Southampton

Southampton Travel Guide

• About Southampton

Inseparable from its long maritime heritage, the south coast city of Southampton is a buoyant, underrated place to explore. A large portion of its 4 million-plus annual visitors pass straight through to the port – the destination is self-billed as “the cruise capital of Europe” and hundreds of ships still depart here each year. Most famously, it’s also where the Titanic began its ill-fated voyage more than 100 years ago. For those making the effort to spend time in Southampton itself, however, there are clear rewards. The timber-framed Tudor House & Garden is the city’s most significant historical construction, which sits in an Old Town that still rests partly behind hefty ancient stone walls. The Old Town has more than 90 listed buildings, from old wine vaults to medieval churches. On a more contemporary note, the city’s residents have plenty to busy themselves with. The Southampton City Art Gallery is one of the best of its kind in the south, covering six centuries of European art, while the Grade II listed Mayflower Theatre puts on regular high-profile shows. Tying in with Southampton’s nautical legacy, the recently opened SeaCity Museum recounts the tale of the city and its seafaring connections and it includes a special section on the Titanic. As well as boasting modern retail developments such as the shiny West Quay mall, Southampton also prides itself on its green space. There are several parks within the city, but you don’t have to travel far to reach either the Isle of Wight (20 minutes by ferry) or the bounties of the New Forest. Visitors can also take to the water on the SS Shieldhall, the largest working steam ship in Britain. The vessel, active from the 1870s onwards, has a number of scheduled sailings and also offers seamanship training courses. So whether you’re docking or departing, Southampton is a ship-shape city that will keep you busy for a day at least.

• Southampton History

The starting point for some of the world’s most famous (and in some cases ill-fated) voyages, Southampton is a maritime city and always has been. It began life as a small fishing settlement in the Stone Age and was inhabited by Bronze Age tribesmen before becoming a hub for the Belgae tribe during the Iron Age. With the Roman conquest came expansion and the town became known as Clausentum. The Saxons that succeeded the Romans also added their buildings to the town, calling it Hamtun. After a brief period of decline, thanks to the marauding Vikings, the Norman Conquest turned Southampton into England’s major port. Successive kings added to Southampton’s prestige, with Henry II erecting Southampton Castle and King John turning the city into a major centre for trade. It wasn’t all smooth sailing however. In 1338, the town was sacked by the French pirate Grimaldi and a decade later, and Southampton was one of the first places to succumb to the Black Death. Nevertheless, by the Tudor period, Southampton had once more re-established itself, this time as a centre for lead and tin export as well as a base for the buccaneers who ravaged Spanish shipping in the Channel. It also became a hub for transatlantic traffic, with the Mayflower departing from the port in 1623. Other colonists followed, heading to the Caribbean, South Africa and Australia among others. Under the Georgians, Southampton became a spa town as well as a port, although it wasn’t left untouched by the Industrial Revolution and became a hub for shipbuilding. The Victorians cemented its role as the UK’s premier port, opening the first major dock in 1842. Linked to the rest of the country by rail, it became the main point of departure for emigrants heading to the New World, including those on board the Titanic in 1912. Badly damaged by the Blitz in 1940, Southampton was the main point of embarkation for the D-Day Landings, repeating its WWI role. Today, the city still sends thousands heading to sunnier climes through its docks, only now, they go aboard comfortable cruise ships.

• Did you know?

God’s House Tower became the UK’s first dedicated artillery tower when it was built in 1417. Canal Walk, formerly known as The Ditches, was once a stream. When the Mayflower left Southampton in 1620, it was accompanied by a second ship called the Speedwell. Unfortunately, the Speedwell sprang a leak and had to dock at Dartmouth.

• Weather in Southampton

Thanks to its sheltered location, Southampton is one of the sunniest cities in the UK. The best time to visit is between May and September – average summer temperatures peak around 22°C (72°F). Rain can occur year round, but is typically highest in the autumn months of October and November. January brings the coldest temperatures – the mercury can drop to around 3°C (37°F).

