02 December 2025
Stunning snow scenes have been hand painted onto Southampton’s key locations as part of a free walking trail that launched on 29 November.
The windows of 22 venues including the University of Southampton, SeaCity Museum, John Hansard Gallery and the Marlands Shopping Centre form part of the free Snow Windows Trail running until 4 January.
The city’s BID, GO! Southampton has teamed up with Snow Windows to bring the magic of Christmas to the city for another year. Each window display’s artwork takes inspiration from winter scenes, wildlife and festive characters.
Trailers can pick up their maps from key information hubs, hotels, transport links and cultural venues. Choose between the Snowflake and Star routes, to take a festive journey across Southampton and answer the quiz questions along the way. Plus, there are secret QR codes at each stop that will unlock discounts, rewards and giveaways at local businesses.
Those who complete the journey can hand in their map at the SeaCity Museum to claim a free prize and be in with the chance of winning an ultimate Winter Package. The prize includes an overnight stay at The White Star Tavern, family day ticket to the SeaCity Museum and Tudor House and Garden, four tickets to The Princess Proms at the O2 Guildhall, four tickets to Peppa Pig’s Big Family Show at Mayflower Studios and a £100 Matalan gift card.
Among the breath-taking snow scenes is a portrait of Hampshire-born author Jane Austen to mark her 250th birthday, which has been installed at the Sports Complex at Southampton Solent University.
Andrew Bird, Chief Marketing Officer at Southampton Solent University said, “Southampton is a city rich in history, and we are delighted to be celebrating part of that history through this year’s winter trail. As a civic university, Solent is dedicated to collaborating with local organisations on projects which have meaningful outcomes for communities. This project is all about enhancing access to public art, and we’re proud to be part of that ethos. Everyone is invited to visit Solent University’s campus to enjoy the beautiful artwork created, which celebrates Jane Austen’s connection to our city – we’ll see you there.”
The artist behind the work is artist and director at Snow Windows Tom Baker who has worked with a number of big names such as TikTok, This Morning, Odeon and The Royal Mint.
Every window is bespoke to each business created freehand by Tom. You can see the iconic Southampton Bargate, winter wildlife including a fox, rabbit and mouse, Snowmen and even Father Christmas himself.
The Snow Windows project, which is backed by GO! Southampton, is hoped to drive footfall and boost the local economy during the festive season.
Executive Director at GO! Southampton, Stephen Manion said: “Visitors and residents can now enjoy our free trail and a festive wonderland of snow windows. As well as bringing together families to enjoy a bit of fun while Christmas shopping, we hope it will encourage people to stay longer in the city centre and enjoy everything Southampton has on offer.”
Where to get your trail map and more information can be found on the Visit Southampton website at https://www.visitsouthampton.co.uk/christmas-trail/
