Southampton has plenty of fantastic things to offer, no matter what the weather but if you’re looking to escape the rain, discover, play, and enjoy a great day out, then here's our 10 best things to do for the whole family.
All FREE or from under £10 for an adult ticket.
Our venues are proud to support Southampton’s bid to become UK City of Culture 2025. Support the bid at Southampton2025 and via their social media channels Facebook, Twitter, Instagram. Get behind the bid and #makeitSO
Take a journey of discovery through Southampton’s history and its connection to RMS Titanic at SeaCity Museum. Browse exhibitions from the city’s ancient past, journaling thousands of years of archaeology through to today, Southampton’s maritime history and the fascinating Titanic Story exhibition. There are also year-round kids and family activities to keep young minds engaged. You can also enjoy fresh local food and great coffee surrounded by Southampton history and culture. Find out more here.
Let imagination take flight in Solent Sky Museum for a fun day out learning about Southampton’s history in aviation. Sit in the cockpits of a Supermarine Swift or Harrier Jump Jet, discover the legendary Spitfire and largest flying boat operation in the world. There’s plenty to keep all entertained here. Find out more here.
Add a splash of culture to your visit with a trip to Southampton City Art Gallery, currently hosting two brilliant new exhibitions – A Complete Portrait of Arthur Jeffress and New Acquisitions 2011-21: Narrative, Figure and Place, which features painting, photography, drawing, print, sculpture, video, new media and textiles, both are open until 22 January 2022. Or try one of the many talks or arts and craft activities throughout the year. Find out more here.
If you’re near Westquay and Southampton’s Old Town, don’t miss a unique visit to Southampton’s oldest Museum. At Tudor House & Garden Museum you’ll be able to soak up over 800 years of history in one location. Discover King Johns Palace at the bottom of the garden, which forms part of the outer medieval wall of Southampton. Enjoy fresh local food and great coffee surrounded by some amazing history in the café which overlooks the traditional Tudor Knot Garden. During October half term there are a few spaces left for Spooky Clay Scenes Family Workshop, Friday 29 October, 10am and 12.30pm, book your space here. Find out more about Tudor House here.
God's House Tower, the cornerstone of Southampton’s Old Town, is a brilliant arts and heritage venue with a fascinating and colourful history. Experience its stories brought to life with the Stories Behind the Stones exhibition found throughout the historic Tower.
Find out more here.
John Hansard Gallery, part of the University of Southampton, is one of the UK’s leading contemporary art galleries. They support, develop and present great art by outstanding artists from across the world and are proud to play a dynamic role in the cultural life of Southampton and the region. Visit in October to see Trinity, the largest solo exhibition to date by artist Hetain Patel. Find out more here.
MAST is a multi-art form cultural hub presenting and producing theatre, dance, musicals, music, comedy, circus, cabaret, spoken word, visual arts and family shows at the heart of Southampton’s Cultural Quarter.
From Fantastically Great Women who changed the World to Rush: A Joyous Jamaican Journey, there is always something epic to see at MAST this October and November.
Find out what’s on here.
High Score Arcade Calling all fun-seekers! Put the pedal to the metal and go head-to-head with your friends on the latest racing games or challenge your family and see who can reach the highest spot on the High Score leader board. Whether you’re looking for a family day out, a date night idea or a fun-filled day with friends, High Score has got you covered!
From old school classics including Space Invaders and PAC-man to pinball, sports games and the newest arcade fun, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Find out more and book your tickets here.
It might be wet and cold outside but why not come inside and enjoy some family-friendly swimming with Active Nation and help maintain your physical and mental wellbeing over the winter period. There’s parent and toddler classes, family sessions, swimming lessons and more at The Quays Swimming and Diving Complex.
Check them out here.
Whatever the weather, look inside Southampton for a great day out for all the family. For more information, visit our Spring into Culture page here.
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