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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 |
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Large modern art gallery |
Nightingale Avenue Eastleigh Southampton, Hampshire SO50 9JJ United Kingdom +44 2380 61 0592 |
This is the largest selling contemporary art and craft gallery in the south. Housed in a 1950s brick-built church, it exhibits work of contemporary artists and craftspeople, through a program of themed and mixed exhibitions in eighteen galleries. There are paintings, prints and sculptures in a wide variety of styles and the crafts include ceramics, jewelry, glass, wood and metal. A new exhibition is on display every two months. All works are for sale and the gallery offers an interest-free credit scheme. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Magnificent stately home |
Broadlands Park Romsey Southampton, Hampshire SO51 9ZD United Kingdom +44 1794 505010 |
This magnificent stately home is set on one of the most scenic estates in the country. Opened to the public by Lord Mountbatten of Burma, it houses an exhibition and audio-visual show depicting his highly eventful career. Beautifully situated on the River Test, the house contains some very elegant and notable furniture, family portraits and Wedgwood china. The gardens were landscaped by Capability Brown and salmon and trout fishing is available on the grounds. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Exhibitions, displays and activity days |
Swanick Lane Swanick Southampton, Hampshire SO31 United Kingdom +44 1489 57 6248 |
This is the last surviving steam-driven brickworks in the country. Founded in 1897, it closed in 1974 but was acquired and restored by the Hampshire Buildings Preservation Trust in 1990. It contains a fully restored steam engine, together with a brick-making plant, drying sheds and a kiln. Exhibitions and displays covering the history of the brickworks, along with building materials and conservation practice, may be viewed by the public on Thursday afternoons between May and September. Regular open days are also held, featuring live steam and hands-on activities such as brick- and tile-making. Call the number provided for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Modern sports centre |
Cantell School Violet Road Southampton, Hampshire SO16 3GL United Kingdom +44 2380 90 1961 |
Offers the local community a welcome fitness suite, in addition to fitness classics and a full range of fitness equipment. The centre has trained tutors and instructors, women only sessions, over 50s workouts and GP referral programmes. Access can be gained through the Southampton City Council Leisure Card scheme, which is available to those visiting the region as well as local residents. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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 |
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Portsmouth attraction |
393 Commercial Road Southampton, Hampshire PO1 4QL United Kingdom +44 2392 82 7261 |
Charles Dickens was born in Portsmouth on February 7th 1812, the second of seven children and his birthplace is now an interesting museum. It is open between April and October and also opens every year on Charles' birthday. Charles lived with his family in two other houses in Portsmouth, but both were destroyed in World War II. After moving from the area, he did not see Portsmouth again until he was nearly 30, whilst researching for Nicholas Nickleby. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Art gallery, library, law courts, guildhall and cafe |
Civic Centre Road Southampton, Hampshire SO14 7LP United Kingdom +44 2380 83 2277 |
This large complex was the first building of its type to be called a Civic Centre. Designed by Mr E Berry Webber, with foundation stone laid in 1930, it was built on the site of the West Marlands leper colony. The Law Courts moved here in 1933 and it is also home to the Guildhall, the Library and the Reference Library, which contains stacks of local information. The City Art Gallery, one of the best in Europe, opened in 1939 and the excellent Fountains Café can also be found on the premises. Plaques inside mark US involvement in World War II - this was the headquarters of the 14th Major Port. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The lungs of the city |
The Avenue Southampton, Hampshire United Kingdom |
Known as the lungs of the city, Southampton Common is a site of special scientific interest. It is home to the great crested newt and species of orchid and also houses the Hawthorns Urban Wildlife Centre. Here you can learn more about the abundant wildlife in this area. The whole family will enjoy a trip to the Common, with children's play areas and a fun pool, as well as beautiful countryside with lakes, woods and heathland. Approximately 325 acres in area, it is connected to the city centre by The Avenue. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Educational walk on Southampton Common |
The Hawthorns The Common Southampton, Hampshire SO15 7NN United Kingdom +44 2380 671921 |
Learn more about Southampton's beautiful countryside, as well about how to protect the environment we live in, by taking part in a conservation walk on Southampton Common. The walks are free and you will be guided and advised by an expert officer from Southampton's Parks and Commons Team. Walks are held at least once a month, usually on a Tuesday afternoon, and take two hours. They depart from the Hawthorns Urban Wildlife Centre. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Free booking service |
Unit 3 Dolphin Ln High St Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2HN United Kingdom +44 (0)23 8023 5211 http://www.destinationsouthamp... |
