Southampton UK – One Day in the Splendid Cruise Capital of Europe
In this article, we’ll take you to one of England’s most beloved cities – Southampton. Located on the south coast of England, Southampton is a famous cruise port city that attracts visitors worldwide. And that is why many people travel to Southampton – to embark on a cruise. Today, it is often called the “Cruise Capital of Europe.” But there’s more to Southampton than just its port. We discuss what to do during one day in Southampton in this article.
Southampton has a rich medieval history and vibrant culture, offering plenty to do if you have one or more days to explore this charming destination.
From its humble beginnings as a small fishing village, Southampton has grown into a bustling city with a rich maritime heritage. In modern times, Southampton is known as one of the UK’s largest commercial ports, with its docks handling millions of tonnes of cargo each year. But it’s not just about the ships and trade – Southampton offers a unique blend of old and new, with modern shopping centers, medieval walls, museums, and galleries.
The Places Where We Go contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you when you purchase using one of these Amazon links. Read our disclaimer and privacy policy for more information.
A Popular Destination for Cruise Ship Travelers
Nearly two million people pass through Southampton each year to enjoy a cruise. If you’re one of these, you have a choice to make.
You can get to Southampton and spend a day or more there before your cruise. Or, if your schedule permits, you can fly into London, spend several days there, and then make the journey down to Southampton.
We spent five days in London on our trip before journeying to Southampton. We had time on our calendar to permit this schedule before our Southampton cruise departure, and it made our journey seem like a few mini-vacations strung together.
If you travel to Southampton as part of a cruise itinerary, you’ll also need to decide how long to spend in Southampton. Your choices include arriving the morning of your cruise departure or one or more days before boarding your ship. Or, if you’re looking for a great day trip destination from nearby parts of England, you’ll find plenty to do in this great day trip destination.
Keep reading for ideas on how you want to spend time in Southampton.
Getting to Southampton
Southampton is a well-connected city, making it easy to travel to from anywhere in the UK. The most popular way to reach Southampton is by train, which takes around 80 minutes from London’s Waterloo station. This was our mode of travel, and it cost us just over $100 U.S. for two passengers on one-way train tickets.
At the Southampton Train Station, you’ll see directions for Cruise Ship passengers getting off the train, as many people go straight from the station to the cruise terminal. You can take a taxi or bus from the train station to the city center, just a short distance away. We booked a stay at the Harbor Hotel, which was too far to walk from the train station. So, we hailed one of the many taxis available just outside the train station to drive us to our hotel.
If you prefer traveling by car, Southampton is easily accessible via the M3 and M27 motorways. The drive from London takes approximately 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. There are also several coach services available, which offer affordable and comfortable transportation to Southampton.
The nearest airport for international travelers is Southampton Airport, just a short 15-minute drive from the city center. From here, you can take a taxi or bus to reach your destination in Southampton.
You can also arrange a private transfer from London Heathrow to Southampton Cruise Ports
.
Exploring Southampton
As you journey through Southampton, you’ll notice its well-preserved medieval walls and stunning architecture. There are also several museums and galleries that showcase the city’s rich history. If you’re interested in learning about Southampton’s historic past, you’ll find history preserved in several museums.
You might be looking for things to do before a cruise in Southampton. Or, you might be interested in what to do on a day trip or a weekend in Southampton. Here are a few of the top sights and places to visit on your visit to Southampton:
Southampton City Walls
Southampton City Walls encompass an impressive half-mile-long stretch of medieval forts that survive from the age of pirates.
When originally built, these historical defensive structures encased the entire city. Constructed in the 1360s following an attack by French and Genoese Privateers, these walls played a crucial role in defending the population. These walls have witnessed many significant historical events, including sieges, battles, and invasions.
Today, they are among the most complete city walls surviving in the United Kingdom.
We walked along the marked trail called “Walk the Southampton Walls. ” The trail spans 1.25 miles around the perimeter of the ancient medieval trading town. This captivating walk showcases 13 remaining towers, six city gates, and half a mile of robust stone walls and arcades.
Legend has it that the pirate Grimaldi, the attackers’ leader, used the loot from Southampton to establish the Principality of Monaco. Notably, these 14th-century walls served as the first structures in Britain to embrace the defensive technologies of gunpowder and cannon. Although the walls gradually fell into disrepair in the 18th century as their necessity diminished, many of Southampton’s older buildings are intricately built into, onto, or alongside these magnificent walls.
