Southampton, England, UK cruises
Southampton port guide
As the main city and port on England's south coast, Southampton's harbour is a gateway to a world of adventures. The promenade alongside the marina invites you to explore the city's maritime allure. Once a vital trading port, Southampton has evolved into a brilliant destination, boasting an array of cafes, restaurants, museums, and galleries.
A short distance from the city you’ll also discover sprawling beaches and idyllic national parks, as well as some quintessentially English delights – from fish and chips served in trays to warm and welcoming pubs.
Top landmarks and sights in Southampton
Southampton City Walls
The remnants of Southampton’s medieval city walls and ruined towers take you on a journey through history. These ancient fortifications offer a glimpse into the city’s past and lead curious visitors around the 1.25 mile perimeter, covering 13 remaining towers and six city gates.
SeaCity Museum
Immerse yourself in Southampton's maritime history at the SeaCity Museum. This interactive museum delves into the city's RMS Titanic connections and explains how the tragedy affected the local people. It also showcases various maritime exhibits and the history of Southampton, from Roman traders to WWII.
Tudor House and Garden
Find a chance to step back in time at the Tudor House and Garden, a beautifully preserved 15th Century Tudor-era building. Here you can wander through the charming gardens and explore the fascinating artefacts and stories from Southampton's past.
Southampton Common
You could escape to nature at Southampton Common, the largest open outdoor space in Southampton. This much-loved vast urban park offers scenic trails, a nature play area and water park for the little ones, Hawthorns Urban Wildlife Centre, and a chance to take time out in the heart of the bustling city.
Solent Sky Museum
Why not delve into the incredible story of aviation in Hampshire, by visiting the birthplace of the Spitfire? Just a short walk from the pretty Ocean Village Marina, learn the intriguing history of this great fighting aircraft as well as the largest flying boat operation in the world and other amazing aircraft.
Things to do in Southampton
Westquay Shopping Centre
You could indulge in a little retail therapy at Westquay Shopping Centre. Located in the heart of the city, this modern centre boasts a wide range of shops, boutiques, and eateries. Here you’ll find British retailers such as M&S and John Lewis, a variety of fashion labels, as well as other lifestyle and beauty brands.
Mayflower Theatre
If time permits, you could catch a show at the Mayflower Theatre. First opened in 1928, this is the biggest theatre on the south coast. It’s known for fantastic performances and entertainment, from musicals and dramas to ballet and comedy.
Ocean Village Marina
Relax at Ocean Village Marina, an upscale waterfront area located in the heart of the city. Featuring restaurants, bars, and stunning views of the marina and the Solent, Ocean Village is a lovely place to visit for a slow-paced couple of hours.
Self-guided walks
As Southampton’s central attractions are only a short distance from the port and the city, you could discover much of what’s on offer on one of the many local self-guided walks. These are a great way to see The Titanic Trail, the QE2 mile, and the City Walls.
Eating and drinking in Southampton
Southampton’s many cafes, bars, and restaurants are spread over a wide area and represent a diverse mix of cuisine, from traditional English dishes to international flavours. There are places to grab a light bite, such as Westquay Shopping Centre, as well as fine dining options.
Along Oxford Street, you’ll find elegant cafés, bars, and restaurants serving the best of British cuisine. Bedford Place is more relaxed and offers some excellent sushi options as well as Mauritian street food by MasterChef UK champion Shelina Permalloo, at Lakaz Maman.
Southampton has a lively craft beer scene with many independent tasting rooms around town. The Dancing Man, set in a medieval wool house, is one of the best, offering pale ales, lagers, and IPAs, just a short distance from the port.
Getting around, Southampton transport
While Southampton can be explored on foot, public transport, taxis, and car hire services are readily available for convenient travel within the city and beyond.
Shuttle buses provide access to various points of interest from the port gates.
Southampton port facilities
The port facilities at Southampton port include a café and a shuttle bus, and a taxi pick up and drop off location.
Southampton quick tips
Currency
The local currency in Southampton, UK, is the British Pound (GBP). Card payments are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments.
Tipping
Tipping is not mandatory in Southampton, but leaving a small gratuity for exceptional service is appreciated.
Weather
Southampton enjoys a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and warm summers. Summers can reach highs of around 31°C, while winter temperatures can drop to lows of 6°C. Like much of Britain, Southampton does tend to see a fair amount of rain throughout the year.