Twinkling lights – check. Christmas market – check. Warm gloves – check. Southampton is full of charming corners and glowing backdrops that are perfect for capturing your Instagram-worthy moments this Christmas. From illuminated streets to festive installations and seasonal experiences, here are five top spots to snap your way through the city.
1. Carlton Place golden bauble
Carlton Place is shining bright this season. The pedestrianised space is lined with twinkling lights, and at its centre sits a large walk-through bauble glowing in warm gold tones. While you’re there, look out for the new Carlton Place sign at the entrance — it makes a great shot, especially with the bauble in the background.
2. Vintage Christmas on Oxford Street
Head to the top of the pedestrianised stretch of Oxford Street to frame a picture beneath the vintage, Victorian-style Christmas sign. The string garlands behind it add a festive shimmer that makes this one of the city’s most charming seasonal scenes.
3. Quilter Christmas tree
For Quilter, it’s become a much-loved tradition to display a beautiful Christmas tree out front each year. The leafy pine is wrapped in sparkling gold lights and topped with a glowing starburst that shines brightly throughout the season. It’s a simple but striking backdrop — perfect for grabbing a photo with friends as you pass by.
4. Southampton Christmas Market
With wooden chalets, sparkling lights and a lively festive atmosphere, the Christmas Market offers plenty of opportunities for memorable photos. Kids will love the glowing bauble pods — ideal for family pictures — and the light projection show at the Bargate creates a magical ‘snowy’ moment worth capturing.
5. Take a seat on Paddington’s bench
Everyone’s favourite bear is spending Christmas in Guildhall Square. You’ll find Paddington sitting between John Hansard Gallery and Mayflower Studios — the perfect place to take a seat beside him and snap a cheerful photo. Just don’t forget to ask if he’s sharing his marmalade sandwiches!
Share your photos with us
Snapped something festive around the city? Tag us on Instagram @visit_soton — we’d love to see your moments captured across the season. For more Christmas fun in Southampton click here.
