Things to do in Southampton, England: The Best Historical & Heritage Tours

July 4, 2021 Frederic Celentano

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. 3 Day West Country Private Tour

Bath Insider Tours
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

This 3 day private tour gives a fantastic experience of the attractions in the West of England whilst spending 2 nights in the beautiful city of Bath. The tour starts with your pick-up from the port/hotel at Southampton and includes a drop-off at the end of the tour for your next destination. Places visited include: Stonehenge, the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage City of Bath, the Roman Baths, Wells - England's smallest city, the birth-place of the Cheddar Cheese and stunning countryside & villages. Accommodation is not included. Please contact Bath Insider Tours if you would like recommendations or assistance with your accommodation.

Inclusions: Private 3 day tour with local guide, All admission prices (Stonehenge, Roman Baths, Wells Cathedral), Private transportation in air-conditioned vehicle, Cruise ship/hotel pick up from Southampton, Private transfer to your next destination (within 3 hours drive of Bath)

Exclusions: 2 nights accommodation in Bath, Food and drinks, Gratuities

Reviewed By Shirley S

Without doubt one of the most informative tours I’ve had by a tour guide. To give context to the reason we went to Bath was my Mum was one of 5 children who lived in Bath in WW2. She was 6 years of age at the time and all her sisters and brother shared their experience of the Bath Blitz to our family and her grandchildren. As i was visiting my sister who lives down near Bath, and our cousin. This was a huge surprise for my Mam, as My sister had contacted Daniel to tell him of where she used to live. Daniel went to the trouble of taking us to where she lived, and had even contacted a neighbour who lived near my Mum and the gentleman kindly shared some pictures of the property before it was demolished due to the bombings. From beginning to end, the vast knowledge and information he shared with us was not a tour, it was an experience. His friendly approach and engaging manner made this a day for my Mum and myself and Cousin a day to remember. Nothing was too much trouble and his wit and vocal tone were perfect, you will never tire of listening to him and the history of this beautiful city. I was not sure what to expect from the day and as an avid shopper, even I was NOT interested in shopping with exception of The Fudge Kitchen as I had mentioned my colleagues had “hinted” that they love it. Daniel took us, to the shop and we were not disappointed! I am sure my colleagues will be disappointed as the fudge certainly won’t be travelling back to Durham as I will have eaten it before I go back. I’ve learned so much today and to see my Mums face and engagement with Daniel will be a day none of us will ever forget. Thank you so much for such a very special afternoon.

2. Southampton Cruise Term/ Hotel to London with Stopovers at Stonehenge & Windsor

Londoncruise-transfers
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Visit these majestic Stones at Stonehenge these are a wonder of the world and its status is of World Heritage also discover how and why they are there. Then onward to Windsor Castle where at your leisure enjoy the State rooms and St George's Chapel on this self guided tour. • Enjoy a Hassle Free pick up from Southampton Cruise Terminal • Transportation back to your Central London Accommodation/London Hotel  • Family Friendly • Stonehenge 2 Hours Sightseeing  • Windsor Castle 3 Hours Sightseeing  • Duration 8 Hours including travel time • Visit the visitors centre

Inclusions: Meet and Greet Service at the Cruise Terminal & Hotel drop off, Transport by air-conditioned Luxury Mercedes Luxury Vehicle with car Wifi, Beverages (Coffee & Tea),Bottled Water with snacks(Croissants & Muffins), Private Self-Guided Sightseeing tour with 2 Hrs viewing at Stonehenge & 4 Hrs at Windsor & Castle, Luxury Service at an Affordable Price, Coronavirus (Covid-19) Safety-Face masks & Hand Sanitiser issued to all travelling clients

Exclusions: Entrance/admission fees to Stonehenge & Windsor Castle these have to be purchased via there websites, Audio Guides at additional cost to be purchased at these 2 sites, Gratuities

Reviewed By Christopher E

Dave and Darren were professional, arrived, early, and were extremely polite. The vans we booked were supper clean and smelled fresh and they provided power charging cords, water, and tissues for the ride. A smooth journey and a safe trip.

