Southampton might be a port city, but when it comes to Halloween, it’s got plenty more than ferries and football. From leafy neighbourhoods to close-knit cul-de-sacs, the city lights up with spooky spirit each October. Think glowing pumpkins on tidy porches, themed front gardens, and neighbours who go all in for the trick-or-treat magic.
Whether you’re planning an early-evening ramble with little ones or chasing the most spectacular setups with older kids, here’s where to find the best places to trick or treat in Southampton this year.
Before heading out, check out The Ultimate Guide to Trick or Treating in 2025 for tips on timing, safety, and making the most of the Trick or Treat Map.
Best Places to Trick or Treat in Southampton in 2025
🎃 1. Bitterne Park
Tucked northeast of the city centre, Bitterne Park is a family favourite for a reason. It’s home to leafy streets, friendly faces, and a solid turnout on Halloween night. Look around roads like Bullar Road, Cobbett Road, and Macnaghten Road — you’ll spot glowing pumpkins from the moment the sun dips.
Decorations here range from charming to full-on spooky. Some families put on front garden “shows” with lights, inflatables, and spooky soundtracks. A few houses even leave out “help-yourself” baskets for shy trick-or-treaters or those with sensory sensitivities.
Because it’s a largely residential area with minimal traffic, Bitterne Park is great for little ones — and many houses mark themselves on the Trick or Treat Map so you can plan your route in advance.
🎃 2. Highfield
Classy, quiet, and just a bit mysterious — Highfield’s big trees and Edwardian homes give it the perfect Halloween backdrop. The neighbourhood is a popular route for local families, especially along Highfield Lane, Russell Place, and Uplands Way.
Trick-or-treaters here can expect a warm welcome. Locals often sit on their doorsteps to greet kids and chat with parents, and there’s usually a good balance between traditional décor and creative flair. Last year, one home transformed into a giant spider’s web with eight-foot legs creeping over the driveway.
The wide pavements and peaceful vibe make it a great early evening route. While some houses go modest, others pull out all the stops. Bonus points: lots of families in the area post their stops to the Trick or Treat Map — and use tags like “vegan sweets” or “toys only” to help parents plan ahead.
🎃 3. Portswood
Lively and diverse, Portswood always brings a creative spark to Halloween night. It’s not just for students — families who live in and around Gordon Avenue, Alma Road, and Abbotts Way get seriously into the spooky spirit.
Expect quirky setups and a bit of theatrical flair. You’ll often see handmade signs, clever puns, and costumed adults getting in on the fun. Many homes go beyond sweets — giving out glow sticks, spooky stickers, or even mini crafts for younger kids.
What makes Portswood a standout is the energy. While it can be a bit busier than more suburban areas, the community feel more than makes up for it. If you’re looking for somewhere with personality and buzz, this is the place.
🎃 4. Shirley
Shirley is one of Southampton’s biggest residential zones — and it shows on Halloween. You’ll find dozens of houses joining in, especially around Howard Road, Bellemoor Road, and Anglesea Road.
Some homes here go all in. Think giant inflatable dragons, talking skeletons, fog machines, and coordinated lighting displays. It’s a feast for the senses — and a sugar jackpot for kids willing to venture deep into the neighbourhood.
There’s a real mix of trick-or-treaters in Shirley, from little ones on an early-evening loop to teens on the hunt for big hauls. Thanks to wide roads and good lighting, it’s a safe spot for bigger groups too. Use the Trick or Treat Map to plan a path that hits all the big hitters — and don’t forget to bookmark your faves for next year.
🎃 5. Hedge End
Okay, not technically Southampton proper — but close enough (and good enough) to make this list. Hedge End is a trick-or-treating dream. Streets like Freegrounds Avenue, St Johns Road, and Beattie Rise are always buzzing with little monsters and big displays.
The homes here are largely detached or semi-detached, with driveways and front gardens that lend themselves to decorating. It’s not uncommon to see whole streets coordinate themes, or to find Halloween scavenger hunts posted along fences to guide kids from house to house.
Hedge End also wins bonus points for its community spirit. Many residents leave signs to let trick-or-treaters know what they’re offering (gluten-free, nut-free, etc.) and parents often chat while kids explore. It’s a wholesome, well-organised spot — and it’s usually listed top on the Trick or Treat Map for the area.
🎃 6. Bassett
Bassett brings the spooky elegance. Situated near the Common, it’s home to larger properties with big front gardens — which means space to play when it comes to Halloween setup. Start your route around Bassett Green Road, Bassett Avenue, and Ethelburt Avenue for the best results.
The displays here can be stunning. One house is known for turning its entire lawn into a mini haunted graveyard, complete with motion-activated ghouls and smoke machines. Others opt for subtle but eerie setups with jack-o’-lanterns, flickering lanterns, and soundtracks playing softly from behind hedges.