We walked among the old stone remains, took photos, and read the historical descriptions at several places, including the Medieval Mayor’s Wine Vaults, Westgate – a beautifully preserved medieval gatehouse, and the Bargate, one of Southampton’s most iconic landmarks – the ancient entrance into the medieval town.
Holyrood Church
After walking among the Southampton City Walls, it’s a short walk to see the ruins at the Church of the Holyrood.
Holyrood Church in Southampton, a medieval church with a rich history, was tragically destroyed during World War II bombing raids and never fully restored, although the ruins remain preserved. Initially built in 1320, the church has a rich historic significance.
The Middle Ages saw Holyrood Church in Southampton serving as the central place for worship at the heart of the town. It became a significant focal point, attracting crusaders en route to the Holy Land, soldiers marching to Agincourt in 1415, and even Philip II of Spain in 1554, who stopped there on his journey to marry Queen Mary at Winchester Cathedral. Holyrood Church was indeed a historic hub of activity, playing a vital role in the town’s vibrant past.
In November 1940, the port city was blacked out during a German bombing raid. However, the German Luftwaffe used the white-painted spire of nearby St. Michael’s Church as a landmark and dropped nearly 10,000 bombs on the city. The destruction in the historic city center was immense.
During the WWII Blitz, the church suffered significant damage, with only the tower and chancel remaining intact. The destruction resulted in the loss of the wooden spire and the great west window, while the central area of the church was utterly destroyed.
Saved from complete removal, the bombed-out ruins were transformed into a stunning memorial garden in 1957.
Today, it is a memorial to merchant sailors who once worshipped here and victims of the Titanic.
We walked through the ruins that were accessible to us. Inside the roofless structure, the Southampton Oral History Unit audio displays provided narration from people connected to the Titanic disaster and the church’s destruction. We spent several minutes listening to both audio displays.
God’s House Tower
God’s House Tower is a historic structure located at the south-east corner of the city walls. Originally a gatehouse in the late 13th century, the structure got its name from the nearby hospital of God’s House, which assisted impoverished travelers since 1168.
God’s House Tower evolved into a fortification designed to accommodate cannon weaponry. It played a significant role in protecting the area and functioned as a storage space for gunpowder, guns, and ammunition.
The need for defense diminished in later centuries, and the building was transformed into the Town Jail during much of the 1700s.
Eventually, in 1961, the Museum of Archaeology was established within the tower, providing a glimpse into the rich history of Southampton.
Mayflower Memorial
The next stop is the Mayflower Memorial. Located on Town Quay, the Grade II listed monument commemorates the sailing of the Pilgrim Fathers to America aboard the Mayflower and Speedwell in 1620.
In Southampton, the Mayflower stopped for repairs before embarking on its journey to the New World. The ship also took on additional passengers and supplies in the city, making it an integral part of the Mayflower’s voyage.
The memorial was erected in 1913, with a dedication ceremony attended by descendants of the Pilgrim Fathers. It is a 50-foot-high column of Portland Stone and bears the names of those who sailed on the Mayflower and a bronze plaque depicting the ship itself.
We visited the monument to reflect on the courage and determination of those who sailed on the Mayflower over 400 years ago. The memorial serves as a reminder of Southampton’s role in American history and its enduring ties to the United States.
The Weigh House
On French Street, you can visit the Weigh House. It housed the royal Tron, or the renowned weigh beam scales and weights, dating back to the mid-thirteenth century. This landmark played a crucial role in weighing merchandise, notably wool before they embarked on their journey from Southampton to various ports across Europe.
Southampton Castle
Southampton Castle was built after the Norman conquest and played a crucial role in the wine trade through Southampton docks. It was upgraded in the 13th century, becoming equipped with cannons. However, it declined in the 16th century and was eventually sold off.
Today, only a few remnants of the castle remain visible in Southampton. The Castle Watergate, built in the 13th or 14th century, is still preserved and forms a part of the city walls.
Visiting here, you can explore Castle Vault and learn about the castle’s history through guided tours and informative panels.
Titanic Memorials
You can walk to numerous memorials in the city center dedicated to preserving the memory of the Titanic. The city recalls the history from April 10th, 1912, when the ‘unsinkable’ ship called Titanic departed Southampton port. With 3,327 passengers and crew on their way to New York, it would hit an iceberg four days later and sink.
Several memorials in the city pay tribute to the victims of the Titanic. The memorials pay homage to the engineer officers, the crew, musicians, sea-post officers, restaurant staff, and local victims.
