The Southampton Comic-Con 2026 returns on Saturday 16 May 2026, transforming Places Leisure Eastleigh into a vibrant hub for fans of sci-fi, movies, and pop culture. Presented by Creed Conventions, this event is a dedicated celebration where families and collectors can immerse themselves in what’s on offer across a variety of themed zones. From meeting iconic screen actors to admiring intricate props and displays, it’s an atmosphere that encourages creativity and community. Whether you are searching for rare merchandise or preparing your best costume for the stage, the day promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Hampshire.
Meet Celebrity Guests and Secure Photoshoots
A major highlight of the Southampton Comic-Con 2026 is the chance to meet iconic stars from the world of television and cinema. The guest lineup features a diverse range of talent, and you can secure both autographs and professional photo sessions. The guests scheduled to appear and their photoshoot prices (including fees) are:
- Jemma Redgrave: Known for her role in Doctor Who, Jemma is available for professional photoshoots at £32.35.
- Danny John-Jules: The legendary “Cat” from Red Dwarf will be meeting fans and hosting photo sessions for £32.35.
- Anita Dobson: A beloved star of EastEnders and Doctor Who, Anita’s photoshoot is priced at £27.13.
- Paul Kasey: A prolific creature performer across Star Wars and Doctor Who, Paul’s photo session is available for £21.90.
The Cosplay Parade and Stage Competitions
Cosplay is a central part of the experience, and what’s on the main stage is often the highlight for many visitors. The Cosplay Parade is free to enter and allows participants to showcase their hard work and creativity to a cheering audience.
- Competition Categories: The masquerade is split into three groups: Best Handmade, Best Under-16s, and Best Over-16s.
- Cash Prizes: Winners can claim prizes of up to £30 for first place, with second and third place also receiving rewards.
- Commemorative Rewards: Every participant in the parade receives a unique pin badge as a memento of their day on the stage.
Trader Zone and Interactive Entertainment
The event is packed with activities that cater to all ages, ensuring that there is never a dull moment. Whether you are a hardcore collector or a young builder, you will find plenty to enjoy:
- Gaming Zone: Test your skills on a variety of console games that are free to play throughout the day.
- LEGO Play Pit: A dedicated area for younger fans to get creative and build their own “out of this world” structures.
- Trader Marketplace: Browse dozens of stalls from independent retailers offering rare collectables, original artwork, and bespoke fandom merchandise.
- Guest Talks: Listen to your favourite stars discuss their careers and answer fan questions in live stage sessions.
Event Schedule: Southampton Comic-Con 2026
The event follows a structured timetable to ensure that everyone has enough time to see the guests and the stage shows.
| Entry Type | Opening Time | Event End |
|---|---|---|
| Early Bird Entry | 10:00 | 16:00 |
| Standard Admission | 11:00 | 16:00 |
| Cosplay Masquerade | 14:00 (approx) | – |
Event Ticket
Tickets for the Southampton Comic-Con 2026 are sold by ticket only and should be purchased online to guarantee entry. The prices below include all booking fees:
- Early Bird Entry (10am): £13.54 (Entry for ages 5 and over).
- Adult Entry (11am): £10.41 (Entry for ages 12 and over).
- Child Entry (11am): £6.23 (Entry for ages 5 to 11).
- Family Entry (11am): £27.13 (Covers 2 Adults and 2 Children OR 1 Adult and 3 Children).
- Under 5s: Free of charge when accompanied by a full paying adult.
How to get to Places Leisure Eastleigh
The venue is located on Passfield Avenue in Eastleigh (SO50 9NL), which is easily accessible from both the M3 and M27 motorways.
- By Car: From the M3, exit at Junction 13 and follow signs for Eastleigh. The leisure centre is clearly signposted as you approach the town centre.
- By Train: Eastleigh Train Station is approximately a 15 to 20 minute walk from the venue. It offers regular services from Southampton Central and Winchester.
- By Bus: Local bus services, including the Bluestar 5, stop directly on Passfield Avenue near the main entrance.
Where to Park
Parking is available at the venue, but it is important to plan ahead as the leisure centre remains open to the general public during the event.
- On-site Parking: Places Leisure Eastleigh has a large car park with over 460 spaces that are free for visitors to use.
- Accessible Parking: Dedicated spaces are available near the main entrance for Blue Badge holders to ensure easy access to the event.
- Alternative Options: If the main car park is full, additional parking can be found at the nearby Swan Centre multi-storey in Eastleigh town centre.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Is there an age limit for Southampton Comic-Con 2026?
- The event is open to all ages, but please note that children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult aged 18 or over. Children under 12 must be supervised at all times.
- Can I buy tickets at the door on the day?
- While a limited number of tickets may be available on the door if capacity allows, it’s highly recommended to book online in advance to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment.
- Are the celebrity photoshoots included in the entry ticket?
- No, photoshoot tickets are separate from your admission ticket. You must purchase a specific photoshoot ticket for each guest you wish to have a professional photo with.
- What should I do if I want to enter the Cosplay Parade?
- You should sign up at the front desk as soon as you arrive at the venue. Spaces are limited and are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Is the venue accessible for visitors with disabilities?
- Yes, Places Leisure Eastleigh is fully accessible with level access to the event spaces and dedicated parking bays for Blue Badge holders located near the entrance.