If you are visiting Southampton on business or for a holiday, Destination Southampton provide a free and informative service. They can find and book accommodation for you, obtain conference and meeting venues and help you with transport, theatre tickets, sightseeing and restaurant reservations. Their advice is completely impartial and they will try to answer any email inquiries within four hours. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Eastleigh's history |
25 High Street Eastleigh Southampton, Hampshire SO50 5LF United Kingdom +44 2380 64 3026 |
Take a tour through Eastleigh's past and discover what life was like in the 1930s and 1940s, at this fascinating museum. The history of Eastleigh, a small but busy town on the outskirts of Southampton, is documented through displays, exhibits and videos, while Great Britain in the 1930s and during the Second World War is brought to life using the example of the Brown family and through the recreation of a Victorian terraced house, complete with authentic furniture. There is also plenty to see for steam locomotive fans. Special art exhibitions are held in an adjoining room throughout the year. Free admission. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Harbour tours of the docks |
17 Albany Court Bishops Waltham Southampton, Hampshire SO32 1AZ United Kingdom +44 7702 50 6895 |
If you have an interest in viewing huge ocean liners, a Favourite Boat Cruise is highly recommended. Travelling on a 65-seater boat you are given a tour of Southampton's harbour, taking in all the ocean liners moored in the docks at the time, which can include the QE2 and liners from America. The tour takes one hour and you receive a full guided commentary. Longer tours and tailored trips for groups can also be arranged. Please call the number provided for more information. Admission: £6 adults, £3 children. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Garden in the New Forest |
School Lane Minstead, Lyndhurst Southampton, Hampshire SO43 7GL United Kingdom +44 2380 81 2464 |
This informal garden features a lake, sensory and heather gardens and trees and shrubs of botanical interest, including extensive collections of azaleas and rhododendrons. Younger visitors can explore secret paths and play log cabins. A restored forest cottage, thought to date back to 1560, houses an original fireback with bread oven. There is also an art and crafts gallery, a plant shop and refreshments. Established in 1922, the garden is set in the heart of the New Forest. All the buildings are thatched including Furzey House, which is said to be the largest thatched cottage in the forest. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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 |
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An ideal day trip |
Town Quay Southampton, Hampshire United Kingdom http://www.hytheferry.co.uk |
This ferry service runs between Southampton and Hythe, a picturesque waterside village that is packed with interesting shops and attractions. The crossing alone makes a day trip to the village worthwhile, as you can see ocean liners like the QE2 and the Oriana on the way and get to ride the world's oldest pier train. The journey was said to have been one of Jane Austen's favourite trips when she lived in Southampton. A ferry has been in operation between Hythe and Southampton since medieval times, when monks from Beaulieu brought fleeces across to store in the Woolhouse, which is now the Maritime Museum. The ferry leaves every half hour, every day except Christmas Day, from Town Quay. If you feel like drink or a snack before you leave, a Monsieur Hulot cafe is conveniently situated opposite the terminal. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Scenic country park |
Allington Lane Eastleigh Southampton, Hampshire SO30 3HQ United Kingdom +44 2380 46 6091 |
Enjoy 440 acres of unspoiled countryside along the River Itchen at this scenic country park. There are a variety of habitats to savor, from wetland to woodland, hedgerows to hay meadow. There are trails for walkers and cyclists, plus guided walks, interactive exhibits and barbecue and informal recreation areas. There is also a children's play area, a picnic site, a visitor centre and a gift shop. Part of the forest trail is suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs and has a tapping rail for the visually impaired. Special events are held at the park throughout the year including Marvelous Mushrooms, herbal workshops and Halloween Hi-Jinks. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Restored park |
Above Bar St In the heart of the city centre Southampton, Hampshire United Kingdom |
Once an ancient field, today home to West (Watts) Park, East (Andrews) Park, Palmerston Park, Houndwell Park and Hoglands Park. These lovely old parks are full of great places to sit, think, watch and rest. You can enjoy colourful flowers from spring to autumn, and free guided tours are offered throughout the year, including walks like Central Parks, Summer Trees, Summer Bedding and Autumn Walk. The park is currently being refurbished, thanks to a £4.5m scheme funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and Southampton City Council. The money is going towards features like a Victorian bandstand. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Your first port of call |
9 Civic Centre Road Southampton, Hampshire SO14 7FJ United Kingdom +44 2380 83 3333 |
