Thousands attend university’s biggest ever science festival

More than 5,000 people attended the University of Southampton’s Science and Engineering Day to visit unseen facilities and take part in hands-on science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics activities.

Families from across the south and further afield visited the university’s Highfield and Boldrewood campuses, where more than 150 activities were on offer.

Cutting-edge research facilities such as the μ-VIS X-Ray Imaging Centre, which houses some of the UK’s most powerful X-ray scanners, were open to the public.

A smart fibre optic high power photonics lab, the 140-metre-long towing tank, the high spec wind tunnel, and a flight simulator also all opened their doors for the public to explore.

Family-friendly activities included a teddy bear hospital, making a bat box, laser shows, an inflatable planetarium, slime making, and exploring fossils, microscopes, and an AI Orchestra.

The festival has been running for over 20 years – and growing each year.

In September 2026, the university will be hosting the British Science Festival , bringing 100 free events, exhibitions, performances and installations to the city, celebrating ideas and stories at the heart of science.

Dr Ben Littlefield, Head of Public Engagement at the university, said: “This year’s Science and Engineering Day, part of our wider Southampton Science and Engineering Festival and British Science Week, has been one of our biggest yet and has been a huge success.

“This festival is about joy, curiosity and connection. It has been wonderful seeing so many visitors welcomed on to campus where they have encountered the research, stories and people behind some of the incredible work at the university and across our region.

"Most importantly it is an opportunity to hear our visitor’s ideas, perspectives and questions, where a moment of awe can turn into involvement and participation in research that will make a difference to our future.

“This year’s festival is also a fantastic lead-up to our hosting the British Science Festival with our partners across the city of Southampton next year – we can’t wait!”