Port of Southampton

About Southampton, Guide and Tourist Attractions
(Southampton, Hampshire, England, UK)

Southampton is a city with over 1,500 years of history and has plenty of attractions for visitors.

There are a number of impressive castles and historical monuments to be found in the surrounding areas, which are best explored by car.

What to do in Southampton

Southampton's maritime past can be explored by strolling along the Town Quay with its marina and lively bars and restaurants. It was here where the Titanic departed on its fateful journey.
Those who love yachts should not miss Ocean Village. You will be able to enjoy the many sailboats docking for the weekend or just simply for an afternoon before setting sail again. A former nearby medieval warehouse houses the Maritime Museum and the Medieval Merchant's House in French Street takes you back to 13th century. The remains of the medieval town walls are among the finest preserved in Great Britain. From the original 29 towers, 13 are still standing.

The New Forest, situated to the west of Southampton, is one of Britain's most beautiful areas. The area remains well preserved with a few camping grounds positioned around the forest town of Lyndhurst. It is perfect for hiking and cycling as well as for picnics.

Tourist Attractions

Southampton's main museum is the Tudor House Museum, which is home to fascinating exhibits including one of Henry VIII's cannons, a minstrel gallery and the ghost of Anne Boleyn! During the summer months, the garden of the Tudor House is full of flowers and scented herbs.

One of the UK's finest archaeological collections can be seen in the Museum of Archaeology. The museum displays an interesting range of jewellery, glass and pottery.

The Mayflower Memorial can be found opposite Mayflower Park. This attraction is of great historical interest as it commemorates the time the Mayflower set sail with America's founding fathers on board.

A must-see for literary buffs is Chawton House. In 1809 Jane Austen moved from to Chawton House and began writing her literary works including Mansfield Park, Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility.

Southampton is a modern and vibrant city boasting a highly regarded university and a host of amenities and events. Plenty of eateries and pubs can be found around the vast new Quays complex and along the waterfront area.