Southampton Information

With its history based on the docks, and a modern university, Southampton is an intriguing mixture of the ancient and the new.
It has been a British seaport since Roman times, and has witnessed many historic events. Legend reports that it was here in 1016 that the Viking King Canute commanded the waves to retreat. Armies embarked from Southampton during the Hundred Years War to win the Battles of Crecy and Agincourt, and in 1620 the Pilgrim Fathers set out for America from here, in the Mayflower. Henry V left for Agincourt from Westgate.

Perhaps the most famous event in the history of the docks was the departure of the SS Titanic, on its ill-fated voyage in April 1912. There is a monument in East Park dedicated to the memory of the liner's engineers, paid for by ‘fellow engineers and friends throughout the world'. This story is told in detail at the Maritime Museum, housed in a 14th century warehouse.

The town took its fair share of destruction during WW2, but miraculously the medieval walls and city gates survived. Explore Bargate, with its turrets and the museum, and visit 19th century church of St Mary, the Norman church of St Michael (with its font of rare black marble), and Holy Wood church with its 14th century tower.

Other places of interest include 15th century God's House Tower, with an archaeology exhibition and information about the city's Saxon past. The Hall of Aviation houses old aircraft, and tells the story of the Spitfire, designed by local aviation pioneer R.J. Mitchell. The Tudor House is a great example of 16th century architecture.
The City Art Gallery has European art and don't miss the impressive ruins of the 12th century palace of the Bishop of Winchester, William of Wykeham, who founded Winchester College, and New College in Oxford.

There are some good multi-national restaurants, and opportunities for theatre and dancing. And if it's shopping you fancy, the complex at West Quay is reported to be the largest in Europe.
Children will love Mayflower Park, with play areas, paddling pool and picnic area, and where they can sit and spot the ocean liners. Marwell Zoo has all the usual animals, plus a Tropical House and play areas. Manor Country Farm is a working farm with woodland and river walks. And Paultons Park is a theme park with laid-back rides, animals and shows, plus woods and lakes.

Southampton is renowned as one of the world's premier venues for sailing and watersports, and has excellent marina facilities. It is the home of many liners including the Queen Mary, the Queen Elizabeth and the QE2, the Oriana, the Aurora and the Arcadia. Take a cruise in the Solent, or sail a tall ship for a taste of something really different!

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