Southampton Parks and Gardens

(Southampton, Hampshire, England, UK)

Amongst the finest areas of green in the whole of southern England, the parks and gardens of Southampton vary greatly in size and structure. With historic parklands located in the very heart of the city, the Southampton Common dominates much of this area and is located on the northern side of the city centre, being known for its high concentration of wildlife, including the great crested newt, amongst other creatures.

Most of the parks around Southampton are particularly child friendly and feature playgrounds, seats and areas more than suitable for picnics. For the grown-ups, fountains, rose gardens, sculptures, statues and classical Victorian bandstands can all be expected. Here are Southampton's main parks and gardens.

The Common

Address: The Avenue, Southampton, Hampshire, England, UK
The biggest open public space in the whole of the city, the Southampton Common is where many of the city's main outdoor events and festivals take place. With family areas, a small pool and playground for children, and plenty of rolling countryside to explore, other highlights at the Common include lakes, guided walks and also the interesting Hawthorns Urban Wildlife Centre. Covering over 300 acres / 120 hectares, the Southampton Common offers an important area of green in the very heart of the city and lies off Burgess Road (A35), The Avenue (A33) and Highfield Avenue (A3035).
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

Central Parks

Address: City Centre / Above Bar Street, Southampton, Hampshire, England, UK
The Central Parks of Southampton were laid out many years ago on fields known as Lammas Lands. Once used for public grazing, the central parks originally comprised four main fields, the East and West Marlands, Houndwell, and Hogsland. Listed by the English Heritage for their historical importance, the Central Parks were laid out more than 160 years ago and feature many mature trees, seating areas, tennis courts, a bowling green and also putting.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

Itchen Valley Country Park

Address: Allington Lane, Eastleigh, Hampshire, SO30 3HQ, England, UK
Tel: +44 023 8046 6091
Situated in nearby Eastleigh, just minutes away from central Southampton, the Itchen Valley Country Park covers a vast area of more than 400 acres / 160 hectares. These noteworthy parklands are located off the M27 and incorporate the River Itchen and many natural areas of woodland and countryside. Visitors find a number of scenic walking and cycle trails, picnic facilities, a visitors centre, a small shop selling a range of souvenirs, a children's playground, together with a host of seasonal activities.
Open hours: daily - 08:00 to 19:00
Admission: free, charge for car park

Mayfield Park

Address: Weston Lane, Woolston, Southampton, Hampshire, SO19 9HL, England, UK
Featuring scenic woodland trails and plenty of wildlife, Mayfield Park is located in the Woolston area of Southampton, across the water from the Ocean Village. A charming park with plenty of seasonal flower displays, colourful planting pockets and lawned areas, Mayfield Park also features a bowling green, small miniature golf course and playing fields.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

Mayflower Park

Address: West Quay Road, Southampton, Hampshire, SO14 2AQ, England, UK
Mayflower Park stands alongside the River Test and is best known for hosting the annual International Boat Show, which takes place here every year in the middle of September. Many locals and visitors to the city come to the park for the views alone, with seating areas overlooking the waterfront and the movements of the nearby ships and yachts. A range of recreational activities are also possible here, with an area for skateboarders, football pitches and playground for young children.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free