From green spaces, to restaurants, and everything in between

There’s so much to explore! Whether you’re looking for cosy cafès to study, parks to relax, or local spots to hang out, we’ve got you covered.

Here’s a quick guide to your new neighbourhood.

Green Spaces

📍Daisy Dip Park: one of the closest patches of greenery, this is a large open space between Swaythling and Bassett ideal for picnics by the stream that runs through it. 

📍Riverside Park: only a 30-minute walk away, this is a massive park along the river where you can do water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking. You can even head to the sports fields where you can find football pitches, cricket pitches and a tennis court. 

📍Itchen Valley Country Park: looking for something bigger? This country park is a 30-minute bus journey away, offering plenty of walking and cycling trails, rivers and woodland to explore. 

📍Southampton Common: this large green space is perfect for picnics, outdoor sports and sunbathing, and is a popular hang out spot for students when the sun is shining.

City Gateway is also very close to North Stoneham which is surrounded by greenery. It's also within a short distance of the University of Southampton Sports Ground, so you'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to beautiful green spaces in the city. 

Further afield...

📍New Forest National Park: plan a day out here to see wildlife roaming free — from ponies to deer — in the beautiful forest landscape. Think stunning glades and cliff-top walks, charming towns and villages and a range of heritage sites, all only a 12-minute drive away!

📍Bournemouth: an hour away by train, Bournemouth is a great day out whether you want to relax or have some fun and is known for its beautiful beaches. If you’re up for travelling another hour from Bournemouth, it’s also worth visiting Durdle Door which is another scenic getaway.

📍Brighton: another city known for its seaside and beaches, you can get to Brighton in a couple of hours by train. Make sure to take a stroll along the pier, labeled the ‘biggest attraction in the South East’!

📍The Isle of Wight: close on the ferry, it is perfect for a sunny day trip. Do not miss historic sites like Osborne House and the Needles.

Restaurants and Cafés

📍Fleming Arms: a friendly pub and restaurant, head here for a traditional British pub meal with a pint, watch the latest sport fixtures and make the most of the deals throughout the week. 

📍Garden Restaurant: just a 4-minute walk from City Gateway, this authentic Chinese Szechuan restaurant won the best hot pot in Southampton in 2023. Not only is it affordable but also has an amazing garden you must see!

📍Cafe at No. 6: around the corner from your halls you can find humble Cafe No. 6, expect freshly made sandwiches, burgers and jacket potatoes for dinner 

📍Round About Cafè: a friendly spot that is great for meeting friends, reading a book and tucking into some homemade cake – not to mention their signature sausage rolls. They also have a community pantry where you can access food and household goods once a week for just £1 a year!

📍Mumbai Indian Kitchen: this curry house uses the finest and freshest ingredients in their takeaway dishes. The menu is extensive, so you'll definitely be able to find a dish everyone enjoys. 

📍Melo Persian Restaurant and Lounge: a family-run business known for its juicy kebabs, mixed grills and colourful interior. 

Entertainment

📍The Brook: a live music venue in a beautiful old Victorian building that's been around for over 30 years, promoting thousands of shows on and off site from Bastille to Reneé Rap! 

📍Escape rooms: head closer to the city centre to find Elusion Escape Rooms, Sneaky Dog Escapes and Houdini’s Escape Rooms, all offering the perfect activity to participate with a group of friends, finding hidden clues and solving puzzles.

📍Putt Club: from just £7 per person, get ready for a 9-hole themed course of mini golf to bring out your competitive side. 

📍 Hollywood Bowl: head out with some friends for some healthy competition at Westquay or Eastleigh. There's also great food, drinks, games, and a pool table.

📍 Karaoke night: sing the night away at one of these venues hosting karaoke nights: The Bedford, Medbar, Shanghai 1814, Oasis Bar, The Lion, Boom Battle Bar or The Stags. 

These are just a few of our favourite - there are so many places to explore.

If you've found your favourite place in Southampton - let us know in our Halls Life suggestion box!