University of Southampton Tours

University of Southampton
University of Southampton
University of Southampton
University of Southampton
University of Southampton


Tour an oceanographic research institute, watch independent theater productions and see designs by notable British architects at this 150-year-old university. 

The University of Southampton regularly features in the world’s top 100 universities. Get a feel for the lifestyles of students, professors and alumni while you explore the campuses spread across the city of Southampton. Check the university’s events schedule for concerts, talks and theater shows. The University of Southampton’s origins date back to 1862 and it was given its official university status in 1952. 

Much of the university’s life revolves around the Highfield Campus, large parts of which were designed by Scottish architect Sir Basil Spence in the 1950s. The redbrick Hartley Library is the work of Sir Giles Gilbert Scott. Note the fractal pattern that decorates the glass façade of the award-winning Mountbatten Building. 

Landscaped gardens surround the buildings and present areas for those studying and teaching to relax or read in peace. Spot a variety of plant species at the campus’ botanical garden. More opportunities to enjoy the city’s greenery await in Southampton Common, a wooded parkland adjacent to the campus.

Book tickets for an evening of music and spoken word at the Turner Sims Concert Hall. National and international theater companies take to the stage at the NST Campus theater. In the city’s Cultural Quarter, the John Hansard Gallery works closely with the university. It puts on five exhibitions of contemporary art a year by well-known and up-and-coming artists. 

Make your way on foot or by bus to the Waterfront Campus, in the city’s port area. Here, the National Oceanography Centre conducts scientific research on the coastlines and seas of the United Kingdom. Learn about the work of scientists at the annual open day in June and at monthly marine conservation talks.

The University of Southampton is easy to reach via a public bus service from Southampton Central train station. 

Pick up a walking tour leaflet of the Highfield Campus at the main reception or download the leaflet onto your smartphone via the university’s website.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near University of Southampton

Leonardo Hotel Southampton

Leonardo Hotel Southampton

4 out of 5
1 Charlotte Place, Southampton, England
Leonardo Hotel Southampton
Daisy Haven in Southampton

Daisy Haven in Southampton

3.5 out of 5
Southampton
Daisy Haven in Southampton
Host Stay Broadland House

Host Stay Broadland House

2 out of 5
Southampton
Host Stay Broadland House
Brookvale Guest House Room 11

Brookvale Guest House Room 11

2 out of 5
3 Brookvale Rd, Southampton, England
Brookvale Guest House Room 11
Novotel Southampton

Novotel Southampton

4 out of 5
1 West Quay Road, Southampton, England
Novotel Southampton
Brookvale Guest House Room 16

Brookvale Guest House Room 16

2 out of 5
3 Brookvale Rd, Southampton, England
Brookvale Guest House Room 16
Southampton Serviced Apartment

Southampton Serviced Apartment

4 out of 5
136 Bassett Avenue, Hampshire, Southampton, England
Southampton Serviced Apartment
Brookvale Guest House Room 2

Brookvale Guest House Room 2

2 out of 5
3 Brookvale Rd, Southampton, England
Brookvale Guest House Room 2
Brookvale Guest House Room 12

Brookvale Guest House Room 12

2 out of 5
3 Brookvale Rd, Southampton, England
Brookvale Guest House Room 12
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near University of Southampton

While visiting the University of Southampton, you can enjoy various activities such as golf, theater, and entertainment. Don't miss the chance to relax at Utopia Spa for a rejuvenating experience. Additionally, the university offers educational experiences that enhance your visit, making it both enjoyable and enriching.

Shopping

The nearest shopping spot is WestQuay Shopping Centre, just 3.2km from the University of Southampton, featuring a variety of shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, visit New Forest Cider and Gunwharf Quays, both 25.7km away, offering unique gifts and a vibrant atmosphere.

Recreation

Experience the energy of St. Mary's Stadium, just 3.2km from campus, where you can catch a thrilling match. Enjoy relaxation at The Common, only 1.3km away, ideal for leisurely walks. For outdoor enthusiasts, Stoneham Golf Club, 1.6km away, offers a scenic golfing experience.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of racing at TeamSport Indoor Go Karting, only 4.8km from the university. For winter sports enthusiasts, Alpine Snowsports Southampton, 3.2km away, offers skiing adventures. For a unique challenge, head to Ambush Paintball, 11.3km from campus, for an exciting paintball experience.

Nightlife

The nightlife around the University of Southampton offers a vibrant mix of experiences. Enjoy a romantic evening at the Mayflower Theatre, catch a family-friendly film at Leisure World, or unleash your adventurous spirit at the Children's Pleasure Park arcade, all within a couple miles of campus.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near University of Southampton

During your visit to the University of Southampton, you can explore beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant urban parks. The area offers a rich cultural experience for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Don't miss the scenic Southampton waterfront, where you can enjoy leisurely strolls and stunning views. With various attractions nearby, there's something for everyone to enjoy during your stay.

  • Civic Centre: Experience a vibrant cultural hub just 3.2km from the University of Southampton. The Civic Centre boasts a range of entertainment options, creating a lively atmosphere perfect for families and visitors looking to immerse themselves in local culture.
  • Paultons Family Theme Park - Home of Peppa Pig World: Located 11.3km away, this theme park is a delight for families, featuring rides and attractions themed around Peppa Pig. It's a fantastic destination for kids and adults alike, offering endless fun and entertainment.
  • Mayflower Park: Situated 4.8km from the university, this urban park invites you to unwind amidst nature. Perfect for families, it offers beautiful outdoor spaces with stunning views of the city, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and recreation.

Best time to go to University of Southampton

The best time to visit University of Southampton can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around University of Southampton falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around University of Southampton falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January41.9°F (5.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February42.4°F (5.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March45.0°F (7.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
April48.7°F (9.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May54.0°F (12.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June59.7°F (15.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July63.3°F (17.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August63.0°F (17.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September59.7°F (15.4°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October54.7°F (12.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November48.4°F (9.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December44.4°F (6.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for University of Southampton

To save on your visit to the University of Southampton, consider traveling between January and March when accommodation prices are lower, with Monday being the cheapest night to stay. Use Expedia’s search tool to compare room rates, find great deals, and filter for eco-friendly hotels. Look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for additional savings. To navigate the city affordably, utilize public transport or explore free local attractions, ensuring a budget-friendly experience throughout your trip.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around University of Southampton are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around University of Southampton is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around University of Southampton is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your ideal location, and more. You can easily arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, helping you find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save on your trip by combining your hotel stay at the University of Southampton with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.