How about a stadium that has witnessed a century of footballing drama? This is Vicarage Road. This is the home of Watford Football Club since 1922. Prepare to delve into the heart of this historic ground.
Vicarage Road isn’t just a stadium. It’s a symbol of Watford’s sporting heritage. Its story is etched into the very fabric of the town. Today, we will explore the tales, triumphs, and transformations of this iconic venue.
Let’s journey back to 1922. Watford moved here from Cassio Road. Benskins Brewery’s Col. Charles Healey officially opened Vicarage Road on August 30, 1922 for a match against Millwall. The stadium wasn’t just for Watford. Wealdstone F.C. called it home from 1991 to 1993. Rugby union side Saracens also played here from 1997 to 2013.
In 2002, Watford faced financial difficulties. They sold the freehold of Vicarage Road and leased it back. A campaign called “Let’s Buy Back The Vic” was launched. Fans and former owner Elton John contributed generously. In September 2004, the club repurchased the stadium.
The Vicarage Road Stand has an interesting backstory. Built after the 1992-93 season, it replaced an open terrace. This all-seater stand complied with the Taylor Report. It raised the ground’s standard. The construction cost £2.3 million. Bruce Dyer’s £1.2m sale largely funded it in 1994. It opened again on September 18, 1993. Watford defeated Notts County 3–1. Today, it houses away fans and a family area for home fans. Since 2012, the Hornets Shop has also been located here.
The Rookery Stand is another significant part of Vicarage Road. It was built during the 1994–95 season. This all-seater stand has a capacity of 6,960. It also houses club administrative areas. The stand cost £1.6 million. The Football Trust contributed approximately £300,000. Paul Furlong’s £2.3m sale funded the remaining money in 1994. The Rookery is known as the “home end”. In conjunction with the Watford Health Campus, affordable housing was built around the Rookery end in 2009.
The Graham Taylor Stand was renamed for the 2014–15 season. It honors the club’s most successful manager. Previously, it was named after former FIFA president Sir Stanley Rous. The official renaming ceremony took place on November 29, 2014. Built in 1986, it replaced the Shrodells Stand. Elton John provided a loan for the £3 million development.
The Sir Elton John Stand sits on the east side of the ground. It houses the changing rooms and tunnel. The stand fully opened on December 13, 2014. Sir Elton John attended the ceremony. In May 2014, the club announced the stand would be named after Sir Elton John.
Vicarage Road also has a history with greyhound racing. It began in 1928. Races were held under National Greyhound Racing Club rules. The final race meeting took place on October 30, 1978.
Vicarage Road isn’t just a stadium. It’s a living testament to Watford’s enduring spirit. From its humble beginnings to its modern facilities. It continues to be a place of passion. It is a place of pride for the Watford community. As we conclude our tour, remember the echoes of the crowds. Remember the roar of the game. Remember the legacy of Vicarage Road.