High Score Arcades Southampton
Southampton, Hampshire
About High Score Arcades Southampton
Are you searching for a family day out that finally settles the "what should we do?" debate? Look no further than High Score Arcades, the ultimate indoor destination where nostalgia meets the next generation of gaming. Whether you’re a parent wanting to show off your retro skills or a child eager to master the latest racing simulators, High Score offers a high-octane, value-packed experience that has redefined the traditional arcade for modern families.
The "Free-Play" Revolution: No Coins, No Stress
We’ve all been there: standing in a traditional arcade, constantly digging into pockets for spare change or watching your budget disappear into a ticket-eater machine in seconds. High Score Arcades has completely flipped the script. We operate on a simple, transparent "Free-Play" model.
When you book a session with us, your entry fee covers every single game in the building. There are no coin slots, no hidden costs. Once you step through our doors, every machine is set to free-play, allowing you and your children to immerse yourselves in over 60 different titles without ever reaching for your wallet. It’s the ultimate way to enjoy an arcade without the "just one more pound" stress!
Flexible Sessions for Every Schedule
We know every family has different plans, which is why we offer flexible booking options to suit your day. You can choose between:
• 60-Minute Power Sessions: Perfect for a quick gaming fix or a high-energy break during a shopping trip.
• 90-Minute Full Experience: Our most popular option, giving you ample time to explore every corner of the arcade and master those tricky high scores.
Fun for All the Family: From Retro Classics to Modern Hits
The magic of High Score lies in its diversity. We take pride in being a "living museum" of gaming that actually lets you touch the exhibits. It truly is fun for all the family, from toddlers discovering their first joystick to grandparents showing they’ve still got the touch.
• For the Retro-Lovers: Parents can take a trip down memory lane with legendary cabinet classics like Pac-Man, Space Invaders, Donkey Kong, and Street Fighter. It’s the perfect opportunity to show the kids exactly how you spent your Saturdays back in the day!
• For the Modern Gamers: We stay ahead of the curve with high-spec racing simulators, intensive sports games, and modern arcade hits. From high-speed motorbikes to precision-based rhythm games, there is a challenge waiting for every level of expertise.
• For the Competitive Spirits: Nothing brings a family together (or starts a friendly rivalry) like a head-to-head battle. Our air hockey tables, basketball hoops, and multiplayer racers are the heart of the arcade, where the only thing at stake is bragging rights for the journey home.
Why "There Ain't No Party Like a High Score Party!"
If you’re looking for a birthday venue that the kids will be talking about for the rest of the school year, you’ve found it. High Score has become legendary for hosting the ultimate celebrations because, quite simply, "There ain't no party like a high score party!"
Our party packages take the stress out of planning. With dedicated party rooms, 90 minutes of unlimited play, and a seamless booking process, we ensure the birthday star feels like a VIP. Parents love it because the "free-play" model means no one is left out, and the kids love it because they can jump from game to game as much as they like.
A Safe, Social, and Weather-Proof Sanctuary
Rainy British weekends are no match for us. As a fully indoor venue, we provide a weather-proof sanctuary where the energy never dips. This makes us the "go-to" choice for school holiday treats and weekend escapes. High Score isn't just a room full of machines; it’s a vibrant, safe, and inclusive social hub. We’ve designed our venues to be accessible for all ages, ensuring that even the youngest gamers can find something to enjoy. Our team of "High Score Heroes" (our team) are always on hand to help you learn the controls or give you tips on beating a difficult level.
Inclusive Gaming: Monthly SEN Quiet Sessions
At High Score, we believe gaming should be for everyone. We understand that the usual arcade environment—with its bright flashing lights and loud sound effects—can be overwhelming for some of our guests.
To ensure everyone can join the fun, we host a Monthly SEN Quiet hour. During these dedicated hours, we reduce the session capacity, dim the lights, and reduce the overall noise levels to create a calmer, more relaxed atmosphere. These sessions are perfect for neurodivergent guests or anyone who prefers a quieter gaming experience.
In an era where much of gaming is done solo on a headset at home, High Score Arcades brings the social back to gaming. It’s about the high-fives after a new personal best, the laughter during a chaotic four-player race, and the shared joy of a family day out that actually feels like a shared experience.
Ready to level up your next family outing? Join us at High Score Arcades and discover why we are the top-rated choice for "Days Out With The Kids." With multiple locations your next high score is just a booking away.
