Bardsley started with Blackpool in 1982 and subsequently moved to Watford in 1983 for £150,000 where he was noted for his pace, and played every game in Watford's run to the 1984 FA Cup Final, where they eventually lost to Everton. He played 121 matches in all competitions for Watford, scoring nine goals. In September 1987 Bardsley transferred to Oxford United to replace David Langan for a then club record of £265,000. He played 89 games for Oxford scoring seven goals. In 1989 Bardsley completed a £500,000 move to QPR where he played in 253 games over 9 seasons.