Established in 1994, The Brook is an award-winning independent music venue in Southampton, long regarded as one of the South of England’s most respected and loved places to experience live performance.
Housed in a striking Victorian building full of character and charm, The Brook combines scale with intimacy. The split-level layout offers excellent acoustics and clear sightlines throughout, allowing audiences to get close to artists while enjoying a comfortable, welcoming space. A wide, high stage and spacious main floor are overlooked by a wrap-around balcony, creating a room that feels both expansive and personal.
At its heart, The Brook is a venue for people who care about live music and shared experiences. We welcome artists and audiences who value atmosphere, quality and connection, and we take pride in presenting a diverse programme that reaches local communities while attracting national and international performers.
Music & Comedy
Over three decades, The Brook has hosted an extraordinary range of artists across genres and generations, from emerging talent to world-class performers. Our stage has welcomed musicians such as Gracie Abrams, Marcus Mumford, Holly Humberstone, Jess Glynne, Celeste, Charlie Watts, John Martyn, Bill Wyman, Johnny Marr, Alabama 3, Dionne Warwick, Passenger, JP Cooper, Dermot Kennedy, Olly Alexander (Years & Years), Billy Bragg, Tom Odell, Lucy Rose, Mel C, Taylor Hawkins, London Grammar, Maxïmo Park, Bastille, Frank Turner, The Brand New Heavies, Katchafire, Turin Brakes and many more.
Comedy has always been an important part of our programme too, with performers including Michael McIntyre, Rich Hall, Simon Pegg, John Bishop, Ed Byrne, Reginald D Hunter, Milton Jones, Craig Charles, Ross Noble, Kevin Bridges, Josh Widdicombe and others appearing on our stage.
Alongside established and heritage acts, we proudly support tribute artists and provide a strong platform for new and emerging performers of all genres and backgrounds.
“This place must have been built by a musician, for musicians. Everything seems to have been considered.”
Roy Harper
What Artists Say
Artists regularly tell us what makes The Brook special. Here are just a few of their words:
“This place has got soul.”
Edwin Starr“Best gig in the country!”
Nigel Clark, Dodgy“This is a f*ing gig!”
Jamie Hartman, Ben’s Brother“I’m so f*ing jealous that people get to come here as their local venue.”
Charlie Barnes, Bastille
Our Ethos & Community
Our primary focus is always the audience experience, followed closely by the needs of the artist. We believe great live events are built on care, professionalism and atmosphere, and our team works tirelessly to ensure every show reflects those values.
The Brook is deeply connected to its community. We work closely with local educational institutions, offering our facilities and support for workshops, lectures and examinations wherever possible, and we actively encourage learning, creativity and access to the live music industry.
It’s this combination of quality programming, genuine hospitality and community connection that has earned The Brook the loyalty of audiences, artists and promoters alike.
Our Story: Bryn Lewis
The Brook was founded by Bryn Lewis, a visionary venue operator, music lover and true Southampton ambassador whose influence on the city’s live music and hospitality scene spanned more than 35 years.
Before and alongside The Brook, Bryn was involved in many of Southampton’s most loved venues, including Talking Heads, The Hobbit, The Dolphin (St Denys), The Platform Tavern, the Maple Leaf Club, Aggie Greys, and Pub in the Park (now The View at the Southampton Sports Centre). In every space, Bryn brought the same warmth, instinctive understanding of people, and rare ability to create atmosphere and connection.
In 1994, Bryn acquired what was then a graffiti-covered Victorian pub and transformed it into The Brook. His vision was simple and unwavering: to create a dedicated live music venue where people could relax, feel welcome, and experience music in an intimate and inspiring setting. From sightlines and sound to lighting, flow and comfort, Bryn paid attention to every detail. Even practical features, such as the now-famous swimming-pool-ladder fire escape, reflected his creative thinking and care for both safety and experience.
Bryn believed deeply in live music as a force for good. He championed local bands, supported emerging artists, and helped nurture Southampton’s student and creative communities. Many musicians, promoters and venue staff took their first steps in the industry under his guidance, learning not only the business but the importance of hospitality, respect and pride in the work.
Although Bryn passed away in 2017, his presence is still felt throughout The Brook. Today, the venue is led by Bryn’s son Nick, alongside Bryn’s long-time friend Dylan, supported by a close-knit, multi-generational team. Together, they continue to build on Bryn’s vision, ensuring that The Brook remains defined by warmth, independence, creativity and unforgettable live experiences.
Bryn Lewis built more than a venue. He built a culture — one that continues to inspire artists, audiences and the city he loved.
Broadcast, Film & Media
The Brook has been featured across radio and television over the years, including live broadcasts on BBC Radio 2 and BBC Radio 3. In 2005, broadcaster Bob Harris recorded the first in a series of televised live music shows at the venue.
The Brook has also been used as a filming location for television drama, reflecting its distinctive character and atmosphere.