Sightseeing in Southampton - what to see. Complete travel guide

Southampton is not just a port city in southern England. This is the so-called pearl, which has played an important role in the history of the whole Great Britain. This place has always attracted such famous people as William the Conqueror, Henry V, William Shakespeare, Isaac Watts and Jane Austen. The population of the city estimates 55 thousand of people, but each summer a large number of vacationers comes to Southampton. The main sources of income for the city are its tourism and industry. The waterways of all vessels and ships coming from the Atlantic Ocean lie through the Shinnecock Canal. This city also has a long history of shipbuilding. This is the reason for a large number of different museums, where you can see the ships on which have sailed people many years ago. Some of the ships have been used in military operations and battles. The famous Titanic came out to its fateful voyage from Southampton.

The city is famous for its traditions. We can say that this place meets and sees off everyone with a smile, unveiling all of its fascinating aspects in front of the visitors. Here you will find ancient streets with old large houses, paved roads, and landscaped gardens. The historical center of the city is diverse. Here visitors will find many restaurants and cafes that belong to different nations - English pubs, American canteens, Greek taverns, restaurants with Chinese, Indian, and Italian food. In the heart of the old town is located Bugle Street, which is surrounded by lovely buildings. Among the most notable architectural structures we should also mention the castle of the Duke of Wellington built in the XIX century. Oxford Street lies a little further. This is a true place of learning, entertainment and student life.

The National Automobile Museum is a prominent tourist attraction. It is located in the immediate vicinity of Southampton. The museum has one of the world's largest collections of historic vehicles. It occupies a beautiful ancient manor. Visitors can see not only rare cars but collections of thematic books, magazines, and photographs concentrated on automotive subjects. The museum offers exciting thematic attractions for adults and children. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Guests of Southampton have an opportunity to visit beautiful 17th-century Calshot Castle, built to protect the city harbor. The ancient castle was used as a military object until 1956. At the beginning of the 20th century, it housed the British Air Force base. Nowadays, the entire territory of the castle is accessible for excursions. Visitors are able to examine part of the remained military installations and weapon.

In the vicinity of the city, ancient Broadlands estate is located. Its first owner was Lord Louis Mountbatten. Over the years, the magnificent mansion belonged to numerous outstanding personalities. At one time, it was the main residence of Henry VIII. The ancient estate keeps a unique collection of antiquities. Beautiful paintings, collections of antique furniture and utensils, as well as personal belongings of former famous owners are available for viewing. Admirers of art should definitely visit the City Art Gallery, whose collection is more than 3500 unique art exhibits. The age of some of them is over 600 years. The museum contains tapestries and paintings of artists who lived in the early Middle Ages.

The Maritime Museum with its excellent collection of thematic pieces remains one of the main symbols of Southampton. It offers a huge collection of old photographs and old military maps, ship equipment and personal belongings of famous seafarers. The museum conducts really informative excursions. One of its thematic collections covers the tragic history of the Titanic. Yet, they have perfect war collectibles. The Maritime Museum has a very unusual design. It takes visitors to the unique atmosphere of the old city.