With lots of attractions and a lively social scene, there’s plenty to do in this bustling port city
Southampton may not be a traditional British seaside town – as it doesn’t have its own beach or pier – but it’s still the largest city on the south coast and was a major contender for City of Culture 2025. Its bustling port has been important part of maritime history for hundreds of years. Before air travel, Southampton was Britain’s gateway to the world – and its waterfront area is still one of Europe’s largest cruise terminals for luxury liners and cruise ships waiting for passengers to set sail around the world.
The city is vibrant, cosmopolitan, and perfect for a short stay for couples, friends and families. Home to a vibrant art scene, top-quality hotels, independent restaurants, bars and clubs – it’s a super weekend away.
Historical highlights
Grab a coffee and spend the morning with a walk around the Old Town, grabbing little snippets of history and follow in the steps of Jane Austen, who lived in the city for a few years.
Southampton’s medieval town walls feature six gates, 13 towers, 90 listed buildings and 30 ancient monuments across 1km of the city, and are some of the most complete in Britain.
God’s House Tower, which opened as an arts and heritage venue in 2021 following a £3.1m restoration, was constructed over several hundred years, undergoing many transformations, and now boasts fascinating stories. It’s the base for the Hidden History tours (March to September), led by friendly and knowledgeable guides who bring stories to life against a backdrop of the city’s buildings.
Our 90-minute tour, led by Marylin, talked of the early black history of Southampton, from black privateers to plantation owners. This fascinating tour shines a light on many lesser-known stories of Southampton’s past to better understand the diverse heritage of the city. And at £5, it’s a bargain. (Godshousetower.org.uk)
Tudor House is also well worth a visit. Situated in the city’s famous Bugle Street, it is one of Southampton’s most historic buildings. Its timber-framed building faces St Michael’s Square, built in the late 15th century. Adjacent to it is King John’s Palace, a Norman house dating back a further 300 years, which is accessible from the Tudor House Garden.
With family-friendly activities, interactive technology and fascinating displays, Tudor House offers something for visitors of all ages and interests – look out for the hidey hole cupboard used to hide Catholic priests during Henry VIII’s reformation. (Tudorhouseandgardens.com)
The city’s cultural quarter houses inspiring exhibitions, world-class theatre, live entertainment and exciting events. It is home to the Sea City Museum, which pays homage to Southampton’s maritime heritage, including an exhibition which tells of the Titanic tragedy and the impact it had on the city.
In 1912, the world's most famous liner embarked on its fateful maiden voyage from the city’s port, carrying 700 Southampton residents in her crew, over 500 of whom would never return. It affected most families in the city.
There are also plenty of interactive exhibits – offering the perfect opportunity to channel your inner Kate Winslet, or steer your own ship to safety (Seacitymuseum.co.uk).
The Southampton City Art Gallery is a hop and skip from the Sea City Museum and is home to one of the finest art collections in the south of England, with artists from Reynolds to Rego, and has a varied programme of art and historic exhibitions. It’s also free to visit, but not open Sundays. (Southamptoncityartgallery.com)
Shop and sip
A weekend away wouldn’t be complete without a spot of retail therapy, and Southampton’s Westquay Shopping Centre is one of the most popular shopping destinations on the south coast. With more than 100 shops, there is something for everyone. Westquay hosts a range of events and seasonal celebrations, from sporting activities to family fun events. It also houses a cinema, retro bowling alley, and escape room. (West-quay.co.uk)
Above Bar Street is part of Southampton’s main high street and the city’s central shopping district, with many shops, restaurants and cafés. Walk its length and you will reach The Arts Complex, home to independently owned restaurants, including the relatively new Gin & Olive. With its impressive floor-to-ceiling selection of gins, served alongside a menu with everything from sharing plates – including a delicious seafood platter – and small plates to an impressive burger and steak menu, it’s well worth a visit. Light and airy, with friendly, smiling hosts, it’s perfect for girls’ lunches, date nights, and family celebrations. The cocktail menu is inspired and an order from the olive menu is a must. (Ginandolive.co.uk)
The Blues Smokehouse is another new opening in The Arts Complex. Offering authentic American BBQ-style dishes, the menu includes delicious burgers, ribs, the biggest hot dogs you have ever seen, and a delicious dessert menu. With a lively atmosphere, its moto is “arrive hungry, leave happy” – and arrive with an empty stomach you must.
From a bowl of popcorn as a snack before you order, portions are large but mouth-wateringly tasty. So, order a beer, enjoy a chat with pals, and savour every mouthful. (Bluessmokehouse.com)
Need to know
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With many people staying in Southampton before boarding their cruise ships, the city is home to an array of hotels. The Moxy hotel, which nods to Southampton’s maritime legacy with its quirky ship theme, is aimed at those who want to hit the town. It’s centrally located, so ideal for making the most of the city’s many restaurants and sites.
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The in-house house cocktail bar makes for an ideal pre-or-post night out drink and is buzzing early evening if you’re leaving the hotel for dinner. Its stylish, industrial design and sociable service is at an affordable price and is created for the young at heart. Bedrooms are on the smaller side, so don’t expect wardrobes or a bathtub, but there is a huge 42" TV and lots of charging points for your devices. The breakfast is delicious and well worth the add-on. (Moxyhotels.com)
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With links to national rail and coach routes, as well as being located at the convergence of two major motorways, Southampton is easy to get to. There is plenty of parking and it’s small enough to be able to walk around without ordering an Uber.
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For more ideas and info, check out Visitsouthampton.co.uk
Words: Hayley Merrick