Schmap.com supports the following browsers:
PC
 Large collection of teddies |
38 Dragon Street Southampton, Hampshire GU31 4JJ United Kingdom +44 1730 26 5108 |
This bear museum was the first of its kind to open in Britain. Situated in an 18th century house, it houses one of the largest and most interesting collections of teddy bears on public display in the country. The bears date from 1905 through to present day. If you bring your own teddy bear with you, the museum might tell you something of its history. Admission is free and there is a gift shop on site, mostly selling bears. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
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 |
 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 |
|
Jane Austen's home |
One mile south of Alton off the A31 Southampton, Hampshire GU34 1SD United Kingdom +44 1420 83 262 |
This famous house is a must-see for literary buffs. Jane Austen moved here from Southampton in 1809 and began writing again, revising Sense and Sensibility, Pride and Prejudice and Mansfield Park. You can see where Jane wrote, sewed, made wine and enjoyed gardening. Her music book, a dress she wore, a quilt she stitched and the work table where she wrote her books are all on display. You can also see her donkey carriage - the door still creaks out a warning, as it did when Jane hastily hid her writing from visitors. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jane Skudder |
 Photo: M Winkler |
 Photo: Patricia Osses |
 Photo: S. Locke |
 Photo: malcolm.corbin |
 Photo: Karen Hube |
 Photo: Astrida Plenty |
 Photo: Robert Cutts |
 Photo: paulatortie |
|
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 |
 Photo: Charanpal Dhanjal |
 Photo: Malcolm MacNaughton |
 Photo: Gareth & Rebekah  |
 Photo: Cddyqa Rogel |
 Photo: Mitch |
|
Largest seaborne invasion |
Clarence Esplanade Southsea Southampton, Hampshire PO5 3PA United Kingdom +44 2392 82 7261 |
This museum in Southsea is dedicated to D-Day, the world's largest ever seaborne invasion. Visitors are treated to the famous Overlord Embroidery, together with several fascinating audio-visual presentations and are provided with an insight into the everyday sights and sounds of wartime Britain. Examples of British military equipment and vehicles are on display, along with the personal memories of those who lived through the experience of the invasion. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dana Taylor |
 Photo: Will Matthews |
 Photo: Matthew Walden |
 Photo: Jared Schmidt |
|
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 |
|
HMS Warrior, HMS Nelson and HMS Mary Rose |
Visitor Centre Her Majesty's Naval Base Southampton, Hampshire PO1 3LJ United Kingdom +44 2392 86 1533 http://www.flagship.org.uk |
Marvel at the country's most historic warships, amidst the sights and sounds of a fully operational naval base, at this famous dockyard in Portsmouth. Wander the four vast decks of HMS Warrior, a wonderfully restored Victorian warship that was built in 1860. Then enjoy a fascinating tour of HMS Victory, which was Nelson's flagship - look out for the Kismet spot where he fell, mortally wounded. A naval rating will tell you tales of snitch stitches, square meals and more. Finally, re-live the history of the Restoration by viewing the specially preserved remains of the HMS Mary Rose, which was Henry VIII's favorite warship. Tickets may be purchased to see all three ships and the base also includes a Royal Navy Museum, an interactive Dockyard Apprentice Exhibition, maritime shops, a restaurant and tea rooms. Modern warships may be viewed by taking a special Warships by Water boat cruise. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Karen Rhodes |
 Photo: Robert Shenk |
 Photo: Simon Burt |
 Photo: Paul Joseph |
|
Theatre, dance and music in the New Forest |
Old Milton Road New Milton Southampton, Hampshire BH25 6DS United Kingdom +44 1425 61 2393 http://www.forest-arts.co.uk/ |
This popular arts centre specialises in theatre, dance, music and comedy and also features regular art and sculpture exhibitions, plus a programme of workshops and hands-on experiences. Situated in the heart of the New Forest, it serves both the local community and the wider audiences found in Southampton and Bournemouth. It has a fully licensed bar serving bottled beer, guest ales, wine and soft drinks, as well as confectionery and ice cream. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Military history of the Gurkhas |
Peninsula Barracks, Romsey Road Southampton, Hampshire SO23 8TP United Kingdom +44 1962 84 2832 |
This museum honours the military service of the Gurkhas to the British and their homeland of Nepal. Dioramas and audio-visual displays document the history of Gurkha regiments and outline the main chapters of Gurkha military history, from 1815 to the present day. The winners of 26 Victoria Crosses are also commemorated. The museum includes a shop that stocks items related to the Gurkhas and Nepal. It is based at the Peninsula Barracks in Winchester. Admission: £1.50 adults, 75p children and senior citizens. The museum is closed over Christmas and New Year. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: John Williamson |
|
The story of three British cavalry regiments |
Peninsula Barracks, Romsey Road Southampton, Hampshire SO23 8TS United Kingdom +44 1962 82 8539 |
Discover the history of Britain's cavalry at this fascinating museum in Winchester. It tells the story of regiments that participated in the Peninsula War, the Battle of Waterloo, the First World War and most notably the Crimean War, when one of the divisions took part in the famous Charge of the Light Brigade and was awarded one of the first ever Victoria Crosses. Admission is free. Weekend opening hours apply on Bank Holiday Mondays. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Matt |