Things to see in Southampton

Attractions

• Medieval Merchants’ House

Owned and run by English Heritage, this is one of the earliest surviving merchants’ houses in England. All the furniture has been authentically recreated and visitors are able to get a glimpse of what life was like for a prosperous wine merchant, John Fortin, who lived in the house with his family over 700 years ago. Address: 58 French Street, Southampton. Telephone: +44 370 333 1181 Opening times: Fri-Sun 12:00-17:00. Website: www.english-heritage.org.uk Admission Fees: Yes Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

• St Mary’s Football Stadium

With a capacity of 32,505, St Mary’s is the largest football stadium in southern England outside of London. It has been home to Southampton football club since 2001 and hosts regular fixtures, especially during from August to May. The area gets extremely busy on match days, so plan to arrive well in advance. Address: Britannia Road, Southampton. Telephone: +44 238 072 7700 Opening times: Dependent on match times. Website: www.southamptonfc.com Admission Fees: Yes Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

• Mayflower Theatre

Culture vultures should definitely head to the Mayflower Theatre, the largest theatre in southern England. It opened in 1928 and puts on an impressive programme of musicals, ballet, traditional pantomime, opera and comedy acts. Address: 22-26 Commercial Road, Southampton. Telephone: +44 238 071 1811 Opening times: Dependent on show times. Website: www.mayflower.org.uk Admission Fees: Yes Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

• SeaCity Museum

This central, family-focused museum opened in 2011 and brings Southampton’s maritime history to life with a constantly evolving selection of exhibitions, events and activities. There’s an education zone for children and a large range of artifacts from the city’s maritime and archaeological archives. Address: Havelock Road, Southampton. Telephone: +44 238 083 4536 Opening times: Daily 10:00-17:00. Website: www.seacitymuseum.co.uk Admission Fees: Yes Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

• Solent Sky (Hall of Aviation)

Southampton and the Solent played a pioneering role in aviation development, and it was here that the world’s first seaplane was built. It was also the birthplace of the Spitfire fighter plane that has become so synonymous with WWII. This museum houses many historic planes and you can even sit at the controls of a jet fighter. Address: Albert Road South, Southampton. Telephone: +44 238 063 5830 Opening times: Tue-Sat 10:00-17:00, Sun 12:00-17:00. Website: www.solentsky.org Admission Fees: Yes Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

• Southampton City Art Gallery

The city’s impressive art gallery is housed in an elegant art deco building in the heart of the Cultural Quarter and contains over 3,500 works of art spanning six centuries of European culture, with works from artists diverse as Gainsborough and Gilbert & George. It also has a stirring exhibition of 20th-century British art. Address: Civic Centre Road, Southampton. Telephone: +44 238 083 4536 Opening times: Mon-Fri 10:00-17:00. Website: www.southampton.gov.uk Admission Fees: No Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

• Hawthorns Urban Wildlife Centre

Set in the southeast corner of Southampton Common, the Hawthorns Urban Wildlife Centre grounds are planted and managed as different wildlife habitats and it is a great place to learn about the different ecosystems. This is good for family visits and the perfect place to get away from the city centre and get back to nature. Address: Southampton Common, Southampton. Telephone: +44 238 067 1921 Opening times: Mon-Fri 11:00-15:00, Sun 12:00-16:00. Website: www.southampton.gov.uk Admission Fees: No Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

• New Forest Wildlife Park

Set across 10 hectares (25 acres) just outside the city, this thriving wildlife park offers the chance to see a huge range of species in their natural habitat. Watch otters at play, get up close and personal with several deer species, and let the kids loose in the adventure playgrounds. Address: Longdown, Deerleap Lane, Ashurst. Telephone: +44 238 029 2408 Opening times: Daily 10:00-17:30. Website: www.newforestwildlifepark.co.uk.co.uk Admission Fees: Yes Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

• Woodmill Outdoor Activities Centre

This former mill claims to be the only outdoor activity centre in the UK that has access to four different types of water: a placid lake, the flowing River Itchen, a tidal estuary and high tide whitewater. This makes it a perfect place to learn how to kayak or canoe – but there are other fun activities on offer as well, including archery and climbing. Address: Woodmill Lane, Southampton. Telephone: +44 238 091 5744 Opening times: Daily 08:30-17:00. Website: www.activenation.org.uk Admission Fees: Yes Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

