Southampton’s history is visible in its streets and buildings, a story shown in the different venues across the city. From its Roman beginnings as Clausentum to its role as a medieval port and embarkation point, the city has constantly found new uses for its spaces. This past shapes the atmosphere of local spots, providing a backdrop for all kinds of gatherings and influencing the character of communal areas.
Walk through Old Town and you’ll find venues in buildings that recall centuries of trade and maritime activity, like flint-walled structures or historic taverns. Head towards Oxford Street, and the architecture changes, presenting independent eateries and welcoming spaces. Further afield, at Ocean Village, modern design blends with the waterfront, offering contemporary spaces that reflect Southampton’s connection to the sea and its future.
These listings are curated to show Southampton’s daily life. They aim to be a current guide to local spots, genuinely reflecting the city’s character, from its ancient foundations to its modern side.
Featured places are selected local venues we recommend or that partner with The City Brief.
Family & Kids
The Art House CafeThe Art House Cafe is a cafe on Above Bar Street in Southampton. This part of the city has a commercial feel, but the cafe provides a relaxed space away from the main street. The Art House Cafe is known for its events and cafe offerings.
View Info →Restaurant
Trago LoungeTrago Lounge is a restaurant in Southampton offering a relaxed dining experience. Located on Portswood Road, it’s in the Portswood neighbourhood. Trago Lounge is known for its menu and especially its Mango & Passion Fruit Cheesecake.
View Info →Board Game Café
Board in the CityBoard in the City is a board game café on Onslow Road in Southampton. This part of the city offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors. It's known for its wide selection of games and tasty burgers.
View Info →Music Venue
HeartbreakersHeartbreakers is a music venue located on Hanover Buildings in Southampton’s City Centre. This area of town has a lively, urban feel with plenty of entertainment options. Heartbreakers is known for its award-winning cocktail menu and nightly live rock music.
View Info →Pub
The BitternThe Bittern is a lively pub on Thornhill Park Road in Southampton. The Thornhill neighbourhood offers a relaxed setting for a classic pub experience. The Bittern is known for its wide selection of shots and bombs, making it a good spot for a night out.
View Info →Restaurant
Maritimo LoungeMaritimo Lounge is a British and International restaurant on Ocean Way in Southampton’s Ocean Village. It’s known for seasonal menus and a relaxed atmosphere. Locals and visitors go to Maritimo Lounge for a quick bite, a leisurely meal, or evening drinks.
View Info →537 total places
Restaurant
Maritimo LoungeMaritimo Lounge is a British and International restaurant on Ocean Way in Southampton’s Ocean Village.
View Info →Fried Chicken Restaurant
Miss Millie'sMiss Millie's is a fried chicken restaurant on Above Bar Street in Southampton.
View Info →Szechuen Kitchen 川味园 serves authentic Sichuan cuisine.
View Info →Fish & Co is a restaurant on Oxford Street, a short drive from the city centre of Southampton.
View Info →Fran&Go is a cafe offering a relaxed atmosphere on Guildhall Place in Southampton.
View Info →The Giddy Goose is a pub in Southampton, an area becoming known for its independent businesses.
View Info →56 total places
Board Game Café
Board in the CityBoard in the City is a board game café on Onslow Road in Southampton.
View Info →Performing Arts School
Sound Pop AcademySound Pop Academy is a Performing Arts School located at Richard Taunton College on Hill Lane in Southampton.
View Info →194 total places
Restaurant
Trago LoungeTrago Lounge is a restaurant in Southampton offering a relaxed dining experience.
View Info →Music Venue
HeartbreakersHeartbreakers is a music venue located on Hanover Buildings in Southampton’s City Centre.
View Info →Pub
The BitternThe Bittern is a lively pub on Thornhill Park Road in Southampton.
View Info →Overdraft Beer & Tacos is a beer and taco venue on Oxford Street in Southampton.
View Info →Restaurant
The RockstoneThe Rockstone is a restaurant on St.
View Info →Country Pub & Restaurant
The Cowherds InnThe Cowherds Inn is a country pub & restaurant on The Common in Southampton.
View Info →110 total places
58 total places