The shopping in Southampton reflects the city’s past as one of England’s main port cities. It’s not just nautical associations, though, as it has a contemporary allure for visitors and locals alike with its malls and boutiques. Its rich cultural heritage allows you to enjoy shopping while admiring its medieval architecture.

With shopping centres that house both high street and independent retailers, marketplaces that feature local produce and freshly baked pastries and emporiums featuring vintage goods, this English coast city has so much to offer.

  • 1

    Westquay

    Shop at Southampton’s premier retail destination

    Westquay
    • Shoppers

    Westquay Shopping Centre is Southampton’s premier destination for retail and leisure. The 75,000-square-metre mall brings together about 130 high street brands and aspirational fashion boutiques in 1 location. Innovatively, the massive building is heated geothermally.

    When you need a break from shopping, dine in any of the many restaurants and food establishments within the mall. You can find a wide variety of choices, from Asian-style cuisine to classic Italian dishes.

    Location: Harbour Parade, Southampton SO15 1QF, UK

    Open: Daily from 9 am to 8 pm

    Phone: +44 (0)23 8033 6828

    Map

    photo by JimChampion (CC BY-SA 3.0) modified

  • 2

    Bargate Market Place

    Discover great market finds at the historic gatehouse

    Bargate Market Place
    • Shoppers

    Bargate Market Place is Southampton’s biggest market fair. The medieval gatehouse situated at the heart of the city centre comes alive on Fridays, when over 50 continental-type stalls offer a range of high-quality goods such as fresh produce, cakes and pastries, Mediterranean olives, European cheeses, leather goods and various knick-knacks.

    The regular market on Saturdays varies from season to season but typically offers fruits and vegetables from local farmers, original artworks, and food stalls for those looking to grab a bite to eat.

    Location: Bargate, Southampton, SO14 7FJ, UK

    Open: Friday from 9 m to 5 pm, Saturday from 10 am to 4.30 pm (closed from Sundays to Thursdays)

    Map

    photo by Alan Stewart (CC BY-SA 3.0) modified

  • 3

    Marlands Shopping Centre

    Pick the perfect outfit from boutiques and niche stores

    Marlands Shopping Centre
    • Shoppers

    Marlands, the largest shopping centre before the opening of Westquay, has been a staple of Southampton for decades. Situated at the centre of the city, Marlands houses over 60 high street shops and independent retailers, offering several choices for fashion and accessories.

    Lillies is a must-visit when you drop by this area as this niche shop features a wide range of gorgeous clothing finds. You can also check out Re:So, a student-led retail initiative that aims to showcase creations by budding designers.

    Location: Civic Centre Rd, Southampton SO14 7SJ, UK

    Open: Monday–Thursday from 9 am to 5.30 pm, Friday–Saturday from 9 am to 6 pm, Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm

    Phone: +44 (0)23 8033 9164

    Map

    photo by Alex Liivet (CC BY 2.0) modified

  • 4

    Robin’s Nest Emporium

    Reminisce the past in this antique store

    • Shoppers

    Housed in an old warehouse in the outskirts of the city, Robin’s Nest Emporium is an antique store that holds a varied selection of vintage and retro handmade goods from over 90 local traders. Areas of the warehouse are set up like themed spaces, grouping similar items together so that it’s easier for you to find items that’ll match well.

    You can find anything from clothes to kitchenware, unique gift items and collectables here. After browsing their wares, relax with a cup of coffee and a slice of cake at their quaint café upstairs.

    Location: Unit C, Atlantic Works, Oakley Rd, Southampton SO16 4LL, UK

    Open: Monday–Saturday from 11 am to 5 pm, Sunday from 10 am to 5.30 pm

    Phone: +44 (0)7393 486445

    Map
  • 5

    Beatnik Emporium

    Score vintage outfits and records

    • Shoppers

    Beatnik Emporium is an independent shop that specialises in vintage clothing from the 1940s to the 1990s. To complete the hipster or vintage look, they have unique accessories, hats, and jewellery. 

    Handpicked selections of vinyl records are available for music lovers looking for something new to play on their turntables. If you don’t want the clothes for keeps, they also offer a rental service. You can find Beatnik Emporium near the Southampton Cultural Quarter. 

    Location: 202 Above Bar St, Southampton SO14 7DW, UK

    Open: Monday–Saturday from 10 am to 5.30 pm, Sunday from 11.30 am to 4.30 pm

    Phone: +44 (0)23 8063 3428

    Map
Geri Mileva | Contributing Writer