• Royal Victoria Country Park

Once home to the biggest military hospital in the British Empire, this 81-hectare (200-acre) park on the outskirts of Southampton is a perfect picnicking spot. With a railway train, children’s park areas and great views of the ships coming in and out of the port, it’s also a popular place for families. Address: Netley Abbey, Southampton. Telephone: +44 238 045 5157 Opening times: Daily 24 hours. Website: www3.hants.gov.uk Admission Fees: Yes Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

Tourist Offices

• Hythe Information Office

Address: The Grove, 25 St John’s St, Hythe, Southampton. Telephone: +44 844 411 1306 Opening times: Mon-Fri 10:00-16:00. Website: www.discoversouthampton.co.uk The Tourist Information Point in Southampton Central Library is a good source of on-the-spot advice for visitors. There are also information points at SeaCity Museum in Havelock Road and at the Dancing Man Brewery.

Things to do in Southampton

• Hit the south coast’s ski slopes

Let’s face it, England rarely gets any snow – least of all Southampton and the South coast – but that doesn’t mean keen skiers and snowboarders have to go without their fix. An hour’s drive north west of the city, the Alpine Snowsports Centre  Telephone: +44 1252 325 889 Website: www.alpine-snowsports-centre-aldershot  boasts three floodlit dry slopes and beginner lessons.

• Pull on your walking boots and explore the South Downs

With over 3,300km (2,050 miles) of marked trails, the expansive South Downs Telephone: +44 1730 814 810 Website: www.southdowns.gov.uk  is a hiker’s paradise. Indeed, there are more routes to be found here, than in any other UK national park. For a serious stroll, follow the 160km (100 mile) South Downs Way, starting from England’s first capital, Winchester.

• Raise the main sail with yachting lessons

Southampton is one of England’s busiest ports, with many cruise ship operators departing from its water. It’s also a brilliant place to learn how to sail. Don’t worry, lessons take place at the calmer, less crowded, River Hamble where: Hamble School of Yachting Telephone:  +44 238 045 2668 Website: www.hamble.co.uk will show you the ropes.

• Tear around on two wheels in the New Forest

The New Forest is a vast 571 sq km (57,100 sq hectares) national park that flanks the west of Southampton. With over 160km (100 miles) of trails and plenty of pubs at which to refresh, the park is brilliant for tearing around on two wheels. Forest Leisure Cycling Website: www.forestleisurecycling.co.uk offers bike hire.

• Trapeze the treetops at Go Ape

Tucked away in Itchen Valley’s ancient woodland. Go Ape Telephone: +44 333 920 6011 Website: www.goape.co.uk  is a thrilling treetop adventure course and a great family day out. With tunnels, rope bridges and zip-wires, who will prove themselves the king of the swingers? The course takes three hours to complete and climbers require sensible shoes.

Southampton tours and excursions

Southampton tours

• Boat tours

For a city so intimately connected to the ocean, no trip to Southampton is complete without heading out on a boat trip. Blue Funnel Cruises offer public and private charters along Southampton’s waterways, passing sights such as the historic docklands area, the rivers Itchen and Test, and the departure point of the Titanic. Telephone: +44 238 022 3278 Website: www.bluefunnel.co.uk

• Walking tours

Southampton is relatively easy to explore on foot, with all the main attractions concentrated around the city centre and harbour areas. Regular public walks run by the Southampton Tourist Guides Association start from the historic Bargate – check the organisation’s website for times and dates. They can also arrange private walks that are available in several languages. Website: www.southamptontouristguides.com

Southampton excursions

• Isle of Wight

A short 20-minute ferry away is the Isle of Wight. This stunning isle of white cliffs, rolling hills and postcard-perfect little villages is the ideal escape from Southampton. Attractions include the UK’s oldest theme park

• Blackgang Chine

Telephone: +44 1983 730 330 Website: www.blackgangchine.com Telephone: +44 1983 813 813 Website: www.visitisleofwight.co.uk

• New Forest National Park

The New Forest National Park is a short drive west of Southampton consisting of 375 sq km (145 sq miles) of open heath and woodland. It is a favourite with outdoor enthusiasts who come to use the spectacular cycle, walking and horse-riding trails. Beaulieu Abbey, Palace House and National Motor Museum are situated south of the park. Telephone: +44 2380 282 269 Website: www.thenewforest.co.uk

Shopping in Southampton

Shopping in Southampton ( Website: www.southampton.international ) offers a wide range of experiences.

