Southampton, a renowned port city in Hampshire, Southeast England, boasts a rich maritime history as the Titanic‘s departure point. It is home to residents from 55 countries, and students and visitors can find many exciting activities and things to do in Southampton. Once a significant medieval port, Southampton remains a crucial hub for ocean trade and passenger transport, featuring direct rail and road links to London and ferry connections to the Channel Islands, the Isle of Wight, and France. With numerous cinemas, two significant theatres, several concert halls, art galleries, and one of the South’s largest shopping centres, there’s always something to enjoy in Southampton. In this guide, I’ve highlighted the best things to do in Southampton to ensure you have an unforgettable trip.
Fun things to do in Southampton
If you’re unsure about what to do in Southampton, don’t worry! There are plenty of fun things to do in Southampton waiting for you. Let this guide help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in this charming city.
WestQuay
WestQuay, Southampton’s largest retail centre, ranks 35th among UK shopping destinations, making it an unmissable stop on any visit to the city. It houses major department store chains like John Lewis and Marks & Spencer and offers a comprehensive shopping experience.
WestQuay boasts an impressive array of dining options on the top floor, from gourmet restaurants to fast food and coffee shops. Renowned names such as Starbucks, Pizza Hut, Nando’s, and Wagamama cater to diverse culinary tastes. Additionally, IKEA, the large furniture chain, is conveniently located at the edge of the shopping centre, enhancing the overall experience with its extensive home furnishing selections. WestQuay truly stands out as a hub for both shopping and dining in Southampton.
Address: Southampton SO15 1QD
SeaCity Museum
Inside the SeaCity Museum, you’ll find an extensive display dedicated to the Titanic, offering a detailed and immersive exploration of its story. As the Titanic was built in Southampton, it remains a symbol of the city’s historical pride. The museum features various exhibits, including intricate models and interactive experiences like sending Morse code and sailing simulations, allowing visitors to appreciate the challenges of early 20th-century maritime navigation.
At the SeaCity Museum, visitors can delve into the tragic tale of the Titanic and Southampton’s rich history. This journey of discovery showcases the city’s transformation from a prison town to a bustling port city. Engaging in cross-dressing cosplay, a unique opportunity for photography enthusiasts, adds a fun twist to the educational experience. Through these immersive experiences, visitors gain a deeper understanding of both the ship’s ill-fated voyage and the city’s pivotal role in maritime history.
Address: Havelock Rd, Southampton SO14 7FY
Ticket: Child Ticket: £8.50; Adult: £11.00; Family Ticket: £35.00
The Quays Swiming and Diving Centre
If you’re tired of small school swimming pools, The Quays Swimming and Diving Centre offers some of the finest diving facilities in the South of England. It features two one-metre and two three-metre diving boards and platforms at one metre, three metres, five metres, seven and a half metres, and ten metres—suitable for international competitions. The Quays Swimming and Diving Centre provides an excellent spot for swimming lovers. The centre also boasts two swimming pools: a 25-metre main pool perfect for exercise and water aerobics and a smaller leisure pool designed for relaxation and fun. Whether training to compete or simply looking to unwind, The Quays provides a top-notch aquatic experience.
Address: 27 Harbour Parade, Southampton SO15 1BA
Ticket: Adult Monthly: £35; Day Pass: £10.00
Tudor House and Garden
Tudor House & Garden, constructed in the 15th century, stands as one of Southampton’s few remaining ancient buildings. Originally a royal residence, it has served various purposes, including domestic living, artists’ studios, and commercial spaces. This historic site witnessed a golden age for the British monarchy and played a pivotal role in transitioning from a feudal to a capitalist society. Visitors often explore the house to uncover traces of this significant historical shift. The venue frequently hosts small-scale performances featuring actors in Tudor costumes, bringing the stories of the period to life in an engaging and immersive way.
Address: Bugle St, Southampton SO14 2AD
Ticket: Child Ticket: £6.00; Adult Ticket: £7.00; Family Ticket: £23.00
Mayflower Theatre
As night falls, Southampton comes alive with a vibrant nightlife. Consider catching a play, watching a ballet performance, or even enjoying a rock show. The Mayflower Theatre, a renowned landmark built in 1920 and the largest theatre in the South of England, is a central fixture in the city’s cultural scene. Its posters adorn the city centre, beckoning both young and old to its diverse array of performances. From musicals and dance shows to gripping plays, the Mayflower Theatre offers a captivating experience for all who visit, embodying the rich artistic spirit of Southampton.
Address: 22-26 Commercial Rd, Southampton SO15 1GE
Ticket: Ticket prices are based on specific shows
Free things to do in Southampton
Southampton also offers a wealth of activities that won’t cost you a penny. Here are some of the best free things to do in Southampton.
Bargate
The Bargate, built in 1180, serves as the northern gateway to Southampton’s historic walled city and has welcomed traders and merchants from across the British Isles and mainland Europe for centuries. This emblem of Southampton’s defenses remarkably survived the Luftwaffe’s bombardment during World War II, providing shelter to many citizens during air raids. After the war, the Bargate was transformed into a museum, sharing the city’s rich history. Today, it continues to play a pivotal role in the community, hosting various festivals and civic events. On weekends, its bustling market offers a vibrant atmosphere, featuring an array of food and goods at the Open Market, further enriching the lives of Southampton’s residents.
Address: High St, Southampton SO14 2DJ
Ticket: Free to Visit
New Forest National Park
When the city’s hustle and bustle become overwhelming, why not reconnect with nature? The New Forest National Park, located near Southampton, is the smallest national park in the UK. Despite its modest size, its 150 square miles are rich with ancient woodlands, blooming heather bushes, bluebell-lined paths, and charming villages, making it a truly enchanting place to visit. Once a royal hunting ground, the park now offers visitors the delight of spotting diverse wildlife. Highly recommended for a day out, the New Forest provides numerous outdoor activities such as cycling, camping, barbecuing, picnicking, and horseback riding, allowing you to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of nature.
Address: New Forest National Park, Southampton
Ticket: Free to Visit
Andrews Park
East Park, also called Andrews Park, nestled in the heart of Southampton, offers a serene escape from the city’s bustle. This beautifully maintained green space invites visitors to unwind amidst lush lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and tranquil ponds. As you stroll along its scenic pathways, you’ll discover hidden gems, such as the historic bandstand and captivating sculptures that add character to the park. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful spot for reflection, a place for leisurely picnics, or a playground for family fun, East Park provides a refreshing haven where nature and community spirit come together, inspiring moments of joy and connection.
Address: Above Bar St, Southampton SO14 7DW
Ticket: Free to Visit
Things to do in Southampton with kids
Paultons Park Home of Peppa Pig World
It’s been 20 years since Peppa Pig premiered on 31 May 2004 by E1 Kids in the UK. It has been shown in 180 territories around the world, with more than 10 billion broadcasts in China in just one year, making it a massive hit with children. If you’re a fan of the pink blowtorch, you can’t go wrong with Paultons Park near Southampton in the U.K. There are five themed parks, with the Peppa Pig World theme being the most famous and popular.
Peppa Pig Land is located in Southampton, England, nearly a 3-hour from London. Families usually arrive by car, and tourists typically take the train and then a taxi; both are very convenient. Compared to other theme parks in the UK, such as Alton Towers or Thorpe Park, Paultons Park is a more suitable thing to do in Southampton with kids. Lands (various animals) and Critter Creek are the other four themes for big friends to play. It is highly recommended that you download the park’s app in advance, which will show a brief description of each theme, its location, and the queuing time. The actual queuing time is shorter than what is shown; for example, if the app shows that you need to queue for 30 minutes, you may be able to queue up in 20 minutes.