The Solent Sky Museum
Rated #1 on TripAdvisor, this museum showcases the city’s rich aviation history with an extensive collection of aircraft and flying boats, including many iconic models from military and civil use.
And it’s where you can visit the birthplace of the Spitfire. Hampshire and Solent were centers for aviation research between 1910 and 1960. During this period, over 26 aircraft manufacturers were here and built craft ranging from biplanes to spacecraft.
If you’re a fan of aviation history, plan to stop at the Solent Sky Museum.
Steamship Shieldhall
Rated #2 on TripAdvisor, the Steamship Shieldhall in Southampton is the largest working steamship in Britain. Built in 1955, Britain’s last surviving steam-powered coastal cargo ship played a crucial role in transporting goods along the UK’s coast.
It is a tribute to Britain’s maritime heritage, operated by dedicated volunteers. Visitors can experience the golden age of steam by enjoying excursions or visiting the ship.
Explore the impressive engine room with its original steam engines and the traditional bridge with gleaming brasswork. And you can see the ship’s steam-assisted steering gear, similar to that used on the Titanic.
Today, the Steamship Shieldhall offers day cruises during the summer, taking guests on a nostalgic journey to the Golden Age of Steam. A dedicated team of volunteers, from the captain to the deckhands, keeps the entire operation afloat and ensures the ship’s continuous seaworthiness. Thanks to their hard work and dedication, the Shieldhall will continue to sail through the seas for many more years.
If you want to visit the steamship, check its website for sailing dates – primarily on weekends in the summer.
SeaCity Museum
#4 on TripAdvisor is the SeaCity Museum, which brings Southampton’s rich history and maritime connections to life. The museum showcases the intriguing stories of the people of Southampton, including their fascinating lives and significant role in the Titanic story.
Explore the interactive exhibits, such as a 1:25 scale model of the Titanic, the immersive ‘Disaster Room,’ and a courtroom recreation of the Inquiry held after the tragedy. Beyond the Titanic, the museum also highlights Southampton’s position as a gateway to the world through its historic collections and tales of those who have arrived or departed from the port over the past 250,000 years.
The museum offers a family-friendly environment with hands-on activities and facilities for children.
Mayflower Theatre
Another top 5 location on TripAdvisor is The Mayflower Theatre. If you enjoy the theater, you’ll find a variety of touring musicals, opera, ballet, and comedy shows. The theater has a stunning restaurant called Ovation, where you can enjoy exceptional seasonal menus.
New Forest National Park
Approximately 20 minutes from Southampton, you can escape the bustle of city life and immerse yourself in nature at the New Forest National Park. This peaceful retreat spans over 200 square miles and is home to abundant flora and fauna.
A popular day trip destination for locals and tourists, the New Forest National Park offers numerous activities such as hiking, cycling, horseback riding, and wildlife watching. You can also visit charming villages within New Forest and try delicious local cuisine.
Shopping in Southampton
After exploring Southampton’s rich history and natural beauty, you may want to indulge in some retail therapy. One of the best places to do so is at Westquay Shopping Centre.
Located in the heart of Southampton, Westquay is a shoppers’ paradise with over 100 stores and a plethora of restaurants and cafes. Opened in 2000, it has been a popular destination for locals and tourists, offering a diverse range of high street and luxury brands.
Not only does Westquay cater to fashion lovers, but it also has an impressive selection of home decor stores, electronics shops, and beauty salons. You can shop ‘til you drop, then grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants or relax with a cup of coffee at one of the cafes.
Safety in Southampton
Safety can be subjective and vary depending on factors such as the time of day, the specific area within the city, and individual experiences.
However, according to Numbeo’s Crime Index 2022, Southampton has a moderate crime rate with a score of 45.99 out of 100 (with 100 being the highest level of crime). This means that while crime does occur, it is not considered excessively high compared to other UK cities.
Regarding safety, the Safety Index for Southampton is rated at 54.01 out of 100 (with 100 being the safest). It’s important to note that these ratings are based on visitors’ perceptions of this website in the past three years.
During our visit, we found ourselves being watched and followed near St. Michael the Archangel Church in an area that was not populated with other people. Looking like tourists with our GoPro cameras and vlogging devices, we noticed a couple of men lurking in corners behind us and continued to track our movements wherever we went. We quickly made our way towards a busy shopping area where there was a police presence, and it was here that we finally shed our followers. Ultimately, nothing happened, but we watched our backs for over one hour.
Again, it’s always advisable to stay vigilant, be aware of your surroundings, and take standard precautions to ensure personal safety.
The Food Scene in Southampton
Southampton is a city known for its rich maritime history, and this is reflected in its food scene. With easy access to fresh seafood, visitors can expect to find a variety of dishes featuring locally caught fish and shellfish.
In addition to seafood, Southampton also has a diverse range of international cuisines due to its multicultural population. From traditional British dishes like fish and chips to Indian curries, Italian pasta, and Chinese stir fry, there is something for everyone in Southampton.
Visitors can also explore the local farmers’ markets and try out fresh produce from the surrounding countryside, such as Hampshire’s famous strawberries.
Overall, Southampton offers a vibrant food scene with many options for various tastes and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a fancy dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant or a quick bite at a street food vendor, you’ll find it in Southampton. So come hungry and ready to explore the city’s delicious offerings!
Maritimo Lounge
The menu for lunch at Maritimo Lounge is versatile, offering something for nearly every palate. For our lunch at Maritimo Lounge, we started with a soup of the day: a carrot, tomato, and onion vegetable offering. This was served with ciabatta rolls and butter; this was an excellent start to lunch.
We had one Honey Roasted Beetroot and Feta Flatbread order for our entree. This entree had chickpeas, tomato and red pepper salsa, pomegranate seeds, and mint on a flatbread. This combination satisfied us and kept us going until dinner time.
Tea is served in a teapot with a little milk vessel on the side.
The lunch experience was enjoyable, and the menu was robust.
Harbar Restaurant at the Harbour Hotel
You’ll find enjoyable dining on the 6th floor of the Harbour Hotel for a dinner option. Called the Harbar Restaurant, we enjoyed views of the Marina from our table, and seating options include indoor and outdoor tables.
The menu has excellent options available – and the bar menu is immense. For dinner, our entrees include sweet peas and mint tortellini served with asparagus and a quinoa salad (cauliflower, kale, carrot, chickpeas, tahini), which we accompanied by a glass of Merlot.
It is a lovely dining experience, reasonably priced, in a very attractive location.
Lodging in Southampton
When visiting Southampton, you have a variety of lodging options to choose from. Whether you prefer luxury hotels or budget-friendly accommodations, there is something for every traveler.
Here are our top choices for Southampton lodging. All options below are rated 8 or better on Expedia at the time of this post.
Budget Accommodations in Southampton
✔️Onsite cafe and bar
✔️ Prime location – easy access to train station and attractions
(Photo via Leonardo Hotel)
Mid-Range Accommodations in Southampton
✔️Boutique Hotel – Each bedroom is unique
✔️ Vintage furniture and free-standing bathtubs
(Photo via Ennios Boutique Hotel)
Luxury Accommodations in Southampton
✔️Large, clean rooms with heated floors
✔️ Complimentary gin
✔️ Transportation to cruise terminal
Learn How We Stay in Hotels for Free
Southampton, England – Know Before You Go
✈️ Closest Airport: Southampton International Airport (SOU)
⏰ Time Zone: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) in Winter, (GMT+1 in Summer)
💰 Currency: Pound Sterling – Currency Converter
🔌 Electricity Socket: In England, you’ll encounter type G plugs with three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. The electricity supply in England operates at 230V voltage and 50Hz frequency. For visitors from other countries, you’ll need this universal travel adaptor.
Fun Facts About Southampton
Jane Austen resided in Southampton with her family for two years following her father’s demise. During her stay, she commemorated her 18th birthday at the Dolphin Hotel. Notably, it was here that Austen penned one of her captivating novels, namely Sense and Sensibility.
On March 5th, 1936, the WWII-era Spitfire aircraft first flew from Southampton Airport.
Nearly 450 cruise ships dock at the Southampton Port yearly, transporting over 1.5 million passengers on holiday adventures.
How many days to spend in Southampton?
We could see many of the places identified in this article in a single day. For a more immersive experience of what the city offers, we recommend at least two days for your visit.
Listen to our Southampton Podcast
Conclusion
Southampton is a fascinating cruise capital of Europe, offering something for every type of traveler. From its rich history and culture to its vibrant food scene and stunning waterfront views, this bustling port city has no shortage of things to see and do. Whether spending just one day or longer exploring Southampton, these top lodging options offer the perfect base for your adventures.
We’ll see you at the places where we go.
Julie & Art
Learn more about us here
#southampton
