A big town centre with a local side
Watford is one of the main shopping destinations in Hertfordshire, and many people from the surrounding towns and villages come here for the larger stores. Behind the big names there is also a good spread of independent cafes, salons, specialist shops and market traders, and those are the businesses this directory is here to help you find.
Harlequin Watford and the High Street
The covered shopping centre in the heart of town is now known as Harlequin Watford again, bringing back the name many locals always used. It connects with the pedestrianised High Street and The Parade, where restaurants, bars and outdoor seating make the area busy into the evening.
Further along, the lower High Street near St Mary's Church has a mix of smaller and long-standing businesses worth exploring on foot.
Watford Market
Watford has had a market since the 12th century, and today's Watford Market brings together small businesses selling food, fashion, gifts and beauty, alongside street food to eat there or take away. The council also runs Market Lates evenings with themed food, music and family entertainment.
Trader line-ups and opening hours change, so check the market's own website before a special trip.
Gift cards and town centre events
Watford Town Centre BID, the business-led partnership funded by town centre businesses, runs events and promotions and coordinates the Watford Gift Card, which can be spent with participating local shops, restaurants and cafes. It is a simple way to give a present that keeps money in the town.
Beyond the town centre
Neighbouring centres have their own character: Bushey High Street, the shops around Croxley Green, Rickmansworth's high street and the parades in Abbots Langley and South Oxhey all have independents that are easy to overlook. Use the area pages to see who trades near you.
Shopping locally does not have to mean a trip into the centre. Many tradespeople, makers and caterers work from home or travel to you, so browse by category as well as by area to find people who already serve your street.
Spotted something out of date? Let us know.