The Ultimate Southampton Soccer Travel Guide

At Soccer Trippers, we’ve explored the world’s greatest stadiums, matchday cultures, and fan experiences. This guide combines expert knowledge and local insights to help you plan the perfect football trip to Southampton.

Why Southampton is a Top Destination for Football Fans

Southampton has produced some of England’s finest talents—from Gareth Bale to Alan Shearer—and continues to punch above its weight in developing players and creating atmosphere. The Saints’ St Mary’s Stadium offers a modern, intimate football experience with passionate home support.

Off the pitch, the city offers a blend of history, coastline, and culture. Football here isn’t just a game—it’s a way of life.

Insider tip: Arrive early and take a walk through the historic old town walls before heading to the stadium.

Must-Visit Football Stadiums in Southampton

St Mary’s Stadium

Home to Southampton FC since 2001, this 32,000-capacity ground is sleek, accessible, and known for its excellent sightlines and loyal crowd.
Read our full stadium guide to St Mary’s Stadium

Hidden gem: Visit the Ted Bates statue outside the ground—Saints legend and club icon.

Where to Stay in Southampton as a Football Fan

The city offers accommodations for every kind of traveler:

• Hotels near St Mary’s Stadium
• Luxury Hotels in Southampton
• Budget-Friendly Hotels in Southampton

Best Neighborhoods for Football Fans

• City Centre: Ideal for restaurants, nightlife, and walking distance to the stadium.
• Ocean Village: Waterfront area with hotels and bars.
  Explore Southampton’s best neighborhoods for football fans

Pro tip: Stay near Oxford Street for great pub options before and after the match.

Best Sports Bars & Places to Watch the Match

Southampton has a strong pub culture with plenty of spots to catch a match:

• The Alexandra: Classic pre-match pub packed with Saints fans.
• Yates Southampton: Big screens and central location.
• The Bedford: Traditional English pub vibe with Premier League fixtures.

See our full list of Southampton sports bars

Top bar for Saints fans: The Alexandra—just a 10-minute walk from St Mary’s and full of atmosphere.

How to Get Around Southampton

Southampton is walkable and well-connected by public transport:

• Train: Southampton Central is ~20 minutes on foot to St Mary’s.
• Bus: Local Bluestar and Unilink services cover the entire city.

Read our guide to Southampton’s public transport system

Local tip: Use the QuayConnect bus if arriving via ferry—it links straight into town.

Other Must-Visit Landmarks for Football Fans

Southampton combines history with football in a compact city layout:

• Saints Store at Westquay: For official merchandise and retro kits.
• SeaCity Museum: Learn about the city’s maritime history and cultural pride.

Check out our football landmarks guide to Southampton

Where to Eat with a Football Vibe

• The Stable: Pizza and craft beer with football screenings.
• Banana Wharf: Oceanfront dining popular with locals and fans.
  Explore more restaurants for football fans in Southampton

Conclusion

Southampton offers a football trip with coastal flavor—history, community, and the Saints spirit echo through every matchday.

Been to a game at St Mary’s? Share your memories or explore more guides:

• Stadium guide: St Mary’s Stadium
• City guide: Bournemouth
• Best coastal football cities in the UK

In Southampton, every football weekend comes with a sea breeze and a red-and-white roar.