Address: Paultons Park, Ower, Romsey, The New Forest, Hampshire, SO51 6AL
Ticket: £43.50
New Forest Wildlife Park
Southampton’s New Forest Wildlife Park, a sprawling 25-acre expanse of natural beauty, is home to diverse wildlife, including fallow deer, wild boar, hedgehogs, otters, and various bird species. This park isn’t just a local park; it’s a place that fosters a deeper connection with nature and wildlife. Whether capturing stunning photos or enjoying a family outing, the park promises a unique, immersive experience beyond a typical visit, offering a memorable adventure.
Address: Deerleap Lane, Longdown, Near Ashhurst, Southampton SO40 4UH
Ticket: Adults £13.50, Children £10.25
Boulder Shack Climbing Gym
Boulder Shack Climbing Gym offers exceptional climbing facilities for adults, children, and parents. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned daredevil, there’s something here for everyone. If you have no climbing experience or limited familiarity, you’ll begin with a 45-minute introductory session to familiarize yourself with the entire climbing centre and its safety protocols. Minors must partake in the introductory course under the direct supervision of a parent. The gym’s friendly staff are always available to assist, and special refreshments are served throughout the day. If you’re curious about climbing, Boulder Shack Climbing Gym is an experience you won’t miss!
Address: Unit 4, Imperial Park, Empress Rd, Southampton SO14 0JW
Ticket: £26 to £47
How to Find Accommodation in Southampton?
Whether travelling to Southampton for study or pleasure, uhomes.com will provide you with the best deals on Southampton accommodation. Whether you are looking for Southampton student accommodation, private apartments, or hotels, we have all options. We offer our residents a variety of room types to suit different budgets and needs, including studio, ensuite, non-ensuite, and 1/2/3 bedroom. In addition, our flats are equipped with in-house facilities and utilities to make life easier for students. What’s more, most of our properties in Southampton are close to the University, making it easy for students to travel to and from school.
Recommended Things to Do in Southampton
| Number of things to do | 11 |
|---|---|
| Fun things to do | WestQuay SeaCity Museum The Quays Swiming and Diving Centre Tudor House and Garden Mayflower Theatre |
| Free things to do | Bargate New Forest National Park Andrews Park |
| With kids | Paultons Park Home of Peppa Pig World New Forest Wildlife Park Boulder Shack Climbing Gym |
FAQ About Things to Do in Southampton
What are some must-see attractions in Southampton?
There are many must-see attractions in Southampton, but here are our top recommendations:
- Bargate
- WestQuay
- SeaCity Museum
- Southampton City Art Gallery
- Tudor House and Garden
- Mayflower Theatre
- New Forest Wildlife Park
What are some family-friendly activities in Southampton?
There are plenty of family-friendly activities in Southampton that will entertain both kids and adults. Here are a few ideas:
1) Enjoy a day at Peppa Pig World
2) Have fun exploring the interactive exhibits at The New Forest Wildlife Park.
3) Take a trip to New Forest Wildlife Park
Is Southampton worth visiting?
Absolutely, Southampton is a destination worth visiting. This vibrant port city seamlessly blends rich history with modern attractions, offering something for every traveller.
How can I spend a day to visit Southampton tourist attractions?
- 8:00 AM – Start with Breakfast
- 9:00 AM – Visit the SeaCity Museum
- 11:00 AM – Explore the Southampton City Art Gallery
- 12:30 PM – Lunch at Oxford Street
- 2:00 PM – Stroll Around the Old Town and Bargate
- 3:00 PM – Visit the Tudor House and Garden
- 5:30 PM – Walk Along the Waterfront and Ocean Village
- 7:00 PM – Dinner at West Quay
Are there any outdoor activities to do in Southampton?
Southampton offers a wealth of outdoor activities that cater to various interests and promise a blend of adventure, relaxation, and inspiration. Here are some notable outdoor experiences to enjoy:
- Explore the New Forest National Park
- Stroll Along the Itchen WayVisit the Common
- Go Sailing or Kayaking
- Cycle the Solent Way
- Discover Royal Victoria Country Park
