Bring the whole family along for a fantastic morning of outdoor play as Family Hub Southampton presents the Summer Community Event – West at St James’ Park in Shirley! This free summer holiday gathering features a range of interactive activities designed for young children, including a sensory reading trail, fun sports challenges and obstacle courses, complimentary fruit and water for kids, and a free raffle with great prizes.
Event Schedule & Timetable
The Summer Community Event – West takes place on Friday morning during the summer school holidays:
- Event Date: Friday 14th August 2026
- Session Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Noon)
- Venue Location: St James’ Park, Church Street, Upper Shirley, Southampton (SO15 5LW)
Attractions & Event Highlights
A free morning packed with engaging outdoor activities, active sports, and interactive story trails:
- Sensory Reading Trail: A guided walk featuring a story shared along the way, encouraging children to spot famous book characters hidden around the park.
- Sports Activities & Obstacle Course: Fun physical challenges, active games, and an energetic obstacle course for kids.
- Free Refreshments: Complimentary fresh fruit and water supplied for all participating children.
- Free Raffle: Entry into a free family raffle with great prizes up for grabs.
- Park Play & Amenities: Enjoy the excellent playground, open green space, and on-site ParkLife Cafe at St James’ Park.
Ticket Types & Pricing
No tickets or pre-bookings are required for this community drop-in session:
- All Attendees: FREE (All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult)
How to Get to St James’ Park
St James’ Park is situated in Upper Shirley, easily accessible from central Southampton:
- By Car: Travel via Winchester Road (A3100) or Shirley Road (A3057), turning onto Church Street or St James’ Road in Upper Shirley (SO15 5LW).
- By Bus: Frequent Bluestar bus routes (such as Bluestar 7, 17, or 18) serve Shirley High Street and Winchester Road, stopping just a few minutes’ walk from the park gates.
- By Train: Millbrook Railway Station and Southampton Central Railway Station are both a short bus ride or drive away.
Parking Information
Parking options around St James’ Park:
- On-Street Parking: Free residential on-street parking is available along Church Street, St James’ Road, and surrounding residential streets.
- Accessibility: Flat, step-free tarmac footpaths wrap around the entire park, making it easy to navigate with pushchairs, buggies, and wheelchairs.
Discover More Local Events
Looking for more exciting things to do across the region? Check out our complete list of What’s On in Southampton to discover the latest free family events, summer holiday play sessions, community activities, and local parks near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the Summer Community Event – West taking place?
- The event takes place on Friday 14th August 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM (noon).
- Where is the event located?
- It is held at St James’ Park, Church Street, Upper Shirley, Southampton (SO15 5LW).
- How much does it cost to attend?
- The event is completely FREE for all families and children.
- Who is organizing the event?
- The event is organized by Family Hub Southampton as part of their free summer community events across the city.
- What is the Sensory Reading Trail?
- It is a guided walk through the park where a story is shared along the way, encouraging children to spot famous book characters along the path.
- What other activities are available on the day?
- In addition to the sensory reading trail, kids can take part in sports activities and an obstacle course, enter a free raffle, and enjoy free fruit and water.
- Do I need to book tickets in advance?
- No advance booking is needed; simply drop in with your family between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM.
- Do parents need to stay with their children?
- Yes, all children must be accompanied by a responsible adult throughout the event.
- Is parking available near St James’ Park?
- Free residential on-street parking is available along Church Street, St James’ Road, and surrounding roads in Upper Shirley.
- Is the park accessible for strollers and wheelchairs?
- Yes, St James’ Park features smooth, step-free tarmac footpaths surrounding the park and play areas.