Christmas in the City Christmas in the City
In Southampton’s glow, where lights softly gleam, Christmas awakens with a sparkling dream. Skate at Westquay’s rink, glide through the air, The market’s scents of mulled wine fill the square.
Festive feasts and gifts to be found, Independent shops with treasures around. Santa brings joy, the Snow Windows trail, In Southampton, Christmas magic never fails!
Discover all this and more at visitsouthampton.co.uk/christmas. Share your special moments with us by using #OurSouthampton to be featured on our social media channels.
Southampton’s Snow Windows Trail
29th November – 31st December
This year, GO! Southampton has teamed up with Snow Windows to create a brandnew trail for families to take part in over the festive season. Explore the North Pole and South Pole routes to uncover 20 stunning snowy scenes, beautifully crafted and displayed in the windows of local businesses. At each stop, you’ll find a clue — write down the letter you spot and unscramble the secret word to unlock a free prize at the final locations. To find out where to pick up a free map, visit visitsouthampton.co.uk/christmas-trail.
This fantastic family art trail is sponsored by Brackenwood Windows.
To find out more about Brackenwood go to go.brackenwood.com/gosouthampton While you’re exploring the city over the festive season, be sure to head to Westquay to pay a visit to everyone’s favourite marmalade-loving bear: Paddington! Paddington!
Christmas events
Christmas events
Southampton has a sleigh-full of exciting events
to make your Christmas season merry and bright!
Southampton’s Christmas Market
Above Bar Precinct, Bargate and Guildhall Square
15th November – 5th January, 10am – 10pm*
Get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas as Southampton’s city centre transforms into a festive wonderland. Wander beneath sparkling lights, sip on mulled wine, and explore alpine chalets filled with unique gifts from a variety of independent vendors.
In Guildhall Square, the festive fun kicks into gear with thrilling rides for the whole family including the UK’s tallest Ferris wheel, AtmosFear and Snowball Launcher.
Pop in to visit Father Christmas, who’ll be looking forward to meeting children in his grotto and checking if you’ve been naughty or nice.
For a true seasonal spectacle, make your way to the Bargate, where a mesmerising light show will bring the historic landmark to life every 30 minutes from 5PM to 9.30PM, running from 16th November – 24th December.
Find out more at southamptonchristmasmarket.co.uk
*Closed Christmas Day
Westquay Esplanade
22nd November – 5th January
Lace up your skates because Westquay on Ice returns to the Esplanade! Perfect for families and friends, the covered rink invites you to glide and twirl under a canopy of lights. Situated just outside the historic town walls, every moment on the ice feels truly magical. Whether you're a seasoned skater or taking your first spin, there’s a bit of icy fun waiting for everyone. Book your skating session at west-quay.co.uk/events
Pop-up Christmas Shopping with Dream Empire
The Marlands Shopping Centre 12th & 14th December, 9am – 5.30pm
Step into The Marlands this Christmas and explore some of Hampshire’s finest small traders. From handcrafted treasures to wellness treats and bespoke creations, you’ll find the perfect gift for everyone on your list. With new businesses rotating each month, there’s always something fresh and exciting to discover. Learn more at dreamempireevents.co.uk
Après Bar
Westquay Esplanade
22nd November – 5th January
Escape to Southampton’s Après Bar, your cosy retreat this holiday season. Indulge in an array of seasonal beverages, from rich hot chocolates to winter cocktails and classic mulled wine, all served in charming, bookable mini alpine chalets. Ideal for gatherings, these spaces can accommodate groups of up to 10 people, making it the perfect spot to celebrate with friends and family. Book your visit at apresbar.co.uk/southampton
An Evening of Christmas Crackers at St Mary’s Stadium
St. Mary’s Stadium December
Get ready for a magical Christmas evening at St Mary’s Stadium filled with mulled wine, hot cider and festive cheer. In the heart of the Northam Fan Zone, experience the magic of the season as London’s West End stars and full live band take to the stage. Let the melodies of festive hits fill the air as you sing along and celebrate the spirit of Christmas.
With a lineup of talented performers, this event is perfect for all to dance the night away. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the magic of Christmas at one of the most iconic stadiums in the South. Get your tickets at southamptonfc.com/events
Westquay on Ice
Arty Activities Arty Activities
Whether you’re hand-painting Christmas decorations or making your own wreath, there’s plenty to spark joy and add that personal touch to your holiday season.
For tickets to workshops at Southampton City Art Gallery, SeaCity Museum, and Tudor House go to seacitymuseum.co.uk/whats-on
Trails & Tours Trails & Tours Workshops Workshops
Gingerbread House Events
The Marlands Shopping Centre
7th & 21st December at 11am – 4pm – FREE
Families can enjoy two gingerbread-themed days in The Marlands where you can make your own Christmas tree decoration (7th Dec) or gingerbread person (21st Dec). Visit the gingerbread house for fun photos and spin the gingerbread wheel for children to win a free goody bag. Plus, don’t miss their family quiz for a chance to win a family ticket for the Mayflower Theatre.
