Tucked away near Southampton’s busy city centre is the Medieval Merchant’s House, one of the oldest surviving merchant’s houses in England.

It was begun in about 1290 by John Fortin, a merchant who traded with Bordeaux. Like most medieval merchant’s houses, it was a combination of home, workplace and shop.

During the 1980s it was restored to its mid-14th-century appearance. It’s now been dressed with vivid replica furnishings and fittings. It stands on what was once among medieval Southampton’s most important streets, near the wall which defended the town against seaborne attacks.

Join the volunteers to learn more about the merchants house!

Timings & Tours 

Saturday 13th September: 10am - 4pm

Thursday 18th September: 10am - 4pm

Saturday 20th September: 10am - 4pm

Location & directions 

Directions: 58 French Street, 1/4 mile South of city centre, just off Castle Way (between High Street and Bugle Street). Plan your route with what3words.com/bulb.broken.cost

Booking information 

Pre-booking requirement: Pre-booking not required

Accessibility Details

There are two steps into the house and a wooden staircase to access the first floor. Main access has six steps. The alternative side entrance has two high steps. Narrow, steep staircase to first floor (ten steps). There is ease access to the site from the road with curb less pavement. No specific disabled parking allocated. Meters for street parking. Double yellow lines outside of the House.