Art lovers and shoppers seeking unique local creations, take note! On Saturday 1 August and Sunday 2 August 2026, God’s House Tower (SO14 2NY) hosts the annual GHT Summer Art Market in the heart of Southampton’s historic Old Town. Organized by ‘a space’ arts, this free-entry independent market features original artwork, handcrafted gifts, prints, homeware, and creative pieces direct from local artists. Visitors can also enjoy a pop-up art exhibition and delicious treats at the GHT Café Bar throughout the weekend.
Event Schedule & Opening Times
The GHT Summer Art Market takes place across the first weekend of August:
- Dates: Saturday 1 August and Sunday 2 August 2026
- Market Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM both days
- Location: God’s House Tower, Town Quay Road, Old Town, Southampton (SO14 2NY)
- Organisers: ‘a space’ arts & God’s House Tower crew
- Admission: FREE entry for all visitors
Market Highlights & Attractions
Discover locally crafted artwork and contemporary exhibitions inside Southampton’s historic 700-year-old monument:
- Independent Artist Stalls: Browse and buy directly from talented Hampshire-based artists and makers selling original paintings, prints, ceramics, jewelry, and homeware.
- Pop-Up Exhibition: Visit Facing the Planet by artists Tessa Coe & Jane Coyle in the Crawford Room (open 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM, free entry). Special celebration event on Saturday 1st August from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
- GHT Café & Bar: Enjoy small-batch roasted coffee from Peaberry Coffee Roasters, freshly toasted LOAF sandwiches, pastries from Hoxton Bakehouse, and local craft beers from SteamTown Brew Co.
- Heritage Experience: Explore the historic tower rooms and take in views across Town Quay Marina and Southampton Water.
Ticket Prices & Admission Options
No advance tickets are necessary to browse the market or view the art galleries:
- Art Market Entry: FREE
- Exhibition Entry: FREE
- Permanent ‘Stories Behind the Stones’ Heritage Exhibition: Free admission / small charges may apply for specific guided tower tours.
How to Get to God’s House Tower
God’s House Tower is situated at the bottom of the High Street in Southampton’s Old Town, directly opposite Town Quay Marina:
- On Foot: A scenic 15-minute walk from Westquay Shopping Centre down the historic High Street towards the waterfront.
- By Bus: City bus routes including Uni-link (U1, U6) and QuayConnect stop directly outside or nearby at Town Quay.
- By Train: Southampton Central Station is approximately a 20-minute walk away, or a short bus ride via the QuayConnect service.
- By Bicycle: Cycle racks are conveniently located directly alongside the building on Lower Canal Walk.
Where to Park near God’s House Tower
Convenient step-free parking options are located within a 2-minute walking distance:
- Gloucester Square Car Park: Multi-storey pay-and-display car park located just a 2-minute walk away (SO14 2GH).
- Mayflower Park Car Park: Open-air waterfront parking located a 2-minute walk away along Town Quay Road.
- On-Street Parking: Pay-and-display street bays are available along Lower Canal Walk and Town Quay Road.
Discover More Local Events
Looking for more exciting things to do across the city? Check out our complete list of What’s On in Southampton to discover the latest festivals, live music, theatre shows, and community events happening near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When does the GHT Summer Art Market take place?
- The market takes place on Saturday 1 August and Sunday 2 August 2026, running from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM both days.
- Where is God’s House Tower located?
- God’s House Tower is located on Town Quay Road in Southampton’s historic Old Town (postcode SO14 2NY).
- Is there an admission fee for the market?
- No, entry to the Summer Art Market and gallery spaces is completely FREE for all visitors.
- What pop-up exhibition is taking place during the event?
- The Facing the Planet pop-up exhibition by artists Tessa Coe and Jane Coyle will be on display in the Crawford Room (open 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM), with a special launch event on Saturday 1 August from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
- Are food and drinks available on site?
- Yes, the GHT Café Bar serves specialty coffee from Peaberry Coffee Roasters, freshly toasted LOAF sandwiches, pastries from Hoxton Bakehouse, and local craft beers.
- Is God’s House Tower accessible?
- Yes, the main market spaces, gallery areas, cafe, and facilities at GHT are accessible, with step-free entry and lift access across main levels.