Top Rated Nightlife in Southampton

Platform Tavern is one of two pubs in Southampton with a significant Titanic connection, the other is The Grapes. Remember the scene in James Cameron's film where Jack wins his ticket playing cards? This is the pub that scene took place in. In those days, before the other side of the road was developed, you could look across from the pub and see the Titanic moored like a huge floating cliff. Mr McCready, one of the stewards lost with the ship, lodged here. Today it is a quiet spot to sit inside or outside and enjoy a relaxing drink.

This is the oldest and one of the most historic pubs in the city. The early 15th-century court room in which the trials are said to have taken place has been preserved and there is even a medieval menu. Because of its lengthy history, The Red Lion is said to be haunted by over 20 different spirits and the pub often hosts ghost hunt nights.

The Hobbit is the number one student pub in Southampton. The huge beer garden at the back makes it a real hit in the summer months, but in the winter you can't find a seat indoors. There is a large pyramid stage at the back of the garden that often hosts bands on bank holidays. There is also live music indoors, from blues to grunge, on Friday and Saturday nights. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly with no dress code and there is a happy hour.

Enjoy a pint in a pub with a real historical background. Built in 1494, Duke of Wellington was the earliest surviving brew house in this part of England, and it was here in Tudor times that the townsfolk had their first taste of beer. Originally the Shipwright's Arms, the pub was renamed after the hero of the Battle of Waterloo. There are lovely log fires in winter, plus great grub all year round. Apart from having a great Tudor interior and friendly staff, the pub is thought to be haunted by the ghost of a young lad who was press ganged in the 18th Century.

This combined club, bar and restaurant is the focal point of Southampton's thriving gay community. In the packed downstairs bar, a mix of gay and straight lads and ladies, plus the odd stray tranny, chat and make new friends or dance to hi-energy classics. Upstairs in the Loft Bar you can enjoy a meal in the dining area, chill out on comfortable sofas or pop down to the garden. A narrow corridor leads through to The Box, a small, dimly lit extension to The Edge. Here the atmosphere is clubbier and the music harder, in a house and garage vein.

Thanks to the state-of-the-art sound equipment, lighting, lasers and videos, Oceana is one of the best dance venue in the area. The club can be found inside the huge Leisure World complex. Around 4,000 crazy clubbers can fit into Oceana's three floors. Different areas are decorated in different styles, from Milan to Monte Carlo to New York Disco, as well as having different age limitations.