Restaurant · Southampton
Sitting right over the river with boats drifting past, this is the kind of pub where a toddler can be kept happy just watching out of the window. Weekday lunches are quiet and the food comes out fast, which matters when someone's patience is thinning — weekends are livelier and worth booking. The staff are warm and attentive even when they're run off their feet, and there's a kids' menu, high chairs, outdoor seating, vegan options and free parking. The Sunday roast is the thing to order: generous and consistently good. The sundried tomato tart with rosemary fries and the raspberry gin cheesecake both get a lot of love. Two honest snags: the entrance is down a long flight of steps, so it's awkward with a pram, and the main menu is pricey — burgers are cheaper on Wednesdays.
A little something creative for your next meal out. Filled with colouring, simple drawing prompts for cute animals, origami and conversation starters designed to bring more play, laughter and connection to the table. 3 free printable packs for toddlers, preschoolers and primary-aged children.
Fast, hot food and generous steaks, with free parking, buggy access and high chairs — book ahead, it gets busy.
A well-rated Southampton coffee shop with outdoor seating, easy for a relaxed stop with little ones in tow.
A riverside terrace hidden behind an industrial frontage, with quick kitchen service, free parking, a kids' menu and standout Sunday roasts.