Why you should visit the Old Town in Southampton

If there is one area of Southampton I encourage everyone to visit at least once, it's the Old Town. Steeped in history, with each street telling a different story, the area immerses you in centuries of history, with local gems on every corner. The city's historic quarter lies just south of Bargate Castle, enclosed by remnants of the old medieval city walls and home to many of the city's ancient gates and historic buildings. 

It is also home to some of my favourite bars and restaurants, making it the perfect area to explore as you walk the old walls, soak up the history or enjoy a drink or two along the way. 

The Old Town was the location for a recent date night, and it was the perfect spot - you can steal our itinerary below. 

The Pig in the Wall, 8 Western Esplanade, SO14 2AZ

First up, The Pig Hotels, tucked away within the medieval walls, The Pig in the Wall is a gorgeous mix of rustic floors, antiques and style, boasting a relaxed deli-style dining concept and excellent wine list. 

This particular one is one of their smaller sites with twelve rooms tucked into Southampton's medieval walls, a deli bar serving food that travels twenty minutes from their Kitchen Garden in the New Forest.  It's not the full PIG experience - but for the right trip, it's exactly the right one, and it's perfect for lazy lunches with friends or date nights. The service is always incredible, and it's the perfect sun trap during the summer months. I honestly can't recommend this little spot enough.

Platform Tavern, Town Quay, SO14 2NY

Just a short walk away, you'll find Platform Tavern serving up local beer, delicious pub grub and a calendar packed with live music. It's super cosy inside, and it's somewhere we love going for a roast on a Sunday. The Platform Tavern dates back to 1873 and is situated against the historic old town wall built around 1350. The pub name is derived from its proximity to the Quay outside God’s House, called the Platform, which contained a gun battery. 

As with many taverns of the time, ale was brewed on site for the consumption of dockers and seamen who would frequent it. Many of whom would lodge in the rooms upstairs. One such guest was the ill-fated Mr James McGrady, who was the last victim of the 1912 Titanic disaster to be pulled dead from the sea some 4 weeks after the ship went down. His last known address was Platform Tavern.

It's a great space to enjoy locally brewed craft beer from places like Steam Town, and their live music nights are renowned in the city. 

Dark Arts Potion Bar, 125 High Street, SO14 2AA

Our final stop was Dark Arts Potion Bar - a magical spot renowned for their puzzle boxes, potion making and cocktails. You're transported into a world of magic as soon as you step through the door. The interiors are fun, interactive and get the cogs turning! 

Inspired by the mythical world of witchcraft and magic, with a dark and enchanting atmosphere that will transport you to another realm, you're greeted by the flickering light of candles and the scent of exotic herbs and cocktail potions. It's an experience like no other in the city, and there is as much choice for adults as there is for children, although keep in mind what time you can book for with children, as there is a cut-off time. 

It's honestly one of our favourite activity-based spots and if there is one cocktail you should try here, it's Bottled Starfall! 

This is just a snippet of what the Old Town has on offer; there is something around every cobbled corner. What will you find?