Location: Southampton
Top Things to do in Southampton
10 Things to do in Southampton That You Shouldn't Miss
Southwest of London is Southampton (Soton to the locals), a metropolitan area centered around the port. However, tucked away on the side streets are ancient gems such as the Tudor House, Mottisfont Abbey, and "God's House," a museum located in a tower in the medieval wall. The ultra-modern Sea City Museum celebrates Southampton's seafaring past and the RMS Titanic. Looking for nightlife? Travelers can dance the hours away with bars, clubs, and live music, all accessible by public transportation.
Restaurants in Southampton
1. Steamship Shieldhall
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 286 reviews
The Steamship Shieldhall is the largest working steam ship in Britain. A member of the National Historic Fleet she serves as a sea going tribute to Britain's maritime heritage. As a passenger you too can experience the golden age of steam by booking on an excursion or visiting her in Southampton.
Reviewed By Nath74370 - Guildford, United Kingdom
The 2 of us enjoyed a fantastic time onboard the Shieldhall thanks to its amazing team of knowledgeable and friendly volunteers working in the engine room, on the bridge, at the shop/restaurant, on deck including a commentator on all landmarks we passed . They made a huge impression on my son who is a typical 'teen'. The vessel is very stable and I did not feel seasick, nor did I see the 3 hours pass by as we spent our time visiting the engine room as well as the bridge and every other part of the ship. We had a fab time! Suitable for e very age group.
2. Solent Sky Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 869 reviews
Solent Sky Museum showcases the history of aviation in Southampton - Spitfire City - and the surrounding Solent area.Geographically this was the most important area in the country, perhaps the world, for aircraft experimental and development work between 1908 and the late 1960s. 26 aircraft companies set up shop in the area, and many of the world’s greatest aircraft, including the legendary Spitfire, first took to the air in the skies over Southampton.We have 18 complete airframes, including a Supermarine Spitfire and Supermarine S6a (N248), and also 4 cockpit sections. We also have a comprehensive collection of aero-engines.Our mighty Sandringham Flying Boat was originally built as a Short Sunderland in 1943, and converted to a passenger aircraft after the war. Visitors are welcome to board the aircraft to sample the luxury of air travel in the romantic era of the great flying boats, and guided tours of the flight deck are also available.Kids (and big kids) can also imagine what it would be like to fly a jet fighter while sat in the cockpits of our Supermarine Swift and Harrier Jump Jet. Our new Schneider Trophy Exhibition is now open, with its record-breaking centrepiece the S6a. Video stock footage of these legendary races and artefacts from the time illustrate the drama and romance of the fastest race in history.
Reviewed By Exploration814927
We visited in the afternoon and were warmly greeted by two volunteers, one of whom gave us a brief introduction to the layout, including the relatively new section which now includes the Hampshire Police and Fire Service Museum exhibits. A volunteer quickly showed my grandson to a couple of jet fighter cockpits to sit in ( including flying helmet ), and he was hooked! We spent the next two hours working our way around, including the magnificent flying boat over which another volunteer gave us a comprehensive and very informative tour. All the volunteers were very interesting and knowledgeable. A wonderful afternoon. We will certainly go again.
3. Hythe Ferry
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 605 reviews
This scheduled ferry service operates every half hour between Southampton's Town Quay and Hythe Pier, passing by Ocean Terminal that is home of the QE2.
Reviewed By tonyinbrighton - Brighton, United Kingdom
It was a sunny day and having seen TA reviews we decided to visit Hythe and try the ferry. There is a market on Tuesdays where we found some good value plants, and also bulbs not generally found in garden centres so that was a good result. Hythe is small, has a friendly atmosphere and plenty of pay & display parking. On the day we were there the train/ferry service was operating hourly until 4:00pm when it reverted to the normal half hourly schedule. Cost was £7.50 return and takes about 10-12 minutes or so. Probably best to avoid rush hour. Good fun and nice people so worth a visit!
