The old market, a swimming pool and high street shops are among the most missed things people used to be able to do in Watford.

We asked our readers what they used to be able to do in Watford but sadly no longer can.

Swimming pool and splash park Watford Springs, off the Ring Road, brought back fond family memories, and many felt a walk on the High Street used to be a much better experience.

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Annemarie Edwards said: “The Watford Market in Charter Place was good but now its rubbish.

“The food court inside the centre John Lewis… the list goes on.”

Watford Observer: The former John Lewis store with its shutters down after confirmation the shop will never open again. Credit: Stephen Danzig/Watford Observer Camera ClubThe former John Lewis store with its shutters down after confirmation the shop will never open again. Credit: Stephen Danzig/Watford Observer Camera Club

Viv Gurney wrote: “Going to the proper market to get a variety of items & then in the evening head to Bailey's for a great night of entertainment.”

John Lewis was a point of controversy.

Many said they missed the store, which closed down in the summer of 2020, but others felt it is better off gone.

Watford Observer: Watford SpringsWatford Springs (Image: Watford Observer)

Ian Blackledge said: “People want John Lewis because it’s nostalgic and nice to walk around, maybe treat yourself to a coffee and cake in the nice cafe.

“But let’s face it, it’s a luxury goods store for the most part. High end expensive products. The majority of people don’t have that sort of cash anymore, and there aren’t enough people who do to keep a store like that afloat.”

Melissa Littlewood added: “If they didn't want to stay in Watford I don't want them back, shame the space is being wasted as it doesn't seem to be being offered to anyone else.”

Watford Observer: A 1970's postcard view of High Street from Market PlaceA 1970's postcard view of High Street from Market Place

A number of other things to do received a mention.

Samantha Harrison-Always said: “Harebreaks adventure playground. My boys used to love going! 

"It was such a shame when it was closed!”

The well-known store Littlewoods, Woolworths, club Baileys and Chicago Rock Café were also standouts.

Finally, safety is sadly a concern, with many readers lamenting that the town used to be much safer to walk around, especially at night.

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