On 12th - 14th and 19th - 21st September we will be opening the Bargate - the very well-known and much loved gateway into the medieval town of Southampton. This is a rare opportunity to see inside.

The gatehouse hasn’t been open regularly since 2012 and has recently undergone repairs inside and out.

Within the Bargate you will be able to see the larger-than-life paintings of Bevois and Ascupart, which used to be hung on the outside of the building, welcoming visitors to the town, and Queen Anne’s Statue, still missing an arm. We will be providing information about the history of the building and the ongoing conservation works needed to preserve it for the future.

Unfortunately, this venue is not easily accessible. Because of this, we will have lots of our information available for anyone with accessibility issues to use at the entrance, as well as staff and volunteers to engage with them. We will only be featuring the main hall, there will be no access to the roof.

Southampton’s other two surviving gatehouses in the remarking well-preserved medieval defences - the West Gate and God’s House Tower - will be open at the same time.

Timings & Tours 

Friday 12th September: 10am - 3pm

Saturday 13th September: 10am - 3pm

Sunday 14th September: 10am - 3pm

Friday 19th September: 10am - 3pm

Saturday 20th September: 10am - 3pm

Sunday 21st September: 10am - 3pm

Location & directions 

Directions: The Bargate isn’t the only venue taking part in Heritage Open Days, check out the Gods House Tower, St Julians Church, and selected vaults around Southampton. You can also explore other monuments and vaults as part of Music in the City 2025 on the 13th and 14th September. For full details go to musicinthecity.org/

Contact on day: Southampton City Council Culture and Tourism Service

Telephone number: +442380834688

Booking information 

Pre-booking requirement: Pre-booking not required

Accessibility Details

The venue can only be accessed via steep steps with hand rails. We will have lots of information available at the entrance with volunteers available to answer questions.