If you are visiting Southampton, this tourist office should be your first port of call. The staff will book your accommodation for you and generally help out with any queries you may have. You can pick up leaflets that are free of charge and contain up-to-date information on all the attractions in the area. You can also buy souvenirs and mementos of the city. Maps and books about the region are available from the bookshop. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Working dairy farm |
Ashurst Southampton, Hampshire SO40 7EH United Kingdom +44 2380 29 3326 |
This working dairy farm features a large collection of animals that can be fed and stroked. The pens are set out along a path, which makes it easy for very young or infirm feet to get around, and there is a picnic area plus a stall selling tea and coffee that is situated next to a large playground. There is also a tiny museum and a gift shop. Kids of all ages will love it, but go when the weather is good. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Home of the Marquess of Bath |
The Estate Office Longleat Southampton, Wiltshire BA12 7NW United Kingdom +44 1985 84 4400 http://www.longleat.co.uk |
A magnificent example of Elizabethan architecture and home of the Marquess of Bath, Longleat House was the first stately house to open its doors to the public, over forty years ago. It is a treasure trove of priceless paintings, valuable antiques and unique family mementoes. It also boasts a fine private library, while the grounds were landscaped by Capability Brown between 1757 and 1762. Queen Elizabeth I visited the builder of the house, Sir John Thynne, in 1574 and the present Queen joined the current Marquess for a celebration of the house's 400th anniversary. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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View wildlife by car |
Longleat Southampton, Wiltshire BA12 7NW United Kingdom +44 1985 84 4400 http://www.longleat.co.uk/ |
View wildlife roaming in spacious surroundings from the comfort of your own car, at this safari park. It is part of the estate belonging to the Marquess of Bath. Features include Adventure Castle, which is Longleat's two-acre play park, a Dr Who exhibition, train and safari boat rides, the Butterfly Garden and Pet's Corner. Recent additions include the world's largest hedge maze and the Simulator, a realistic hi-tech reproduction of some of the world's most dangerous ways to travel. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Woodland walks, farm animals and wildfowl |
Pylands Lane Bursledon Southampton, Hampshire SO31 1BH United Kingdom +44 1489 78 7055 |
Enjoy 400 acres of countryside at this farm set in times gone by, on the banks of the River Hamble in Bursledon. It has an olde worlde look and feel and its attractions include woodland walks, farm animals and wildfowl. There is a special programme of events according to the season and full refreshments are available. Before you leave, call in at the nearby Jolly Sailor for a swift drink. Open daily during February half-term. Call in advance for admission rates. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A must-visit for Titanic fans |
The Wool House Town Quay Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2AR United Kingdom +44 2380 22 3941 |
This museum is a must-visit for Titanic buffs. It contains a fascinating Titanic exhibition that includes a video of survivors and locals talking about the tragedy, plus such curiosities as the ornate panel Honour and Glory Crowning Time from Titanic's sister ship Olympic, Captain Smith's sword and a crew member's pocket watch stopped by icy Atlantic waters. Elsewhere in the museum, you will find a fleet of model ships from Southampton's past, a wide choice of White Star souvenirs and evidence of the museum's earlier history - as a jail for starving Napoleonic prisoners. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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 |
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Admired for its colourful herbaceous borders |
Weston Lane Woolston Southampton, Hampshire SO19 9HL United Kingdom |
Take an enjoyable woodland walk or stroll around this delightful park, with its colorful herbaceous borders and bedding areas. You can admire Grade ll listed buildings as you go. If you feel more active or have young ones to amuse, why not try your hand at bowls, basketball or putting? Football and cricket pitches are also available. Originally bought by the old Southampton Corporation in 1937, this area was opened as a public park in June 1938. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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Medieval priory |
Mottisfont Romsey Southampton, Hampshire SO51 0LP United Kingdom +44 1794 34 0757 |
Nestled amongst gigantic trees on the bank of the River Test lies Mottisfont Abbey, a blend of medieval priory and 16th century mansion. Its ancient walled gardens contain an array of sweetly-scented old fashioned roses. Owned and maintained by the National Trust, the abbey features a room decorated by Rex Whistler and the cellarium of the old priory, while leaflets are available that detail a garden walk and two woodland walks of the grounds. The roses typically reach a peak between 10th and 25th June and the Abbey is open until 8.30pm during that period. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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An oasis of calm |
Cemetery Lane Southampton, Hampshire United Kingdom |
If you find cemeteries to be either fascinating areas of historic interest or just very peaceful places for a quiet stroll or a moment's contemplation, you may wish to visit The Old Cemetery in Southampton. A lovely spot, it is perfect for walks and simple enjoyment of diverse flora and fauna. It was designed by J C Louden, who designed the famous Highgate Cemetery in London, and can be found north of the city centre at the bottom of Southampton Common. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Scenic park in Eastleigh |
