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Rich in maritime history - the Titanic and the Mayflower set sail from this city's shores and the QE2 and International Boat Show dock here - a wealth of new stores and nightspots has transformed this seaport into a haven for shoppers and clubbers.






Bargate


Heavily defended tollgate
At the Old Town Medieval Walls
Southampton, Hampshire S014 2YD
United Kingdom
+44 2380 83 3333
This is the most distinctive and famous landmark in Southampton. Visible from the south end of the shopping centre, it was once a heavily defended tollgate, locked at dusk as sentries patrolled the walls. On the south side, interesting features include a 1605 watch bell, one of five originally in the town, a 1705 sundial that is six minutes out from GMT, a statue of George III imitating the classical style of the Emperor Hadrian and the old town lock ups, with graffiti dating from the 14th century. On the north side you can find 18th century shields, 13th century half-round drum towers, arrow slits and 18th century lions, part of an old Southampton legend.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Bargate photo by ricksphotos101
Photo: ricksphotos101
Bargate photo by southampton-pubs.co.
Photo: southampton-pubs.co.
Bargate photo by Mike Whitfield
Photo: Mike Whitfield
Bargate photo by Alex Clark
Photo: Alex Clark
Bargate photo by Jon
Photo: Jon
Bargate photo by javic
Photo: javic
Bargate photo by Bjo San
Photo: Bjo San
Bargate photo by amtor
Photo: amtor
Bargate photo by Linda Sarris
Photo: Linda Sarris
Bargate photo by Steve Morley
Photo: Steve Morley
Bargate photo by Aoife McCarthy
Photo: Aoife McCarthy
Bargate photo by fredwimmer
Photo: fredwimmer
Bargate photo by string63
Photo: string63
Bargate photo by Rich 1975
Photo: Rich 1975
Bargate photo by Coradia1000
Photo: Coradia1000
Bargate photo by Katie
Photo: Katie
Bargate photo by Kat Miller
Photo: Kat Miller
Bargate photo by Mischa Tuffield
Photo: Mischa Tuffield
Bargate photo by Sue Waugh
Photo: Sue Waugh
 

 
Calshot Castle


Tudor castle
Calshot Spit
Fawley
Southampton, Hampshire SO45 1BR
United Kingdom
+44 2380 89 2023
This Tudor castle is prominently located at the entrance to Southampton Water. Coastguards, seaplanes, coastal artillery and anti-aircraft guns are all housed here. Calshot was also an RAF flying boat base from 1913 to 1961 and the site of the first Royal Naval Air Station in the UK. A heritage trail is now open that leads you on a tour around the castle. Admission: adults £2, children £1, family ticket £5.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Calshot Castle photo by itslefty
Photo: itslefty
Calshot Castle photo by grey salem
Photo: grey salem
Calshot Castle photo by Tom Goldstein
Photo: Tom Goldstein
Calshot Castle photo by Wendy McGill
Photo: Wendy McGill
Calshot Castle photo by Chalto
Photo: Chalto
 

 
Central Parks


Five city centre parks
City Centre
Southampton, Hampshire
United Kingdom
The Central Parks are the five parks located behind the Above Bar Street shopping area in Southampton. These are East, West (or Watts), Houndwell, Palmerston and Hoglands. They are home to notable monuments like the Titanic Engineer Officers Memorial and the Cenotaph, which was designed by Lutyens and later used by him as the basis for the design of the Cenotaph in Whitehall. Facilities include tennis, bowls and putting. Rare and old trees can also be viewed on special Tree Walks. Leaflets and further information may be obtained from the Leisure and Visitor Centre (The). The parks are included in English Heritage's Register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest and were developed during the 19th century from common land previously farmed by medieval citizens.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Central Parks photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Dorchester Arms


