Southampton

Southampton is a port city on England’s south coast. It’s home to the SeaCity Museum, with an interactive model of the Titanic, which departed from Southampton in 1912. Nearby, Southampton City Art Gallery specialises in modern British art. Solent Sky Museum features vintage aircraft like the iconic Spitfire. Tudor House & Garden displays artifacts covering over 800 years of history, including a penny-farthing bike.

When is your trip?

–

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Southampton Trip Planner

Ready to plan your trip to Southampton? Organize and map your itinerary with our free trip planner.

Top destinations in Southampton

1. Botley

Your itinerary and your map in one view

No more switching between different apps, tabs, and tools to keep track of your travel plans.

Top attractions in Southampton

1. Mayflower Theatre

4.7

(8625)

Performing arts theater

Concerts & Shows

Musicals, opera, ballet and names from music and comedy at 1928 theatre with restaurant.

Slide 1 of 8

About Ghost Musical The musical Ghost is a spectacular adaptation of the classic 90s film, successfully bringing all the emotion and magic of the original story to the stage. One of the production's greatest highlights is the special effects, which amaze the audience by bringing iconic scenes to life, such as ghosts passing through walls. The set design also deserves high praise, as it is dynamic and well-planned, allowing for quick scene changes without compromising the flow of the narrative. The transition between scenes happens naturally and harmoniously, providing complete immersion in the plot. Furthermore, the engaging soundtrack enhances the emotional atmosphere of the show, making each moment even more remarkable. The actors' performances are another strong point of the production. The lead couple has convincing chemistry, making the audience connect with and be moved by their story. Special mention should also be made of the supporting characters, who bring energy and humor to the show, ensuring a balance between drama and good laughs. The adaptation of the story for the theater was done intelligently. The scenes were well-adjusted for the stage. However, one negative aspect worth mentioning is the portrayal of the main character's murderer as Latin American. This detail may reinforce negative stereotypes and fuel prejudice against immigrants, which is an unfortunate choice in a society that already faces challenges related to discrimination. Despite this drawback, Ghost is an emotional and technically impressive musical that is well worth watching.

Mauricio C — Google review

I've now seen 2 shows at the Mayflower theatre and I've been very impressed! Both views, although different, have been unrestricted and have given a good view of the stage. There is always a good selection of shows here and it is a good distance from the train station and a couple of car parks

Zoe B — Google review

Theatre is as good as any in New York or Toronto. Sightlines were good. Nice feature was rental opera glasses at the seats for a pound. Production was high quality including many complex aerial performances and nice sets. Highly recommended

Walter R — Google review

We travelled down to Southampton to attend a recording of ‘Sorry, I haven’t a Clue, last night at The Mayflower Theatre and had a brilliant evening. As expected, the show was very funny….but I was most impressed with the theatre itself. The staff were so friendly and helpful, the theatre is beautiful, and the prices of the refreshments was so reasonable. There’s no need to try to smuggle sweets in when they sell two bags for £6. The lovely coffee was £3, so cheaper than my local coffee shop. I wish I was local….. I’d be here every week. Thank you all so much for a fabulous evening.

Tracy W — Google review

Lovely theatre and welcoming, professional staff who were particularly helpful given 2 of our party have some mobility issues and 1 has chronic respiratory issues. Show was fabulous with a great cast and sound/light quality. Marred somewhat by a rather odd couple sat next to us that appeared moments before the start, by flailing over from the seats behind. Smelt and heard before I saw them. Loud and obnoxious. Booed and commented loudly about the fun police when the placards for no singing and dancing were displayed, stating they would do what they wanted. Could hear them shouting over the loud music and I was sat 5 seats away! The female of the couple told an actual lady, who politely asked them to be quiet, to go away very impolitely and intimidated my elderly mother for not being in fancy dress for Mamma Mia. Very few people were. Ironically, although they were in fancy dress it wasn't Abba style, nor from that era. Loud criticism of people not having social skills.....yet that were only true of them! One staff member appeared to be watching them for a while, but nobody took any action which was disappointing. Luckily they argued with one another, getting louder and louder, then barged past others who were seated to leave after about 20 minutes. Thankfully not to return. Obviously drunk so surprised they were allowed in at all. Wouldn't stop us from returning but still feel staff should have been more proactive or, at least reactive.

SHARON E — Google review

Fabulous local venue. Easily accessible by public transport or if you prefer to drive there is a huge multi story on the next street. Beautiful old theatre with a number of bars so the queues don't get too long!

