A Pre-Cruise Guide to Southampton

Southampton is a city on the South Coast of England, nestled between Portsmouth and Bournemouth. It is one of the largest cities in Hampshire, and a well-known setting off point for numerous cruise ships. Cruises from Southampton include destinations such as the Mediterranean, Canary Islands, Caribbean, and Northern European countries such as Norway. Cruise ships typically tend to set off at varying times, including late nights and early mornings, so it’s possible you will have some time to spend in the city before boarding with the cruise line of your choice. Thinking practically, a dayroom from daybreakhotels.com selection of hotels on offer is a good way to rest pre-journey. Here are some other activities you might like to consider whilst you are in Southampton if time allows:

Museums and Art Galleries

The SeaCity Museum includes maritime activities and displays. You can learn all about the Titanic here, too, and there is a cafe as well as exploration zone and gift shop. Solent Sky is an aviation museum where you can find out about the history of flight and flying in the local area. There are also a number of art galleries.

Sightseeing

Southampton’s town walls are a sequence of defensive structures built around the town and are easy and free to view. You can gain further insight into the city’s history through a visit to the Tudor House and Garden, a Grade I listed building that is now a tourist attraction and museum.

City Parks

There are some beautiful parks in the city, including Southampton Common, Hoglands Park, and the Greenways. The Common is a Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its unusual flora and fauna. It is the largest open green space in the city.

Eating and Drinking

Of course, there are a good range of cafes, restaurants and pubs in this thriving Southern city. All the usual chains are here, plus many local gems as well. Other attractions include cinemas, theatres, St Mary’s Stadium for sports fans, and concert venues such as The Guildhall. Southampton is a city well worth exploring if you do have a little time to spend, and with so much to see and do, your time is certain to go very swiftly.