Located in the county of Hampshire, Southampton is a vibrant city that serves as the perfect starting point for exploring the beautiful areas of southern England. This travel guide will take you on a journey through the stunning landscapes, rich history, and cultural heritage of this incredible region.
Getting to Know Southampton
Southampton is a lively city with a thriving nightlife, artistic, and cultural scene, dating back to the Middle Ages. As the center of international commercial traffic, it offers easy access to its surroundings by car or train. With its numerous attractions, family-friendly parks, and prestigious colleges, Southampton is an ideal destination for all ages.
Day Trips from Southampton: Top Destinations
Here are some of the best day trips from Southampton:
- New Forest and Brockenhurst
Approximately 5 miles away from Southampton, the New Forest is a massive forest within the National Park. This territory was reserved for hunting by William the Conqueror over 900 years ago and has been open to the public since then. The park is home to numerous wild species of animals, including ponies, squirrels, deer, wolves, and various varieties of beautiful cervids.
Distance: 20 km
How to get there: 28 minutes by car via A33, M27, and A35. By bus from Central Station with line 8 and 9 Bluestar – Get directions.
Opening hours: Always open
Cost: Free ticket
- Isle of Wight
Located just 10 km away from the Hampshire coast, the Isle of Wight is an incredible island recognized for its exceptional natural beauty. You can visit Osborne House, the summer residence built for Queen Victoria, and enjoy the beautiful countryside, beaches, and tea rooms scattered around.
Distance: 30 km
How to get there: 1 hour and 52 minutes by car via Southampton – East Cowes then ferry from Fishbourne – Portsmouth (from €147.00), for more information on the routes visit the site – Get directions.
Opening hours: Osborne House from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Cost: Adult £20,40 (€22.84), children £11.10 (€12.43), families (2+3) £48.10 (€53.85)
Other Must-Visit Destinations
Here are some other top destinations in southern England that you shouldn’t miss:
Salisbury
Located in the Wiltshire county, Salisbury is a charming city situated on the Avon River. It’s known for its medieval cathedral and bell tower, which holds the record for being the tallest of all Britain.
Distance: 40 km
How to get there: 43 minutes by car via A36; by train from Southampton Central with GWR South Western Railway (from €19.00 to €75.00) – Get directions.
Opening hours: Cathedral from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm; Mompesson House from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm; Salisbury Museum from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm; Boscombe Down Aviation Collection from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm (closed on Monday); The Rifle from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm excluding Sunday.
Cost: Cathedral adult £17.50 (€19.59), children £12.50 (€14.00), families (2+3) £48.00 (€53.74);
Mompesson House adults £7.50 (€8.40), £4.20 (€4.70), families £21.00 (€23.51); Salisbury Museum adult £8.00 (€8.96), children £4.00 (€4.48), families (2+4) £21.00 (€23.51);
Boscombe Down Aviation Collection £8.50 (€9.52), children £6.00 (€6.72), families £23.00 (€25.75);
The Rifle adult £5.00 (€5.60), children from 0 to 16 years £2.00 (€2.24)
Stonehenge
Located about 50 miles away from Southampton and approximately 9 miles from Salisbury, Stonehenge is one of the most famous monuments in the world, dating back to around 3000 BC.
Patrimonio Mondiale dell’Umanità Unesco, it is a circular terrain where within it stand monoliths (standing stones) and circles of stones. The whole monument is surrounded by natural tombs (barrows), which make one think that it was born as a great necropolis, others suggest that it served as an astronomical calendar, while another doubt arises from the enormous difficulty of ancient people in transporting these huge masses: studies have confirmed that they come from areas much farther away than this, making almost impossible to transport them by men of primitive times. For all these reasons, there is an atmosphere mysterious made of myths and legends surrounding it.
Being one of the most visited places in the world, it’s essential to buy tickets in advance.
Distance: 55 km
How to get there: 53 minutes by car via A303 or A36; by train from Southampton Central with GWR Cardiff Central towards Salisbury, then take the bus Stonehenge Tour (from €35.00 to €50.00) – Get directions.
Opening hours: Every day from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm
Cost: Adults £21.10 (€23.09), children £12.70 (€13.90), families £54.90 (€60.07)
Bath
Located in the Somerset county along the Avon River, Bath is a destination sought after by tourists who come to admire its natural hot springs, which are unique in all of Great Britain.
It was founded by the Romans to be a thermal center and a kind of meeting point for its inhabitants. A charming city characterized also by its Georgian architecture that you can find in Queen Square, Circus, Royal Crescent and Assembly Rooms. Don’t miss the Museum of Bath Architecture, Fashion Museum, Holburne Museum, No 1 Royal Crescent and Herschel Museum of Astronomy, which is located inside the residence of astronomer William Herschel.