Jo D — Google review

I came here to see mamma mia. Every single staff member we encourted was a credit to the theatre - greeting us with a smile. I am a wheelchair user, but can walk short distances, as we were parked close i opted to walk in, which to some extent made my disability invisible, and I was nervous when asking about accessible toilets -but was greeted with a smile and a poliet response as to where without any questioning or judgement. The accessible toilets are the most fantastic ones we had ever found in a theatre - including a hoist system and even an adjustable height sink. The accessible area even had seats and tables to sit it away from the view of the main theatre and the hustle and bustle that comes with a big theatre, for someone like myself with anxiety this space was amazing and enabled me to sit with the family member with me, and get myself calm before entering the main theatre. The mayflower puts over theatres to shame, and I cant praise enough how fanatic the staff are here. We were sat in row D in the stalls and I had someone fairly tall in front of me, which resulted in half the stage view being blocked which when these seats are the highest tier price cost it was disappointing - deffinatly seats where it starts to become staggered offer a better view.

Bronni P — Google review

We were in the gods to watch Tina... Sign in the lobby said balcony bar is closed. But not so..... Seats are from a different era. Narrow and with little legroom. [I'm 6ft 1 but have 4 son in laws over 6ft 3. I'm not sure they could fit.] For this performance either the accoustics are awful or the backing band far too loud. The band volume ruined the performance, certainly for me

Ian J — Google review

2. Red Funnel Ferries – Vehicle Ferry from Southampton

4.4

(11180)

Ferry service

Transportation

Slide 1 of 8

My partner and I took this ferry from Southampton to the Isle of Wight in midweek July. Staff are friendly and helpful, and everything is handled very professionally from the minute you show your ticket to the booth on entry to the drive off the ferry. You have to arrive 30 mins before your scheduled crossing time and wait in line. You are directed where to park on board, and you have to get out of your car. There is plenty of seating where you get a good view both inside and outside. The ferry is very clean and well presented. Dogs have their own area to sit with their owners. The ride across is very smooth and comfortable. You can buy food,drink and gifts on board but it is a little pricey so I'd advise bringing your own. You are given a cup for the machine if you want hot drinks too.

Sarah S — Google review

Soon through check in and onto the ferry, we had 40 minutes delay, it gave us time to eat some dinner. Not really a problem. Staff friendly, clean seating area and easy disembarking.

Leonie S — Google review

Red Funnel Ferries offer an excellent and reliable service between Southampton and the Isle of Wight. The journey is smooth, comfortable, and well organized, with great views from the deck. The staff are friendly, helpful, and make the trip easy and enjoyable. Onboard facilities are clean and convenient, with good food and drink options. A pleasant and efficient way to travel — highly recommended!

Harsha J — Google review

It was an excellent experience. From being addressed by name as you pulled through them gate to having a drink on board. Loading and off loading, very professional work no fuss.

Graham T — Google review

Very easy to use and access. I booked with priority loading to save time coming on and off the ferry. The whole thing was over in 1h but as this was my first time on a ferry, I loved it, great weather as a cherry on top 😊. The staff were helpful and nice all along, both ways, highly recommend this company. Isle of Wight is a beauty. The views on the ferry are lovely.

MD A — Google review

Excellent service from start to finish. We had to change a vehicle at very short notice but they could not be more accommodating. Well done Red Funnel A**

Paul B — Google review

Absolutely brilliant experience with Red Funnel. From the moment we arrived, the staff were so friendly and welcoming, making everything easy and stress-free. The ferry was spotless, comfortable and perfectly on time both ways. There was a great selection of food and drinks on board, everything fresh and well presented. The whole journey was smooth and enjoyable from start to finish. You can really tell they take pride in their service. I wouldn’t hesitate to travel with Red Funnel again and highly recommend them to anyone.

AJ S — Google review

The staff were excellent, so helpful calm and clear with their instructions when loading vehicles. Very professionally run. Photos show both journeys, sunny weather both ways 👍😁👌🌞

Anna E — Google review

3. SeaCity Museum

4.4

(4083)

Museum

Cafe

Hands-on venue exploring shipping and the sea, with cafe, education zone and gift shop.

Slide 1 of 8

I’m so glad I was able to visit this museum. My focus was the Titanic story but the rest of the museum was just as good. The Titanic exhibit was wonderfully laid out and easy to follow. Reading (and hearing) people’s first hand accounts, how it affected the whole city of Southampton, and seeing the artifacts was quite something. The rest of the museum focuses on the maritime history of Southampton, as it’s a very busy port! There is lots to learn. Staff were very friendly. The gift shop had many items and fun souvenirs to choose from and the toilets were clean.

Vanessa B — Google review

We thoroughly enjoyed visiting this museum. It's a great example of using a heritage building - the former courthouse with police cells now doubling as toilerts! The Titanic story is presented in a very compelling way but here it's presented from the point of view of the people of Southampton who worked on and around the ship - not just the rich passengers. That makes it very thought-provoking. And presenting the parliamentary inquiry in the former courtroom is a stroke of genius. The exhibit strikes the right balance too. There's enough social history for adults with a few interactive exhibits for children. The information boards are well written and positioned so they're easy to read - no bending or staring at small print. The rest of the museum telling the history of Southampton is good too - and the historical artifacts from the shipping lines who sailed from Southampton are fascinating.

Richard L — Google review

Beautiful laid out museum, so much information to read but not too much. It’s nice because they are short but with lots of information. A few videos to watch and lots of talking so you don’t have to read so much. The gift shop had so much in it. Plus a penny machine for collectors like myself and the bathrooms are old jail cells. How neat!

Melissa P — Google review

I like the Titanic story, gave me a more comprehensive understanding of the incident. I also like the Story about Southampton, very fruitful and informative. They have many old games stations which was a very interesting experience for me. The ticket valids for one year.

M C — Google review

I really like the way the exhibits are displayed and how stories are told through objects and multimedia. This exhibition gives me a real sense of what the Titanic was like and provides a richer historical background than the famous film.

JJ N — Google review

A lovely local museum about both the seafaring history of Southampton and immigration. Of special interest is the section on Titanic, which sailed from here and many of the crew were local. A map of the homes of local crew members gives an indication of how devastating the loss would have been for the community, as everyone would have know at least one of the crew members, if not many.

Michael O — Google review

A really nice museum with local history as well as a very unique Titanic exhibit. We have been to several Titanic experiences but what made this one unique was the perspective they took in the presentation. The exhibit centered around the people from Southampton that worked on the ship; the roles they played on Titanic and the impact the sinking had on the Southampton community. We also very much enjoyed the courtroom/inquiry experience which provided some great insight into post-sinking investigation, inquiries and responses.

DUdErOck — Google review

Great museum to visit. I am a fan of Titanic myself and to read more personal stories from local sea men and see real artefacts from Titanic was astonishing. Also got to play one of the first table football games. Recommend plus when you buy a ticket - it's valid for 1 year and you can come and revisit for free.

Stanislav Y — Google review

4. Solent Sky

4.7

(1647)

Museum

Military Museums

Collection of 20 vintage aircraft that includes flying boats, jet fighters & the iconic Spitfire.

Slide 1 of 8

My husband really enjoyed this, he said he could have spent all day reading everything. I really liked the sky boat, the inside was unreal. I also like the blitz exhibition. In the future some interactive bits would be really good for younger visitors.

Emma — Google review

Our party of 5 with ages ranging from 10 to 80 years, all absolutely loved it. Not just a few old planes, the place is crammed with planes, engines and history, all very well presented. 10/10!

Peter W — Google review

I thought this museum was mostly about the Spitfire - I was wrong. It turns out it is a very eclectic collection of aircraft and related artifacts. How did they squeeze so many planes into this building? There's no obvious way to go round the collection so make sure you explore every corner and every level. We were particularly taken by the recreated 1970s hobby shop in the entrance featuring Jetex engines and Frog models, which were Southampton companies - very nostalgic for British people of a certain age.

Richard L — Google review

A fantastic place to visit! Solent Sky Museum is an absolute gem for aviation enthusiasts and families alike. The exhibits are fascinating, especially the legendary Spitfire and the story of Southampton’s aviation history. The staff and volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable, friendly, and clearly passionate about what they do. You can even climb into some of the aircraft for a real hands-on experience, which makes it extra fun for kids and adults. Highly recommended, a great day out and excellent value for money!

Melissa N — Google review

What a lovely museum. Visiting from Canada. Staff and volunteers were so knowledgeable and friendly. So much to see. Museum full of British aviation history and many displays about Southampton's roll in WWII. Everyone had a part to do during the war. Great police and firefighters display the past. Lots of displays. As it was Nov 11th we joined some staff and volunteers out back to observe 2 minutes silence at the flag pole. Then we were treated to personal tour of old rail cars that are being restored and learning about out they are doing it.

Bruce S — Google review

Nice place to visit. Costed 12 pound per person and booked tickets on the spot. Took us about 45 mins to 1 hr to see this place. Reached at 3.45pm, last entry at 4pm, the place closes at 5pm.

Natasha D — Google review

Incredibly well arranged, lots of aircraft, and also some bits of local ww2 history. What's really cool, is they have a real spitfire, harrier cockpit you cat go inside of. Also, the staff are nice, polite with a lot of local knowledge. Also, you can go inside the flying boat.

