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 Study centre for urban wildlife and ecology |
The Common Southampton, Hampshire SO15 7NN United Kingdom +44 2380 67 1921 |
Situated on the site of the old zoo, this is a small but sweet centre for the study of ecology and local wildlife. Inside are a range of exploratory activities, such as worksheets to fill out, puzzles to do and things to marvel at through microscopes. There is also a display of native animals and a tiny gift shop to soak up any spare pocket money. Outside there are a series of nature reserves. You have to stick to the paths so that the wildlife is not disturbed, so it is not a good place for rampaging toddlers, but 5-11 year olds will enjoy it and it may even help with those homework projects. Closed on bank holidays. Admission: free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Zoological park and conservation centre |
Colden Common Southampton, Hampshire SO21 1JH United Kingdom +44 1962 77 7407 http://www.marwell.org.uk |
Marwell is one of Britain's leading zoological parks. Founded in 1972, it currently has over 200 rare and endangered species in its breeding programmes. It specialises in hoofed animals, but also features a wide variety of creatures ranging from giraffe to spiders. The site is huge (around 100 acres) but there are trains to carry visitors around the enclosures. For lunch there is a choice between the restaurant and several picnic sites and there is a gift shop which includes an extensive selection of books. The zoo also prides itself on its educational activities and details of these are available on request. Last entry one hour before closing. Closed Christmas Day. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Ancient woodland and wildlife |
Deerleap Lane Longdown Southampton, Hampshire SO40 4UH United Kingdom +44 2380 29 2408 http://www.ottersandowl.co.uk |
Having a day in the New Forest and feeling slightly disappointed that you have not spotted any local wildlife? Then this conservation park is for you. It consists of 25 acres of ancient woodland, with otter and owl enclosures on circular nature trails. Wildlife in this case means deer, badgers, wild boar, foxes, owls and otters of all shapes and sizes, but the owners are especially keen to conserve barn owls and otters because they are endangered species. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Must-see for aviation buffs |
Albert Rd S (opposite Ocean Village) Southampton, Hampshire SO14 3FR United Kingdom +44 2380 63 5830 http://www.spitfireonline.co.uk |
This museum is a must-see for aviation buffs and a great tribute to one of Southampton's heroes, R J Mitchell - the designer of the legendary Spitfire, which was built in Southampton. Exhibits at the museum include a real Sandringham flying boat, a Spitfire and 13 other aircraft, plus masses of photos, models and engines. After taking in the exhibitions, why not stroll across to Ocean Village for a look at the yachts. Check their website for admission prices and seasonal opening hours. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Will Prescott  |
 Photo: Geoff Collins |
 Photo: Rob Pym |
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Replica cargo ship |
Western Esplanade Southampton, Hampshire SO15 1AG United Kingdom +44 2380 83 3333 |
This fascinating replica cargo boat sits by Southampton's waterfront and is a very popular tourist attraction. Although it is called the Viking ship and looks like a Viking ship, it is actually a keel. It was the main type of boat used to carry cargo in and out of Southampton between 1200 and 1400. During the 13th century alone, these keels were used to import thousands of casks of wine, by the local descendants of those who came to England with William the Conqueror. Unfortunately, because the boats were notoriously slow, they were also easy prey for pirates! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |