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The Medieval Merchant's House

Hidden Gem

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Urban, Coastal

Walking, Picnicking

Spring to Autumn

Ivan Ruggiero (Wikimedia) / CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons

The Medieval Merchant's House is a restored town house of about 1290 on French Street in Southampton's Old Town, built for a wine merchant named John Fortin. It has a vaulted cellar for storing wine, a ground-floor shop, a central hall and upper chambers, one jutting out over the street, and it is f...

10

Parking nearby

2

Food Spots nearby

2

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

10 overnight parking

Bacaro​, The Thai Corner​

The Orchard Place, Bell Tent Glamping Royal Victoria

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is The Medieval Merchant's House?
Southampton's historic French Street conceals this remarkable townhouse just behind the main modern thoroughfare. Anyone walking through the old quarter can easily find the stone frontage near the port.

What type of place is The Medieval Merchant's House?
The Medieval Merchant's House is a beautifully preserved fourteenth-century townhouse in Southampton.

When is the best time to visit The Medieval Merchant's House?
Spring to autumn provides the most reliable season for exploring the unheated medieval rooms. Quiet weekday mornings offer the finest atmosphere before any midday groups arrive.

What can you do at The Medieval Merchant's House?
People enjoy stepping across the threshold to see the reconstructed fourteenth-century shop counter and family rooms. Stepping down into the stone undercroft lets you examine where the original owner stored imported French wine casks.

How long should I spend at The Medieval Merchant's House?
An hour usually allows plenty of time to view the period furniture and admire the ancient timber beams. Serious history buffs might want slightly longer to read all the information panels.

Where do I park at The Medieval Merchant's House?
Space for ten vehicles exists nearby, consisting entirely of ten overnight parking slots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near The Medieval Merchant's House?
Bacaro and The Thai Corner offer two nearby establishments where you can secure a great meal. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near The Medieval Merchant's House?
The Orchard Place and Bell Tent Glamping Royal Victoria provide two options for staying in the local area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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