The 10 Best Museums in Southampton, England

Bursledon Brickworks Industrial Museum is all set to become one of the key visitor attractions in the South. The only remaining steam driven brickworks in the country we show how brick making made the leap from small scale production to 20 million bricks a year. The fully restored and working machinery helped us to win the coveted Institute of Mechanical Engineering Heritage Award in 2011 and on Open Days we can show it all running as it was when it ceased producing bricks. On site you can see the patented method adopted to dry the bricks and the huge kiln block that was used to fire them ready for collection. The museum has other clay based collections on site and lots of opportunities on offer which makes a visit both enjoyable and educational.

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.

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.

Southampton City Art Gallery is the most outstanding gallery in the South of England and is internationally renowned for its impressive collection and temporary exhibitions programme. The works on display, of both historic and contemporary art, show the breadth and quality of the City’s art treasures. The Gallery attracts a wide audience and through the exciting education programme it provides and promote opportunities for greater access, involvement and understanding of visual art in Southampton.

John Hansard Gallery is an internationally recognised and locally engaged contemporary art gallery in Southampton. Being part of the University of Southampton, the Gallery aims to change the world for the better through great art. To realise this the Gallery creates innovative and critically acclaimed contemporary art exhibitions, events, engagement and research projects that excite, challenge, represent and reach the widest possible public audience. Since being established in 1979 the Gallery has been located on the University’s Highfield Campus. In 2018 the Gallery will relocate to the new purpose-built arts complex Studio 144 in Southampton’s city centre, significantly increasing the space available for exhibitions, events and integrated programming. Learning and engagement are at the heart of the Gallery and underpin all its activities. The innovative education and public programme is accompanied by special community-focused projects, including activities for all ages and levels.

NOW OPEN! Southampton's brand new arts and heritage venue. Inspirational art, stunning rooftop views, and 700 years of history.