All you can play Arcade!
The cornerstone of the High Score experience is our revolutionary "Pay Once" approach. We believe that a family day out should be about playing together, not constantly checking your wallet. In a traditional arcade, the fun is often interrupted by the search for loose change, the frustration of empty token dispensers, or the disappointment of a game ending too soon. We have completely eliminated these barriers by removing every coin slot in the building.
When you book a 60 or 90-minute session at High Score, your admission fee grants you total, unrestricted access to over 60 different titles. This transparency offers parents complete peace of mind; there are no hidden costs, no "premium" games that require extra credits, and no predatory ticket-redemption mechanics. Kids are free to explore, learn new games, and switch between favourites as often as they like. This model transforms the arcade from a series of individual transactions into a seamless, high-value adventure where the focus remains entirely on having fun. Whether you want to master a racing simulator or introduce your kids to the classics you grew up with, you can do it all without ever reaching for your wallet again.
Fun for all the family!
High Score is a rare destination where "family time" means playing together rather than just watching. We bridge the generational gap by hosting 40 years plus of gaming history in one vibrant space.
Classic vs. Contemporary: We seamlessly blend 80s icons like Pac-Man with the latest high-tech racing and sports simulators.
Shared Skills: It is a unique social hub where parents can showcase the retro skills of their youth while children introduce them to the fast-paced hits of today.
Active Social Play: We move gaming off the sofa and into the real world. By prioritizing physical interaction—from air hockey and basketball to dance-offs—we ensure the entire family stays active, competitive, and engaged side-by-side.
Whether you're looking for a family day out, date night idea or a fun-filled day with friends, High Score has got you covered!
There ain’t no party like a High Score party!
What’s Included?
High Score delivers a comprehensive "Pro Gamer" experience designed for maximum fun and zero stress:
• 90-Minute Gaming Marathon: Non-stop access to everything from retro legends like Pac-Man to modern racing simulators, basketball, and dance machines.
• Structured Competition: A dedicated Party Host organizes a tournament, culminating in a Winners’ Ceremony with a medal and a free return ticket for the champion.
• Themed Party Space: 30 minutes of exclusive use of a party room for food and cake following the gaming session.
• Unlimited Refreshments: Unlimited squash and water are provided to keep gamers hydrated.
• Birthday Perks: The birthday child receives a free return ticket to come back and play again.
• Flexible Catering: You can bring your own food, keeping the celebration personalized and cost-effective.
With two adults included for free, it’s a high-energy, fixed-cost solution where the fun never pauses.
Facilities
Toilets
Card Payments Accepted
Opening Times
- Monday, Closed
- Tuesday, Closed
- Wednesday, Closed
- Thursday, Closed
- Friday, 16:00 - 20:00
- Saturday, 10:00 - 20:00
- Sunday, 10:00 - 18:30
We are open on a standard week:
Fri 4-8pm
Sat 10-8pm
Sun 10-6:30pm
During school holidays and half term we are open
Mon-Sat 10-8pm
Sun 10-6:30pm
Branch is closed: Christmas Eve, Christmas day, Boxing day and New years day.
If there is nothing pre booked in the final session the branch will close before the final session of the day starts.
Pricing & Tickets
- Child (4-17) : £12.50
- Adult (17-18+) : £12.50
- Babies and Toddlers (0-3) : Free
Save 20% when purchasing a family of four ticket.
Children 3 and under play for free with a paying adult. One adult to one 3 and under.
Book in advance for cheapest tickets
Find other attractions similar to High Score Arcades Southampton by visiting our attraction tickets section.
Plan Your Visit
Typical visit time 1 - 2 hours
Suitable for Kids and Adults too
Food & Drink Options
Cold drinks available starting from £1
FAQs
Parking
Toilets
Family Friendly Options
Food & Drink
Accessibility Information
Tickets & Bookings
Private Hire & Birthday Parties
Public Transport
Contact Details
High Score Arcades
103 East Street
Southampton
Hampshire
SO14 3HH
England
Tel: 0208 102 9312
Visit WebsiteTransport Information
There is excellent access by both bus and train
Verification & Last Updated
Verified Status:
This attraction has been claimed and verified. All information has been recently checked.
Last Updated: 12:40 15/01/2026
High Score Arcades Southampton Reviews
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