Festive Wreath Making
Mayflower Theatre
29th November – 6th December
Head to the theatre for a delightful festive wreath workshop. Immerse yourself in the spirit of the season as you create a stunning seasonal wreath. Guided by a qualified florist, their workshops offer a relaxed and welcoming environment where creativity can flourish. Book your experience at mayflower.org.uk
Holiday Fun at IKEA
17th & 19th December FREE
Children can join in free crafting sessions at IKEA to decorate their very own tree decorations and gingerbread biscuits to take home. Book your spot at ikea.com
Between the 3rd – 5th December visit IKEA’s Christmas themed pop-up cinema in-store and snuggle up with friends or loved ones to watch holiday favourites. Plus, don’t miss their Santa Lucia Party on 12th December, for a deliciously festive three course meal, more crafty activities – and candlelit procession.
Saturdays & Sundays
1st – 22nd December, 1:30pm depart from the Bargate
Join the See Southampton heritage guides on a walk through the Christmas past of Southampton! Explore the Western Walls and Vaults, recounting tales of yesteryear, referencing historical characters, events and songs. Tours last approx. 90 minutes. Tickets are £7 (accompanied children up to 16 years free) and can be booked by visiting seesouthampton.co.uk
Christmas Lantern Walking Tour Joy to the World!
Saturday 21st December, departs from Tudor House at 5pm & 7pm
Step back in time this Christmas with a festive walking tour led by Andy Skinner. Discover how Jane Austen celebrated the holidays, uncover local origins of festive songs, and learn why Christmas 1945 was one to forget. This magical lantern-lit tour explores Southampton’s Old Town, including access to hidden medieval vaults.
Suitable for all ages, the tour lasts 90 minutes and don’t forget to bring a torch! To book, visit tudorhouseandgarden.com/whats-on
find out where he’ll be Santa is Southampton:visiting Santa is Southampton:visiting
find out where he’ll be
Santa's Tea Party at John Lewis & Partners
19th – 23rd December
Santa's taking a well-earned break. Join him for a special Christmas story, complete with snacks, cocoa and a special gift. Tickets includes a hot drink and a slice of cake. To book visit experiences.johnlewis.com
Visit Father Christmas at Tudor House & Garden
7th & 8th, 15th & 16th, 21st – 23rd December
Little ones can meet Father Christmas in the grand Banqueting Hall and receive a special gift, before getting crafty with a fun activity. Afterward, warm up with a delicious hot chocolate and biscuit in their cosy café, and don't forget to explore the museum with the delightful Christmas Tudor House Mouse trail. Pre-booking is essential, so be sure to reserve your spot early!
Book at tudorhouseandgarden.com/whats-on
Christmas at The Grand
22nd & 25th December
Santa will once again be making two very special visits to The Grand this year. Leave the holiday cooking to The Grand's expert chefs and indulge in a delicious set-course Christmas meal. Savour in a delightful festive feast while Santa stops by to greet the children in this beautiful historic venue. Book your table at thegrandsouthampton.co.uk
14th & 15th, 21st & 22nd December
Visit Sea Life’s Santa's Grotto and receive a gift from Father Christmas himself. Children will also receive a free digital professional photo taken by MB Photography (available for download). Add on Soft Play to your ticket and children will have full use of the play centre, access to biscuit decorating, Christmas arts and crafts and a free hot chocolate.
Plus, don’t miss their Breakfast with The Grinch event on 23rd & 24th December! For tickets visit sealifeplay.co.uk
Children can meet Father Christmas this year in his grotto by the Bargate where he will be checking his list to see who’s been naughty and nice. Find out more at southamptonchristmasmarket.co.uk
7th, 8th, 14th, 15th, 21st and 22nd of December – FREE
IKEA Family members are warmly invited to join Santa instore for breakfast at IKEA. Find him in the restaurant (level 1) between 10am-11am for lots of festive fun. To register your place visit ikea.com
Not an IKEA Family member? Sign up is free! Find out more on their website or in-store.
