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Light Up Your Social Life In The Cultural Quarter

Light up your SOcial life in… the Cultural Quarter

Post date: 5th October 2023
Written by: The Visit Southampton Team

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In this series of blogs, we’ll take a look at some of the ways you can light up your SOcial life here in Southampton…

There’s never been a better time to explore our city by night, so rather than head straight home after work or shopping, make the most of what our city's nightlife has to offer. You can find more about what's on offer on our main Light Up Your SOcial Life page here.

We’ve shared our blogs on the Bedford Place, Old Town, City Centre and Westquay areas of our city, for this blog, we are looking at some of the fantastic late-night businesses you can find around the Cultural Quarter. Take some inspiration from the details below and plan your next big night out.

Places to dine the night away

Now the nights are drawing in, make the most of your evenings by booking a meal out. Our Cultural Quarter offers a range of different places to eat, whether you are after a quick bite or a full-on meal. Let us inspire you with some tempting treats…

Footsteps from the O2 guildhall and a short walk from the Mayflower theatre, Mango Thai Tapas is somewhat of an institution in Southampton. Independent and family owned, Mango is a relaxed and vibrant tapas bar specialising in Thai small plates and tropical cocktails. Everything on the menu is made in-house and is freshly prepared by Mango’s team of Thai chefs, and, much of the menu is cooked to order, so veggies, vegans, and gluten-free diets are well accommodated for. Take a look at their menu here.

Nando’s is a firm favourite for a quick bite, with Peri-Peri chicken through to salad bowls and veggie options. Take away is also available.

Selection of breakfast dishes and coffees at Mettricks

Mettricks sits right in the heart of the Cultural Quarter and is a favourite coffee spot. They also serve up a tasty selection of wraps, shakes, and plant-based dishes.

If those sweet cravings are getting the better of you then check out the desserts on offer at Sprinkles Gelato – open daily until midnight. Waffles, crepes, gelato, cookie dough and much more, your sweet tooth will thank you for it!

Pubs, bars and clubs around The Cultural Quarter

If you are in the mood for drinks then there’s plenty of choice around The Cultural Quarter. Perhaps start your night off at Irish bar, O’Neills on Above Bar Street before heading to Green King’s The Scholar Arms, just a short stroll away.

You’ll also find Belgium & Blues, who stock over 100 beers and specialise in both craft and Belgium beers. Here you can also enjoy regular blues music as well as a tempting menu of burgers, slow-cooked ribs, steaks and mussels.

For a sophisticated and glamourous night, 1932 Southampton oozes luxury. This lounge bar specialises in cocktails. Pre-booking is strongly recommended.

Café Parfait is one of the area’s nightclubs and is open until as late as 5am. Booths and VIP packages are available – ideal if you are heading out for a celebration or a team night out.

Grumpy Monkey combines a bar, lounge and a kitchen with a variety of cocktails, wines, gins and their ‘Bangin burgers’.

And don't miss Preez which serve up great beers, wines, spirits and bar snacks.

Other venues in the Cultural Quarter

On par with some of the world’s best superclubs is District nightclub. This venue has played host to some big artists including Stormzy, Pendulum and Annie Mac. Look out for upcoming events on Switch’s website.

Wiggle, Southampton's Lap-dancing club is based in the heart of Southampton in Guildhall Square.

Check out the fringe theatre, live music and the bar all at The Stage Door. From burlesque to musicals, comedy and plays, there’s plenty to entertain you on a night out here.

If it’s shows and theatre that you love, take a look at the events listings at Mayflower Studios, with events on throughout the year.

Just a short stroll away from Guildhall Square…

Take a short walk from Guildhall Square and you’ll come across Commercial Road, where you’ll find the following late-night venues:

• Mayflower Theatre – for a whole host of top-end theatre productions, comedy and more

• Papillon – a restaurant, bar, and events space in a beautiful church

• The Mayflower Village – a pub with sports screens situated right next to the Mayflower Theatre

The exterior and outside dining area of Soleto

• Soleto – a traditional Italian trattoria.

• K. Bap – service Korean BBQ food.

Plan your next big night out

As you can see, there are SO many places for you to light up your social life around our Cultural Quarter, get exploring now and plan your next big night out. And don't forget, check out our SO Card offers to make the most of savings off food and drink, activities and much more.