Daugirdas — Google review

No cafe… But 5* nevertheless Volunteers friendly and knowledgeable. Shame it hasn’t a more visible presence A new and supported venue would enhance its importance to Southampton’s and our history.

Adrian R — Google review

5. Hythe Ferry

4.5

(86)

Ferry terminal

Sights & Landmarks

Slide 1 of 8

a great little journey from Southampton to Hythe - about 12 mins - then arrive at Hythe Pier (atmosphere of gentle decay) to find there is a 700m rail journey down the pier to Hythe itself. Wonderful 😊 Certainly the smallest commercial?! railway I have ever been on (over 100 years old). Maintaining it obviously a labour of love.

Chris C — Google review

The ticket attendant at Hythe needs to work on his customer service. Most miserable chap who was most put out at me asking him a question. The rest of the crew both on the boat and at Southampton terminal were completely different and welcoming. Once you get past the miserable so and so at Hythe, it's a great little experience.

Lizzy B — Google review

Really liked this trip across to Southampton from Hythe. Involves a short train ride to the end of the pier, so grateful they keep this maintained for our pleasure. And rested my bum cheeks in the same seat as King George VI.

Glyn ( — Google review

An excellent way to get into town! We’ve used this historic service for years and it never fails. It’s around £7.50 for a return, and that includes a train ride up the pier and the ferry ride. (Make sure you look out for the seat that King George sat in on the train) The ferry offers fantastic, up-close views of the cruise ships, especially when the Queens are in. When you get into Southampton, it is a 10 minute walk into West-Quay, or you can take a bus for £1.

William J — Google review

Delightful trip on a small train to the end of a very long pier! An interesting and easy way to visit Southampton avoiding the traffic.

Alex P — Google review

The one of most efficient ways to get Hythe and come back to Southampton. It’s quick and enjoyable. I would like also suggest you take a seat outside (there are 4 branches outside two cabins), and feel the wind and water on 100%.

Victor P — Google review

Lovely, relaxing way to travel into Southampton. Cheaper if you buy 10-journey ticket (valid for a year). So much better customer service since Blue Funnel took over.

Grace I — Google review

A Must do if visiting Hythe, train and ferry journey bringing you into old southampton walls and ,if you turn left, straight to dancing man brewery !! Perfect.

John M — Google review

6. Tudor House & Garden

4.5

(1436)

Museum

Historic Sites

Restored 15th-century Tudor house & remains of a 12th-century Norman home, with a garden & a cafe.

Slide 1 of 8

This museum was so cool. It was so interesting seeing how Southampton used to be way back when compared to now. My brain is struggling to comprehend it all. It’s just fascinating. Absolutely loved the ghostly interaction in the banquet hall. That was so cool. I’ve never experienced anything like that in a museum before. The house (interior, items, original markings on the walls) was just so cool. So glad this house has been restored and preserved as an interactive museum with a cafe and gardens. Southampton has a lot of history but doesn’t seem to preserve it as museums or sight-seeing opportunities. So this was such a great stumble when we were wandering the Southampton streets. And the staff are so incredibly lovely and accommodating. Very kind people who made us feel very welcome.

Charlotte J — Google review

I recently visited Tudor House in Southampton for the first time, and I really enjoyed the experience. I was pleasantly surprised to receive a student discount, which brought the entry fee down to just £8—a reasonable price for a historic site like this. You can also use the ticket for an entire year which I think is great in this economy! The house itself is full of character. It’s very old and creaky, which added a slightly eerie atmosphere while walking through, but it also felt authentic and charming. The interior is well maintained, and the garden, in particular, is beautifully kept and adds a peaceful touch to the visit. One thing I did find a bit challenging was navigating the house. It can be quite confusing at times, and I think having staff inside to guide visitors or offer a bit more direction would improve the experience. You can easily explore the whole site in about 15–20 minutes, so it's a great stop if you're short on time but want to enjoy some local history. One of my favorite parts was the collection of paintings—especially the oil paintings. The detail and intricacy were absolutely stunning and made the visit even more memorable. I also want to highlight how friendly and welcoming the staff were. They really helped set a positive tone from the moment I arrived. Bonus tip: St Michael’s Church is right across from Tudor House, and it’s definitely worth a visit too. It adds nicely to the historical atmosphere of the area.

Ashley W — Google review

An interesting tutor home that has seen much throughout the years. I enjoyed it and would recommend it if you have some time to kill in Southampton. Not terribly extensive, but if you read all of the signage, it will probably take you about an hour to get through it.

Anthony S — Google review

Very interesting and reasonable price, glad I went. Staff well informed and will give you great intro and there's a little 'show' at the start of your visit.

