Starting uni is a mix of excitement and chaos. One minute you’re buying pots and pans you’re not sure you’ll ever use, the next you’re meeting people who might just become your lifelong friends. It’s a big step, and where you choose to study can make all the difference.
Southampton is one of those places that just works for students. It’s big enough to have everything you need - shops, nightlife, culture - but small enough that it still feels friendly and easy to get around. Add in waterfront views and a buzzing student community, and it’s the kind of city that makes the whole “new chapter” thing feel a lot less overwhelming.
Here are six reasons why Southampton is a great place for students, from student-friendly discounts to unbeatable shopping and heritage.
Student-friendly discounts and events
Whether you’re heading to uni for the first time this autumn or returning for your second or third year, making the most of student discounts is a no-brainer. This year, Southampton is hosting a ‘Love The Old Town’ campaign which runs from 1st to 30th September and offers fantastic student-friendly perks.
As a student in Southampton this September, you can get:
- 20% off bookings and all food and drink at American sports and activity bar 1st Base with code OLDTOWN20
- 10% off your purchase at Asian supermarkets E&J Oriental and Go Oriental when you spend £5 or more
- 20% off at High Score Arcades with code OLDTOWN20
- Free tower ticket with any café purchase at God's House Tower
You can also enjoy events like Music in the City, Southampton Boat Show, and Cocktail Week. The Old Town holds Purple Flag status, meaning it’s a vibrant and safe place to explore at night.
Save money with Southern Rail’s Unizone
Southern Rail’s Unizone is a money-saving travel ticket designed just for students. It gives unlimited train travel within set zones (such as Southampton) at a fraction of the usual cost.
With one ticket, you can get to lectures, part-time jobs, nights out, or even a trip to the beach without worrying about extra fares. It’s a simple way to make student life more affordable while giving you the freedom to explore your new home.
Discover Southampton’s heritage and history
Southampton is a gorgeous place to live and discover, with medieval walls, historic gates, and centuries-old buildings. When you’re not studying or partying, take time to wander through the Tudor House & Garden, which dates back to 1491 and is Grade I listed. Admire the Bargate, which is from the 12th century, and is a striking symbol of Southampton’s medieval past.
Another local favourite is God’s House Tower, a 13th-century gatehouse which is now an arts and heritage venue. Explore the medieval town walls with guided tours and immerse yourself in the city’s past. You can even pay a visit to St. Michael’s Church, founded in 1070, which is the oldest building still in use in the city.
There’s so much to do and see in Southampton that you’ll never be bored (unless you have an 8am maths lecture).
Enjoy culture and creativity
Southampton has a lively cultural scene that makes it a great place to be a student. The Southampton City Art Gallery is free to visit and is home to over 5,000 works, from Turner to contemporary pieces, while the John Hansard Gallery in the Cultural Quarter brings fresh, thought-provoking exhibitions. Creativity also spills out into the streets with murals, installations, and community hubs like God’s House Tower, which mixes heritage with modern ideas.
The city’s theatres and music venues keep things just as exciting. The Mayflower Theatre hosts West End shows and ballet, while Mayflower Studios and The Stage Door showcase local talent and alternative performances. For music, O2 Guildhall attracts big names, and grassroots venues like The Joiners are known to launch rising stars. Festivals like Music in the City and So: Fringe turn Southampton into one big stage, making it easy for students to get involved, be inspired, and enjoy culture in all its forms.
Where to eat, drink, and have fun in Southampton
Whether you’re craving international flavours or looking for a cosy study spot, Southampton’s Old Town won’t disappoint. Dive into south Asian cuisine at Bayleaf Kitchen, Coriander Lounge, or Padharo, or sink your teeth into steakhouse classics at Argento and Carnicero Steakhouse. There’s also Ottoman Kitchen which serves up award-winning Turkish food.
The Titanic pub, which is set in a Victorian building near the dockyard, is a go-to for both locals and students. It has a wide selection of drinks, simple but tasty food, and regular live music and DJs. The Grapes is another great pub which has a link to the Titanic, as locals claim three brothers missed boarding the doomed ship after lingering there with their drinks.
For fun, head to High Score Arcade, with unlimited free play and 20% off this September. If you’re looking for fun things to do with your new uni friends, try axe-throwing at Axeology, table games at 1st Base, or pool at Rocket Ronnies.
Read more: A Handy Guide To The Best Bars In Southampton
Retail therapy
Southampton is one of the best places in the South East for shopping, with something for every type of student. At the heart of the action is Westquay Shopping Centre, the city’s retail hub which has over 100 shops, including big names like Zara, Apple, and H&M. It also has plenty of food and leisure, with a cinema and bowling alley.
Make sure you sign up to a student discount app like Student Beans or Unidays so that you can get exclusive student discounts at your favourite shops and restaurants.
For something more laid-back, The Marlands has a relaxed atmosphere with a mix of chain and independent shops, not to mention a quirky café vibe.
As well as big shopping centres, Southampton has charming streets like Bedford Place, East Street, and Oxford Street, where you’ll find independent boutiques, vintage shops, art galleries, and pop-up markets.