger kids.
- Large open spaces are perfect for kite flying and frisbee.
Costs & Booking:
Entry to the park is free. Paid extras include the railway and occasional seasonal fairs. Parking costs around £1.50–£2.00 per hour, or you can take the Metropolitan Line to Watford Underground station and walk about 15 minutes.
Tips:
Bring a picnic blanket, because food options inside are limited beyond the café. On hot days, get there early to claim a shady spot near the paddling pool.
3. Watford Museum
Location: 194 High Street, Watford WD17 2DT
I often hear people dismiss local museums as “boring,” but Watford Museum is anything but. It’s housed in a charming 18th-century mansion and filled with the town’s rich history, from Roman times to the industrial boom.
The standout for my family was the section on Watford Football Club, complete with memorabilia and stories that even non-football fans can appreciate. My children particularly loved the art displays, which rotate often and include interactive features.
Special Features for Families:
- Free activity sheets for kids to keep them engaged.
- Regular family workshops and craft days.
- Small enough to explore in an hour or two—perfect for shorter attention spans.
Costs & Booking:
Entry is free, though special workshops may require a small fee. No booking is needed, making it a great spontaneous option.
Tips:
Combine a visit with lunch in the town centre; the museum is right on the High Street, so it’s convenient to pair with shopping or dining.
4. Cheslyn House & Gardens
Location: Nascot Wood Road, Watford WD17 4SL
Hidden away like a secret garden, Cheslyn House is my personal sanctuary in Watford. Spanning just over 3.5 acres, it’s small but incredibly diverse, with both formal gardens and a semi-natural woodland area.
For families, it offers a quieter, more reflective kind of outing. My kids love spotting the koi fish in the pond and running along the winding paths, while I take my time photographing the seasonal flowers.
Special Features for Families:
- Free to enter.
- Shady areas for hot summer days.
- Benches throughout for grandparents to rest.
Tips:
Spring and summer are the best times for blooming flowers, but autumn brings its own magic with fiery leaves. Bring snacks, as there are no cafés inside.
5. Topgolf Watford
Location: Bushey Mill Lane, Watford WD24 7AB
Topgolf is one of those places that completely redefined what “family activity” means for us. It’s essentially a driving range with a twist—microchipped balls and electronic scoring make it part golf, part video game.
Even though I’m not a golfer, I had an absolute blast competing with my kids, who loved the instant feedback on each shot. Food and drinks are served to your bay, so it becomes a full outing.
Costs & Booking:
Games cost around £7–£9 per person per session. You can book via the Topgolf website or walk in, though weekends can be busy.
Tips:
Go in the late afternoon or evening when the venue is lit up with neon lights—it adds a whole new level of fun.
6. Oxhey Park
Location: Eastbury Road, Watford WD19 4JJ
Oxhey Park is Watford’s answer to urban recreation. Redesigned in recent years, it features an incredible skate park, outdoor gym equipment, and riverside paths.
For families with teenagers, this is a dream come true. My eldest son spends hours here with his skateboard, while I enjoy the riverside coffee kiosk.
Special Features for Families:
- One of the largest skate parks in Hertfordshire.
- Flat paths perfect for cycling or scootering with younger kids.
- Free entry.
Tips:
Bring helmets and safety gear if your kids are skateboarding or cycling. On sunny weekends, it can get very crowded, so mornings are best.
7. Watford Palace Theatre
Location: 20 Clarendon Road, Watford WD17 1JZ
This Edwardian theatre is not just about performances—it’s about creating an atmosphere where families can connect with culture. I’ve taken my children to pantomimes here, and they still talk about the hilarious jokes and colourful sets.
The theatre hosts family-friendly productions, from classic plays to contemporary performances, as well as workshops for kids.
Costs & Booking:
Tickets vary depending on the show, typically £12–£25. Book via the Watford Palace Theatre website.
Tips:
For Christmas pantomimes, book months in advance—they sell out quickly. Pair with dinner at one of the nearby restaurants on Clarendon Road.
8. Intu Watford Shopping Centre
Location: High Street, Watford WD17 2UB
Shopping with children might sound like a nightmare, but Intu Watford manages to make it enjoyable. With family restrooms, play areas, and kid-friendly restaurants, it’s surprisingly accommodating.
I’ve often combined a day here with a movie at the Vue Cinema inside the centre. My kids love choosing books from Waterstones while I browse fashion stores.
Costs & Booking:
Entry is free; parking costs around £3–£5 for a few hours. Check the Intu Watford website for seasonal events like kids’ workshops.
Tips:
Visit midweek to avoid weekend crowds. Many restaurants offer “kids eat free” deals during school holidays.
9. Aldenham Country Park
Location: Aldenham Road, Elstree, WD6 3BA (just outside Watford)
Though technically a short drive from Watford, Aldenham Country Park is too good to leave off this list. Spread across 100 acres, it combines farm animals, adventure playgrounds, and beautiful walks.
The highlight for us was the Winnie-the-Pooh-themed 100 Aker Wood, where children can explore miniature versions of locations from the books.
Costs & Booking:
Entry is free to the parklands, but activities like the farm or play areas may cost around £5–£10. Book online via Aldenham Country Park.
Tips:
Wear boots if it’s been raining—the paths can get muddy. Bring coins for the animal feed machines.
10. Bushey Rose Garden
Location: High Street, Bushey WD23 3HH (near Watford)
Finally, for a more peaceful family outing, the Bushey Rose Garden is perfect. Designed in the early 20th century, it’s a compact but stunning garden filled with roses, fountains, and shady benches.
It’s less about active play and more about slowing down. My children run along the paths while I enjoy the bursts of colour and fragrance.
Costs & Booking:
Free entry. No booking needed.
Tips:
Bring a camera in summer—the roses are breathtaking. Pair this with a visit to the nearby art galleries in Bushey for a half-day trip.
Booking & Travel Platforms I Recommend
Whenever I plan trips like this, I rely on a few platforms to make the process smoother:
- Accommodation: Booking.com, Expedia, and Airbnb are my go-to choices depending on whether I want a hotel, a deal, or something homely.
- Flights & Trains: Skyscanner is unbeatable for flights. For trains, I use Trainline to book tickets from London to Watford or further.
- Restaurants & Dining: OpenTable is excellent for reserving tables in advance, especially during school holidays.
- Tickets & Tours: GetYourGuide often has bundled deals that combine entry tickets with transport.
As I think back on my journeys to Watford, what strikes me most is how many layers the town offers once you look beyond its reputation as “the place with the Harry Potter studios.” Yes, that alone would justify a visit, but it’s the combination of leafy parks, cultural spots, playful attractions, and peaceful gardens that truly make it special for families.
Every trip I’ve taken here has given me a different rhythm—sometimes it’s a day of excitement at Warner Bros. Studios, other times it’s nothing more than a slow walk through Cassiobury Park or a quiet afternoon at Cheslyn Gardens. I’ve watched my children grow up with these little traditions, from train rides through miniature railways to wide-eyed theatre evenings filled with laughter. Even on the busiest days, Watford manages to feel human, approachable, and refreshingly genuine.
For me, Watford is not just a convenient escape from London; it’s a reminder that memorable family adventures don’t always require long flights or complicated plans. Sometimes, all it takes is a short train ride, a well-packed picnic bag, and a willingness to wander into spaces where laughter and discovery come naturally. That’s the charm I keep returning for—and the reason I believe Watford deserves a place on every family’s travel list.
