Southampton

The historic city of Southampton is much more than just a cruise stop or shopping destination. Its appeal lies in its diverse nightlife, exciting retail opportunities, varied leisure facilities, superb art and heritage attractions, lively events programme and of course the excitement and charm of a bustling waterfront location.

History of Southampton

Step back in time and take a guided walk of the city's old walls by the Southampton Tourist Guides to really appreciate the city, and head to the newly refurbished timber-framed Tudor House and Gardens in the Old Town, with over 800 years of history.  

Don't miss the fabulous new Sea City Museum which houses a permanent exhibition of Southampton's Titanic story, as the famous ship left Southampton Docks for the start of its ill-fated voyage.  And a short drive away, Solent Sky depicts the history of aviation in the Solent area and tells the story of the legendary Spitfire designed in Southampton.

Local Attractions

Southampton's cultural offerings include the magnificent award-winning City Art Gallery and Southampton Guildhall, as well as a superb choice of fine theatres, galleries and international events such as the annual Boat Show.

With the magnificent WestQuay, Southampton has added to its extensive portfolio a state of the art shopping facility with almost a hundred shops, whilst close by are three further excellent shopping centres as well as the traditional specialist shops making Southampton one of the top shopping destination in the South of England.

Southampton's exciting nightlife is renowned in the region with its historic pubs, funky bars and music venues. You may prefer to take it easy and linger in one of the city's cool cafés and restaurants with menus from all over the world or enjoy the waterfront setting at Ocean Village with its popular restaurants, bars and cinemas whilst close by Oxford Street, which buzzes with great places to eat and drink, is well worth a visit.

Green Spaces

Southampton has plenty of green spaces for those who like to sit and relax in a park, or enjoy a stroll in the sunshine. Southampton Common is a Site of Specific Scientific Interest, located just outside the city centre to the north. Stretching 326 acres, this lovely expanse of green space is home to grasslands, wetlands, nature trails, parkland, a cemetary, a fishing lake and a play area. There is also a pub called the Cowherds and Hawthorns Wildlife Centre on the Common.   

The city centre is also home to award-winning central parks which are popular with local sportsmen and picnickers. Hoglands Park, Palmerston Park, Houndwell Park, Andrews Park and Watts Park offer a great escape from the bustling city.

For local information, baggage hold facilities and souvenirs, Oceans in Southampton is now open to visitors.