|
Modern day British military history |
Peninsula Barracks, Romsey Road Southampton, Hampshire SO23 8TS United Kingdom +44 1962 82 8550 |
This museum tells the story of the modern day British Light Infantry regiment, which was formed in 1968. The displays focus on recent events around the world, such as in Cyprus and Hong Kong, and document the unique peacekeeping role of the British Army. Admission is free and features include a history of the Gulf War and the building and demolition of the Berlin Wall. The museum is situated inside the historic site of Peninsula Barracks at Winchester. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
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 |
 Photo: Roo Reynolds |
 Photo: Stephen Humby |
|
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 |
 Photo: wcities |
|
History of aviation |
Middle Wallop Southampton, Hampshire SO20 8DY United Kingdom +44 1980 67 4421 http://www.flying-museum.org.uk/ |
This award-winning museum is home to one of the country's finest collections of military kites, gliders, aeroplanes and helicopters. It celebrates over 100 years of army aviation, from its early beginnings to present day. For children there is an interactive science and education centre and you can even test your hand and eye co-ordination on a helicopter flight simulator. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Discover the secrets of the New Forest |
High Street Lyndhurst Southampton, Hampshire SO43 7NY United Kingdom +44 2380 28 3914 |
Discover the secrets of the New Forest at this educational museum and visitor center. It features an informative exhibition that brings the Forest's wildlife and traditions to life and explains how it came into existence, while a fascinating audio-visual show, The Living Forest, demonstrates how the Forest changes throughout the year and how it has developed and adapted during its 1,000-year existence. The museum includes an embroidery and gift shop that specializes in local crafts. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Close-up encounters with marine life |
Clarence Esplanade Southsea Southampton, Hampshire PO5 3PB United Kingdom +44 2392 875222 |
Get an intimate view of ocean creatures at this fascinating sea life centre. Over 30 displays use the latest in technology to provide close-up encounters with marine life such as sharks, stingrays, sunfish, wolf-fish, octopus and eels. Attractions include a 14-foot sunken wreck, a tropical reef observatory, a touch pool, a splash and play area and a mini tidal zone in which waves crash against a realistic shoreline. The interior of the centre has a nautical theme - there is a ship's bridge, lifeboats, masts, rigging, fishing nets and a coastal restaurant. There are regular feeding demonstrations, talks and special presentations, while views across the Solent are offered from a picnic area. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
History of artillery |
Fort Nelson Portsdown Hill Road Southampton, Hampshire PO17 6AN United Kingdom +44 1329 23 3734 http://www.royalarmouries.org/ |
Learn about the history of artillery through the ages, from ancient ornate weapons to parts of the Iraqi Supergun, at this museum at Fort Nelson. You can also explore the fort's 19th century underground tunnels, while regular artillery is in action too. Exhibitions such as Decorative Armour of the Knights of Malta are regularly held, along with special theme events like Thundering Hooves. Check the website for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Famous British military campaigns |
Peninsula Barracks, Romsey Road Southampton, Hampshire SO23 8TS United Kingdom +44 1962 82 8549 |
This museum documents the glorious military campaigns of the regiments that combined to make up the famous Royal Green Jackets. There are nine battle models on show including a magnificent diorama of the Battle of Waterloo, which contains 22,000 model soldiers and horses plus a sound and light commentary. 33 Victoria Crosses are on display in their campaign cases and the museum also features uniforms, weapons, paintings and sporting memorabilia. Visitors can even fire a replica Baker Rifle on an electronic rifle range. The museum is located inside the Peninsula Barracks at Winchester. Admission: £2 adults, £1 children and senior citizens. Closed for two weeks over Christmas and New Year. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
History of Hampshire's County Regiment |
Serles House Southgate Street Southampton, Hampshire SO23 9EG United Kingdom +44 1962 86 3658 |
Learn all about Hampshire's County Regiment at this military museum in Winchester. There are four exhibition rooms and the displays include life size models that show how the county's soldiers were dressed and equipped during the 18th century, the First and Second World Wars and the 1950's Malayan campaign. Visitors discover the history of the regiment's active service in countries as far and wide as China, India, Afghanistan, South Africa, Palestine, Borneo and Jamaica. Admission is free. The museum is only open on weekends between April and October. Weekend opening hours apply on Bank Holiday Mondays. Closed over Christmas and New Year. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Walk on board a real submarine |
Haslar Jetty Road Gosport Southampton, Hampshire PO12 2AS United Kingdom +44 23 9252 9217 http://www.rnsubmus.co.uk |
