Coach travel to Southampton

Hoxton Bakehouse

You’ll find the Hoxton Bakehouse close to Southampton Docks, serving up warm loaves of hand-leavened bread and other delicious pastries. They also offer classes on how to make your own sourdough from scratch.

It’s A Pizza Thing

Pizza is one of the world’s favourite foods – and Southampton’s It’s A Pizza Thing demonstrates exactly why. This mobile food truck is a big favourite with locals and offers hand stretched artisan pizzas, all cooked inside their wood fired oven. Check their Facebook page to see where the food truck will be set up next.

Ennio’s

If you’re still after some lovely Italian food but don’t fancy a pizza, Ennio’s is where you’ll want to head to. With boutique hotel rooms above the restaurant, it’s known in Southampton as a place to go out for a special meal. They do also offer a more affordable lunchtime menu.

Whether you’re looking to sink a pint…

Southampton’s publicans are barkeeps are partial to stocking the odd pint of craft ale. Situated inside a former bank, the aptly named Overdraft Craft Ale Bar offers a wide range of rotating brews on tap, many of which are also vegan. BrewDog also has a branch in Southampton, well worth a visit. If chains aren’t your thing, pay a visit to local brewery Tap It for a range of different IPAs at their taproom.

…or sip on a cocktail instead

In 2012 it was announced that Stephen Fry and Ian McKellen would pay the licensing fees for The Hobbit pub to stay open in Southampton without needing a name change after being open for over 20 years. So pop in for a Gimli (not a gimlet – each of the drinks are named after Tolkein characters) and admire the themed décor. If you don’t need a theme to be able to enjoy a tipple, book a slot at the Bring & Mix cocktail bar – bring your own bottles and their expert mixologists will create bespoke drinks just for you.

Going ‘out out’

As well as being the birthplace of none other than Craig David, Southampton has some great nightlife. Check out student favourite, the Orange Rooms for a big night on the town.

Oxford Street

London isn’t the only British city with a busy shopping district on Oxford Street. Southampton has its own too, and it is home to a diverse array of boutiques and bars. The city centre is also home to many gift shops with a nautical theme, as well as independent retailers selling unique items.

Beatnik Emporium

If vintage is what floats your boat, you’ll enjoy picking out retro fashion finds at Beatnik Emporium (to buy or, if you’re planning a return trip, rent). The store also celebrates events such as World Record Store Day, and partners with local 70s-styled nightclub Orange Rooms.

Robin’s Nest

Another emporium in the city, this warehouse store stocks a vast treasure trove of furniture, fabrics and other bric-a-brac. Robin’s Nest also has a coffee shop serving up great food.

Tudor House

Southampton’s first museum was founded in 1912 and covers over 800 years of history. Located in the Old Town, renovations to Tudor House were finished in 2011 to include new displays and facilities. The Grade I listed building remains one of the best examples of Norman architecture in England and also has a traditional knot garden.

SeaCity Museum

Visit the city centre’s SeaCity Museum to explore the story of the people of the city, their fascinating history and connections with the Titanic. Suitable for all the family, the interactive museum lets you explore Southampton’s proud, sea-faring history.

Mayflower Theatre

Visit this Grade II listed theatre for a range of different performances year-round including shows on tour from London’s West End.

Solent Sky Museum

This museum documents the history of aviation, with a focus on the local Supermarine aircraft company, which designed and manufactured the Spitfire fighter plane.

Itchen Valley Country Park

Itchen Valley Country Park is an idyllic 400-acre plot in the heart of the city. Filled with water meadows, spectacular flowers and walking trails, the Park is home to a treasure trove of wildlife, and thanks to an excellent café, is a great way to spend the day while taking in beautiful, scenic, county-wide views.

One reason Southampton is such a popular student city could be because of its relatively small size. There’s still a ton of stuff to do, and with so many attractions dotted around, city centre walks are a great way to take in everything on offer. Starting throughout the day from the city centre’s high street, experienced guides will introduce you to the city’s many sights and secrets, so keep your camera nearby.

Learn more about the Titanic

Make Southampton’s maritime history the focus of your day, with the Titantic trail walk. The Titanic sailed from Southampton on April 10, 1912. More than 500 Southampton families lost a member when the ship sank. Visit the SeaCity Museum for their Titanic Story exhibition, and if you have time after, the Southampton Art Gallery (with free entry) is also just around the corner.

Walk the walls

The Bargate and town walls still remain around the Old Town, constructed back in Norman times. Well-preserved, the wall is the third longest stretch of medieval town walling in Britain. And if you’re peckish for food, pop into local Boulangerie Victor Hugo for fresh-baked croissants.

Burlsedon Brickworks

The last steam-powered brickworks in the UK is open to the public to learn about the history of industrial Britain. The Victorian-built brickworks only stopped production in 1974.

Bedford Place

An alternative to the city centre, Bedford Place is filled with independent shops and restaurants.

The area’s old-fashioned aesthetic is kept intact as much as possible, and you’ll be able to find fashion and food alongside other staples such as a pharmacy.