Friendly Irish pub
38-40 Onslow Road
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 OJG
United Kingdom
+44 2380 39 3113
This friendly pub has extended opening hours at weekends with no dress code and great live Irish or folk music. Family owned and run, it is popular with students, locals and Southampton's Irish contingent. It has a lively atmosphere and a warm, cozy feel with yellow paint work and Irish bric-a-brac on the walls. There is a small raised seating area at the back of the pub that is used as a stage for bands, in front of which is a small area for dancing. There is also a beer garden, a pool table and great pints of Guinness on offer.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Dorchester Arms photo by 2AM Photography
Photo: 2AM Photography
 

 
East Street Shopping Centre


Shopping centre
Capital House
1 Houndwell Place
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 1HU
United Kingdom
+44 2380 22 8650
This was the first shopping arcade to be built in Southampton, but in recent years it has become slightly isolated at the edge of the city centre. However, Tandy still maintain a store here and there is also a branch of Music World, a cafe and a newsagents, plus a collection of clearance outlets and reject shops. Come here if you want cheap pine furniture or end-of-the-line trainers.

Review © 2007, Wcities
East Street Shopping Centre photo by Ben Austwick
Photo: Ben Austwick
East Street Shopping Centre photo by Johnny Hamster
Photo: Johnny Hamster
 

 
Isle of Wight


Famous island off the coast
High Street
(County Hall)
Southampton, Hampshire PO30
United Kingdom
+44 1983 823200
http://www.iwight.com/
A trip to this scenic island off the coast is highly recommended. You can take in 60 miles of coast, visit the Ventnor Botanic Gardens, experience Osborne House or see the donkeys working the well wheel at Carisbrooke Castle where Charles l was imprisoned, as featured in the children's book Moonfleet. There is also Blackgang Chine, Robin Hill Adventure Park and miles of lovely beaches. If you take the Redjet through Red Funnel, the crossing takes only 22 minutes.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Isle of Wight photo by Daniel Stoker
Photo: Daniel Stoker
Isle of Wight photo by Daniel Stoker
Photo: Daniel Stoker
Isle of Wight photo by Ken Guest
Photo: Ken Guest
Isle of Wight photo by Nandakishore Mohanram
Photo: Nandakishore Mohanram
Isle of Wight photo by ThreeFour Media
Photo: ThreeFour Media
Isle of Wight photo by Dichtung und Wahrhei
Photo: Dichtung und Wahrhei
Isle of Wight photo by James Stewart
Photo: James Stewart
Isle of Wight photo by James B Wood
Photo: James B Wood
Isle of Wight photo by Nik Syahron
Photo: Nik Syahron
Isle of Wight photo by Simon Scott
Photo: Simon Scott
Isle of Wight photo by Allan MacBain
Photo: Allan MacBain
Isle of Wight photo by frederick.dunford@btinternet.com
Photo: frederick.dunford@btinternet.com
Isle of Wight photo by martin gage
Photo: martin gage
Isle of Wight photo by joanna leng
Photo: joanna leng
Isle of Wight photo by Geoff Kim
Photo: Geoff Kim
Isle of Wight photo by © Rob Webb ©
Photo: © Rob Webb ©
Isle of Wight photo by Aliy Fowler
Photo: Aliy Fowler
Isle of Wight photo by the Limey Brit
Photo: the Limey Brit
Isle of Wight photo by LMCLCC Gallery
Photo: LMCLCC Gallery
Isle of Wight photo by Dave Shilson
Photo: Dave Shilson
Isle of Wight photo by kahunakris
Photo: kahunakris
Isle of Wight photo by Run Rabbit Run!
Photo: Run Rabbit Run!
Isle of Wight photo by richard haddlesey
Photo: richard haddlesey
Isle of Wight photo by Charlotte Hosmer
Photo: Charlotte Hosmer
Isle of Wight photo by Mark Stileman
Photo: Mark Stileman
Isle of Wight photo by Danacea
Photo: Danacea
Isle of Wight photo by Julian Nicholls
Photo: Julian Nicholls
Isle of Wight photo by tuovek
Photo: tuovek
 

