For those who are visiting London, but need a break from the frenetic pace of the UK’s capital city, a trip to Watford cannot be more highly recommended (once lockdown is over of course!).
Thanks to the proximity of the M25 and London itself this delightful market town is just what is required to recharge tired batteries. Making a trip to Watford even more pleasurable is that the town is filled with opportunities for both leisure and entertainment. For those who will be visiting, here are some great ideas to make the trip well worth the effort.
Firstly there is the justifiably popular Harry Potter Warner Brother’s Studio Tour. Here you can view original props and sets, experience some of the dazzling special effects that were used to such great effect in the movies and see some of the fabulous costumes.
For those who want to get back to nature time spent at Cassiobury Park will not be wasted. The Park is made up of the grounds of Cassiobury House, the estate of the Earls of Essex which was demolished in 1927. The rolling lawns and trees such as the American Pin Oaks, Swamp Cypress, Scarlet Oak and a Cedar of Lebanon are magnificent and the abundance of water courtesy of the River Gade and the Grand Union Canal add to the serenity of this great destination.
For lovers of history, hours spent at the Bentley Priory Museum will provide treasured memories. The 18th and 19th century manor house was the base of RAF Fighter Command which coordinated efforts airborne efforts during the Battle of Britain. The house was converted into a museum in 2013 and today visitors can explore its history and delve deeply into the personalities that guided the efforts of RAF Fighter Command – and the strategies that were employed to ensure success.
Those who wish to enjoy incredible cuisine will not be disappointed by the offerings in and around Watford. One superior dining destination is the ‘Restaurant at Sopwell House’. This Georgian house used to be the country retreat of Lord Mountbatten but today hosts a restaurant that has received first place in the Open Table Diners Choice Awards in 2018 and 2019 and has two AA Rosettes. The menu includes British and Continental favourites and includes such delights as Spiced Chicken Liver Parfait with Cumberland Sauce and an exquisitely executed Lamb Rump with Thyme Fondant Potatoe, carrot puree and Savoy cabbage. A gastronomic and service experience not to be missed. There are many other fabulous dining destinations to be found in the town meaning that even the most demanding of gourmands will be satisfied with the choice on offer.
These are only a few of the wonderful experiences that make Watford such a delightful place to visit. The town deserves more than a full day of exploration – set aside some time and you will simply not be disappointed. For those planning events in this vibrant town, there are so many venues Watford, such as Watford Football Club, Watford Colosseum, The Manor Hotel Elstree and Mercure London Watford Hotel to name a few!