Southampton is a port city located on the south coast. It has an airport, and multiple train stations, as well as regular transport links between halls, campuses and the rest of the city, making it easy to get around. It’s an affordable place to live, with a great balance between city comforts and the greenery of the countryside. Its large size and lively population of over 240,000 people mean you’ll never be short of entertainment.
Here are some of our favourite things to do in and around the city:
- Enjoy over 60 green spaces within the city limits, such as the Common.
- The city has a vibrant nightlife scene, including union venues The Stag’s and The Bridge. In Portswood and the City Centre you will find a range of venues that cater to all tastes, offering everything from traditional historic pubs, to elegant cocktail bars, to student clubs and live music venues.
- Head to West Quay shopping centre, which has over 100 high street shops packed under its roof. Satisfy your appetite at the recently opened Watermark extension, featuring dozens of restaurants, a bowling alley and a luxury cinema.
- Take a break from city life by exploring the nearby countryside, with the Isle of Wight just a short hop over the Solent, and the New Forest only 20 minutes away by car.
- In the new Cultural Quarter, the O2 Guildhall plays host to numerous performers. Theatregoers will enjoy the enthralling programmes at The Mayflower and Nuffield Southampton Theatres, home to contemporary theatre, dance, comedy and popular West End Favourites.
- Enjoy a day trip to historic Winchester, just north-east of Southampton and home to Winchester School of Art.
- Take out a Sports and Wellbeing membership, which will allow you access to University sports facilities and other facilities across the city.
- Explore Southampton’s rich history, stretching back to pre-Roman times. Browse several museums, such as the SeaCity Museum which taps into the city’s seafaring past and links to The Titanic.
- To celebrate the end of term, head to Common People Festival, the latest venture by Bestival’s Rob Da Bank, held on the common in May.
- For sports fans, head down to St. Mary’s stadium, home to Premier League Southampton Football Club, or over to the Ageas bowl in summer for a spot of cricket courtesy of Hampshire Cricket Club.