Santa's Grotto at Sea Life Play Centre
Santa’s Grotto at the Christmas Market
Breakfast with Santa at IKEA
Shows & Films
Shows & Films
Jack and the Beanstalk
Mayflower Theatre
14th December – 5th January
Fe-fi-fo-fum, a giant panto full of fun! After their first triumphant Mayflower Theatre pantomime last year in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, street dance sensations, Ashley Banjo & Diversity, and award-winning actor and comedian, Kev Orkian, are coming back to climb a beanstalk of gigantic proportions to cloudland in the spectacular family pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk. mayflower.org.uk
English National Ballet’s Nutcracker
Mayflower Theatre
28th – 30th November
This festive season, join Clara on a fantastical adventure where anything is possible. Embark on a journey full of colour and wonder as English National Ballet brings the Nutcracker to life with over 100 dancers and musicians. mayflower.org.uk
The Wind in the WillowsToad's BIG Musical Adventure
MAST Mayflower Studios
22nd – 31st December
This Christmas, join Rat, Badger and Mole on Toad’s BIG Musical Adventure as the classic tale of The Wind in the Willows is brought to life packed with musical hits, comedy and thrills for all of the family. 50 young people will take you on a wonderful journey through the seasons along the banks of the Test, down the open road (watch out for Toad in his motorcar!) around the snowcovered New Forest, and through the Wild Wood (beware of those weasels!) to the magnificent Toad Hall. mayflower.org.uk
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Christmas Show
MAST Mayflower Studios 4th – 14th December
The critically acclaimed production of The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show created by Jonathan Rockefeller features a menagerie of 75 lovable puppets. The production faithfully adapts four stories by author/illustrator Eric Carle: Brown Bear, Brown Bear, 10 Little Rubber Ducks, Dream Snow and of course, the star of the show – The Very Hungry Caterpillar. mayflower.org.uk
Christmas films Christmas films
Experience the Magic of Christmas at Showcase Cinema de Lux
Immerse yourself in the joy of classic Christmas films and the excitement of the latest blockbusters right here in Southampton.
Secure your seats for this year’s most anticipated releases, including Mufasa, Wicked, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 and many more. Plus, relive your holiday favourites with festive Flashbacks. Indulge in the ultimate comfort with luxurious recliner seating in every screen, perfect for getting into the cosy Christmas spirit.
Looking for the perfect gift? Treat someone special to the magic of cinema with a Showcase Cinema gift card! For the latest showtimes and to book your tickets, visit showcasecinemas.co.uk
Alice in Wonderbra (Adult Panto)
The Stage Door 21st November – 21st December Southampton’s naughtiest Adult Panto returns. Oh yes! It’s time to book for your saucy Christmas fix! This year The Stage Door presents ‘Alice in WonderBra’… and tickets are selling fast with lots of shows already SOLD OUT! Come and join The Stage Door for their alternative and risqué adult take on this wellknown classic. Not for the faint of heart and for over 18’s only.
thestagedoor.org.uk
Paddington Bench Paddington Bench
Make your visit even more memorable with a stop to see everyone’s favourite bear. Head to Westquay to take a seat next to Paddington in celebration of his latest adventure, Paddington in Peru, now showing in cinemas!
Shopping in the city Food & Drink
Shopping in the city
Get your Christmas shopping all wrapped up in Southampton. From high street favourites like LUSH, Hollister, FLANNELS and Footasylum, to local gems like W.J. French & Son, Asiamart, Fredericks and Rockbottom Toy Store, the city centre has everything you need. Many shops are open late in the run-up to Christmas, giving you extra time to skip the crowds and enjoy even more festive fun! visitsouthampton.co.uk/business-directory/shopping-southampton
Westquay Shopping Centre
Westquay offers over 100 retailers to make your holiday shopping a breeze. Explore an array of popular stores, including Fat Face, Quiz, H&M, Sweaty Betty, M&S, Yankee Candle, Typo, and Build-a-Bear. This year, Westquay will extend its hours, staying open until 9pm from 16th December.
The Marlands
F Hinds, Yours Clothing, Grape Tree, Cool Merch, Warren James Jewellers, Savers, Roman and Route One are just some of the shops you’ll find, as well as the Food Court on the first floor. On Friday 13th and between 16th – 21st December, The Marlands will be open later than usual until 8pm. Store opening times may vary, please check with individual stores before you travel.
West Quay Retail Park
With stores like Currys, Decathlon, Argos, JD Sports, Matalan, Mamas & Papas and Poundland, you’ll find everything you need in one place. Most shops close at 9pm Monday – Saturday - perfect for squeezing in those last-minute finds. Check with individual retailers for their exact hours at westquayretail.com
Shop the high street
Find popular brands like TK Maxx, Dr Martens, Holland & Barrett and Clarks to other local favourites such as London Camera Exchange, Urban Outfitters, Moss Bros and Primark outside on the high street. Find out about late night opening hours at visitsouthampton.co.uk/christmas
SO Card offers
Whether you’re shopping, dining or simply exploring, show your physical or digital SO Card to unlock exclusive offers in over 40 businesses. Check the latest deals and get your free SO card by visiting visitsouthampton.co.uk/offers or pop by the information desk at The Marlands Shopping Centre.
