Old Town Walk
Explore Southampton's medieval past through its well-preserved walls, gate tower, and hidden underground vaults. A journey through history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos & fewer crowds
Old Town Walk
Best Time
Best light for photos & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Southampton's medieval past through its well-preserved walls, gate tower, and hidden underground vaults. A journey through history.
"Brilliant history, so much to see and lots of it is free. The whole old town can be walked easily."
🚶♀️ Guided Tour Recommended
Enhance your visit with a guided tour for historical insights and access to hidden vaults.
☀️ Sunny Day Essential
The Old Town Walk is best enjoyed on a clear day to appreciate the architecture and views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Medieval Walls
Along West Quay and surrounding areas
Explore remnants of the ancient sea wall, integrated into the modern city, offering a glimpse into Southampton's maritime history.
Historic Gate Tower
Old Town
An imposing, crenelated gate tower stands as a testament to the town's defensive past.
Medieval Vaults
Underneath Old Town buildings
Discover fascinating hidden vaults beneath the streets, accessible via guided tours.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Old Town Walk
Embrace the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Guided Tour Recommended
Enhance your visit with a guided tour for historical insights and access to hidden vaults.
☀️ Sunny Day Essential
The Old Town Walk is best enjoyed on a clear day to appreciate the architecture and views.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Be prepared for a walk; comfortable footwear is key to exploring the historic streets.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture great shots of the walls, gate tower, and integrated city views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Guided Tour Recommended
Enhance your visit with a guided tour for historical insights and access to hidden vaults.
☀️ Sunny Day Essential
The Old Town Walk is best enjoyed on a clear day to appreciate the architecture and views.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Be prepared for a walk; comfortable footwear is key to exploring the historic streets.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture great shots of the walls, gate tower, and integrated city views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Old Town Walk for its rich history and the well-preserved medieval walls. Many highlight the value of guided tours for uncovering hidden gems like the medieval vaults. While the walls aren't fully intact, their integration into the city is seen as a unique feature.
"Love this area of the city and the fact that the ancient wall that runs alongside West Quay used to be the sea wall of the city! We enjoyed a guided walking tour of this part of the city with Experience Hampshire who run regular walks which include visits to some of the medieval vaults hidden under the streets and buildings just behind this wall - fascinating!"
Roger Walker
"Really interesting walk round tge walls today with really helpful info points telling us so much about yje history of the city. Definitely recommend as a way to enjoy a history walk"
Neil Chapman
"Brilliant history, so much to see and lots of it is free. The whole old town can be walked easily it’s very compact and about a third of the wall is intact. Old houses, church, towers, wall, gardens, vaults… it’s really worth the a visit. Puts Southampton in the tourist map!"
Kay Bowen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Southampton's Old Town is easily accessible by public transport. The main train station is a short walk or bus ride away. Several bus routes also serve the city center, with stops near the Old Town area.
Yes, there are several car parks available near the Old Town, including those at West Quay. However, parking can be busy, especially on weekends.
Depending on your cruise terminal, it's a moderate walk or a short taxi/bus ride to the Old Town. Check your terminal's location relative to the city center.
Absolutely! The Old Town is well-connected by bus and train, making it a convenient destination for those relying on public transport.
The Old Town is quite compact and best explored on foot. Consider using a map or a guided tour to make the most of your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Walking the Old Town walls and exploring most of the historic area is free. However, access to certain attractions like the medieval vaults may require booking a guided tour.
Yes, guided walking tours are highly recommended. Companies like Experience Hampshire offer tours that include visits to the medieval vaults.
The Old Town itself is always accessible. Specific attractions or shops within the Old Town will have their own operating hours.
No, exploring the general Old Town area and its walls is free. Costs are typically associated with specific tours or attractions.
Prices for guided tours vary. It's best to check with tour operators directly for current pricing and booking information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's a historical walk around Southampton's well-preserved medieval walls and old town. You'll see old houses, churches, towers, and gardens, with parts of the wall still intact.
The duration can vary depending on your pace and whether you take a guided tour. A self-guided walk might take 1-2 hours, while a tour could be longer.
Key sites include the medieval walls, the imposing gate tower, historic houses, churches, and the fascinating medieval vaults hidden beneath the streets.
While much of the Old Town is walkable, some areas might have uneven surfaces. Guided tours often cater to different accessibility needs, so inquire beforehand.
Many visitors recommend a guided walking tour for the most comprehensive experience, offering historical context and access to unique sites.
📸 📸 Photography
The sections of the wall, especially near West Quay with its footbridge, offer great views. The gate tower and charming old streets are also popular subjects.
Yes, the historic architecture and remnants of the medieval walls provide excellent opportunities for photography, especially on a clear day.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the atmosphere of the Old Town.
Photography policies can vary within the vaults. It's best to check with your tour guide before taking pictures inside these historical underground spaces.
The footbridge over the wall at West Quay is often cited as a good spot for panoramic views of the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a family-friendly guided tour that might include interactive elements or stories tailored for younger audiences. Ensure children wear comfortable shoes, as there will be walking involved. The compact nature of the Old Town makes it manageable for a family outing without being overwhelming.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Urban Explorers
Guided tours are highly recommended to unlock the full historical narrative and gain access to restricted areas like the medieval vaults. Independent explorers can still enjoy a comprehensive walk along the walls and through the historic streets, soaking in the atmosphere and architectural details.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Southampton's Walls
Walking along these historic ramparts provides a unique perspective on Southampton's evolution. You can see how the ancient defenses have been integrated into the modern cityscape, with sections now featuring footbridges and complementing the views of areas like West Quay. For history enthusiasts, exploring these walls is a must-do, offering a free and accessible way to step back in time.
Beyond the visible walls, the Old Town holds secrets beneath its surface. Guided tours often reveal the network of medieval vaults, underground chambers that were used for storage and shelter. These hidden spaces offer a deeper understanding of daily life and the strategic importance of Southampton throughout history.
Experiencing the Old Town Walk
Many travelers highly recommend taking a guided walking tour. These tours not only illuminate the historical significance of the sites but also provide access to the fascinating medieval vaults hidden beneath the streets. This immersive experience offers a more profound connection to the stories embedded within the Old Town's architecture.
Even without a guided tour, the Old Town is a delight to explore on foot. You'll discover charming old houses, historic churches, and peaceful gardens, all contributing to the area's unique atmosphere. It's a perfect activity for a sunny day, offering both educational value and picturesque scenery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit