What to Do This Weekend in Southampton
Looking for weekend ideas in Southampton that promise to be anything but boring? Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, a culture vulture, or a family on the hunt for fun, Southampton delivers with a twist.
This guide dishes out the best activities in Southampton to add a sprinkle of excitement to your days off. Ready to transform your typical weekend into a story worth bragging about? Let’s dive into the eclectic offerings of this vibrant city!
Cultural Cornerstones: Step Back in Time
Dive into Southampton’s rich tapestry of history and culture. From ancient art to modern masterpieces and gripping maritime tales, there’s a little something for everyone to get their cultural fix. Get ready to walk the corridors of the past and inspire your artistic senses with these top picks.
SeaCity Museum: Not just another museum, this is where you'll come face-to-face with Southampton's maritime heritage, including the heart-wrenching story of the Titanic. The interactive displays make history come alive, making it a perfect stop for anyone looking to uncover the secrets of the sea and one of our top weekend activities in Southampton.
Website: SeaCity Museum
Address: Havelock Road, Southampton, SO14 7FY
Southampton City Art Gallery: Immerse yourself in over 5,000 works of art spanning several centuries at this renowned gallery. From Renaissance to Contemporary, the collections here are sure to ignite your creative spark and offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life.
Website: Southampton City Art Gallery
Address: Civic Centre, Commercial Road, Southampton, SO14 7LP
Tudor House & Garden: Explore one of Southampton’s most important historical buildings. With its timber-framed structure and large garden, Tudor House gives an interesting insight into the life during the Tudor period, complete with authentic furnishings and ghost stories whispered through the halls. No wonder the Tutor House & Gardens made the list of our top things to do in Southampton.
Website: Tudor House & Garden
Address: Bugle Street, Southampton, SO14 2AD
Solent Sky Museum: Aviation enthusiasts, gather! This museum showcases the development of aircraft from the early days of flight to the jet age. The impressive display of vintage aircraft, including the iconic Spitfire, will amaze anyone fascinated by the skies.
Website: Solent Sky Museum
Address: Albert Road South, Southampton, SO14 3FR
Medieval Merchant's House: Step into the life of a medieval merchant in this beautifully restored 14th-century house. From the creak of the old timber floors to the scent of herbs in the garden, this house provides a unique glimpse into medieval domestic life and needs to be on your list of things to do in Southampton this weekend.
Website: Medieval Merchant's House
Address: 58 French Street, Southampton, SO14 2AT
Outdoor Adventures: Explore the Great Outdoors
Southampton is not just about urban experiences; it's also a gateway to reconnecting with nature. Whether you prefer leisurely walks, waterside strolls, or active outdoor adventures, Southampton’s scenic landscapes are sure to refresh your spirit.
Southampton Common: This large common is the green heart of the city, offering over 365 acres of parkland. It's a favourite for joggers, picnickers, and even bird watchers. Whether you want to unwind by the Ornamental Lake or explore the woodland walks, it’s the perfect outdoor escape weekend activity in Southampton.
Website: Southampton Common
Address: The Common, Southampton, SO15 7NN
Ocean Village: Be amazed at luxury yachts and soak up the lively atmosphere at Ocean Village. This prestigious marina isn’t just for boat lovers; it’s lined with chic cafes and restaurants, making it a great spot for a leisurely afternoon or a romantic evening.
Website: Ocean Village
Address: Ocean Way, Southampton SO14 3TJ
Itchen Valley Country Park: A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, this country park offers miles of trails through woods and meadows along the River Itchen. Whether you’re cycling, walking, or horse-riding, the beautiful views and wildlife make it a must-visit.
Website: Itchen Valley Country Park
Address: Allington Lane, West End, Southampton SO30 3HQ
Mayflower Park: Famous for being one of the best spots in the city to watch the cruise ships roll in, Mayflower Park offers great waterfront views and is a lovely spot for a family picnic or an evening stroll.
Website: Mayflower Park
Address: Mayflower Park, Southampton, SO14 2AQ
Riverside Park: Nestled along the River Itchen, this park is a favourite for locals. With facilities for sports, spaces for children to play, and paths that are ideal for dog walking, it’s a vibrant community hub where you can relax or get involved in some fun activities.