Get ready to savour the season because Southampton is brimming with delicious options for every taste. For a full list of dining spots visit visitsouthampton.co.uk/business-directory/eat-and-drink.
Something to drink
In the city you’ll find plenty of festive concoctions to lift your holiday spirits. For those who love a well-crafted cocktail, make your way to Rita’s, 1932, Turtle Bay, Funky Flamingo, or XOXO. For those who want to DIY, try a cocktail masterclass at Thaikhun, Slug & Lettuce, or Mango Thai Tapas.
If a pint is more your style, swing by Dancing Man Brewery, The Grapes, Overdraft, Stein Garten, Duke of Wellington, London Road Brewhouse or Preez for some jolly good brews.
And for a cosy retreat, stop by Mettricks, Edison’s, The Nest Coffee House, Muse or Brunch and Barista to enjoy something warm and comforting.
40% off food and drink all day every day at Revolution
20% off drinks and free admission (Sun – Thurs until 7pm) at Orange Rooms
15% off the A La Carte menu (Mon – Thurs) at Beity Restaurant
Buy one pizza, get one half price at Mettricks
10% off all drinks at Preez
10% off at Porters Steakhouse and Porters Wine & Charcuterie
10% off your shop at Go Oriental
Food & Drink Experiences to remember
Somewhere to party
Get ready to make merry this holiday season and hit the dance floor at Revolution, Trilogy, Orange Rooms, Popworld, Brave, Tokyo or Café Parfait for a night of fun and festive beats. Looking for something more laid back and relaxed? Privé, Papillon, Tsunami Beach Bar, CRIB, or Everest Cuisine offer great space to plan your own get-together.
Something to eat
Tuck into a delicious roast at The Platform Tavern, Cricketers Arms, The White Star Tavern or Carnicero or shake things up with something a little different at Max’s Brasserie, Edo Asia, Las Iguanas, Diego’s, or the new Hokkaido Sushi - and that’s just the start! There are hundreds of local restaurants and pubs waiting to treat you this season.
Add some extra fun and bring out your competitive side. Cue up for pool at Rocket Ronnies or Sharkeys, belt out your favourite tunes with karaoke at Boom Battle Bar, go for a strike at Hollywood Bowl, score a bullseye at O’Neill’s, make a potion at Dark Arts Potion Bar, race to escape at Locked in a Room or enjoy a round of table tennis at The Mayflower Village. With so many exciting activities to enjoy, you’re sure to make this Christmas even more memorable.
Getting to Southampton Getting to Southampton
Navigating the city is simple and stress-free. Whether you’re hopping on a bus or catching the ferry, there are plenty of options to make your journey smooth and enjoyable. Southampton is an advocate for sustainable travel so it’s recommended to walk or cycle whenever you can to enjoy the sights and stay green. To plan your journey in and around Southampton go to myjourneysouthampton.com or download the Breeze App.
By bus
Southampton is well connected by several bus routes running throughout the city. Conveniently travel into the city from Hedge End, Totton, Woolston, Eastleigh, Winchester, Romsey and Lymington with Bluestar buses. With single fares capped at just £2, there is no better time to travel by bus.
By train
Regular direct services run from Bournemouth, Eastleigh, Winchester, Portsmouth, and beyond. The city centre is only a 10-minute walk from Southampton Central Station. For timetables and train fares, visit nationalrail.co.uk
By ferry
Evening plans? Their £1 evening fare can be used on any route, in any fare zone after 6pm. Either pay the driver with contactless or tap on tap off for paperless ticketing. Where will you go for a £1 fare? Visit bluestarbus.co.uk or download the App to view timetables and plan your journey.
By car
There are regular ferry services running from the Isle of Wight for either foot passengers or vehicles. For ticket information and crossing times, visit redfunnel.co.uk
Voi scooters & bikes
Voi E-scooters and bikes offer a convenient, accessible, and eco-friendly way to travel shorter journeys in the city. Simply download the Voi app to get started.
If you are planning a trip by car, Southampton can be conveniently accessed via the M3 and M27 motorways with plenty of parking. For more information about car park locations, pricing, and opening hours, visit southampton.gov.uk/travel-transport/find-and-plan/find-parking
A big thank you…
GO! Southampton, who have produced this Christmas guide, would like to give a big thank you to this year's Countdown to Christmas and Snow Windows Trail sponsor Brackenwood Windows.
As a trusted family business since 1987, Brackenwood has served more than 50,000 happy customers in their five decades of business. They believe everyone should be treated the
same way their family would like to be treated, with straightforward advice. Warmer, safer, smarter - transform your windows, doors and home with the best in Hampshire. To find out more about Brackenwood’s services visit go.brackenwood.com/gosouthampton