Celebrate and connect with local families at the World Breastfeeding Week Southampton Picnic taking place at Houndwell Park on Tuesday 4th August 2026! Organised in partnership with local NHS teams, public health groups, and infant feeding charities—including NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare, University Hospital Southampton, Southampton City Council, Family Hub, and La Leche League GB—this free community event brings parents together under the global WABA campaign theme: “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works.”
Event Schedule & Opening Times
The World Breastfeeding Week Southampton Picnic takes place at Houndwell Park on a Tuesday afternoon during World Breastfeeding Week 2026:
- Event Date: Tuesday 4th August 2026
- Event Times: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
- Admission: Free entry (Everyone welcome)
- Venue Location: Houndwell Park, Palmerston Road / Hanover Buildings, Southampton (SO14 1JY)
Attractions & Event Highlights
A welcoming community event offering support, connection, and family activities in the park:
- Community Gathering: Bring a blanket, sit back, and meet other local parents, carers, and families in a friendly, outdoor setting.
- Expert Support & Information: Speak directly with infant feeding specialists, health visitors, midwives, and peer supporters from NHS Healthcare teams, Southampton Family Hub, and La Leche League GB.
- Free Event Raffle: Enter a free raffle open to all attendees, featuring awesome prizes donated by members of the Southampton Welcomes Breastfeeding Scheme.
- Children’s Activities: Fun, engaging activities for little ones facilitated by Family Hubs Southampton.
- Family-Friendly Environment: Set in Houndwell Park, featuring expansive green spaces, children’s play areas, and accessible pathways.
What to Bring
To make the most of your picnic afternoon:
- Picnic blanket, chairs, or cushions
- Snacks, drinks, and lunch for your family
- Sun protection (sunscreen, hats, and sunshades/parasols)
How to Get to Houndwell Park
Houndwell Park is conveniently located in central Southampton, adjacent to Hanover Buildings and Palmerston Road:
- By Car: Reachable via the M27 and M3 motorways, following city centre signs toward Hanover Buildings or Eastgate Street (SO14 1JY).
- By Train: Southampton Central Railway Station is approximately 0.6 miles away (a flat 10–12 minute walk across the central parks).
- By Bus: Major local bus routes (Bluestar, First Bus, Unilink) stop right beside the park along Hanover Buildings, Vincent’s Walk, and Poundtree Road.
Parking Information
Parking options near Houndwell Park:
- Eastgate Street Multi-Storey Car Park: Located just a 2-minute walk away off Eastgate Street.
- Houndwell Place / On-Street Parking: Pay-and-display / cashless parking spaces located along Houndwell Place surrounding the park.
- Grosvenor Square & Bargate Parking: Multi-storey and surface car parks located nearby within easy walking distance.
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 community events, family activities, and outdoor festivals happening near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the World Breastfeeding Week Southampton Picnic?
- The event takes place on Tuesday 4th August 2026, running from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM.
- Where is the picnic being held?
- The picnic is held at Houndwell Park, Southampton (SO14 1JY), located near Hanover Buildings and Palmerston Road in the city centre.
- How much does it cost to attend?
- The event is completely free to attend, and no advance booking or tickets are required.
- Who can attend the event?
- Everyone is welcome! The picnic is open to breastfeeding mothers, expecting parents, partners, toddlers, older siblings, and supportive family members.
- What should I bring with me?
- Attendees are encouraged to bring a picnic blanket or outdoor cushions, snacks, drinks, and appropriate sun protection like hats and sunscreen.
- Which organisations are hosting and supporting the picnic?
- The event is organised in collaboration with NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare, University Hospital Southampton, Southampton City Council, Family Hub, and La Leche League GB.
- What is the theme for World Breastfeeding Week 2026?
- The global WABA theme for 2026 is “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works.”
- Where can I park near Houndwell Park?
- Nearby options include Eastgate Street Multi-Storey Car Park, Grosvenor Square Car Park, and on-street pay-and-display parking along Houndwell Place.
- How close is Houndwell Park to public transport?
- Houndwell Park is roughly 0.6 miles from Southampton Central train station (a 10–12 minute walk) and is directly served by major bus routes stopping at Hanover Buildings and Vincent’s Walk.
- What happens if the weather is bad?
- As an outdoor park picnic, attendees are advised to check local event updates on social media closer to the date in the event of adverse weather.