Sport
Southampton is more than just a historic port city. It’s also a thriving centre for sport, fitness and outdoor activity. Whether you're a fan looking to catch a match, a participant eager to get active, or a visitor curious about local sporting culture, Southampton offers a wide range of options to explore. With its coastal location, impressive facilities and passionate community, the city is a destination where sport is part of everyday life.
From professional football to community cricket, Olympic-standard swimming pools to scenic running routes, there are countless ways to enjoy sport in and around Southampton. This section highlights the most popular sports, venues, and opportunities available for all ages and abilities.
Football in Southampton
Football is at the heart of Southampton’s sporting identity. The city is home to Southampton Football Club, affectionately known as The Saints, one of the most recognised names in English football. Their home ground, St Mary’s Stadium, is a modern 32,000-seat venue located just east of the city centre.
Visitors can attend matches during the football season and experience the electric atmosphere first-hand. The stadium also offers behind-the-scenes tours, where you can explore the dressing rooms, walk the players’ tunnel, and even sit in the manager’s seat. It’s a must-do for any football fan, young or old.
Football isn’t limited to the professional game. Southampton has a strong grassroots and youth football scene, with clubs, training camps, and recreational leagues welcoming players of all backgrounds and skill levels. Local pitches and school fields across the city regularly host competitive and casual matches.
Water sports and coastal fitness
Thanks to its position on the Solent, Southampton is an ideal location for water-based sports and activities. The city’s coastal setting offers a variety of aquatic adventures, from sailing and rowing to paddleboarding and open-water swimming.
The Southampton Water Activities Centre and Woodmill Outdoor Activities Centre are two standout locations for those wanting to get on the water. Both offer lessons, rentals, and beginner-friendly courses in kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing, and sailing. All equipment is provided, making it accessible even for complete beginners.
For more competitive spirits, the Royal Southampton Yacht Club hosts races and sailing events throughout the year, often attracting participants from across the south coast. Rowing is also popular, with the Southampton Amateur Rowing Club providing coaching and competitions on the River Itchen.
Whether you're looking for a relaxed paddle or serious sport, the city’s proximity to the water creates endless opportunities to stay fit and enjoy the outdoors.
Athletics, running and fitness
Southampton supports an active running and athletics community. From professional athletes to beginners looking for a new hobby, there are many facilities and organised events that make it easy to get involved.
The Southampton Sports Centre, located in the north of the city, includes an all-weather track, gym, football pitches, tennis courts, and space for athletics training. It’s one of the main hubs for local sporting clubs and school competitions. There’s also the Southampton Athletics Club, offering expert coaching and support for all age groups.
For casual runners, the Southampton parkrun is held every Saturday at Southampton Common. This free 5k event is open to all ages and abilities. It’s a friendly and inclusive way to enjoy fitness in a beautiful outdoor setting. Other popular running routes include the waterfront paths at Mayflower Park, the trails through Itchen Valley Country Park, and the scenic canal-side paths of the Itchen Navigation Trail.
Gyms and fitness centres are widely available throughout the city, including national chains and independent studios. Many parks are also equipped with free outdoor gym equipment, ideal for a quick workout in the fresh air.
Swimming and diving
Southampton is home to several excellent swimming facilities, including one of the best diving complexes in the country.
The Quays Swimming and Diving Complex is a major centre for aquatic sport in the region. It features a 25-metre pool, a dedicated diving pool with platforms up to 10 metres, and facilities suitable for all levels of ability. The centre often hosts national diving competitions and is used by elite athletes for training, including those preparing for the Olympics.
Recreational swimmers are also well catered for, with sessions available for lane swimming, family swim, aqua aerobics, and swim lessons for all ages. The complex is open year-round and includes a modern gym and health suite.
Community pools such as those at Bitterne Leisure Centre, Wildern Leisure Centre, and Oaklands Pool ensure that swimming is easily accessible across the city.
Cricket, golf and racquet sports
Beyond football and swimming, Southampton offers a full calendar of sports throughout the year.
Cricket is a summer staple, with local clubs including Southampton Cricket Club and Old Tauntonians & Romsey Cricket Club playing regular fixtures in regional leagues. Friendly matches and junior coaching sessions make the sport accessible and inclusive, especially for families.
Golfers have several local options to choose from. Southampton Golf Club, located at the municipal course near Bassett, provides an 18-hole challenge suitable for all abilities. There’s also the Stoneham Golf Club, one of Hampshire’s most respected courses, offering stunning views and top-tier facilities.
If you prefer indoor sport, racquet sports are popular in community centres and gyms. Badminton, squash and tennis courts can be booked throughout the city, including at Oasis Academy Lord’s Hill and Southampton Tennis Centre in Portswood. Group lessons and tournaments are often available for those looking to develop their skills.
Spectator sport and major events
Southampton isn’t just a city for those who like to play sport—it’s also a place to experience the thrill of major sporting events.
St Mary’s Stadium is the focal point for large football crowds, but other venues regularly host competitions, races, and exhibitions. The Utilita Bowl, just outside the city, is Hampshire’s international cricket ground and the home of Hampshire County Cricket Club. It hosts county games, international matches, and family-friendly events during the summer.
Southampton also plays host to mass participation events, including the ABP Southampton Marathon, Half Marathon and 10K, which draws thousands of runners each April. Spectators line the streets to cheer on participants through a route that includes city landmarks, the waterfront, and parks.
Whether you’re watching a football match, attending a live cricket game, or supporting local athletes at an open meet, Southampton’s sporting calendar is packed with excitement.
Inclusive and accessible sport
Sport in Southampton is for everyone. The city actively promotes inclusive participation, offering adaptive sports, accessible facilities, and community projects that encourage people of all backgrounds to get involved.
Groups such as Sport Hampshire & IOW, and Southampton City Council’s Sport and Leisure team work together to provide sessions for people with physical disabilities, learning differences, or long-term health conditions. Activities include inclusive swimming, wheelchair basketball, and guided fitness classes.
These programmes are supported by specialist coaches and designed to build confidence, improve wellbeing, and promote positive social experiences through sport.
Plan your sporting experience in Southampton
Whether you want to join a team, try a new sport, or simply stay active while exploring the city, Southampton makes it easy. With its excellent facilities, welcoming community, and packed sporting calendar, it’s a great place to be a fan, a player, or just someone who enjoys being on the move.
From grassroots clubs to elite training venues, Southampton continues to grow as a sporting city. Whatever your level or interest, there’s something here for you.
