An inclusive celebration of music of all genres amidst the vibrant cultural heritage of Southampton. Culminating in an annual multi-venue music festival on 13th/14th September. We exist for the musicians and the people of Southampton.

Castle Vault is the biggest, and one of the oldest, vaults in Southampton, built to store the King’s wine at a time when the port was at the centre of the wine trade. Ships were able to offload the casks onto a quay directly outside the vault, as the water was very close to this section of the walls during the medieval period. During the Second World War the vault was used as a large air-raid shelter. The rich multi-layered history of this vault, couple with its size, makes it the ideal venue for Music in the City’s Asian dance, Choirs and Folk singing.

Through utilising the fascinating history and heritage event in combination with our local celebration of live music, Music in the City should culminate in a totally unique experience for the people of Southampton and the wider community. Castle Vault is one of 7 different vaults open especially for the event, all with their own unique character and atmosphere, elevated through the live music being performed. The live music is diverse with all types of genres and artists performing including folk, rock, sea shanties, afrobeats, choirs and more.

Timings & Tours 

Saturday 13th September: 11am - 6pm

Sunday 14th September: 1pm - 5pm

Location & directions 

Directions: We will leave the doors of the vault open to show it’s open to the public and have volunteers on the outside to guide people in

Contact on day: Chris

Telephone number: +447966363968

Booking information 

Pre-booking requirement: Pre-booking not required

Accessibility Details

Care should be taken around the cemetery as there are some obvious trip hazards. Be especially careful when departing the Dissenters’ cemetery as the road is busy and you cannot be seen at the gate.

Additional Information

Floor slightly uneven so should take care when walking