Situated some 70
miles south of London, Southampton is a major port city with a rich history.
Most only travel to the area due to it being a transport hub, but Southampton
has so much to offer beyond the surface. If you need convincing, here are five
reasons why it is worth spending a day — or two — exploring Southampton:
5 Reasons to Pay a Visit to Southampton (photo: visit southampton) |
Okay, it’s time to get
the most obvious reason to visit Southampton out of the way first. As the
busiest cruise terminal in the UK, many people flock to the city to set sail
for an international adventure. If you browse cheap cruises from Southampton,
it’s easy to understand why it is such a popular starting point.
2. Explore the
Preserved History
Ever since the
Normans rocked up in 1066, Southampton has been a focal point of British
history. As you explore the area, you will see different ways its history has
been preserved. The Bargate, a World Heritage site, is a medieval gatehouse
which has stood proudly in the heart of the city for over 800 years.
Part-museum, part-historic-site, the Tudor House and Garden is self-described
as the “most important historic building” found in Southampton. With part of
the attraction dating back hundreds of years, this house provides a fascinating
insight into the lives of its residents through the centuries.
3. Museums and
Galleries Galore
It’s far from being
as flush with museums and galleries as, say, Paris, but Southampton has its
fair share of such attractions. In that regard, one of the city’s best is the
SeaCity Museum. This museum details the story of the Titanic, and how the ship
— which departed from Southampton — affected the city both before, and after,
its tragic demise.
Solent Sky Museum is a showcase for Southampton’s aviation
history where actual plane exhibits are combined with historical documentary
footage. For a slice of culture, visit the Southampton City Art Gallery. First
opened in 1939, this gallery is renowned internationally due to its fantastic
collection of art — both contemporary and historic — on display.
4. See a Show
If you are fortunate
enough to be in Southampton when a show is on, don’t miss the opportunity to
visit the beautiful Mayflower Theatre. This Grade II listed building, which
features a capacity of 2,300, regularly hosts touring West End theatre
productions. Music shows and comedy performances also complete the regular schedule at the Mayflower Theatre. Fun fact: local legend says an old man,
residing backstage in a wicker chair, haunts the theatre.
5. Retail Therapy at
Westquay
If you’ve returned
from your cruise and still have some spending money left, head over to the
Westquay Shopping Centre. This is one of the UK’s most popular shopping centres
for a reason, as it packs in over 100 retailers. Fashion, toys, technology,
beauty — every category you can think of is covered via a large mix of popular
high street names. If you’re feeling peckish, the Westquay also boasts a
generous selection of restaurants and fast-food outlets.
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