Southampton to Mark Remembrance 2025 with Annual Service and Parade

Southampton City Council has announced details of this year’s Remembrance Service and Parade, which will take place on Sunday 9 November, honouring those who have served and sacrificed for the nation.

The event will begin with military contingents, veterans, and the City of Southampton (Albion) Band assembling in Guildhall Square before marching towards the Cenotaph in Watts Park at 10:35am. The annual Remembrance Service will commence shortly before 11am and is expected to last for around an hour. Members of the public are warmly invited to attend and take part in the city’s act of remembrance.

Dignitaries attending the service will include The Right Worshipful the Lord Mayor of Southampton, Councillor James Baillie; Nigel Atkinson Esquire, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire; Chief Constable of Hampshire and Isle of Wight, Alexis Boon; and Chief Inspector Charlie Ilderton, along with other key members of Southampton City Council.

The Lord Mayor of Southampton, Councillor James Baillie, said:

“I’m encouraging everyone to join us at the Cenotaph if you are able to do so. Our annual service and parade is an opportunity for us to come together to remember and give thanks to all serving troops, both past and present — and of course, their families. Our great, resilient city played a huge part in the war, and Southampton’s Service and Parade is always incredibly special.”

Archie Parsons from the Southampton Royal British Legion also reflected on the importance of remembrance and community:

“On Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day, we reflect and give thanks to all those that played their part in bringing peace and those who helped to re-build Southampton to the great city it is today. I hope everyone will join us as we remember them on Sunday 9 November.”

In recent years, more than 2,000 poppies have been knitted and donated by residents and community groups across the city. These handmade tributes have formed a striking display at the Cenotaph and in local libraries, and will once again be showcased this year as part of Southampton’s commemorations.

Those planning to attend are encouraged to travel sustainably where possible. The city offers a range of options including park and ride, bus, and rail services.

The Friends of Southampton Old Cemetery (FoSOC) will also host their annual Remembrance Service later the same day, beginning at 2:30pm. The service will start at the Cross of Sacrifice and conclude at the Belgian War Memorial.

For more information about Remembrance events across the city, visit Southampton City Council’s website.