The city also offers fun, this city is home to street performers, who you can find numerous in its streets. If you want some healthy relaxation, consider visiting the Bath Spa or having a stroll at Alexandra Park with an exceptional view.
Jane Austen lived in Bath for a few years: that’s why she was dedicated the Jane Austen Centre and the Jane Austen Festival held every September.
Distance: 101 km
How to get there: by car in 1 hour and 50 minutes via A303 and A36; by train from Southampton Central with GWR (from €30.00 to €55.00) – Get directions.
Opening hours: Museum of Bath Architecture from Monday to Friday from 13:00 pm to 17:00, Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am to 17:00; Fashion Museum from 10:00 am to 17:00; Holburne Museum from 10:00 am to 17:00 (Sunday from 11:00 am); No 1 Royal Crescent from 10:00 am to 17:00; Herschel Museum of Astronomy from 13:00 pm to 17:00, Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am.
Cost: Adult £6.70 (€7.50), students £5.50 (€6.16), children from 6 to 16 years £3.30 (€3.69), families (2+4) £16.00 (€17.91);
Adult £22.50 (€25.19), over 65 and students £21.15 (€23.68), under 18 years £13.50 (€15.11), families from £43.00 to €69.00;
Free admission from 15:00 pm to 17:00 on every Wednesday and the last Friday of each month, Saturday and Sunday at 10:00 am.
Adult £10.60 (€11.87), over 65 and students £9.10 (€10.19), children from 6 to 16 years £5.30 (€5.93), families (2+4) £26.20 (€29.33);
Adult £6.70 (€7.50), students and over 65 £5.70 (€6.16), children from 6 to 16 years £3.30 (€3.69), families (2+4) £16.00 (€17.91)
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Conclusion
In conclusion, southern England is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the stunning landscapes of the New Forest to the iconic Stonehenge, there’s something for everyone in this incredible region. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or simply want to soak up some of its unique charm, Southampton and beyond are waiting to be explored.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Q: What is the best time to visit southern England?
A: The best time to visit southern England depends on your preferences, but generally, spring and summer are the most popular months, while autumn and winter offer a more relaxed atmosphere. -
Q: How do I get to Southampton from the airport?
A: There are several transportation options available from Southampton Airport, including taxis, buses, and trains. It’s recommended to book in advance to ensure availability. -
Q: Can I explore the New Forest on my own?
A: While it’s possible to explore the New Forest on your own, we recommend hiring a guided tour or joining a group excursion to make the most of your experience. -
Q: Are there any specific dress codes for visiting Stonehenge?
A: No, there are no specific dress codes for visiting Stonehenge. However, it’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for outdoor activities. -
Q: Can I swim in the hot springs at Bath?
A: Yes, you can swim in the hot springs at Bath, but please note that they are not open to the general public due to health and safety concerns. -
Q: Are there any special events or festivals happening during my visit to Southampton?
A: Yes, there are several events and festivals taking place throughout the year in Southampton, including the Jane Austen Festival and the Southampton International Boat Show. -
Q: Can I drive to Stonehenge from Southampton?
A: Yes, you can drive to Stonehenge from Southampton, but please note that parking is limited, and it’s recommended to book your parking spot in advance. -
Q: Are there any specific rules or regulations for visiting the Isle of Wight?
A: Yes, there are several rules and regulations for visiting the Isle of Wight, including restrictions on certain types of vehicles and wildlife. It’s essential to check with local authorities before planning your trip.
Additional Tips and Recommendations
- Consider purchasing a Heritage Pass, which grants access to many historical sites and attractions in southern England.
- Take advantage of Southampton’s vibrant nightlife by exploring the city’s many bars, clubs, and live music venues.
- Don’t miss the opportunity to try some delicious local cuisine, including seafood, cream teas, and traditional English pub food.
- Be sure to pack layers for your visit, as the British weather can be unpredictable.
Budgeting and Cost-Saving Tips
- Plan ahead and book tickets and accommodations in advance to save money.
- Consider visiting popular attractions during off-peak hours or on weekdays to avoid crowds and long lines.
- Pack a picnic lunch instead of dining at expensive restaurants.
- Look for budget-friendly accommodations, such as hostels or guesthouses.
Getting Around Southern England
- Southampton has a well-connected transportation system, including buses, trains, and taxis.
- Consider renting a car for longer trips to explore the surrounding countryside and villages.
- Take advantage of bike rentals or walking tours to get a feel for the local culture and scenery.
By following this travel guide and taking advantage of the many hidden gems that southern England has to offer, you’ll be sure to create unforgettable memories in this incredible region. Happy travels!
