As the premier shopping and leisure destination on the South Coast, Westquay is the modern heart of Southampton’s city centre. Spanning two massive sites—the original shopping mall and the striking, glass-fronted Westquay South—it offers a mix of high-street fashion, flagship department stores, and a world-class dining and entertainment terrace.
Built on the site of the former Pirelli cable works, the complex has successfully integrated the city’s historic medieval walls into its design, creating a unique contrast between 14th-century flint and 21st-century architecture.
Retail and Shopping
Westquay is a top-tier retail hub, anchored by two major department stores and over 90 international brands:
- Flagship Stores: John Lewis & Partners and Marks & Spencer serve as the primary anchors at either end of the main mall.
- Fashion & Tech: Home to major names including Apple, Zara, H&M, Hugo Boss, and Pandora.
Westquay South: Dining and Leisure
Opened as part of a major expansion, Westquay South is the city’s go-to spot for evening entertainment and “Socialise” dining:
- The Dining Level: Features a huge array of international cuisine, from Wagamama and Zizzi to Five Guys and Bill’s.
- Entertainment: Includes a 10-screen Showcase Cinema de Lux and Hollywood Bowl, making it a popular destination for families and night-outs.
- The Esplanade: A large outdoor public space that hosts seasonal events, including the Westquay Ice Rink in winter and the Lido or “Summer Sessions” big screens in July and August.
Getting to Westquay
The complex is located at Harbour Parade (SO15 1QF) and dominates the lower city centre.
- By Train: A 5-10 minute walk from Southampton Central Station. The “City-Link” bus also provides a direct connection.
- By Bus: Almost all city-centre buses stop at Westquay, including the Unilink U1 and Bluestar network.
- Parking: Two large multi-storey car parks (Podium and Multi-storey) offer over 4,000 spaces with ticketless ANPR entry. Note: These are the busiest car parks in the city on Saturdays.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the opening hours for Westquay?
The shops are typically open 09:00 – 20:00 (Monday to Saturday) and 11:00 – 17:00 on Sundays. However, the restaurants and cinema in Westquay South often stay open until midnight.
Is Westquay dog-friendly?
While assistance dogs are welcome, general pets are not permitted inside the main shopping malls. Some restaurants on the lower terrace of Westquay South with outdoor seating may allow dogs; it is best to check with the individual venue.
Are there EV charging points?
Yes, there are several electric vehicle charging points located in both the Podium and Multi-storey car parks, managed by the Pod Point network.
Is there a Shopmobility service?
Yes, Westquay offers a Shopmobility service on the lower level of the North car park, providing manual and powered wheelchairs and scooters for those with limited mobility.