This unique museum gives you the opportunity to walk on board a real submarine, the HMS Alliance. You can also try hands on exhibits like the Globe Probe diving bell and the working periscopes of HMS Conqueror, which saw service in the Falklands War. The history of the submarine, dating back to the days of Alexander the Great to present day, is covered and diving suits and other deep-sea related artefacts are also on show. The museum is easily accessible through a frequent ferry service between Gosport and Portsmouth harbor station. From Gosport Ferry it is a ten minute walk to the museum. A gift shop, cafe and waterfront picnic site are all on site. Facilities for disabled. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alan Saunders |
 Photo: Jason Holdcroft |
|
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 |
 Photo: paul cripps |
 Photo: paul cripps |
 Photo: Tim Mills |
 Photo: Michael |
 Photo: justice_ts |
 Photo: Ian Pullen |
 Photo: Robert Ding |
 Photo: Linus_w |
|
Award-winning museum containing major archaeological finds |
The King's House 65 The Close Southampton, Wiltshire SP1 2EN United Kingdom +44 1722 33 2151 http://www.salisburymuseum.org... |
This award-winning museum holds materials from major archaeological sites in Salisbury and South Wiltshire. It houses finds from Stonehenge and Old Sarum, while displays document the history of both early man and the Romans and the Saxons. Notable attractions include ceramics and glass from the Victorian era, a display of hundreds of Wedgewood pieces and a magnificent collection of costumes. The museum has won six awards for its displays and can be found close to the grounds of Salisbury Cathedral. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: M Grant |
|
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 |
 16th century fort |
Clarence Esplanade Southsea Southampton, Hampshire PO5 3PA United Kingdom +44 2392 82 7261 |
This 16th century fort in Southsea was built by Henry VIII in 1545 to protect Portsmouth from invading armadas. Today it houses an exhibition on the military history of the town of Portsmouth. Visitors to the castle enjoy an audio-visual show and static reconstructed scenes that give an idea of how life in the castle was during the 16th century. There are also displays of artillery, plus underground tunnels to explore. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Adam Wintle |
 Photo: Marcus Hunt |
 Photo: Adam Wintle |
 Photo: Dana Taylor |
 Photo: caroline anderson |
 Photo: Matthew Ring |
 Photo: Trevor Owen |
 Photo: Abigail Parr |
 Photo: Janice McLean |
 Photo: geoffmau |
 Photo: Rob_Pennycook |
 Photo: Mick Huett |
 Photo: Emma Foster |
 Photo: gregg2campbell |
|
The history of Lymington and the New Forest |
New Street Lymington Southampton, Hampshire SO41 9BH United Kingdom +44 1590 67 6969 http://www.stbarbe-museum.org.uk |
Discover the history of one of the prettiest regions in the south. This informative museum tells the story of the area of land between Lymington and the New Forest, taking in tales of smugglers and illegal cargoes, as well as the area's tradition of sailing and boat building. Exhibitions of work by both major artists and local residents are held regularly in the museum's gallery. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Victorian blacksmith |
Bishop Street Southampton, Hampshire PO1 3DA United Kingdom +44 2392 82 4745 |
This is the site of a preserved Victorian blacksmiths and ironmongers that was first established in 1809 and traded until 1988. Untouched by the 20th century, it opened as a museum in 1995 and brings to life a unique piece of social and industrial history. You can visit the original shop, stockroom, forges, general metal workshop and stables. A reconstruction depicts the life of a dockyard worker in a tenement building around 1810, while displays of various trade and craft tools illustrate the activities carried out at the company. Admission is free. Limited access for wheelchair users. Open April to September. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
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 |
 Photo: Stephen Humby |
 Photo: Sarah Shreeves |
 Photo: Katheryn D. |
|
Poole's seafaring past |
4 High Street Southampton, Dorset BH16 1BW United Kingdom +44 1202 26 2600 |
Learn all about Poole's seafaring past at this informative museum by Poole Quay. It contains cellars that date from medieval times, a replica old street and exhibitions and artefacts that tell tales of Roman occupation, the Studland Bay Wreck and trade with Newfoundland. There is also a changing program of temporary exhibitions. The adjacent Scalpen's Court museum contains educational exhibitions and displays and is open to the public during August. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Local historical artefacts |
84 West Street Fareham Southampton, Hampshire PO16 0JJ United Kingdom +44 1329 82 4895 |
Find out about the social and industrial history of Fareham at this museum inside a restored 17th century farmhouse. It contains a fascinating collection of artefacts from the Hampshire area, most of which have been donated by local people. Topics covered include the brick and tile industry, schools and education, the Poor Law, local government, shops and commerce, transport and brewing and natural history. Maps, documents and photos can be accessed in a multi-media resources area. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
The history of Basingstoke |
Market Place Southampton, Hampshire RG21 7QD United Kingdom +44 1256 46 5902 |
Discover the history of Basingstoke at this informative local museum. It traces how life has changed in the town over the last 200 years. Attractions include reconstructions of excavated Saxon buildings, a recreation of a 1960s sitting room and kitchen and a local studies room that features old photographs, maps and postcards. There are also regular exhibitions of art, crafts and local history. Admission is free and there is a coffee lounge and a children's play corner. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Colin Puddephatt |