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A Culture Vultures Guide To The Best Artsy Spots In Southampton

The Best Artsy Spots in Southampton

Post date: 15th March 2024
Written by: The Visit Southampton Team

Southampton has long been a treasure trove for culture vultures. One of the city’s biggest developments in recent years is its Cultural Quarter. It boasts a £30m arts centre surrounded by a variety of restaurants and bars with a diverse programme of open-air events taking place in its central square throughout the year.

Art

Two young girls looking at a sculpture inside an art gallery

At the world-class contemporary art gallery John Hansard Gallery, visitors can discover a spectacular array of exhibitions from leading visual artists from around the world, and enjoy talks, workshops and masterclasses, led by experts in the art industry.

Just a few steps away from John Hansard Gallery sits Southampton City Art Gallery.

The internationally renowned Southampton City Art Gallery is home to one of the largest publicly-owned collections in the UK outside of London. The gallery regularly attracts visitors from near and far with critically acclaimed temporary exhibitions alongside its permanent displays.

For something a little different, make sure to visit Gallery Grounds – a vibrant creative hub and art space on Vincent’s Walk, where an artisanal coffee shop meets inspired interior design.

Theatre

Culture vultures with a particular appetite for theatre will be more than satisfied with Southampton’s offering. The city is home to the largest theatre on the south coast, Mayflower Theatre, as well as one of the UK’s few remaining producing theatres, Mayflower Studios.

Mayflower Theatre offers a jam-packed programme of touring musicals, dance, comedy, live music and plays - often direct from the West End.

Music

Young man singing on stage at the Westquay Esplanade

Southampton also has a thriving music scene, with venues across the city playing host to a diverse range of musicians spanning an eclectic mix of genres, from 90s revival in the Engine Rooms, to independent artists at The Joiners, to rock and pop royalty at St Mary’s Stadium.

Whether you’re looking to find creative inspiration, enjoy an unforgettable night at the theatre or immerse yourself in Southampton’s live music scene, the city has a diverse arts and culture programme for all ages and interests to sink their teeth into.