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

The superb Museum of Archaeology at God's House Tower is an ideal place to start your own tour of historical Southampton. Once part of the city's defences the museum is now home to one of the most interesting archaeology collections in England. This can be followed by a guided walk of the city's walls by the Southampton Tourist Guides.

The city's Maritime Museum tells the story of this important port and is home to the Titanic Exhibition, where visitors can re-live the ill-fated story of this famous ship. Whilst close by Solent Sky depicts the history of aviation in the Solent area and tells the story of the legendary Spitfire designed in Southampton.

Look out for the opening of the fabulous new Sea City Museum in 2012 which will house a permanent exhibition of Southampton's Titanic story.

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.