It’s a quieter area, so ideal for kids who are shy or easily overwhelmed. Many residents take pride in their Halloween welcome — even offering hot chocolate to chilly parents and extra treats for top costumes.
🎃 7. Woolston
Over the river and into Halloween we go! Woolston often flies under the radar, but it has some of the most family-friendly trick-or-treating routes in the city. Check out Obelisk Road, Portsmouth Road, and the streets tucked near Mayfield Park.
The houses here are close together, meaning less walking and more knocking. You’ll often find charming decorations — cobweb-covered gates, glowing pumpkins on every doorstep, and spooky music echoing down the street.
Woolston is especially lovely earlier in the evening. The gentle atmosphere, wide pavements, and participation from lots of households make it great for little legs. And with Mayfield Park nearby, some families kick off the night with a playground stop before heading off for sweets.
🎃 8. Lordswood
If you’re hunting for a solid, suburban-style Halloween route with high participation, Lordswood is your friend. Look out for treats along Rownhams Road, Lordswood Road, and surrounding side streets.
The vibe here is very “neighbourhood party.” Some roads band together to create mini Halloween events — decorating driveways with themed setups, offering DIY sweet stations, or playing family-friendly spooky soundtracks from Bluetooth speakers.
Families in the area tend to know each other, which adds a relaxed, cheerful energy to the night. It’s the kind of place where you’ll be offered a cuppa while the kids collect their goodies — and you’ll definitely want to mark a few glowing pumpkin pins on your Trick or Treat Map.
🎃 9. Netley
If you’re after Halloween with a sea breeze, Netley’s got you covered. This village-on-the-edge-of-the-city delivers in charm and community spirit. Albert Road, Station Road, and the quiet streets around Royal Victoria Country Park tend to be trick-or-treating favourites.
Netley is big on family fun. Some houses create adorable photo spots with hay bales and scarecrows, while others leave themed bags ready to grab and go. Many locals add handmade signs or glowing arrows to show they’re participating.
While you’ll need to bundle up a bit near the water, the quieter pace and smaller crowds make Netley a perfect choice for toddlers or first-time trick-or-treaters. It’s the sort of place where everyone says “Happy Halloween!” — and means it.
🎃 10. Thornhill
Thornhill is one of those places where Halloween is taken seriously. Big sweets, bold decorations, and bucketloads of spooky cheer make it a destination for families from all over the city. For best results, explore Hinkler Road, Hinkler Green, and the housing estates nearby.
Expect a bit of everything — massive spider webs strung across porches, outdoor treat tables decorated like monster mouths, foggy driveways, and speakers blasting ghostly tunes. Kids often stay out later here, and many houses keep their lights on right up to 9 PM.
Thornhill is particularly popular with older kids and teens — especially those who love costumes and competition. Lots of houses encourage fancy dress by offering “bonus” treats for impressive outfits, and some even post mini competitions on community boards.
📍 Use the Trick or Treat Map
Southampton’s Halloween scene is full of surprises — and the Trick or Treat Map helps you find them all. Use it to:
- 📍 See which homes are handing out sweets
- ⭐ Filter for allergy-friendly or standout displays
- 🗺️ Save your favourite stops
- ✨ Send thank-you notes to houses that go above and beyond
Related: How to Use the Trick or Treat Map
🗣️ What Southampton Locals Say
“Bitterne Park is our go-to every year. The kids love the decorations, and the whole loop is just the right size.” — Ellie C., Southampton mum
“Hedge End was amazing last year — the whole street had a pirate theme and gave out treasure maps with sweets!” — Marcus F., dad of two
“Portswood always brings the energy. It’s a little bit bonkers — in the best way.” — Jo K., local parent
Whether you're soaking up the spooky buzz in Shirley or collecting sweets by the sea in Netley, Southampton knows how to deliver a Halloween night full of magic, mischief, and memory-making. Just don’t forget your torch, your comfiest walking shoes, and a big thank-you smile for every decorated doorstep.
🎃 Happy Haunting, Southampton!
👻 FAQ: Trick-or-Treating in Southampton
When does trick-or-treating start in Southampton?
Most families begin around 5:30 PM. Younger children usually finish by 7:00 PM, while older kids might stay out until 8:30 or 9:00 PM.
Is trick-or-treating safe in Southampton?
Yes — especially in the family-focused areas listed above. Stick to residential streets, stay in groups, and use a torch or glow sticks for visibility.
How do I know which houses are taking part?
Look for lit pumpkins or decorations. Better yet, check the Trick or Treat Map for confirmed stops and save your favourites.
What should kids bring?
A sturdy bag, a torch, layers (Southampton can be chilly!), and maybe a snack to power through.
Any Halloween safety tips?
Absolutely - stay on pavements, cross safely and always go in a group. Costumes should be visible, flame resistant and easy to move in. The National Safety Council has great tips too.
🎃 You Might Also Like:
The Ultimate Guide to Trick or Treating in 2025
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