Website: Riverside Park
Address: Manor Farm Road, Southampton, SO18 1NQ
Foodie Finds: Taste the Flavours of Southampton
Southampton’s food scene is as diverse as its heritage. From cosy cafes to high-end restaurants, the city offers a mix of tasty treats to satisfy your taste buds. Here’s where you can dig into some of the city’s best food.
The Oxford Brasserie: Known for its sophisticated but unpretentious European dishes, this brasserie is a favourite with locals. The lively atmosphere and friendly staff make it the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring.
Website: The Oxford Brasserie
Address: 33-34 Oxford Street, Southampton, SO14 3DS
Mettricks: A local chain of coffee shops that prides itself on serving delicious teas and coffees alongside freshly made meals. Its relaxed vibe is ideal for a lazy breakfast or a chilled afternoon tea and one of our favourite weekend ideas in Southampton.
Website: Mettricks
Address: Various locations including Guildhall Square
Ennio’s: Located right by the waterfront, Ennio’s serves up authentic Italian cuisine in a stylish setting. It’s a must-visit for anyone craving a true taste of Italy.
Website: Ennio’s
Address: Town Quay, Southampton, SO14 2AR
Coriander Lounge: Experience the vibrant flavours of India at Coriander Lounge. This award-winning restaurant is known for its heavenly Indian cuisine, crafted from traditional recipes and served in a contemporary setting. From the aromatic biryanis to the rich and creamy curries, each dish is a celebration of taste.
Website: Coriander Lounge
Address: 130 High Street, Southampton, SO14 2BR
Dancing Man Brewery: Housed in an old wool house, this brewery is best known for its craft beers and delicious meals. It’s a great spot to unwind and taste some of the best local brews and bites.
Website: Dancing Man Brewery
Address: Town Quay, Southampton, SO14 2AR
Evening Ideas: Light Up the Night
As the sun sets, Southampton transforms into a vibrant hub of activity. Whether you’re into theatrical performances, live music, or just a night out on the town, the city’s nightlife is an unmissable weekend activity in Southampton, and something to offer every nocturnal adventurer.
Mayflower Theatre: Experience the magic of the theatre at one of the UK’s largest regional theatres. From edge of your seat dramas to foot tapping musicals, the Mayflower Theatre offers a diverse lineup of performances to suit any taste.
Website: Mayflower Theatre
Address: 22-26 Commercial Road, Southampton, SO15 1GE
The Hobbit Pub: This quirky pub is themed around J.R.R. Tolkien’s famous works. With its unique drinks named after characters from the books and a lively atmosphere, it’s a great activity in Southampton for a fun night out.
Website: The Hobbit Pub
Address: 134 Bevois Valley Road, Southampton, SO14 0JZ
Heartbreakers: A cosy venue for live music lovers, Heartbreakers is known for its intimate setting and vibrant indie scene. It’s the perfect place to discover new music and enjoy an evening filled with tunes.
Website: Heartbreakers
Address: 7-9 Hanover Buildings, Southampton, SO14 1JX
Engine Rooms: For those who love a big night out, Engine Rooms offers a wide range of events from rock concerts to dance nights. It’s a bustling venue that’s sure to keep you moving until the early hours.
Website: Engine Rooms
Address: West Quay Road Industrial Estate, Southampton, SO15 1GZ
Switch: This popular nightclub is the go-to place for anyone looking to dance the night away. With their top DJs and a great vibe, Switch guarantees a memorable night out.
Website: Switch
Address: 127 Above Bar Street, Southampton, SO14 7FN
Family Fun: A Weekend of Wonders
Pack up the kids and prepare for a weekend filled with laughter and adventure. Southampton offers an array of family-friendly activities that are sure to keep both the young and the young at heart entertained. We have listed the top 5 family weekend ideas in Southampton.
Tenpin Southampton: With activities like bowling, laser tag, mini-golf at Tenpin Putt, Houdini's escape rooms, and a soft play area, Tenpin is your family’s ticket to a fun-filled day. Whether you’re striking down pins or escaping from a tricky situation, there’s plenty to do for everyone.
Website: Tenpin Southampton
Address: Auckland Road, Southampton, SO15 0SD
Longdown Activity Farm: Get up close with farm life at Longdown Activity Farm. This friendly farm offers kids the chance to feed and interact with animals, explore a straw bale barn, and enjoy tractor and trailer rides. It’s an excellent way for children to learn about farm animals while having loads of fun.
