City of Southampton

Southampton is a vibrant, modern, diverse city offering a warm welcome to visitors from all over the world. It is an international seaport which is proud of its rich maritime heritage.

Heritage

Every visitor should explore the Old Town area. The streets and buildings date back to the Norman period (AD1066 – 1200) Southampton traded wool and wine, and merchants’ houses can be seen in Porters Lane, Bugle Street and French Street. Whilst the Maritime Museum is to be found in the only surviving wool warehouse and many wine vaults beneath the Old Town can be accessed on a guided tour.

Trading ships brought items from across Europe; some can be seen at the Museum of Archaeology at God’s House Tower in Winkle Street.

Close by the story of the city’s aviation history is told at Solent Sky where you can discover stories about how the legendary Spitfire was designed in the city.

The western walls were built in 1338, one of the finest medieval town defences in the UK. A guide to the walls is available from the Museums or the Tourist Information Centre.

In the 18th century Southampton was a popular Spa town where Jane Austen lived from 1806 –1809. Be sure to walk the Jane Austen Trail.

Entertainment and Culture

Whether you want to visit one of the best UK art galleries outside London or fancy catching a blockbuster musical, Southampton is the place to come.

Southampton is home to some of the region’s best concert halls and venues, boasting three outstanding art galleries and two magnificent theatres.

Shopping

Southampton’s shopping will cater for everyone’s taste, whether you are looking for high street stores or smaller, specialised boutiques.

WestQuay is the premier shopping complex in Southampton from whilst close by Mall Marlands provides a mix of both mainstream and niche stores and the Bargate Centre offers a specialised shopping experience.

Something for Everyone

With magnificent parks and green space at the heart of the city, outstanding art, superb restaurants, entertainment and culture venues, Southampton has something for everyone.

For further information contact:

Southampton Tourist Information Centre
9 Civic Centre Road
Southampton
SO14 7FJ

Tel: +44 (0)23 8083 3333
www.visit-southampton.co.uk