About us

O2 Guildhall Southampton is the South's largest multipurpose entertainment venue. Hosting some of the biggest names in music from Pink Floyd & David Bowie in the 70's to bands such as Hard Fi, Manic Street Preachers, The Killers, The Kaiser Chiefs & Amy Winehouse. With a capacity of 1,749 and in the heart of the city centre, 10 minutes from the railway station, amidst cafes, restaurants and shops it's the place to be!

1929

After 51 years of discussion and proposals to build a town hall, construction work finally begins. 

1937

A brand new state-of-the-art Guildhall, built in the classical style of the 1930s, was opened by the 17th Earl of Derby, and is today part of a Grade 2* listed building. The building incorporated the impressive John Compton Dual Console Pipe Organ, which alone took two years to construct.  

1970s

In the seventies, a different sound arrived at the Guildhall - Rock Bands bringing Pink Floyd, The Rolling Stones, and David Bowie.

1980s

In the early eighties, the Guildhall attracted artistes from America; Gloria Gaynor, Victor Borge, and live broadcasting with the BBC Antiques Roadshow. Towards the end of the decade, the Guildhall was refurbished, enhancing its facilities to meet the challenges of entertainment needs. 

2003

Live Nation takes over the management of the Guildhall. Since then, Live Nation have presented artists and performers that would not have otherwise visited Southampton. 

2006

Southampton Guildhall wins the Live Nation Venue Of The Year award, continuing with an impressive streak of performers such as Craig David, The Feeling, The Fratellis, and The Streets.

2013

Live Nation and O2 strike a deal, renaming the venue to O2 Guildhall Southampton.