Warren H — Google review

Really enjoyed our visit, Tim showed us to the garden, explained all about the plants, what they were used for, why they were planted in this way. He then talked about the house, the various add on parts etc. he made it really interesting

Jane S — Google review

We arrived at 10 a.m. on a Monday and enjoyed an uncrowded visit to the house. A tour guide gave us some very detailed explanations of the garden and city walls, and the indoor exhibits did a nice job of explaining how this house was used as the city around it evolved. It should be on everyone's "don't miss" list when visiting Southampton for the first time.

Jeff P — Google review

We booked a tour of the house with Tim, which was brilliant. It was billed as an hour but was actually two. He was very knowledgable, engaging and entertaining. We got to see areas not open to the general public, the attic and cellars, and heard ghost stories. The ladies in reception were friendly and helpful. The coffee and toasted sandwich afterwards were very good. It was easy to prebook and pay online and the ticket is valid for reentry for a year. Thoroughly recommended.

Vikki G — Google review

Well worth a visit, full of interesting exhibits, very atmospheric and the staff are really knowledgeable. Easy to find, plenty of signposts.

Tania M — Google review

Other notable attractions

St Mary's Stadium

Stadium

Sights & Landmarks

Manor Farm | Hampshire

Sights & Landmarks

Farm

Traditional working farm with costumed actors, animal-petting/feeding/milking and rural walks.

Southampton Common

Park

Nature & Parks

Wildlife centre, rare crested newts and a historic graveyard in a popular public park.

North Section of Southampton Town Walls

Historical landmark

Sights & Landmarks

Well-preserved medieval walls around Southampton's old town, with an imposing crenelated gate tower.

Westquay

Shopping mall

Shopping

Sleek, contemporary shopping centre featuring fashion stores, casual restaurants & a cinema.

Utilita Bowl

Cricket ground

Sights & Landmarks

Modern cricket ground with a hotel/conference centre also hosting concerts & other large events.

The Nuffield

Permanently Closed

Performing arts theater

Concerts & Shows

Home-grown and national/international touring productions, with a community-based ethos.

Steamship Shieldhall

Event venue

Sights & Landmarks

The Brook

Live music venue

Concerts & Shows

Accessible 600-capacity venue hosting national touring/tribute bands and some comedy nights.

Mayflower Park

Park

Nature & Parks

Popular waterside municipal park for civic events, with level grass areas, play facilities and cafe.

Best-of categories in Southampton

All road trips from Southampton

Southampton throughout the year

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Southampton?

Get inspired for your trip to Southampton with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

Q&A about Southampton

What are must-see venues in Southern England?

We went to snowdonia in Wales, and loved it so much. I planned the trip originally using public transport and you can get everywhere 🙂

Adelle Strosin

View 1 response

Weather in Southampton

Here's the historical average temperature in Southampton over a full year based on data compiled by NASA: for more details by month, see the weather in Southampton in January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, or December

Monthly temperature highs and lows in Southampton

Ready to plan your trip to Southampton?

Use our free trip planner for the easiest way to plan your vacation. No more switching between different apps, tabs, and tools to keep track of your travel plans.

Add places from guides with 1 click

We crawled the web so you don’t have to. Easily save mentioned places.

Collaborate with friends in real time

Plan along with your friends with live syncing and collaborative editing.

Import flight and hotel reservations

Connect or forward your emails to get them magically added into your trip plan.

Expense tracking and splitting

Keep track of your budget and split the cost between your tripmates.

Checklists for anything

Stay organized with a packing list, to-do list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Get personalized suggestions

Find the best places to visit with smart recommendations based on your itinerary.

Plan on the go with our free travel app

With Wanderlog's mobile travel planner on Android and iOS, access and edit your trips wherever you go — even while offline.

Access and edit your trips wherever you go — even without a connection.

4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play

Plan on the go with our free travel app

With Wanderlog's mobile travel planner on Android and iOS, access and edit your trips wherever you go — even while offline.

Access and edit your trips wherever you go — even without a connection.

4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play

Southampton

Southampton Trip Planner

Southampton Trip Planner

Top destinations in Southampton

Your itinerary and your map in one view

Top attractions in Southampton

Other notable attractions

Top searches in Southampton

Popular road trips from Southampton

All road trips from Southampton

Explore nearby places

All related maps of Southampton

Southampton throughout the year

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Southampton?

Q&A about Southampton

Weather in Southampton

Add places from guides with 1 click

Collaborate with friends in real time

Import flight and hotel reservations

Expense tracking and splitting

Checklists for anything

Get personalized suggestions