• Key areas

The huge WestQuay Southampton mall on Portland Terrace contains over 90 stores, including many major high-street names. Nearby Marlands Mall also has a fine mix of niche and high-street retailers, and there’s the small Bargate Centre, off the High Street on East Street. For more traditional shops and specialist stores, head to East Street, Bedford Place and Above Bar Street.

• Markets

At the Bargate Market Place, there are a number of regular and speciality markets. The Friday Market is open 09:00-17:00 with over 90 attractive continental-type stalls selling all kinds of high-quality food items. Hampshire Farmers Markets take place here one Saturday every month from 10:00-14:00. There are also specialised Saturdays every month: Art & Design Craft on the first Saturday, followed by a World Market on the second and fourth Saturdays, and a Farmer’s Market on the third Saturday.

Restaurants in Southampton

As you’d expect in a city of this size, there are many restaurants covering an eclectic mix of cuisines. The restaurants below have been grouped into three pricing categories: Expensive (over £40) Moderate (£30 to £40) Cheap (up to £30) These prices are for a three-course meal for one, including half a bottle of house wine or equivalent, tax and service. A service charge of 12.5% will be added to your bill in most restaurants. If it’s not included, a 10% tip is customary.

Expensive

• Ennio’s

Cuisine: Italian Recently voted one of the UK’s top ten Italian restaurants, Ennio’s is a classy little bistro in a beautifully converted Victorian warehouse that faces directly onto the old waterfront. It serves traditional Italian specialities, including antipasti, pasta, insalata, dolce and secondi piatti. Address: Town Quay Road, Southampton. Telephone: +44 238 022 1159 Website: www.ennios.co.uk

• Olivetree

Cuisine: Mediterranean This is one of the best restaurants in Southampton, elegant and stylish in look and presentation. There’s a focus on fresh ingredients and seasonal produce, and dishes combine British and Mediterranean influences. Bread is freshly baked on the premises. Address: Unit 3, Moresby Tower, Southampton. Telephone: +44 238 033 4830 Website: www.theolivetreesouthampton.co.uk

• The Terrace Restaurant

Cuisine: Modern European Set in pretty countryside just across the estuary from central Southampton, this is the most alluring fine dining option within easy reach of the city centre. The Terrace is set within the Montagu Arms Hotel, and more than earns its Michelin star with a selection of intricate and exciting dishes. Address: Beaulieu, 1 Palace Lane, Brockenhurst. Telephone: +44 1590 612 324 Website: www.montaguarmshotel.co.uk

Moderate

• La Regata

Cuisine: Spanish La Regata is a Spanish restaurant overlooking the city’s waterfront. It specialises in fish and shellfish and has a great range of tremendously tasty tapas in addition to the à la carte menu. The interior is colourful and vibrant, and the ambience is intimate and relaxed. Address: Town Quay, Southampton. Telephone: +44 238 022 3456 Website: www.laregata.co.uk

• House of Hien

Cuisine: Vietnamese Situated amidst many competitors on Oxford Street, Southampton’s main restaurant thoroughfare, House of Hien Restaurant holds its own with a classic interior combining white walls, polished wood and robust, creative Vietnamese cuisine flourishes. Address: 35-36 Oxford Street, Southampton. Telephone: +44 23 8022 4444 Website: www.houseofhien.com

• White Star Tavern

Cuisine: British A creative menu that changes with the seasons has helped win this central restaurant a Michelin recommendation and two AA stars. It opens for breakfast and brunch as well as lunch and dinner, and there’s a well-priced ‘Pub Classics’ menu for diners after a more relaxed experience. Address: 28 Oxford Street, Southampton. Telephone: +44 23 8082 1990 Website: www.whitestartavern.co.uk

