Sat on the coast, historical Southampton is the perfect combination of big town and small city.
It’s a city run by students. I think it’s a great transition between home life and university. There’s plenty to do for nights out, or in the daytime as it’s by the sea. The New Forest isn’t that far away for days out. There are huge shopping centres, and a big high street, plus harbours with restaurants overlooking them. There’s a high street closer to the university which has more of a student vibe, with charity shops and smaller independent stores. Southampton Common provides all the large green space you need. (Third year student, University of Southampton)
What Southampton's famous for...
Titanic
The legacy of the ship – which set off from Southampton – is closely tied to the city's history.
Southampton nightlife, according to students
There are about five to six main [clubs], which are split between Portswood & the main city centre. There are many pubs and bars throughout the city, many of which are like clubs in the evening. From the SU pub on Highfield Campus, to the bars, pubs, and live music venues in Portswood – like The Hobbit (a Lord of the Rings themed pub, which has live music) and The Brook – to Bedford Place which has a Wetherspoons, Popworld, Revolutions, independent cocktail bars, and old pubs. (University of Southampton student)
The port
Expect a steady stream of fresh faces in town – around 1.5 million passengers pass through the port each year.
Southampton nightlife, according to students
Switch or Jesters are usually the go-to places on a Friday. This is Switch’s student night, and Jesters do cheap drinks most nights. (Third year student, University of Southampton)
New Forest
Beautiful countryside views and ponies roaming freely, all on your doorstep.
Student life in Southampton
Local gems, tips, and things to do, as recommended by students.
Treat yourself
West Quay is the hub [for] shopping and places to eat, but for a treat you can head to Bedford Place where there are a bunch of quirky small restaurants and pubs. (Second year student, University of Southampton)
Friday feeling
Of course you have Jesters – you have to go at least once to call yourself a proper [University of Southampton] student. (Second year student, University of Southampton)
Sunday chilling
The Common is the perfect place to go for a long walk, bike ride, or have a picnic with a friend. It’s a big, beautiful green space. (Second year student, University of Southampton)
When family visit
There's the Titanic Museum, and a really nice pub called The Cowherds which is a bit pricier, but [does] good food. (Second year student, University of Southampton)
Feeling cultural
The Mayflower Theatre has a variety of shows, with many West End shows coming to perform. The Art House is a cafe that has poetry evenings, comedy nights, and other events. (Second year student, University of Southampton)
Catch up with mates
Trago Lounge = brunch. They have loads of board games, it's not too expensive, [and] it's also close to the university campus. (Second year student, University of Southampton)
Low on cash
Gordon Arms is a cheap pub to go to if you’re low on cash. They also do a pub quiz every Thursday, which is a lot of fun. (Third year student, University of Southampton)
Grab a bite
7 Bone Burger is the top burger place in Southampton. For most [University of Southampton] students, it's only ever a ten-minute walk, maximum. Such a good place for a catch-up, or a hangover treat. (University of Southampton students)
Southampton in pictures
Southampton Marina
View from the Harbour Hotel. (Kelly, third year student at University of Southampton)
Living in Southampton, according to students
Highfield – this area is great as it’s right next to uni, and it's quiet. It’s a safe area. It’s about a 20 - 25 minute walk to Portswood for your shopping. There is a small Tesco Express nearby though, for the smaller bits you might need. Again, it’s far away from the city centre, but you can hop on a bus and be there in 20 minutes. (Second year student, University of Southampton)
Ocean Village
Ocean Village Marina is great to go [to], and look at all the expensive boats. (Yasmin, third year student at Southampton Solent University)
City centre
I took this photo while I walked around the city centre just before Christmas in my first year at uni. It's a special memory for me, as it was the first time I ever saw the city's decorations. (Victoria Crawshaw, second year student at University of Southampton)
Living in Southampton, according to students
We decided to live in Portswood, as it is known as the [University of Southampton] area. Solent University [students] tend to rent in the Polygon area by Bedford Place. The good thing is you’re never far from your friends. Portswood high street and Bevois Valley aren’t far either, and have all of your needs. Avenue and Highfield [campuses] are within walking distance. There is a massive hill to walk to Highfield – the dreaded hill! I’ve paid for a bus pass instead, because I’m always late if I have to walk. There are a lot of families in Portswood. (Third year student, University of Southampton)
City centre
The view from my kitchen. Lots of green space, even in the city centre. (Kamima, third year student at University of Southampton)
Living in Southampton
Housing, travel, and budgeting tips. You can also check our accommodation site if you're looking for student accommodation in Southampton.
Where you'll find students
- Portswood
- Highfield
- The Polygon
Local transport
- Unilink 90 day ticket – £125
- Bus
Find student accommodation
Halls on campus, student housing in town, or your own private living space? Discover which accommodation is right for you.
Student money tips
The best place to live after halls is Portswood. It’s walking distance to campus, but also quite close to the clubs. There’s a Sainsbury’s, but if you go about 15-minutes down the road, there is an Aldi which is much cheaper. If you want to live on a road with free parking, go to Livingstone Road, Alma Road, Gordon Avenue, Avenue Road, Westridge Road, Tennyson Road, [and] Shakespeare Avenue. (Third year student, University of Southampton)
The cost of living as a student soon adds up, us our budget calculator to find out roughly how much you'll need each month.
Discover more savings on student life in Southampton with UCAS student discounts. Find the latest deals, from fashion brands and eating fresh, to big discounts on tech and travel.
Study options
Find courses and apprenticeships in the South West:
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