3. Stonehenge and Bath Tour with overnight stay in Bath

Bath Insider Tours
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Enjoy an overnight stay in the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage City of Bath on this 2 day private tour. Includes a private tour of Bath and a private tour of Stonehenge. Overnight accommodation is included as is your pick-up from Southampton and a private transfer to your next destination on the second day. • Private tour by a local guide who was born and grew-up in Bath • Explore 2 famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Stonehenge and Bath • Benefit from the insider knowledge of a local guide • Round-trip transfers and personalized service of a private tour • All costs, except meals and souvenirs, included

Inclusions: Breakfast, Overnight accommodation in Bath in a boutique guest house, Private tour with local guide, All admission prices (Stonehenge, Roman Baths), Private transportation in air-conditioned vehicle, Cruise ship/hotel pick-up from Southampton, Private transfer to your next destination (within 3 hours drive of Bath)

Exclusions: Meals and refreshments (except breakfast at the hotel), Gratuities

Reviewed By Shirley S

Without doubt one of the most informative tours I’ve had by a tour guide. To give context to the reason we went to Bath was my Mum was one of 5 children who lived in Bath in WW2. She was 6 years of age at the time and all her sisters and brother shared their experience of the Bath Blitz to our family and her grandchildren. As i was visiting my sister who lives down near Bath, and our cousin. This was a huge surprise for my Mam, as My sister had contacted Daniel to tell him of where she used to live. Daniel went to the trouble of taking us to where she lived, and had even contacted a neighbour who lived near my Mum and the gentleman kindly shared some pictures of the property before it was demolished due to the bombings. From beginning to end, the vast knowledge and information he shared with us was not a tour, it was an experience. His friendly approach and engaging manner made this a day for my Mum and myself and Cousin a day to remember. Nothing was too much trouble and his wit and vocal tone were perfect, you will never tire of listening to him and the history of this beautiful city. I was not sure what to expect from the day and as an avid shopper, even I was NOT interested in shopping with exception of The Fudge Kitchen as I had mentioned my colleagues had “hinted” that they love it. Daniel took us, to the shop and we were not disappointed! I am sure my colleagues will be disappointed as the fudge certainly won’t be travelling back to Durham as I will have eaten it before I go back. I’ve learned so much today and to see my Mums face and engagement with Daniel will be a day none of us will ever forget. Thank you so much for such a very special afternoon.

4. Transfer from Southampton to London via Oxford and Blenheim Palace

Undiscovered Cotswolds
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Avoid a long wait at the taxi rank or the stress of navigating public transport with this chauffeur driver private transfer from Southampton cruise terminal to London via Oxford and Blenheim Palace. Book this private transfer and your driver will collect you from Southampton cruise terminal or nearby accommodation and transfer you to central London or London Heathrow via Oxford and Blenheim Palace. The transfer includes a private guided tour around Oxford and includes pre-booked admission into Blenheim Palace giving you fast-track entrance.

Inclusions: One-way private transport in a modern comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, Southampton port pick up and hotel drop off in central London or Heathrow Airport, Professional local guide/driver, Tickets to Blenheim Palace

Exclusions: Entrance fees to other attractions, Food or refreshments, Gratuities

Reviewed By mptaylor11

Our family had a wonderful time exploring Oxford and the Cotswolds with Graham, whom we found to be very knowledgable and friendly. The tour was well structured but also left enough flexibility for us to explore our specific interests. It felt like we were traveling with an old friend rather than someone we had just met. This was time well spent that provided us with fond memories from our family vacation.

5. Highclere Castle and Downton Abbey Film locations Day Tour from Southampton

Undiscovered Cotswolds
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Immerse yourself in the world of Downton Abbey by visiting real-life filming locations.  Departing from Southampton, this tour takes you to Bampton, the village featured as Downton, Cogges Manor Farm which became Yew Tree Farm, and the real Downton Abbey at the magnificent Highclere Castle.

Inclusions: Professional local guide/driver, Transportation in a modern comfortable air-conditioned vehicle., Southampton hotel/port pickup and drop-off, Private tour, Entrance tickets to Highclere Castle & Cogges Manor Farm

Exclusions: Entrance fees to other attractions, Food or refreshments, Gratuities

Reviewed By mptaylor11

Our family had a wonderful time exploring Oxford and the Cotswolds with Graham, whom we found to be very knowledgable and friendly. The tour was well structured but also left enough flexibility for us to explore our specific interests. It felt like we were traveling with an old friend rather than someone we had just met. This was time well spent that provided us with fond memories from our family vacation.