 
Mayflower Memorial


Commemorates the pilgrims' departure
Western Esplanade
Outside Western Gate
Southampton, Hampshire
United Kingdom
This memorial opposite Mayflower Park commemorates the departure of the Pilgrim Fathers in the Mayflower and the Speedwell from Southampton in August 1620. It was unveiled in 1913 and features a copper replica of the Mayflower plus plaques commemorating both the pilgrims and the 2 million US troops who left Southampton during World War II more than 300 years later. If you can officially trace your ancestry back to the pilgrims, you can have a plaque added to the memorial.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Mayflower Memorial photo by Andrew Plumb
Photo: Andrew Plumb
Mayflower Memorial photo by p.livett@btinternet.com
Photo: p.livett@btinternet.com
 

 
Mayflower Park


Home of the International Boat Show
Off of West Quay Rd
Opposite Southampton IOW ferry terminal
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2AQ
United Kingdom
Home of the International Boat Show, the biggest boat show in Europe to take place on water, Mayflower Park has a wonderful location on the banks of the River Test. It is an ideal spot from which to watch the river and the ships coming in and going out, with great views of the wonderful New Forest as well. You may even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the QE2 or the Arcadia. It is a great place for a picnic, with much to see and do. Facilities include a cafe, skate park, play area and paddling pool, as well as roller hockey and soccer pitches and a basketball court.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Mayflower Park photo by Marco Venturini Autieri
Photo: Marco Venturini Autieri
Mayflower Park photo by Nick James
Photo: Nick James
Mayflower Park photo by Dave Farmer
Photo: Dave Farmer
Mayflower Park photo by Bob Francis
Photo: Bob Francis
Mayflower Park photo by JAMES
Photo: JAMES
Mayflower Park photo by JAMES
Photo: JAMES
Mayflower Park photo by Heather Eeles
Photo: Heather Eeles
Mayflower Park photo by Jen Lambert
Photo: Jen Lambert
Mayflower Park photo by John Zebedee
Photo: John Zebedee
Mayflower Park photo by thegillsoniow
Photo: thegillsoniow
Mayflower Park photo by Gillian Moy
Photo: Gillian Moy
Mayflower Park photo by Gsplan
Photo: Gsplan
 

 
Medieval Merchant's House


Beautifully restored, dating from 1290
58 French Street
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2AT
United Kingdom
+44 2380 22 1503
This fascinating ancient house was originally built in 1290 and has been beautifully restored to its original condition. It has two first-floor bed chambers connected by a gallery and fine exposed roof timbers, reflecting the social standing of its first owner. Specially designed hangings cover the walls and replica medieval pottery adorns the rooms. The merchant in question was the very prosperous John Fortin, who imported cellar-fulls of wine from Bordeaux. The house is said to be the most haunted building in Southampton. Ask the staff about the curly wurly footprints in the cellars and the ghost of Ruth Dill. Admission: Adults £2, Children £1.50.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Medieval Merchant's House photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Netley Abbey


Historic ruined abbey
Abbey Hill
Netley
Southampton, Hampshire SO31
United Kingdom
On the sites of most historic landmarks visitors are faced with a barrage of information, reconstructions and souvenirs, but at Netley Abbey there is nothing except you, your imagination and some atmospheric ruins. The Abbey was originally built in the 13th century, but bits have been added down the ages so there is a variety of building styles and materials. It is set in a park-like rolling lawn, dotted with huge and ancient trees. There are no facilities, but the village of Netley is only a few yards away and can cover most needs. Keep you eyes peeled as you drive along Abbey Hill as the entrance can be hard to spot.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Netley Abbey photo by Martin Cartwright
Photo: Martin Cartwright
Netley Abbey photo by Martin Cartwright
Photo: Martin Cartwright
Netley Abbey photo by Alan Head
Photo: Alan Head
Netley Abbey photo by Andy Grace
Photo: Andy Grace
Netley Abbey photo by Gillie
Photo: Gillie
Netley Abbey photo by Nicholas Humfrey
Photo: Nicholas Humfrey
Netley Abbey photo by Liam O'Neill
Photo: Liam O'Neill
Netley Abbey photo by jonathan pascoe
Photo: jonathan pascoe
Netley Abbey photo by ptecolombe
Photo: ptecolombe
Netley Abbey photo by Venus Speedwell
Photo: Venus Speedwell
Netley Abbey photo by Pam Blunt
Photo: Pam Blunt
Netley Abbey photo by Richard Judd
Photo: Richard Judd
Netley Abbey photo by Victoria Hatch
Photo: Victoria Hatch
Netley Abbey photo by fitzhughfella
Photo: fitzhughfella
Netley Abbey photo by Dave Challis
Photo: Dave Challis
Netley Abbey photo by Angela Ward-Brown
Photo: Angela Ward-Brown
Netley Abbey photo by Paul P Harket
Photo: Paul P Harket
Netley Abbey photo by Rich1078346
Photo: Rich1078346
Netley Abbey photo by Joy Waide
Photo: Joy Waide
 

 
Ocean Village


Restaurants, boats and the SS Shieldhall
At the end of M271
Past the Red Funnel Ferry
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 3JS
United Kingdom
+44 2380 22 8353
This waterfront development is one of the UK's biggest marinas and you never know who you might bump into in one of its seafront restaurants or cafes, especially during mega-events like the International Boat Show in September. The real attraction is sitting on the waterfront, looking at a forest of masts with a glass in your hand and recognising famous yachts and faces. There are also two cinemas, the Virgin multi-screen and Harbour Lights Picture House, as well as the SS Shieldhall, a fully operational steamship that berths at Ocean Village when it is not at sea.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Ocean Village photo by M Grant
Photo: M Grant
Ocean Village photo by Noel Lewis
Photo: Noel Lewis
Ocean Village photo by Margaret
Photo: Margaret
Ocean Village photo by Daniel Hardwick
Photo: Daniel Hardwick
Ocean Village photo by Keith Duckworth
Photo: Keith Duckworth
Ocean Village photo by Andy Gibb
Photo: Andy Gibb
Ocean Village photo by littletriggers
Photo: littletriggers
 

 
Olive Tree Restaurant


Contemporary Mediterranean cuisine
29 Oxford Street
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 3DJ
United Kingdom
+44 2380 34 3333
http://www.olivetree.co.uk
This bright, smart restaurant offers a delicious range of Mediterranean food served in contemporary surroundings. The menu boasts a wide range of pasta dishes including spaghetti, ravioli, linguini and fusilli, while even the grills are given a Mediterranean twist. For a tasty meal, try the Buffalo Mozarella and Beef Tomatoes as a starter, followed by either the Anitra, a duck dish with a delicious sauce, or the Mazo, a pan-fried beef fillet. The menu changes daily according to what is freshly available.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Olive Tree Restaurant photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Royal Victoria Country Park Chapel


Heritage centre
Netley
Southampton, Hampshire SO31 5GA
United Kingdom
This chapel was once part of the Royal Victoria Military Hospital and now houses an exhibition that covers the history of the hospital from the Crimean War to the Second World War. The displays include dummies in period costume and plastic nurses peering round the edge of organ pipes. You can ascend a 100 foot tower and admire the view over the Solent or browse around a tiny gift shop that sells souvenirs, books and kites.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Royal Victoria Country Park Chapel photo by paul cripps
Photo: paul cripps
Royal Victoria Country Park Chapel photo by paul cripps
Photo: paul cripps
Royal Victoria Country Park Chapel photo by Tim Mills
Photo: Tim Mills
Royal Victoria Country Park Chapel photo by Michael
Photo: Michael
Royal Victoria Country Park Chapel photo by justice_ts
Photo: justice_ts
Royal Victoria Country Park Chapel photo by Ian Pullen
Photo: Ian Pullen
Royal Victoria Country Park Chapel photo by Robert Ding
Photo: Robert Ding
Royal Victoria Country Park Chapel photo by Linus_w
Photo: Linus_w
 

