As one of the leading destinations for business travel on the south coast, Southampton offers an outstanding choice of attractions when the working day is done. Don’t miss out on fantastic evening entertainment, a huge choice of restaurants and bars, and interesting historic attractions. Build in extra time, book an overnight and discover what makes this port city tick.
Evening
When the business end of the day is over, take advantage of the variety of evening entertainment options and enjoy some live culture. The excellent Mayflower Theatre is often the first point of call for West End productions but also offers concerts, plays and comedy. There’s a great choice of pre-theatre eating options in the city.
Classical, jazz and folk music feature at the Turner Sims Concert Hall and there’s a full programme of concerts, comedy and live performances at the O2 Guildhall. Alternatively, you may wish to discover what’s on at one of the variety of pubs and bars offering live music, for example, The Joiners, The 1865, Heartbreakers or The Cricketers Arms.
Morning
Start your day exploring Southampton with a visit to the SeaCity Museum in the Cultural Quarter. This fabulous interactive museum tells the story of the ‘unsinkable’ Titanic which set off 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 entire town of Southampton. There are also permanent exhibitions about Southampton’s role as a Gateway to the World and an exploration of Southampton’s rich and diverse history.
Stop for lunch near the Cultural Quarter or venture up to the top floor of Westquay Shopping centre for a range of popular restaurants and cafes.
Afternoon
Dig into the city’s rich history starting at the Bargate, the original Norman gateway to the city. Walk along the Medieval Town Walls learning about the historic buildings and local stories, which takes around an hour.
En route you’ll encounter the Tudor House and Garden it’s wooden floors creak with history while it’s Tudor Knot Garden is a hidden gem, particularly special in the spring. It was recreated from historical documents to replicate the original from the 1500s.
If your visit extends to a Friday, Saturday or Sunday visit the God’s House Tower a mixed arts venue with changing exhibitions along with a popular café. The tower also has a permanent “Stories behind the Stones” attraction which tells the history of the building, climbing to the roof is well worth it, you’ll be rewarded with fabulous views out to the waterfront.
Stop for a sumptuous afternoon tea at The Grand near Oxford Street or visit the Dancing Man Brewery housed in a medieval Wool House for an early evening drink.
Alternatively, head over to Ocean Village for scores of restaurants and bars to dine al fresco with seafront views.
