Illuminating
Southampton’s Stories
6-8pm, Wed 18 – Sat 21 February 2026
Six creative projection artworks transform six historic buildings
See Southampton’s heritage come alive after dark.
About City Reflections
Free, outdoor projections running 6–8pm,
looping throughout the evening.
For four evenings this February, Southampton’s Old Town and city centre will be transformed with projection artworks created with communities from across the city. Each projection reimagines the stories, objects and people behind Southampton’s past – from global exchange and migration to creativity, belonging and life by the sea.
It’s free, easy to explore at your own pace, and the perfect way to rediscover the city in the run-up to the reopening of Southampton City Art Gallery in March 2026.
Produced by
Southampton Forward with Southampton City Council, with creative partners Light Up Trails and Double Take Projections.
Supported by
Arts Council England, The National Lottery Heritage Fund and the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation.
Projections run 6–8pm, looping continuously
Explore in any order
Access notes are available on each location page
Audio descriptions are provided online
Close to restaurants, cafés and old town pubs
Family-friendly
Explore the Projections
Choose one building or visit all six – each projection offers a different window into Southampton’s story.
Audio descriptions are available for every location.
British Sign Language (BSL)
A British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter will be present at each projection location every evening from 6–8pm for the full duration of the projections.
The Trail Map
View Full Map
Created With the City
Each projection has been shaped by a Community Curator and their community – from older residents and diaspora communities to LGBTQ+, neurodivergent and young people’s groups – bringing lived experience and memories into the artwork.
Their insights, memories and ideas bring new perspectives to the city’s heritage.
Look out for archive spotlights and behind-the-scenes links to dive deeper.
Getting Here
Travel options
Southampton is well-connected and easily accessible by train, coach, car, bus, and ferry. Click here to start planning your journey.
getting hereWalking Around Southampton
The city is very walkable, with key spots for shopping, dining, and other attractions just a 5–10 minute stroll from the Old Town. To help you get your bearings, download this free visitor map – it’s divided into a handy grid, with each square representing a 5-minute walk.
visitor map
Places to stay
From boutique hotels to B&B’s, there are plenty of great places to stay with a range of options for every group size and budget.
where to stay
Food and drink
Southampton is home to a fantastic range of restaurants, pubs, bars and cafes. From aromatic curries and fry-ups to freshly prepared sushi and classic pub favourites, there is lots to try!
view venuesThings to do
Make the most of your visit and plan some time to do a bit of exploring! Southampton has plenty to offer for all ages – from museums and art galleries to walking trails, guided tours and excellent shopping. You can easily make a whole day – or two – out of it.
Museums & Galleries trails & tours
More city information
Visit the city’s itineraries page or #OurSouthampton blog for some local inspiration.
itineraries
