history
The early history of Watford, dating back to the 14^th century indicates a prosperous town having been granted by Henry I, the status to engage in trades such as brewing, malting, leather and wool. This was undoubtedly assisted by good transport links that prior to the 1830s was principally via the Grand Union Canal and was subsequently supplemented by a comprehensive rail network. Although Watford has experienced extensive modernization, the town has also maintained historic buildings such as the magnificent Church of St Mary.

transport
Today, as the largest town in Hertfordshire, Watford boasts extensive transport links. London can be accessed via the Underground network through the Metropolitan line and several train stations namely Watford Junction, Garston, North Watford, Watford Stadium and Bushey. London Euston is approximately a 20-30 minutes train journey.

Excellent access to the motorway network is granted via M1 and M25, both being less than 5 miles away from central Watford. Major International airports at Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton and Stanstead are easily reachable through M25 or M1 that in turn provide access to the M23 and M11.

recreation & sporting activities
Despite its enviable national and international accessibility, Watford is set within the green belt benefiting from a variety of parks, golf courses, cycle tracks and picturesque walkways.  The navigable river Gade runs along the west of Watford, while the river Colne runs across the east. Cassiobury Park, once containing a house belonging to Earl of Essex, provides tennis courts, a golf course, children playing area and attractive walkways.  To the north of Watford is Gadebridge Park, a large parkland that stretches from Hemel Hempstead along the Gade Valley towards Piccotts End. The southern end of the park contains numerous recreational areas, including large children’s playground, paddling pool, public bowling green and facilities for crazy golf, and giant chess and draughts. Additional nearby attractions include Aldenham Country Park, Berkhampstead Castle and St Albans Cathedral (pictured). The new Gardens of the Rose in St Albans, run by the Royal National Rose Society, are currently being redeveloped and plan to open in the summer of 2007.

Watford also offers numerous sport/leisure opportunities, for example the David Lloyd Club and The Crescent. Furthermore, the largest sports stadium in Hertfordshire is in Watford being home to both the Watford Football Club and the Saracens Rugby Club.

shopping & restaurants
Watford centre offers an excellent range of modern shopping facilities, dominated by The Harlequin Centre which houses in excess of 140 high street names, including John Lewis, Virgin Megastore, Next and Marks & Spencer.  Adjacent to The Harlequin Centre, in Charter Place, the Watford Market is held 3 days a week on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Additionally, Watford benefits from several well-served secondary shopping locations in Abbots Langley, Garston, Bushey, West and North Watford. The location of the Northwood Watford Office in St Albans Road was chosen carefully such that it can cater effectively for all these areas.

entertainment
Watford is a highly cosmopolitan town and also draws many people from the surroundings to its numerous restaurants and pubs located in The Parade near the town centre. Nearby, there are a number of theaters and clubs including The Palace Theatre, the Colosseum, Jongleurs Comedy Club and the Destiny night-club.  Less than 3 miles north of the town centre is Woodside Leisure Park which includes a multi-screen cinema, ten-pin bowling centre and several restaurants.

education facilities
Watford provides a range of reputable schools in both the estate and private sector. These include both single-sex and co-educational schools and those that cater for children with Special Education requirements.

West Herts College provides opportunities for further and continuing education including degree courses and short courses for career development. The student service at the College offers guidance in choice of courses and in careers.