News
£3.1million project now open
Friday November 8th, 2019
You can now visit Southampton’s new £3.1million refurbishment project – the iconic 700 year-old God’s House Tower (GHT) is now open and fully operational as an exciting and vibrant arts and heritage venue with much to offer people of all ages and interests.
Travel back in time to the Tower’s creation as a gun tower, to its dark days as a dismal gaol, housing Southampton’s various criminals and hear the human ‘Stories Behind the Stones’ with each floor of the Tower taking you on a fascinating journey through the ages. You can discover centuries of history through multimedia installations and intriguing displays and even climb the spiral staircase to the GHT roof and witness Southampton as you’ve never seen it before through a CGI telescope. Enjoy stunning rooftop views from the top of the tower across Southampton Water and the city – an opportunity not to be missed!
To complement the historic displays seven artists have interpreted GHT’s hidden history, bringing it to life with surreal and bold installations. In addition there will be a revolving exhibition of artworks from Southampton City Art Gallery’s prestigious collection and other sources, starting with the wonderful ‘Moonlight Pethers’ – a family of painters whose atmospheric scenes of moonlight, sunset and fire depict the city’s past. This collection shows how the urban coastline GHT has witnessed during its 700-year life has changed drastically, making these unique paintings the perfect introduction to this exciting new era in GHT’s history.
As well as the exhibitions, displays and Tower climbs there will be lots of special events to enjoy, including talks, tours, music, performance and arts workshops, all under this year’s theme ‘GHT Beside the Sea’, a tongue-in-cheek look at the city’s changed coastline and GHT’s lost connection to the water. Whatever your interest, there’ll be plenty to fascinate and inspire you. There’s even a shop, library and vibrant café run by the popular Hoxton Bakehouse with all kinds of tempting treats on offer.
