Having stayed in hotels all over the world and learned never to hold one's breath, The Cargo was an extraordinary find. A last minute booking for the International One-dayer (England/India at The Rose Bowl) was always going to be a challenge but having waded through various websites I booked The Cargo. Attending the cricket first, and having subjected myself to the delights of the Hospitality marquis, rain delayed the start of the game which led to a very late exit from the ground. Eventually turning up at The Cargo after midnight (22.00hrs check in!), I was met by staff clearing out the bar area who were polite and welcoming. I was dreading the room having seen that the ground floor was nothing more than a bar - but when I opened the door I was very met with something I didn;t really expect. Everything was clean, modern and well-maintained, although the room was on the bijou side it mattered little as the arrangement of the accoutrements was well thought through. The bed was comfortable, the sheets crisp and pleasant on the nostrils, there was little noise from the outside (Oxford St, has a few bars and restaurants) and traffic was barely in evidence until about 07.00hrs. I didn't try the breakfast as I was in a hurry to move on the next morning.

In summary, if you needed to be close to the city centre or the docks and were looking for somewhere reasonably priced, clean and friendly - I would heartily recommend The Cargo.

stayed here for one night for business / pleasure, check in was quick and easy. room and bed very comfortable, nice flat screen tv. Stewart was a very good host. The location of this hotel is first class as it's right in the heart of all the clubs / bar area.
i would not hesitate to return.

Cargo is a stylish bar with rooms rather than a hotel. Unfortunately for us neither function worked well. Our Loft Room was comfortable but the shower wasn't working - once fixed we went down for a drink and dinner. The bar staff, despite advertising their cocktails, were unable to make a martini and furthr had no lemon twist or olives to hand. A noisy hen party, complete with bride to be dressed as a banana, persuaded us to eat elsewhere, tho' the menu looked enticing, for the eating area is firmly part of the bar.

Returning late after a good dinner at La Regata (Spanish tapas - recommended) the bar was heaving, noisy and not a spot for a quiet drink before bed. The noise disturbed our rest until nearly 2.00am.

Breakfast was well cooked but poorly served. No butter for toast (eventually someone went to the local shop to buy some), confused service, no bread for toast.

On a positive note all staff were very willing and polite - and Stuart, the owner, had happily re-booked us into the hotel when we had had to cancel our July booking at very short notice. However, overall this is a bar where linters can stay and not a quiet boutique hotel for a Southampton stay.

My third stay in the this trendy hotel confirmed to me that their personal and friendly customer focussed approach leaves there local competitors miles behind. The rooms are decorated to the high standard and are comfortable and unique with a wonderful Asian influence. The position of the accommodation couldn't be better with easy access to the shops or the docks or a stroll in the park just a minute away. Oxford street itself has a laid back feel with some great restaurants and bars right on your doorstep. The staff are all happy to help and often go out of their way to ensure you are looked after. Basically there is no-where else I would stay in the area.