6. Bath and Stonehenge Day Tour from Southampton

Undiscovered Cotswolds
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Explore some of England’s most beautiful and historical sights on this full-day trip from Southampton.  Take time out from your cruise vacation to discover the delights of Bath and Stonehenge. Spend the morning in Bath, a UNESCO-listed city famed for its Georgian architecture, Roman Baths and connection with Jane Austen. Then, travel to the prehistoric stone circle of Stonehenge.

Inclusions: Professional local guide/driver, Transportation in a modern comfortable air-conditioned vehicle., Southampton hotel/port pickup and drop-off, Entrance tickets to the Roman Baths & Stonehenge, This is a private tour

Exclusions: Entrance fees to other attractions, Food or refreshments, Gratuities

Reviewed By mptaylor11

Our family had a wonderful time exploring Oxford and the Cotswolds with Graham, whom we found to be very knowledgable and friendly. The tour was well structured but also left enough flexibility for us to explore our specific interests. It felt like we were traveling with an old friend rather than someone we had just met. This was time well spent that provided us with fond memories from our family vacation.

7. Walk the Secrets of the Titanic: Private Tour

Town Quay Marina, Town Quay, Southampton SO14 2AQ, UK Walsh Tours
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

We will hear the stories and secrets of the Titanic but also Southampton's Port of Present and Past: the Mayflower, the QE2, and of course the Titanic itself.... Groups limited to 6 in keeping with UK guidelines Tour Starting Point: Outside the Starbucks on Town Quay Pier

Inclusions: Photography

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Reviewed By scottcM8638IP

Bryan was an enthusiastic and pleasant tour guide, who didnt just cover Secrets of the Titanic but other aspects of maritime history in Southampton. if you walk round Southampton before the tour, you may notice one or two sights linked with Titanic but Bryans tour will certainly reveal far more than you could have imagined. - Thank You once again Bryan.

8. Walk the Secrets of the Titanic

Town Quay Marina, Town Quay, Southampton SO14 2AQ, UK Walsh Tours
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4.8 based on 47 reviews

We will hear the stories and secrets of the Titanic but also Southampton's Port of Present and Past: the Mayflower, the QE2, and of course the Titanic itself.... Groups limited to 6 in keeping with UK guidelines Tour Starting Point: Outside the Starbucks on Town Quay Pier

Inclusions: Photography

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Reviewed By WeekdayAdventure

Bryan personable and very knowledgeable, made the walk great fun despite the soggy weather. The pub he recommends at the conclusion is lovely as well.

9. Salisbury and Stonehenge Day Tour from Southampton

Undiscovered Cotswolds

On this private tour from Southampton you visit the prehistoric stone circle known as Stonehenge and also enjoy a visit to the delightful town of Salisbury, including a visit to its famous Cathedral with Britain’s tallest spire and best-preserved Magna Carta.

Inclusions: Professional local guide/driver, Transportation in a modern comfortable air-conditioned vehicle., Southampton hotel/port pickup and drop-off, Private tour

Exclusions: Entrance fees to other attractions, Food or refreshments, Gratuities

Reviewed By mptaylor11

Our family had a wonderful time exploring Oxford and the Cotswolds with Graham, whom we found to be very knowledgable and friendly. The tour was well structured but also left enough flexibility for us to explore our specific interests. It felt like we were traveling with an old friend rather than someone we had just met. This was time well spent that provided us with fond memories from our family vacation.

10. Salisbury and Magna Carta Private Tour from Southampton

T & T Southampton

Travel in a comfortable vehicle with a friendly, helpful and knowledgeable driver. We provide a very personal service and are based near Southampton with a very wide local knowledge and offer a very flexible service, if you have any ideas or places you want to visit during this tour, let us know and we will do what we can to accommodate. With 14 years experience we can offer the best in service, with a relaxed and reliable service. Our main vehicle is a Mercedes E350 but larger vehicles may be available on request. We always supply air conditioned vehicles with bottled water for your comfort and generally supply WiFi where available. We also pride ourselves on our flexibility so if you wish to change your booking please ask and we will do whatever we can to adjust to your requirements.

Inclusions: Bottled water, Air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi on board, Private transportation

Exclusions: Entrance fee to Stonehenge £21.10 per person and Cathedral £7.50 per person at time of writing

Reviewed By Thorold12

Oliver is a fantastic driver. Professional, courteous, knowledgeable and friendly. His car is always immaculate and he is exceptionally reliable. Highly recommended for airport transfers in Hampshire and Surrey.

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