4. The Common
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 406 reviews
This 327-acre wide-open green space in the heart of Southampton is a designated "Site of Special Scientific Interest" and an excellent venue for picnicking, walking and watching wildlife.
Reviewed By 722megr - Southampton, United Kingdom
How lucky we are that the Council has protected this open space . Best time to walk is early in the morning before the less-careful folks are about. (Covid care)
5. Tudor House and Garden
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 626 reviews
Tudor House gives a unique and atmospheric insight into the lives and times of both its residents through the years, and of Southampton itself. It appeals to visitors of all ages and interests, who find the family-friendly activities, interactive technology and fascinating displays a winning combination.
Reviewed By MichaelandKaren
At just £5 this is absolutely amazing value for money! Great audio guide and beautiful gardens. Very well preserved and fascinating video about its recent restoration. Lots of information over several centuries and fab interactive displays that turn 360 degrees.Lovely gift shop and very helpful staff especially on the front desk and knowledgeable room guides. A must see place for anyone visiting Southampton and for all ages.
6. Mayflower Theatre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,329 reviews
Reviewed By emma1991emma - Poole, United Kingdom
We’ve seen many brilliant shows at the mayflower now. Mamma Mia being the most recent. Always have great cast. Drinks and snacks are way over priced but that’s always the same for any venue.
7. St Mary's Stadium
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 557 reviews
Reviewed By BOOE - Nicosia, Cyprus
Visited St. Mary’s for the first time to watch a premier league game of Southampton last February. Quite satisfied with the design and the view. Comfortable seats, well trained and polite stewards and fast and easy movement of supporters. Lovely atmosphere. Would like to go back again.
8. Red Funnel Isle of Wight Ferries
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 2,037 reviews
Red Funnel has a proud history of serving the Isle of Wight since 1820, carrying 3.4 million passengers to the Island each year. We have won awards for safety, innovation & service including Certificates of Excellence from Trip Advisor every year since 2013. Choose between two stunning routes: our Southampton-East Cowes (former home of Queen Victoria) service takes 1 hour, operates 365 days/year and carries vehicles & passengers. On board, enjoy free Wi-Fi, hot & cold food, a bar & coffee shops, or upgrade to the Signature Lounge, for a quieter club class experience. Our 2nd route connects Southampton to the world-famous yacht racing town of West Cowes. Our modern ‘Red Jet’ Hi-Speed catamarans take just 23 min to cross the Solent. Our entire fleet is dog friendly. Look to us for expert travel advice, accommodation bookings, attraction & event tickets. The opening times displayed are our Contact Centre hours.
Reviewed By Rkemsley - Sittingbourne, United Kingdom
Worth paying for the signature lounge with COVID-19 restrictions and the priorty boarding ( this can prove helpful if the ferry timetable gets delayed) All the staff were very helpful and welcoming. The crossings were calm and dry so we were delighted with our trip. Both Southampton and East Cowes have holding space for cars if you are early for your booking.
9. Westquay
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 435 reviews
Reviewed By sa202020
Great shopping centre with lots of big stores. Probably best shopping outside of Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth.
10. SeaCity Museum
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1,481 reviews
Reviewed By 996thailas - San Mateo, United States
We recently booked the SeaCity Museum for a virtual birthday party for my 8-year old son and it was a HUGE hit! My son is fascinated with the Titanic and was very insistent that he wanted a party on this topic. We live in the US and after not having much luck finding someone local, we looked across the pond. :). Kate and Andy were both so engaging and fun, and kept a large group of children and adults engaged for a full hour. The presentation included several interactive features such as polls, a mini scavenger hurt, identifying mystery artifacts, and decoding Morse Code, which kept all of us captivated throughout. After the party, I received so many messages from friends expressing how much their children enjoyed and learned about the Titanic! I highly recommend booking SeaCity Museum for your next virtual birthday party. Thank you, Kate and Andy!
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