Cheap

• George’s 

Cuisine: Greek Relocated neighbourhood restaurant with a history going back to 1940 and a menu of Greek dishes. A traditional Greek restaurant that uses high-quality local ingredients and yet still manages to keep prices astoundingly low. The George’s Banquet, which encompasses a giant selection of dips as well as starters, a seafood course and a meat platter, is the restaurant’s best offering. Address: 1 St Michael’s St, Southampton. Telephone: +44 23 8022 3749 Website: www.georgesrestaurant.co.uk

• La Cantina

Cuisine: Mexican Reasonably priced La Cantina serves fresh, tasty Mexican dishes, such as fajitas, tacos and fiery chillies, in a South American-style setting that combines hot Mexican colours and natural woods. Address: 23 Harbour Parade, Southampton. Telephone: +44 23 8214 5522 Website: www.iguanas.co.uk

• Mango

Cuisine: Thai This lively Thai restaurant offers a menu of ‘Thai Tapas’ so diners can indulge in a great mix of fragrant snacks. It also has a list of mains that include traditional staples such as red and green curries. The woodcarvings and bamboo blinds infuse the place with some Eastern ambience. Address: 27 Portswood Road, Southampton. Telephone: +44 23 8067 8877 Website: www.mangothai.co.uk

Southampton Nightlife

From traditional pubs to chic bars, Southampton has a thriving nightlife scene. There are several appealing places for a drink in the Ocean Village, which overlook the marina, and plenty of lively clubs dotted around the centre.

Bars in Southampton

• Duke of Wellington

The 13th-century, half-timbered Duke of Wellington is a traditional old alehouse with a decent bar menu. A pub since the 15th century, it sits on the remains of old Norman vaults, making it a destination of interest for history buffs as well as those in search of a good tipple. Address: 36 Bugle Street, Southampton. Telephone: +44 23 8033 9222 Website: www.dukesouthampton.co.uk

• The Hobbit

The Hobbit has a large outdoor seating area, regular live music, and stays open until 0300 (until 0200 on Sunday). Located close to the university, it is a popular venue with students. The pub’s Tolkien theme encompasses Hobbit cocktails and its famous Bag End burger. Address: 134 Bevois Valley Road, Southampton. Telephone: +44 23 8023 2591

• The Red Lion

The Red Lion is one of Southampton’s oldest inns. Dating back to the 12th century, it still retains its minstrels’ gallery, a huge fireplace and the Court Room where the trial of conspirators, who plotted to murder Henry V, took place in 1415. Address: 55 High Street, Southampton. Telephone: +44 23 8033 3595 Website: www.theredlionpubsouthampton.co.uk

Clubs in Southampton

• Popworld

Popworld is a late-night bar with a difference – we are cheese with style! You’ll be greeted by our friendly bar staff and party the night away with like-minded fun-loving people. We play all of the cheesy pop tunes customers want to hear – and offer a great range of fun party cocktails to make your night POPTASTIC! Address: 17 Lower Banister St, Southampton. Telephone: +44 23 8033 4280 Website: www.popworldparty.co.uk

• Trilogy 

This huge, Trilogy Disco club offers one of the most famous late-night experiences in the city. Each room is styled to represent a different destination from around the globe, so you can travel the world over the course of one fun-packed evening. Booths are also available if pre-booked. Address: Waterloo Buildings, 55 London Rd, Southampton. Telephone: +44 23 8039 3033 Website: www.trilogysouthampton.com

• The Edge

This long-established gay club has been refurbished and offers an expertly lit dance floor, a classy upstairs bar, a VIP lounge and a large outdoors area. An in-house diner opens on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, catering for dancers with the munchies. The club hosts a line-up of award-winning DJs playing pop classics and commercial house. Address: Compton Walk, Southampton. Telephone: +44 23 8036 6163 Website: www.theedgesouthampton.com