Eastleigh Southampton, Hampshire SO50 9FH United Kingdom |
If you are visiting Eastleigh this park is the ideal place to relax. Small and scenic, it is attractively potted with flower beds. There are regular live performances on a bandstand and there are plenty of seats or you can just graze on the grass. Adjacent to the park is a children's play area containing swings and slides, while on Saturdays there is a bouncy castle for kids and a busy street market. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Trips to the Isle of Wight |
Town Quay Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2AQ United Kingdom +44 2380 33 4010 http://www.redfunnel.co.uk. |
You have two choices to get to the Isle of Wight. You can take a boat from Town Quay that takes 55 minutes, or you can travel by this high-speed ferry service, which takes just 22 minutes! Ferries run throughout the day and all night. Once you're on the island, there's an ocean of places to visit, like Osborne House, Carisbrooke Castle, Blackgang Chine and much more, plus lovely beaches and 60 miles of coast. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Football, cricket, tennis and fishing |
Bitterne Manor Southampton, Hampshire United Kingdom |
This open parkland provides plenty of space for recreational activities such as football and cricket. You can play tennis or pitch and putt between April and October and there is a cycle training track and a miniature steam railway, which pulls passengers on small open carriages for just forty pence a go. If you enjoy life at a more leisurely pace, you can take a stroll alongside the River Itchen or even engage in a spot of fishing. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Norman abbey |
Romsey Southampton, Hampshire United Kingdom +44 1794 51 2163 |
This Norman or early English abbey is the burial place of Earl Mountbatten of Burma, and its magnificent interior makes it one of the most splendid parish churches in England. It contains many interesting artefacts, such as stone Saxon crucifixes. In addition to its role as a centre of Anglican worship, the abbey is the largest public meeting place in Romsey, a small market town on the River Test. It is frequently used for civic occasions like concerts and charity events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Cricket, Concerts, Conferences & More! |
Botley Rd West End Southampton, Hampshire SO30 3XH United Kingdom +44 023 8047 2002 http://www.rosebowlplc.com |
Home to Hampshire Cricket, the Rose Bowl is one of Southampton's greatest venues for sports, business and entertainment. Locals and visitors make their way to the Rose Bowl for international cricket matches, rock concerts, entertainment events and corporate conferences, banquets and parties. The venue also offers fitness classes, squash facilities and a 9-hole golf course. There is even a 131-bedroom hotel located at the entrance, the Express by Holiday Inn, convenient for travelers and multiple-day events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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 |
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Fully operational steamship |
Solent Steam Packet Ltd. PO Box 1028 Southampton, Hampshire SO18 1XT United Kingdom +44 2380 230405 http://www.ss-shieldhall.co.uk |
The SS Shieldhall is a fully operational, old fashioned steamship that docks at Ocean Village when it is not on a voyage. Although built in 1950, the ship has a classic design from the 1920s. After 30 years of service, it was carefully restored and preserved by Solent Steam Packet Limited and still regularly goes to sea. When berthed the ship is open for viewing by the public, with volunteers on hand to answer questions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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 |
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Top venue for sporting pursuits |
Thornhill Road Bassett Southampton, Hampshire SO16 7AY United Kingdom +44 2380 79 0693 |
Southampton Sports Centre is the leading sporting activity centre in Hampshire. It is part of a giant complex which includes a golf course and a dry-slope skiing centre. The facilities on offer include football, five-a-side, crazy golf, putting, tennis, athletics, crown-green bowling and cycling, to name but just a few. The centre was the venue for the Millennium Youth Games and is geared up to host almost any sporting event. It is also a great place to walk around as a spectator. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Catholic church |
84 Bugle Street Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2AH United Kingdom |
St Joseph's is the oldest church in Southampton, dating from the 1800s. It is a good place to discover the maritime history of the city as the parish it used to serve consisted mainly of sailors, dock workers and other seafaring trades. The church buildings once housed the Stella Maris club, a spiritual, social and welfare organisation for mariners and their families. It was a well known drinking club and drop-in point for sailors from all over the world. The church itself has some interesting features, such as the altar and the Gothic vaulted ceiling. It also houses the Titanic Restaurant Memorial (The). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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City centre leisure centre |
St Mary's Road Southampton, Hampshire SO14 0BL United Kingdom +44 2380 22 7579 |
