Embark on a charming spring adventure at Southampton’s Old Town Easter Trail 2026. This free family event invites “little explorers” to journey through the historic heart of the city to help a very busy resident. The Easter Bunny is currently preparing a grand tea party for all his friends, but he has misplaced several essential items along the way. It is up to you and your family to navigate the medieval streets, find the missing pieces, and ensure the celebration is a success.
The Easter Bunny’s Tea Party Mission
The trail is designed to be an engaging way for families to discover the heritage of the city while enjoying the festive spirit. The mission is simple yet rewarding:
- Follow the Map: Use the specially designed trail map to guide your group through the iconic landmarks and hidden gems of the Old Town.
- Spot the Posters: Look for colourful, A4-sized trail posters prominently displayed in the windows of local businesses and historic sites.
- Identify the Items: Each poster reveals a unique item needed for the tea party. Write down what you find at each stop to complete your collection.
- Claim Your Reward: Once you have successfully found every item, head to the designated finish location where children will receive a free small prize for their hard work.
Historic Highlights and Prizes
While the children are busy hunting for clues, adults can appreciate the stunning architecture and rich history of the area. The trail often passes by the medieval town walls, the Bargate, and Tudor House and Garden. There is also an extra incentive for the grown-ups:
- Adult Prize Draw: Participants over the age of 18 who complete the feedback form on the back of the map can enter a prize draw. In 2026, prizes include tickets to the highly anticipated Southampton Summer Sessions held in Guildhall Square.
- Explore Local Shops: Many of the trail stops are located at independent boutiques and cafes, providing the perfect opportunity to pause for a treat or browse local crafts.
Event Schedule: 28 March – 12 April 2026
The trail is available daily throughout the Easter school holidays during standard city centre operating hours:
| Dates | Opening Times | Trail Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Sat 28 March – Sun 12 April | 10:00 – 17:00 | Full Trail Access |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is there any cost to participate in the Easter Trail?
- No, the trail is completely free to enter. Maps can be downloaded for free or collected at no cost from various points in the city centre.
- Where can I pick up a physical copy of the map?
- Maps are typically available at the SeaCity Museum, the Marlands Shopping Centre information desk, Southampton Central Library, and God’s House Tower.
- Is the trail suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs?
- The majority of the Old Town is accessible; however, some sections of the historic walls may have steps. The main trail route usually follows the pavement and pedestrianised areas which are suitable for all.
- Are dogs allowed to join the trail?
- Yes, as the trail takes place on public streets and the posters are visible from the windows, your dog is more than welcome to accompany you on the walk.
- How long does it take to complete the full trail?
- Most families find that the trail takes between 60 and 90 minutes to complete, depending on your walking pace and how many stops you make for photos or snacks.