Explore Watford's heritage anytime, anywhere...
Watford Borough Council is proud to announce the launch of new digital heritage trails in partnership with the popular guided walk app, TrailTale. Launching just in time for the May half-term, the trails offer residents and visitors a unique and engaging way to explore the town’s rich history and cultural landmarks.
Available for free on the TrailTale mobile app, the self-guided walking routes bring together historic photographs, accessible storytelling, and local insight to create a modern-day journey through Watford’s fascinating past. From iconic buildings to lesser-known gems, the trails make discovering local heritage easier and more inclusive than ever.
The project also features stories from the council’s celebrated ‘100 People Who Made Watford’ initiative – honouring individuals who have helped shape the town and its vibrant community.
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “Watford has an incredibly rich and diverse history that we are rightly proud of. These new digital trails bring our history to life in a way that’s accessible to everyone, whether you’re walking around town or exploring from the comfort of your home. This is also a fantastic way to celebrate the people and places that have helped shape the Watford we know today. I encourage everyone to download the app and discover something new about our town.”
Deputy Mayor of Watford, Cllr Aga Dychton, said: “This digital initiative is a fantastic way to celebrate and bring to life Watford’s rich heritage. Our history is the foundation of our community’s identity, and it’s vital that we protect and share it. By using technology in this way, we’re not only preserving the past but helping people of all ages discover the stories that have shaped our town, building upon the existing signage and plaques in place across the town. It’s a powerful reminder that our heritage isn’t just about looking back – it’s about understanding who we are.”
The trail supports the council’s wider goals to:
- Make local heritage more accessible and inclusive
- Promote healthy, active lifestyles through walking
- Increase town centre footfall and support local businesses
- Celebrate the unique identity of Watford and its people
To begin your journey:
- Download the free TrailTale app via your app store
- Search for “Watford”
- Tap the map to start exploring
To encourage participation, the council will also be launching a community competition inviting people of all ages to get involved creatively.
As part of the trail experience, participants are invited to draw a picture of their favourite location along the route and email their entry to communications@watford.gov.uk. Selected drawings will be featured on the council’s social media channels.
All valid entries will be included in a prize draw to win one of four £25 Watford Gift Cards kindly donated by Watford Town Centre BID. The winners will be selected at random in a draw overseen by an independent person on 2 June 2025.
Key dates for the competition are as follows:
- Opens: 26 May 2025 at midnight
- Closes: 1 June 2025 at midnight
- Prize draw: 2 June 2025
For further information and full terms and conditions of the competition, please visit here
This initiative is part of Watford Borough Council’s ongoing commitment to celebrating the town’s heritage through digital innovation and community engagement.