Conveniently located in Southampton city center, this very well-equipped and popular leisure center offers facilities for health, fitness and relaxation. Along with all the usual fitness activities such as aerobics, circuit training classes and weight training, it has a solarium and spa, plus squash courts, badminton and table tennis. There is a full program of classes and activities for all the family, with different groups like the over 50s, mothers and children specifically catered for. Discounted concessions are available for off-peak use and for the aged, as well as further discounts for members of the Southampton City Council Leisure Card scheme. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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 |
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Casino with a famous past |
Terminus House Terminus Terrace Southampton, Hampshire SO1 1FE United Kingdom +44 2380 22 1021 |
Play the tables at a venue with a famous and historic past. Although now a casino, this used to be the grand entrance to Terminus Station, designed by Sir William Tite. This is where half the surviving Titanic crew came home on the nights of 29th-30th April 1912. To play in the casino you have to be a member. It is free to join but applications take 24 hours to be processed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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In memory of locals lost in the disaster |
East Park Southampton, Hampshire SO14 0YN United Kingdom |
This memorial honors the memory of local officers who served as engineers on the Titanic and were lost in the disaster. Erected by their fellow engineers and friends, it pays tribute to their "high conception of their duty and their heroism" for remaining at their posts as the ship went down. The memorial depicts an angel standing at the bow of a ship and lists the names of those lost. It sits at the cusp of East Park and can be viewed from Above Bar Street. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Memorial to the catering staff of the Titanic |
St Joseph's Church 84 Bugle Street Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2AH United Kingdom |
This memorial honors the memory of the large number of crew members from Southampton who were on the Titanic. Most of them were Catholic and came from the parish of St Joseph's. The memorial is in the form of a table with an inscribed plaque and was donated by the Stella Maris Club, which at that time looked after the spiritual and pastoral well-being of its nautical parishioners. On 15th April 1972, the Steward's Memorial Fountain was relocated in the Holyrood church after years of neglect. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Restaurants, bars and a marina |
Town Quay Beside the Hythe Ferry docks Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2AQ United Kingdom |
Jutting out onto the water's edge, the Town Quay is one of the most scenic locations in Southampton. As well as an attractive marina, there are restaurants and bars in which you can enjoy a drink or a meal, whilst taking in the fabulous view across the water and watching ships and boats sailing in and out of Southampton. These include Around The World, La Margherita, The Old Orleans and a Monsieur Hulot cafe, while directly opposite the Town Quay you will find Ennio's Al Porto. This is also the place to catch the Hythe Ferry. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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 |
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Traditional university |
Highfield Southampton, Hampshire SO17 1BJ United Kingdom +44 2380 59 5000 http://www.soton.ac.uk |
Southampton is one of the most important centres for education and research in the south and its university is renowned for its excellence in academic, medical and technological fields. A popular visitor attraction, it is home to a substantial student body and large research facilities. It also hosts public lectures, conferences and city events and houses the Nuffield Theatre, the John Hansard Gallery, which specialises in avant-garde art, and the Turner Sims Concert Hall. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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 |
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Historical landmark |
Western Esplanade Southampton, Hampshire SO15 1AG United Kingdom +44 2380 83 3333 |
This is probably the most historical landmark in Southampton, as out through this gate went Henry V and his entire army to Agincourt, the Pilgrim Fathers to the New World and thousands of servicemen to World War II. Located on the western walls, it was built after the French Raid of 1338, when pirates stormed into the town and pilfered the town's rich stock of silver. King Edward III was furious and ordered the town to defend itself by constructing the Westgate. If you stand underneath and look up you will see the holes through which enemies could be shot or stoned. A double portcullis could also be dropped down to trap them like rats in a cage (look for the resulting grooves). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Ancient crypts and Jane Austen |
1, The Close Southampton, Hampshire SO23 9LS United Kingdom +44 1962 85 7200 http://www.winchester-cathedra... |
This magnificent cathedral in Winchester has the longest nave in Europe. The foundations were laid by the Normans in 1079, and to this day it remains a stunning landmark. Its outstanding treasures include the Winchester Bible, which was written in the cathedral's scriptorium between 1160 and 1180, and a 17th Century library that contains ancient manuscripts and early printed books. Ancient kings like King Canute lie buried here and the novelist Jane Austen. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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