Watford town always finds a way to surprise us! Visit Watford has asked residents and visitors to reveal the “weird” facts that surprise them the most about Watford, facts that might not be widely well-known – we have now collected the top 5, plus one! Also, see it as a chance to test your knowledge; how well do you know Watford?
Watford town proves to be a destination not to be missed. With established heritage and history, a recognised outstanding location with awarded green spaces and a vibrant lifestyle, this town has something for everyone and you will be surprised!
6. There are 92 nationally listed buildings in Watford. These include St Mary’s Church, which dates to the 12th century, and Holy Rood Church which dates to 1890.
5. Watford is one of only 18 authorities in England and Wales headed by a directly elected Mayor. Dorothy Thornhill was the first directly elected Mayor of Watford, elected in May 2002 and re-elected in May 2006 and May 2010. She was the first female directly elected Mayor in England and the Liberal Democrats’ first directly elected Mayor.
4. There are 43 public parks, gardens, recreation grounds and allotments in Watford. Of these, twelve have been awarded a Green Flag in recognition of their quality.
3. Cassiobury Park was formed from the grounds of Cassiobury House and consists of 190 acres (0.77 km2) of open space. The house was demolished in 1927 and the Cassiobury Gates in 1970 for road widening. In July 2007, the park won a Green Flag Award which recognises the best green spaces in the country and was listed as one of the Nation’s Top Ten.
2. By the 1920s, printing had become the biggest industry in Watford. The biggest printers in the town were Sun Printers Ltd and Odhams Press. Watford was the biggest printing centre in the world and many advances in printing were made in Watford. During World War II the prints were taken over by the government who used them to print propaganda.
1. Watford has achieved the prestigious Purple Flag status for its evening and night-time economy (ENTE). Areas awarded the Purple Flag are recognised for providing a vibrant and diverse mix of dining, entertainment and culture while promoting the safety and wellbeing of visitors and local residents.