- Must visit
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter
A visitor attraction and working studio where tours reveal how Harry Potter films were made, with original sets and props.
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Travel Information
Compare train for Stafford to Watford
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Stafford to Watford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £147 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 26m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £147, while a train costs an average of £147.
Distance: 173 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
£147 Average Price Cheapest | £33 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 26m Average total duration Fastest 1h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 18m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Stafford to Watford is a train with an average price of £147.
The fastest way to travel from Stafford to Watford is by train with an average journey time of 1h 56m.
Yes, you can take a train between Stafford and Watford.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 22m sooner (1h 56m by train vs 2h 18m by car). Tickets start at around £147 compared to roughly £33 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Direct services run with Avanti West Coast.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Compare prices and tickets Stafford to Watford by train
Compare train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Stafford to Watford trains with Omio?
West Midlands Trains as well as Cross Country, Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains and more offer trains services from Stafford to Watford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Stafford to Watford.
Why book with Omio vs West Midlands Trains?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for West Midlands Trains, but also compare tickets for the likes of Cross Country, Avanti West Coast or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Stafford to Watford.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Cross Country, Avanti West Coast or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Stafford to Watford.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Stafford to Watford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Stafford to Watford run on average 43 times per day, taking around 1h 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £117 if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:44, the last at 22:32. The fastest train covers the 173 km distance in 1h 4m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 173 km |
Average train duration 1h 56m |
Cheapest ticket price £117 |
Trains per day 43 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 1h 4m |
First train 1:44 |
Last train 22:32 |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 28 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Train companies: West Midlands Trains, Cross Country, Avanti West Coast from Stafford to Watford trainsWest Midlands Trains, Cross Country, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Stafford and Watford from £117. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
West Midlands Trains
About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average West Midlands Trains Duration
2h 1m
Cheapest West Midlands Trains Price
£43
West Midlands Trains frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Avanti West Coast
About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Avanti West Coast Duration
1h 4m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£117
Avanti West Coast frequency
33 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Cross Country Duration
2h 46m
Cross Country frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Watford
Things to do in Watford
Discover the best of Watford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Watford trip today.
- Recommended
Watford Museum
Watford's local museum in a historic house, with exhibitions on the town's people, industry and changing streets.
Watford Palace Theatre
An arts centre with galleries, performances and cinema, making it a useful stop for contemporary local visual culture.
- Must visit
Cassiobury Park
Watford's best-known park, with broad lawns, woodland walks, playgrounds, sports facilities and the Grand Union Canal nearby.
- Recommended
Watford Town Centre Canalside
A regenerated waterside district with canal walks, modern public spaces, events and easy access from the town centre.
- Recommended
Cheslyn House and Gardens
A large nature reserve with lakes, woodland and meadows, popular for quiet walks, birdwatching and family outings.
Toad in the Hole
A classic pub staple from Hertfordshire and nearby counties: sausages in Yorkshire pudding batter, usually served with onion gravy.
Full English Breakfast
Traditional English breakfast with eggs, bacon, sausages, beans, mushrooms and toast; a familiar local weekend favourite in Watford cafés.
Fish and Chips
Beer-battered white fish with chips is a core British takeaway and pub dish, commonly eaten across Watford with mushy peas or curry sauce.
The Grove
Upscale country-house dining just outside Watford, serving refined British dishes in elegant historic surroundings.
Tarboush
Smart modern Indian restaurant known for polished curries, grills and friendly service in central Watford.
Best Turkish Kebab
Popular Turkish restaurant serving charcoal-grilled meats, meze and generous sharing plates in a lively setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for southern England. Hotels can be pricey on London commuter routes, but dining and local transport are usually a little cheaper than central London.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants may add a 10-12.5% service charge; if not, 10% is usual for good service. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Tipping in cafés is optional, usually just small change.
Intalink
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £6.00
To the city centre
Watford Junction -> Watford Town Centre, Watford
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless bank card payment is available on many Hertfordshire buses, and Intalink also sells mobile tickets in its official app.
- For Watford bus travel, check Intalink for live route changes and buy tickets before boarding where possible.
FAQs: Stafford to Watford train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Stafford to Watford by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Watford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Stafford to Watford can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £117, while the average price tends to be around £147.
The train journey from Stafford to Watford covers a distance of 173 km and takes approximately 1h 4m. Trains run 43 per day.
The train distance from Stafford to Watford is 173 km.
The first train from Stafford to Watford leaves at 1:44.
The last train from Stafford to Watford departs at 22:32.
Trains from Stafford to Watford run approximately 43 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Stafford to Watford.
Yes, there is a direct train between Stafford and Watford. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by Avanti West Coast.
To travel from Stafford to Watford, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Stafford to Watford.
The train station in Stafford that goes to Watford is Stafford station (STA), and it arrives at Watford Junction (WFJ).
The cheapest way to get from Stafford to Watford is by train, costing approximately £117.
Booking trains from Stafford to Watford in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Stafford to Watford passes through a mix of urban areas and countryside, with some stretches offering views of the English countryside, though it is not typically considered one of the most scenic routes.
Yes, a day trip from Stafford to Watford is feasible with a journey time of 1h 4m and a distance of 173 km. There are 17 trains available per day, making it convenient for a day trip.
In Watford, you can enjoy a variety of activities such as attending performances at the Watford Palace Theatre or exploring the shops and dining options at Intu Watford. For entertainment, try Topgolf Watford, or attend community arts events at The Pump House Theatre and Arts Centre. Nature enthusiasts can visit the Rickmansworth Aquadrome for walking and cycling, or explore Cassiobury Park and its nature reserve. Don't miss the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London for a behind-the-scenes look at the Harry Potter films. Additionally, Watford Museum offers insights into the town's history, while Cheslyn House and Gardens provide a tranquil escape. For luxury, The Grove features beautiful gardens, a golf course, and spa facilities.
To fully explore Watford's attractions, including Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter, Cassiobury Park, and Watford Palace Theatre, a two to three-day visit is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Stafford to Watford.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Stafford and Watford
Most Stafford to Watford trains use the Stafford to Watford Junction station pair. Use this guide to compare Stafford and Watford train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Stafford
Arrival train stations in Watford
Which Stafford station do trains to Watford leave from?
Trains from Stafford to Watford leave from Stafford. The station is from Stafford city centre at Stafford station, Station Road, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 2AA.
StaffordStafford station, Station Road, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 2AA
City-centre transport
Getting to Stafford from Stafford city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesRail replacement coach services can be found at the front of the station on the left hand side.
Stafford train station facilities and services
Stafford has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Stafford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Stafford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Stafford. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Stafford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Stafford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Stafford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Watford station do trains from Stafford arrive at?
Trains from Stafford to Watford arrive at Watford Junction. Watford Junction is 1 km from Watford city centre.
Watford JunctionWatford Junction station, Station Road, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD17 1EU+44 3301235247
City-centre transport
Getting to Watford Junction from Watford city centre
TrainLondon Euston - Watford Junction, Kilburn High Road - Watford Junction, Willesden Junction Low Level - Watford Junction · 5m · £0.90 · every ~9 min
BusW20 · 5m · £2 · every ~1 min
635 · 7m · £4 · every ~2 min
322 · 20m · £2 · every ~6 min
Watford Junction train station facilities and services
Watford Junction has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Watford Junction.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Watford Junction.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Watford Junction. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248 997, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Watford Junction: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Watford Junction: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Watford Junction: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are accessible on platform 6, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Ticket Vending Machines are located in the Booking Hall, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Stafford
More options for your journey from Stafford to Watford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Watford and Stafford
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