Coronavirus Guidance

On this page, you’ll find information related to the coronavirus pandemic and relevant national measures which will affect any planned visit to Southampton. Given the fast-changing nature of the current situation, the information on this page may change at any time. 

COVID-19 (caused by coronavirus) is a new illness that can affect your lungs and airways. If you are unsure of what COVID-19 is or need medical advice please go to the NHS page here. If you think you may have any of the symptoms please call 111.

All businesses are open for business in Southampton including: 

• Retail shops 
• Hospitality businesses: nightclubs, pubs, bars, cafés and restaurants
• Health & beauty businesses: hairdressers, tattooists, beauty salons and gyms
• Accommodation: hotels, B&Bs, guest houses, self-catering 
• Cultural venues: theatres, galleries, museums, concert halls, music venues
• Leisure businesses: Cinemas, bowling alleys, indoor play areas, arcades 

We encourage everyone to remember the importance of socially responsible behaviours to keep you and your families safe from COVID-19. Symptoms may present similarly to those of the common cold/flu, and so following these key health behaviours is vital. Airborne transmission is crucial as this is how the virus spreads, so think about measures you can take to stop this from happening.

• If you’re meeting indoors keep doors and windows open, even if it’s only for short periods of time – ventilation is essential
• Wearing a face covering is recommended in crowded public spaces
• Wash your hands with soap and water frequently
• Stay at home and get a PCR test if you develop one or more symptoms of COVID-19 (new continuous cough, high temperature, or loss of taste of smell)
• Remember milder symptoms like a runny nose, sneezing and a headache can also be caused by COVID-19 – if in doubt get a test
• Have the COVID-19 vaccine – it’s our best defence against COVID-19. The vaccines are safe and effective (it is recommended to get the booster jab when you are offered one, at least 2 months after your second dose)
• Even if you’ve been double jabbed or had the booster vaccine you can still get COVID and pass it on, so everyone should take regular lateral flow tests. It’s really important for spotting early cases and asymptomatic cases of COVID’

In terms of operators serving Southampton, please see links below for some specific updates:

Rail

South Western Railway

Southern Rail

CrossCountry

Great Western Railway

Bus & Coach Travel

National Express 

Bluestar

First Southampton

Xela Bus

Air

Southampton Airport ­

Ferry & Crusie

Red Funnel Ferries

Hythe Ferry

Cruise Travel - the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) currently advises against all but essential travel abroad, including cruises, until further notice. If your planned cruise is essential travel please contact your cruise line to check if you can still travel.

If you are a business in Southampton and need information head to our GO! Southampton COVID-19 page for businesses support and guidance. 

You can also find the latest guidance and support for tourism businesses during COVID-19 on the Visit England Business Advice Hub. 

*Information correct as of 12th Februayr 2022*