 
Southampton Boat Show


Europe's largest on-water boat show
Mayflower Park
Southampton, Hampshire SO15 1HJ
United Kingdom
+44 115 912 9111
http://www.southamptonboatshow...
The Southampton International Boat Show is the largest on-water boat show in Europe. Held every year in September, it features exhibits and boating and marine products from over 600 exhibitors. Hundreds of boats are on display, many of them afloat, including famous boats seen on television programs. Other special features of the show include water sport footage, fashion shows and interactive activities.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Southampton Boat Show photo by Anyhoo
Photo: Anyhoo
Southampton Boat Show photo by Phil Elliott
Photo: Phil Elliott
Southampton Boat Show photo by mark s
Photo: mark s
Southampton Boat Show photo by Laurie Hinks
Photo: Laurie Hinks
Southampton Boat Show photo by caroline ward
Photo: caroline ward
Southampton Boat Show photo by sasha.belyaev
Photo: sasha.belyaev
Southampton Boat Show photo by Roger Cossey
Photo: Roger Cossey
Southampton Boat Show photo by Denise Palmer
Photo: Denise Palmer
Southampton Boat Show photo by Trevor Lockyer
Photo: Trevor Lockyer
Southampton Boat Show photo by Robert Kilpin
Photo: Robert Kilpin
Southampton Boat Show photo by Guy Jaques
Photo: Guy Jaques
Southampton Boat Show photo by Steve Godfrey
Photo: Steve Godfrey
Southampton Boat Show photo by Jon Rowett
Photo: Jon Rowett
 

 
St Michael's Church


Oldest building in town
St Michael's Square
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2AD
United Kingdom
This church is the oldest building in Southampton. It was named after the patron Saint of Normandy and its central tower dates from 1070. Isaac Watts' parents and sister are buried here and the Old Tournai Font (1170), chained Bibles, a Book of Martyrs, a rescued 14th century Holy Rood lectern and Philip of Spain's treasure chest can all be viewed inside. The church is also renowned for having survived the blitz during World War II because its spire was used by the Germans as a landmark and their pilots were ordered not to hit it. Open daily to visitors throughout the summer, courtesy of the Friends of St Michael's. Informative leaflets in most languages are available.

Review © 2007, Wcities
St Michael's Church photo by John Coleman
Photo: John Coleman
St Michael's Church photo by David Fisher
Photo: David Fisher
 

 
Tudor House Museum


Cannons, a minstrel's gallery and Anne Boleyn's ghost
St Michael's Square
Bugle Street
Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2AD
United Kingdom
+44 2380 33 2513
This quaint Tudor-style museum contains a minstrel's gallery, creaky floorboards, old kitchens and one of Henry VIII's cannons. It also allegedly contains the ghost of Anne Boleyn, who stayed here with Henry when the house was owned by Sir Richard Lyster, Lord Chief Justice of England. There is a replica Tudor-style garden at the back featuring a mulberry tree planted by Huguenots in 1570 that drips with fruit in the summer. On sunny days the garden is full of scented herbs and flowers, making it perfect for some quiet contemplation. Admission is free. The ground floor and garden have wheelchair access.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Tudor House Museum photo by Stephen Humby
Photo: Stephen Humby
Tudor House Museum photo by Sarah Shreeves
Photo: Sarah Shreeves
Tudor House Museum photo by Katheryn D.
Photo: Katheryn D.
 

 
Viking Ship


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
Viking Ship photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Other Schmapplets in this city related to "Southampton"
Southampton - Historical Background
Southampton - Neighborhood Guide
Southampton - Where to Stay
Southampton - Dining & Drinking
Southampton - Art & Entertainment

Other nearby cities:
Bath (85 miles)
Brighton (88 miles)
Oxford (97 miles)
Bristol (106 miles)
London (123 miles)
Cardiff (145 miles)
Cambridge (177 miles)
Birmingham (182 miles)
Plymouth (203 miles)
Sheffield (276 miles)

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