Website: Longdown Activity Farm
Address: Deerleap Lane, Ashurst, Southampton, SO40 7EH
Paultons Park - Home of Peppa Pig World: Thrill the little ones with a visit to Peppa Pig World at Paultons Park. Packed with fun rides and attractions, it’s a magical experience for young children and a delightful day out for the whole family.
Website: Paultons Park
Address: Ower, Romsey, The New Forest, Southampton, SO51 6AL
Marwell Zoo: Go wild at Marwell Zoo, where you can meet hundreds of animals from around the world. Explore the enclosures, take part in the daily talks, or simply enjoy the landscapes on a leisurely family walk.
Website: Marwell Zoo
Address: Thompson's Lane, Colden Common, Winchester, Hampshire, SO21 1JH
Shopping Hotspots: Find Your Treasure
Whether you’re on the hunt for the latest fashion, searching for unique gifts, or just in the mood to shop, Southampton’s retail destinations have something to please every shopper.
Westquay Shopping Centre: Dive into over 100 stores offering everything from high-street fashion to luxury goods. It’s a shopper’s paradise with ample dining options to fuel your shopping spree and is one of the top things to do in Southampton.
Website: Westquay
Address: Westquay Shopping Centre, Southampton, SO15 1QF
Bedford Place: Explore this vibrant street bustling with independent shops, quaint cafes, and lively bars. It’s the perfect place to discover unique items and enjoy a local, laid-back shopping experience.
Website: Bedford Place
Address: Bedford Place, Southampton
The Marlands Shopping Centre: Less crowded than Westquay but equally charming, The Marlands offers a relaxed shopping environment with a good selection of stores and eateries. It’s a great spot to find everything from fashion to electronics.
Website: The Marlands
Address: Civic Centre Road, Southampton, SO14 7SJ
Bargate Market: Discover the charm of Bargate Market, an outdoor bazaar where local vendors sell everything from handcrafted jewellery to vintage clothes and artisanal foods. It’s a vibrant spot to find one-of-a-kind items and support local craftsmen and producers.
Website: Bargate Market
Address: Bargate, Southampton
Relax and Unwind: Take It Easy
After a bustling day of exploration, activities, and shopping, it’s time to relax and rejuvenate. Southampton offers many tranquil spots to unwind, from serene spas to quiet cafes and leisurely parks.
HarSPA at Southampton Harbour Hotel: Indulge in some luxury at the HarSPA. Whether you’re looking to pamper yourself with a spa treatment, relax in the steam room, or just enjoy a dip in the pool, this spa offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle.
Website: HarSPA
Address: 5 Maritime Walk, Ocean Village, Southampton, SO14 3TL
The Southampton Botanical Gardens: Find peace and tranquillity amidst lush greenery at The Southampton Botanical Gardens. This beautiful and well-maintained garden offers a variety of themed areas, including a rose garden, herb garden, and exotic plant section. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, meditation, or simply sitting back with a book under the shade of a tree.
Website: Botanical Gardens
Address: Cemetery Road, Southampton, SO15 7NN
Southampton City Golf Course: Hit the greens at this historic 27-hole golf course, which boasts 2 courses including a 9 hol and a 18 hole. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just looking for a leisurely day out, the beautiful surroundings and well-maintained fairways provide a perfect backdrop for a day of golf.
Website: Southampton City Golf Course
Address: Golf Course Road, Bassett, Southampton, SO16 7LE
St. Michael’s Church: Visit this historic church for a moment of peace and reflection. As one of the city’s oldest buildings, St. Michael’s Church offers a relaxing space to escape the city’s hustle and absorb the serene atmosphere.
Website: St. Michael’s Church
Address: St. Michael's Square, Southampton, SO14 2AD
Your Southampton Weekend Awaits!
With a weekend in Southampton packed like a treasure chest of experiences, you’re all set for an unforgettable adventure. From exploring historical sites and enjoying the great outdoors to indulging in tasty delights and embracing the vibrant nightlife, Southampton has it all. Pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and don’t forget to enjoy every moment—after all, every weekend should be this good!
Enjoy your trip, and here’s to making fantastic memories in Southampton!