The Grapes

Imagine a place where time seems to have slowed down, preserving the spirit of great maritime discoveries. The historic The Grapes pub is more than just a drinking establishment; it's a true landmark carefully preserved by Southampton. Located in the heart of the Maritime Quarter, this Grade II listed building attracts travelers with its 19th-century architecture and close ties to the history of the legendary Titanic.

The building, made of recognizable yellow brick with a classic-style facade, is situated near the old docks. Today, Great Britain is proud of such places where traditional English comfort meets the cosmopolitan atmosphere of a port. The interior of The Grapes is filled with memorabilia, murals, and plaques telling the stories of sailors and ships that once moored at local shores.

Visitors can expect a magnificent selection of regional ales and the classic setting of a British pub, complete with a pool room and a live music area. This place is ideal for those who want to feel the authentic character of a port city while diving into stories of times gone by over a glass of an excellent drink.

For your convenience, we have gathered up-to-date contact information to help you easily find the venue and contact the staff if needed. When planning your visit, you can check table availability or the schedule of live performances in advance using the provided phone number.

Below are the main contact details for The Grapes pub:

A visit to The Grapes is an opportunity to touch the living history preserved by Southampton. First, take a close look at the memorial and mural at the entrance dedicated to the Titanic, and then explore the collection of archival photographs and maritime artifacts inside. The pub's interior is a sort of mini-museum, where every piece of furniture and decor has its own unique story.

Connoisseurs of tradition can enjoy a glass of regional ale or local beer right at the massive bar counter. For those who prefer active leisure, there is a special pool room, and in the evenings, live music often fills the air, creating the unmistakable vibe of a port pub. It's a great place to catch your breath during a walking tour of the Maritime Quarter.

Don't forget to notice the architectural details: the three-story building with its clean lines and Doric porticos is a fine example of 19th-century English construction. You can spend time here with a lively group of friends or alone, immersing yourself in historical notes or simply watching the steady pace of life on Oxford Street.

The historic The Grapes pub is located at 41-43 Oxford St in the Maritime Quarter. This picturesque corner that graces Southampton is situated just a few minutes' walk from the famous Dock Gate 4, making it a convenient point on any route in Great Britain.

If you prefer public transport, use bus routes No. 7, No. 8, or No. 18, which stop on Oxford Street or Maritime Way. The walk from Southampton Central station takes about 15–20 minutes at a leisurely pace, or just 5 minutes by taxi.

For travelers arriving by car, there are paid parking zones in the Maritime Quarter; you can also leave your car at the West Quay Retail Park parking lot, which is about a five-minute walk from the pub. The area is very pedestrian-friendly, so a visit to The Grapes is often combined with a walk through the old town.

The building housing The Grapes was erected in the early 19th century. This classic three-story yellow brick structure with a Roman Doric portico became a true symbol of how Southampton lived during the heyday of seafaring. For decades, the pub served as a meeting place for dockers and crews of the massive liners that brought fame to Great Britain.

The pub's most famous legend is inextricably linked to the fate of the Titanic. In April 1912, three brothers named Slade, who were part of the crew, stopped by for one last pint of ale before the voyage. Delayed by a passing train, they arrived at the gangplank just one minute after it had been raised. This delay saved their lives, making The Grapes a place of miraculous salvation in the history of the great maritime disaster.

Today, the establishment carefully guards its heritage. Despite a fire in 2012 and the challenges of the past century, the building has retained its original appearance. Inside, visitors can see photographs of that very crew and unique artifacts that turn a simple trip to the pub into a fascinating history lesson.

To soak up the atmosphere of The Grapes pub and explore all its historical corners, 1–2 hours is usually sufficient. This time is enough to view the memorial plaques dedicated to the Titanic, study the maritime relics on the walls, and enjoy a traditional drink in an authentic setting.

If you plan to visit in the evening when live music is often played, or if you want to play a game of pool, you should allow a little more time in your schedule. For those on walking tours of the Maritime Quarter, the pub is an ideal 30–40 minute stop for a quick rest and a few photos.

The Grapes pub hospitably opens its doors every day. On Monday, the establishment is open from 12:00 to 22:30. From Tuesday to Thursday, the doors are open from 11:00 to 23:00, and on Friday and Saturday, the pub stays open the longest—until 23:30, which is convenient for evening strolls. On Sunday, the operating hours are the same as Monday—from 12:00 to 22:30.

Please note that operating hours may change depending on holidays or private events. Before your visit, it is recommended to check the official website or confirm the current information on-site.

The area surrounding The Grapes is a hub of maritime history and architectural monuments. A stroll after your visit will allow you to delve deeper into the atmosphere of the port city and see iconic sites associated with legendary ships and the region's medieval past.

Check out the list of interesting sites located within walking distance or a short ride away: