Attraction of Southampton

Southampton is a relatively compact city that’s flanked on two sides by the rivers Test and Itchen that run in a ‘V’ shape down and into Southampton Water on the southern coast. It’s very much a city that’s associated with the ocean and many of Southampton’s attractions have a nautical theme; the most obvious of these sights is the excellent Maritime Museum that charts the port’s distinguished history including a good exhibition about the Titanic.

Much of the old city walls (rebuilt after a devastating attack by the French in 1338) are still intact and the city’s Museum of Archaeology is a great place to begin a tour of historical Southampton. Southampton is also an artistic city with notable art galleries and theatres situated in its vibrant Cultural Quarter. For those who want to stay abreast of the latest fashions, an ever-growing number of shops have helped to earn Southampton a deserved reputation as something of a shopping mecca amongst young urbanites. Surrounded by public parks, there are plenty of green spaces where visitors can get away from hustle and bustle and enjoy a walk within easy reach of the city.

Maritime Museum
Tel: 023 8063 5904

14th century warehouse, history of the port and the liners that visited.

God’s House Tower

15th century, have a go at a gun battery, now houses displays about the Saxon past of the city.

Old aircraft including helicopters, shop etc,

Art Gallery
Civic Centre,
Tel: 023 8063 2601

British and European, with sculptures, shop etc,

Bishop’s Waltham Palace
Tel: 01489 892460

B2177, north of Fareham off the A334, north off Junction 10 east of Southampton on the M27, impressive ruins of the Bishop of Winchester’s palace, William of Wykeham who founded Winchester College and New College in Oxford, died here, 12th century, Great Hall, tower,shop etc,

Manor Country Farm
Tel: 01489 787055

Junction 8 M27 or A 27 from Southampton to Bursledon, working farm, woodland and river walks, crafts, shop

Marwell Zoo
Colden Common
Tel: 01962 777406

Off A333 or Junction 12 M3, good animal viewing areas, lions, penguins, all the usual animals in correct environments, Tropical House, children’s corner, parklands, picnic areas, play areas, small trains, Shop etc,

Paultons Park
Tel: 0123 808 1442

At Ower, Junction 2 on the M27 towards the New Forest, laid back relaxing theme park, rides,animals, shows, play areas, woods and lakes, village life museum,