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Vicarage Road

Watford - EnglandEngland

Vicarage Road, known as “The Vic,” is Watford FC’s historic 22,200-seat stadium since 1922. With four stands—Sir Elton John, Graham Taylor, Vicarage Road, and Rookery—it offers an intimate football atmosphere, modern facilities, and guided stadium tours. The venue also hosts concerts and previously hosted rugby with Saracens.

About this place

History

Vicarage Road has been Watford FC’s home since August 30, 1922, replacing their former ground at Cassio Road. Initially opened with two covered stands and terraces, it has undergone major redevelopments: the Vicarage Road Stand in 1993, the Rookery Stand in 1994–95, the Graham Taylor Stand (formerly Rous Stand) in 1986 and renamed in 2014, and the Sir Elton John Stand in 2014. The club purchased the stadium freehold in 2002, sold it due to financial issues, then reacquired ownership in 2004 through a fan-led campaign supported by Elton John.

Description

The all-seater stadium currently holds approximately 22,200 spectators, with four stands named Sir Elton John Stand, Graham Taylor Stand, Vicarage Road Stand, and Rookery Stand. It features a natural GrassMaster pitch (105 × 68 m) and floodlights atop the Sir Elton John and Graham Taylor stands.

Architectural Features

Vicarage Road retains traditional elements: the oldest structure is the Main Stand dating from 1922, while the other three are later rebuilds with corporate facilities, media boxes, and club offices—especially within the Rookery and Graham Taylor stands. The stadium layout is compact and intimate, with clear sightlines and close proximity to the pitch.

What is ‘The Vic’?

“The Vic” is the stadium’s nickname, derived from its street name, Vicarage Road. It is familiar and widely used by supporters and locals when referring to Watford’s home ground.

Records

The all-time attendance record is 34,099 for a 1969 FA Cup replay vs Manchester United. Modern capacity stands at 22,200. In recent years, Premier League matches draw consistent sell-outs and the stadium has hosted concerts, rugby (Saracens until 2013), and international fixtures like England U21s.

Address

Vicarage Road,
Watford WD18 0ER, England

GPS

Lat : 51.6498742
Lng : -0.4012048

Who's play in Vicarage Road

Where to Sit

The stadium layout includes four covered stands:

  • Main Stand: dating from 1922, houses players’ tunnel, press and changing rooms
  • Vicarage Road Stand: built 1993 for away supporters and family fans
  • Rookery Stand: built 1994–95, includes administrative and hospitality facilities
  • Graham Taylor Stand: built 1986, renamed in 2014, features executive boxes and cameras

Each stand is fully seated with unobstructed views; pitch is close to seating bowl.

Can I visit outside matchdays?

Behind-the-scenes stadium tours are available on non-matchdays through Watford FC or third-party providers. They include access to the tunnel, dressing rooms, technical areas, and pitchside walk-out.

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