Itineraries for Your Trip to Southampton
3 Days in Southampton for Foodies
When you think of England’s foodie capitals, Southampton may not make your short list—but that’s all the more reason it should. Not only does this port city have some award-winning restaurants and unique foodie finds, but it’s the perfect base for a tasting tour of South England. I should know. With my brother and nephews living just outside of Southampton, most of our precious family reunions and milestone celebrations have been nourished by local cuisine.
This 3-day itinerary is packed with pub lunches, afternoon tea, and artisan food shops, giving you a quintessentially British introduction to drinking and dining on the South Coast. These are the places that make my shortlist every time.
Southampton’s coastal location can get windy, so pack a light sweater even if the sun is shining.
If you only have time for one thing, make it dinner at the legendary Oxford Brasserie.
Southampton’s small center is easy to get around on foot, and it’s brimming with cafés and restaurants. Start with brunch at the Docks Coffee House, pick up vegan goodies from Café Thrive, and then grab lunch from the deli counter at The Pig-in the Wall.
English gin is world-renowned, but you don’t have to go to London for a gin tour. One of the country’s most famous gins, Bombay Sapphire, is made in Hampshire. Uncover the secrets of gin-making on a tour of the Bombay Sapphire distillery, or visit The Gin Palace for a Wessex Spirits gin tasting.
Head south to UNESCO-listed Bath, with a foodie heritage. Try a bun from Sally Lunn's Historic Eating House, Bath soft cheese from Paxton and Whitfield, and sweets from Mrs. Potts Chocolate House. End with afternoon tea at the Pump Room by the Roman Baths or the Regency Tea Rooms at the Jane Austen Centre.
The cathedral city of Winchester—a 20-minute drive from Southampton—has one of Hampshire’s most atmospheric Old Towns. Peek behind the half-timbered shop fronts to find independent butchers, delis, chocolatiers, and fishmongers. Look for local favorites Jude’s Ice Cream and Hambledon Vineyard. For lunch, head to Anvil Tea Rooms for traditional cooking.
Back in Southampton, set sail along the Solent on a traditional sailboat and admire views of Southampton cruise port and the Isle of Wight as you cruise the coast. If you don’t fancy dining onboard, book a waterfront table at The Jetty, which serves seafood caught by local fishers.
