Known for its well-preserved medieval city walls; 12th-century Tudor House Museum; and for being the Titanic’s departure port, maritime Southampton has played a key role in English history for millennia. But this isn’t a city that resides in the past. In fact, there are plenty of things to do in Southampton, which enjoys a lively reputation thanks to cutting-edge museums such as Sea City, a thriving Cultural Quarter, and a sizable student population. Its proximity to the New Forest National Park, the Isle of Wight, and Stonehenge is an additional advantage.
Southampton is busiest in summer, when high temperatures peak at 73°F (23°C), and its waterfront setting really comes into its own. Bank holiday weekends are particularly busy, and festivals including Common People Southampton in late May and the Southampton International Boat Show in September draw flocks of visitors in the shoulder season. Don’t overlook cooler times of year, though: Southampton’s annual Bonfire Night fireworks and Christmas markets and ice rinks make for festive sightseeing.
The Southampton Central railway station connects Southampton to destinations across the UK, as does the Southampton Coach Station. Local bus services offer an affordable way to traverse the region, though Southampton is also easily explored on foot, by bike, or by taxi. Ferry services also connect the city to the Isle of Wight and other nearby destinations.
If you have a car, and a few days to explore Southampton, don’t miss the opportunity to plan a day trip to the Isle of Wight. Less than an hour’s ferry trip from the mainland, the island promises dramatic cliffs like the Needles, pretty beaches like Shanklin, unspoiled towns like Newport, and lots of opportunities for outdoorsy pursuits. Take a self-directed tour or choose a guided tour to see the highlights with ease.
Attractions 4 | Tours 200 | Reviews 0 |
Southampton is one of the most important ports in southern England and is known for its rich maritime heritage. Historic ships that famously set sail from Southampton include the RMS Titanic in 1912 and the Mayflower, which transported the Pilgrims between England and the New World in 1620.
...MoreStart your day in Southampton with a walking tour of the medieval city walls and towers. Then, see the Titanic exhibition at SeaCity Museum, and visit the Tudor House Museum. Leave time to browse the shops at the Westquay shopping mall and admire the views along the waterfront.
...MoreSouthampton’s medieval city center is an atmospheric mix of old and new, home to the modern Westquay shopping center and remarkably preserved city walls and towers dating from the 10th century. Other picturesque areas include the Ocean Village Marina, the West End, and Riverside Park.
...MoreYes, Southampton is a great city for kids, with lots of fun family things to do. Check out the SeaCity Museum, Solent Sky museum, and Tudor House Museum, enjoy kid-friendly entertainment at Westquay or Ocean Village, and then explore the wildlife reserves and nature of the New Forest National Park.
...MoreSouthampton is about 80 miles (129 kilometers) southwest of London, and takes about two hours by car, along the M25 and M27 motorways. South Western Railway trains also run from London Waterloo to Southampton Central Station, and the average journey time is about one hour and 15 minutes.
...MoreYes, if you’re arriving at the Southampton cruise port, it’s worth taking the time to stroll around the picturesque medieval center, browse the shops at the Westquay shopping mall, and visit the Titanic Exhibition at SeaCity Museum.
...More
