Make it Southampton: On Stage!

Head to the Oxford Street area for a cool, sophisticated vibe. The home of independent restaurants and bars, it’s perfect for an early dinner and when the sun shines you can spill out onto the pedestrianised walkway and dine al fresco.

To the north of the city, Bedford Place is packed with international choice. Take your pick from Japanese, Portuguese, Caribbean, Nepalese, Italian or head to one of the many neighbourhood pubs for a pint of craft ale and some traditional pub food.

For a special night out, check out the renowned Pig in the Wall nestled in Southampton’s Town Walls or for Marina views can be had at Ocean Village which offers a host of bars and restaurants, many with outdoor areas.

If you have spare time during the day and want to explore Southampton’s top attractions – A ‘Must See’ is the SeaCity Museum in the Cultural Quarter. This fabulous interactive museum tells the story of the ‘unsinkable’ Titanic which setoff on its final voyage from Southampton. Step back in time and listen to the stories of the people who were there and the impact the disaster had on the then town of Southampton. Check out Southampton’s role as the Gateway to the World and discover Southampton’s rich and diverse history.

To dig into Southampton’s impressive history, walking the Town Walls is an excellent starting point. Begin at the Bargate, the original Norman gateway to the town. As you walk along the Walls you will learn about historic buildings and stories of the town. There are fascinating stops along the route including the 800 year-old Tudor House and Garden, this beautifully restored timber building is the city’s oldest museum, make sure you pick up the excellent audio guide. Particularly special in the spring, the Tudor Knot Garden here was recreated from historical documents as it may have been in the 1500s. And there’s a lovely café here for a break.

Every getaway needs a visit to the shops! In Southampton there’s immense choice. This is a top shopping destination in Hampshire, boasting two indoor centres, a wide range of markets and plenty of independent retailers within the city centre. Browse the High Street and East Street for independent specialty shops.

The big hitter is Westquay, conveniently placed right in the centre of the city, offering more than 100 stores including big brands like Typo, Sweaty Betty, Build-A-Bear Workshop, The Body Shop and Marks & Spencer.

Browse fashion labels like Tommy Hilfiger, Hollister and Oliver Bonas alongside big names like Hotel Chocolat, Lush and Rituals. And when hunger strikes, there are scores of eateries, most staying open till 8pm.