Southampton Local Information: 10 top things to know... more

  • 1. History of Southampton

    Southampton has a rich maritime history, which began in 1066 when the city became a major port following the Norman Conquest. By the 13th century, Southampton was a leading port that was popular due its imports of French wine and exports of English wool and cloth. The Middle Ages saw huge growth in Southampton’s ship building industry and was where Henry V’s warship Grace D...Read moreieu was built. In 1620, Southampton was the departure point for the famous Mayflower ship, which took the Pilgrim Fathers to America. In 1740, Southampton became a spa town, and was a popular place for sea-bathing in the 1760s, even though there wasn’t a very good beach in the city. During the Victorian era, Southampton experienced a great deal of growth, especially in its shipping industry. The docks were opened in 1842, and at that time, Southampton was known as ‘The Gateway To The Empire.’ Southampton maintained its importance throughout the two World Wars, when it was an important commercial port and industrial area. It suffered due to these facts, and was heavily bombed by enemy fire. Read less

  • 2. Now in Southampton

    Southampton has developed into a vibrant and modern city, which still has an important place in Britain’s shipping industry. The city has maintained much of its industry and is still a major UK port. Many luxury cruise liners set sail from Southampton throughout the year, and it is still the largest freight port on the English Channel.

  • 3. Events in Southampton

    Southampton’s events are mainly to do with the area’s maritime history, with the popular Dragon Boat Festival and The Southampton Boat Show.

  • 4. Attractions in Southampton

    The Southampton Maritime Museum is an essential visit for anyone who wants to learn more about the city’s rich history. It is located near the waterfront in the 14th century warehouse, the Wool House. There are a series of educational and inspiring exhibits that tell the story of the docks and great ocean liners that have set sail from Southampton. The Museum of Archaeology u...Read morencovers the history of the area with one of the most amazing archaeological collections in Britain. Read less

  • 5. Things To Do in Southampton

    Tours of the old city of Southampton are popular with tourists and locals alike, and your knowledgeable guide will give you a glimpse into the history of the amazing city. If you are an art lover, then you must take a visit to The City Art Gallery, The Millais Gallery and The Art House.

  • 6. Business in Southampton

    The shipping industry is still one of the most important businesses in Southampton. Older industries such as grain milling and tobacco processing are still prominent, as well as newer businesses such as car manufacturing, aircraft and electrical engineering.

  • 7. Transport in Southampton

    As a major sea port, Southampton is a gateway to the rest of the world. By car, the M27 provides links to the south coast of England and the M3 offers links to London. There are excellent train links that are used for both freight and passenger services.

  • 8. Entertainment in Southampton

    Southampton’s biggest theatre is the Mayflower Theatre, which has seen many performances from West End favourites such as Les Miserables and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. It also receives regular visits from the English National Ballet and Welsh National Opera.

  • 9. Famous Landmarks in Southampton

    Southampton’s most famous landmarks are the city’s docks and ports, which demonstrate how important the trade and shipping industries have been to the town. Southampton is home to the longest surviving stretch of Medieval walls throughout the whole of England.

  • 10. Interesting Facts about Southampton

    In 1912, the RMS Titanic set sail from Southampton. Four in five of the crew aboard the ill-fated ship were from Southampton, and around a third of those who died were from the city.

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Southampton Events

  • 01 September 2013 - 30 September 2013

    The Southampton Boat Show

    The Southampton Boat Show is one of the most popular and most important events in the British boating calendar, and attracts people from the UK and all over the world. The show has been held in Southampton since 1969, and is the biggest water based show in Europe. The t

  • 01 June 2013 - 30 June 2013

    Dragon Boat Festival

    This fun and fantastic team building activity is a great way to have some fun and get out onto the water. Crews of 15 people including paddlers and a drummer, (who beats the time for the paddlers), take to the Southampton Water in Chinese style dragon boats. Whether you

  • 01 July 2013 - 31 July 2013

    Ejector Seats Arts Festival

    The Ejector Seats Arts Festival is a local festival that showcases talent from across the Southampton area. With a Band Stand showing performances from the best local bands, a Film Tent showing local short films and a Spoken Word Tent, there is something for everyone at

  • 01 June 2013 - 30 June 2013

    Solent Gardeners & Craft Fayre

    The Solent Gardeners & Craft Fayre is a popular charitable event that brings together gardeners and craft lovers from across the Southampton area. With exhibits, brass bands and craft stalls, this event is a great day out for all of the family.

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