Live music in Southampton

• O2 Guildhall

For bigger acts, try the O2 Guildhall: a 1930s neo classical-style building that has hosted bands from Pink Floyd and David Bowie in the 1970s to the Killers and Amy Winehouse. Today the programme includes everything from big international pop bands to comeback acts and even classical music. Address: West Marlands Road, Civic Centre, Southampton. Telephone: +44 23 8063 2601 Website: www.o2guildhallsouthampton.co.uk

• Platform Tavern

Located in the historic dockland area, this laid-back watering hole has a solid reputation for live music, with the focus on blues bands. Live music is offered on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays featuring local musicians as well as touring bands. Address: Town Quay, Southampton. Telephone: +44 23 8251 7782 Website: www.platformtavern.com

• The Brook

Set in the heart of Southampton’s student district, this 600-capacity venue boasts a calendar packed with international acts, tribute bands and comedy. The emphasis is on rock and blues, but the line-up is eclectic enough to appeal to all tastes. Book in advance as tickets often sell out quickly. Address: 466 Portswood Road, Southampton. Telephone: +44 23 8055 5366 Website: www.the-brook.com

Southampton Food And Drink

Food in Southampton

As a city famed for its maritime heritage, Southampton has so much more to offer to a foodie than just seafood. Authentic Italian restaurants, Hampshire’s best café and regular food markets all add to the city’s vibrant culinary offering.

•  Fried Fish

Fresh, very fresh, Southampton fish  with lemon sauce (also known as fried lake bass) is breaded and fried, served piping hot and eaten immediately.

• Hamburgers

it’s not exactly the city’s most iconic dish, but in Southampton even the burger is serious business to be handled with care. In the British city’s eateries, there are numerous variations of the king of junk food, a perfect blend of classic minced meat, peanut butter and other delicious British-derived ingredients.

• Maple Sundae

During your stay in the county town of Hampshire you can’t help but treat yourself to a moment of endless sweetness with the maple sundae, luxurious ice cream served in a crunchy waffle and ‘washed down’ with maple syrup.

• Omelette

Southampton is known for producing some of the besteggs in Britain, which are mainly used in cooking to make omelettes. Again, the influence of European (French in this case) or international gastronomy is very high; local chefs, however, are very good at revisiting recipes from local and non-local traditions, giving the dishes a personal touch.

•  Steamed clams

Cooked healthily and accompanied by a delicious melted butter sauce, steamed clams are one of the most popular fish dishes in Southampton.

• Lobster Roll

A novel way to enjoylobster, much more convenient and perhaps less chic, but no less delicious. American influences return to the kitchens of Southampton with the lobster roll, a lobster roll stuffed with butter, herbs and spices, to be served hot or cold, according to tradition.

• Garlic Bread

One of the cornerstones of British cuisine isgarlic bread. This is, of course, bread flavoured with garlic, butter and herbs: excellent as an aperitif, starter or as an accompaniment to meat and fish dishes.

• Pancakes

Never, ever say no to a portion of soft, delicious pancakes, drizzled with a cascade of maple syrup! A sweet charge for a typically English breakfast, this delicious dessert can be eaten at any time of day, as a snack or even as a midnight snack.

• Mussels Marinara

Southampton’s seafood staple is mussels marinara, with the inevitable garlic, white wine and cream sauce.

• Jacket Potato

Known as jacket potatoes in Italy, jacket potatoes are a must in English cuisine. Served with any side dish, steaming hot and delicious, jacket potatoes are a versatile, hearty and delicious vegetable dish.

Drink In Southampton

• COCKTAIL

Flavours like our refreshing Paloma and striking Negroni Tropicale. Indulge in the exotic notes of our Cuban Swizzle, the decadent Chocolate Orange Martini, and of course, our Amaretto Sour – a fusion of zesty sour mix and the delectable sweetness of Disaronno.

• WINE

Wine refreshing whites from new world regions, rich and intense reds from renowned European vineyards, blushing rosés perfect for sun-soaked.

• DELICIOUS DRAUGHTS (Beer)

With fantastic draught range, you can explore the world without leaving your favourite pub. Take a trip through famous world beers and more local English favourites on draught or by the bottle, including the light and crisp Beavertown Neck Oil.