Things to do in Southampton

Southampton, nestled on the south coast of England, offers a myriad of activities to suit every taste. History enthusiasts can explore the impressive Southampton Cathedral, steeped in centuries of history, or wander through the ruins of the medieval Southampton Castle.

Art aficionados will delight in the city's vibrant cultural scene, with must-visit spots like the Southampton City Art Gallery showcasing both contemporary and historic artwork. For those seeking outdoor adventures, the nearby New Forest National Park provides opportunities for hiking, cycling, and tranquil scenic views. Foodies will relish the eclectic culinary scene, from traditional English pubs serving hearty meals to waterfront restaurants offering fresh seafood delights.

And no visit to Southampton would be complete without experiencing its maritime heritage; explore historic ships like the Tudor warship Mary Rose or the iconic Titanic Museum. Whether exploring its rich history, enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding area, indulging in culinary delights, or immersing oneself in its maritime culture, Southampton promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

Fun Activities

Get some fresh air and drive to the nearby New Forest National Park, where you can try and spot local wildlife such as otters, wolves and the famous wild New Forest ponies. You can go and play a game of Paintball at Ambush, or zoom down the only pier to shore Zipline at Rock Reef.

Petrol-heads will love mooching around The National Motor Museum with it’s classic cars, and the World of Top Gear, a homage to the popular car show. As well as the above Southampton can offer you a hugh list of activities and days out, which include Crazy Golf, Go Karting and Laser Tag.

Eating Out

Oxford Street has a great selection of restaurants for those who find it hard to decide, and the recently opened Westquay South is the perfect place to grab a quick bite in one of the bigger chains. The Oxford Brasserie is a Southampton staple, and serves a mix of modern English, French and Italian dishes. The White Star Tavern is an award-winning gastro pub that uses the freshest ingredients possible

The Alexandra Beer Emporium lets you play on vintage arcade machines while you drink one of their legendary cocktails, or head to Ocean Village for bars and pubs with stunning views of the marina, especially at sunset. If you get bored easily, the huge Oceana Club has multiple rooms playing different music and has attracted international DJs like Calvin Harris and Paul Oakenfold. 

Orange Rooms is an award-winning venue that was voted Best Bar in Southampton and is known for its retro décor that matches the relaxed cocktail lounge vibe.

Culture Vulture

SeaCity Museum is a modern, state of the art museum dedicated to telling visitors about Southampton’s maritime history and how it was affected by the loss of the Titanic (over 500 households lost loved ones in the tragedy).

You can see fascinating artefacts like life jackets and a steward’s pocket watch that shows the exact time it stopped on contact with water. The renowned Mayflower Theatre is the place to catch a variety of performances, from West End shows, to operas and ballets. You can also download one of the many self guided walks from Curious About, so that you can make the most of your time exploring Southampton

Something a bit different…

You can’t visit one of the most famous ports in the UK without actually having a go at Blue Box Sailing. The Solent area is a great place for first-time sailors, as the waters are relatively calm and sheltered, and nearby Isle of Wight is the perfect distance to aim for. There are loads of sailing courses on offer in Shamrock Quay, offering recognised qualifications that you can build up until you’re ready to be the Captain!

So we hope that you enjoyed reading our article about Things to do in Southampton, and that you enjoy the fresh sea air, relax and enjoy the sites and sounds of Southampton, and tell us all about your trip!