From international cricket fixtures to big-screen football and active days in the city’s green spaces, Southampton is set for a packed summer of sport. Whether you’re heading to the Utilita Bowl for world-class matches, following the ICC Women's T20 World Cup and The Hundred, or catching the FIFA World Cup in one of the city’s favourite venues, there are plenty of ways to get involved.
Beyond the stands and screens, Southampton offers space to get moving too from park runs and cycling routes to skate parks and watersports along the River Itchen. Add in great places to eat, drink and play, and you’ve got everything you need to plan a sport-filled visit.
Explore what’s on, where to watch, and how to make the most of a summer of sport in Southampton.
Southampton FC Residential Summer Football Camps
Young footballers can take their game to the next level this summer with Southampton FC's residential football camps. Based at Embley School in Romsey, each camp combines professional coaching with a fun, supportive environment, giving players the chance to improve their skills, build confidence and make lasting memories.
Camp highlights include:
An exclusive Puma training kit
Full-board accommodation throughout the stay
Behind-the-scenes visits to Staplewood Training Ground and St Mary's Stadium
Westquay's roller rink is BACK! This August, head to The Esplanade and step under the big top for a summer of skating fun. Whether you’re an experienced rollerblader or lacing up your skates for the first time, the rink welcomes all ages and abilities.
Helmets and protective pads for wrists, elbows and knees will be provided, so all you need to do is grab your skates and enjoy the ride!
Looking to build your confidence or learn the basics? Rollerland’s Skate School Sessions take place at 11am on most days. In every regular session, there will be skate pros on the rink to assist, with final skating sessions running from 7pm–8pm.
Southampton’s got a brand-new place to roll! Head to Hoglands Park on Sunday 23 August to celebrate the opening of the city’s new skatepark with a free day packed with skate sessions, creative workshops and plenty more to get stuck into.
Whether you’re already a skating pro, fancy giving it a go or would rather stay firmly on two feet, there’ll be activities for all ages and abilities. The event takes place from 11am - 4pm. Find out more here.
Sports Day with Run Company
26 August from 6pm, Hoglands Park
Swap your usual training session for a little friendly competition at this free community sports day for local runners. Take on classic challenges, team up for a three-legged race and put your skills to the test, all while meeting fellow runners and enjoying a sociable afternoon.
Taking place on Wednesday 26 August, the event is open to everyone and is being hosted in partnership with Southampton Chiropractic. Refreshments will be available, so come along, get involved and see what you’re capable of beyond the running route!
Enjoy Southampton's green spaces
Southampton’s green spaces are a real highlight of the city, beautifully maintained all year round (they are Green Flag awarded, after all) but they truly come into their own during the summer months. When the sun is shining and the skies are clear, there’s no better setting to get active and enjoy your own summer of sport.
Across the Central Parks, you’ll find plenty of space to move at your own pace. Whether you’re heading out for a relaxed jog, working towards a new personal best, or simply enjoying the cooler shade beneath the trees, it’s an easy way to stay active outdoors.
If you’re drawn to wheels and ramps, Southampton’s skate parks are gradually being refreshed across the city. Hoglands Park will soon be home to a new concrete skate park, delivered in partnership with Southampton City Council, We Skate Southampton and John Hansard Gallery, alongside basketball courts for a quick game with friends. If you’re new to skating or looking to build confidence, We Skate Southampton is a welcoming, volunteer-led community group hosting regular, relaxed meet-ups.
Over in East Park, you’ll find even more ways to get moving, including a miniature golf course and hard court games area, perfect for a casual game of tennis or squash.
And if you fancy taking things onto the water, why not try a paddleboarding session along the River Itchen for a different perspective of the city?
For those looking for something a little more expansive, Southampton Common – just off The Avenue – offers 365 acres of open space. It’s ideal for walking, cycling, or even a spot of fishing, giving you the freedom to enjoy sport and activity in a more open, natural setting.
You can explore Southampton’s parks by facility to find the right spot for your next activity here.
For those looking to get their feet wet, you can take a dip at The Quays Swimming & Diving Complex. If you’re after a general workout, you’ll also find convenient city centre locations from PureGym and The Gym Group, making it easy to fit in a session around your plans.
Southampton’s Old Bowling Green is one of the oldest surviving bowling greens in the world? Located on Lower Canal Walk, you can join in a game every Friday from 6pm – suitable for all ages and abilities.
Food, drink and live sport
Looking to catch the action while enjoying great food and drink? Southampton has plenty of spots where sport takes centre stage.
For live screenings, the city’s pubs and bars offer a lively backdrop for all the major tournaments. Venues like Shenanigans, Yates, The Cricketers Arms, The Grapes, London Road Brew House and O'Neill's are well known for their big screens and matchday buzz, making them ideal for soaking up the atmosphere with fellow fans. Over at Kwackers Kitchen & Sports Bar, you’ll also find screens throughout the venue, with some booths even offering your own personal screen – all paired with pints and Asian fusion dishes.
If you’d rather get involved yourself, there are plenty of places where you can mix socialising with a bit of friendly competition. Head to Rocket Ronnies for a game of pool or snooker, step up to the plate at 1st Base for batting cage action, or visit Sharkey's Sports Bar to enjoy drinks alongside pool tables, live sport and classic bar games. Find more places to eat, drink and play across the city here.
Getting into and around the city
Getting to Southampton is straightforward, whether you’re travelling in for a big match or planning a full day of activity.
Southampton Central railway station sits just a short walk from the city centre, with regular services connecting you to London, Winchester, Bournemouth and beyond. If you’re travelling by coach, Southampton Coach Station is also located in the heart of the city, making it easy to step straight into the action.
For those arriving by car, Southampton is well connected via the M3 and M27, with a number of city centre car parks available. Once you’re here, many of the key leisure and hospitality spots are within easy walking distance of each other.
To explore further afield, including some of the city’s larger venues, local bus services run frequently across Southampton. Bluestar Bus operates routes throughout the city and surrounding areas, offering a convenient way to get around without the need for a car.
If you’re heading to the Utilita Bowl, home to international cricket and major events, it’s easily accessible by road and public transport. Regular bus services run from the city centre, and the venue is also a short taxi journey away, making it simple to plan your visit whether you’re travelling light or with a group.
Stay a little longer
With so much to see and do in the city this summer, it’s the perfect excuse to turn your visit into a city break. From stylish boutique stays to affordable and luxurious hotels, Southampton has plenty of places to make yourself at home while you explore. Head to our accommodation page to start planning your visit.
