Uk Holiday Destinations - Southampton
If you are looking for a good base place for a UK vacation then Southampton in Hampshire is ideally situated to give you access to many of the attractions on the south Coast.
Close to some wonderful beaches along the south coast; a short drive away from the untouched natural glories of the New Forest; a simple train journey from London; and in a part of the country with perhaps the best climate in Britain.
Southampton certainly makes the most of its ideal location – and if you’re looking for a ‘good day out’ in an exciting city or simply the best location as a base for a south coast vacation, it’s a really excellent choice.
Located on the mouth of the Solent, one of the busiest water highways in the world. Southampton enjoys a real maritime culture as you will experience, watching the many yachts criss-crossing Solent water will give you a good idea of how busy it is. This location also means that Southampton has an excellent maritime history and why it is the chosen home berth of many of the finest cruise ships the world has ever seen.
Southampton maritime heritage goes back centuries principally due to its location on the mouth of the Solent.
Throughout the year there are a number of events when Southampton celebrates its naval heritage from April to September.
The climax of the planned events comes in September with the world famous Southampton Boat Show, held at Mayflower Park on the waterfront and the place to go to see the cutting edge of contemporary yacht design and the latest maritime innovations.
Southampton’s heritage gives it a legacy of historical buildings and the area is steeped with archaeological finds depicting the history of the area and how it must have been to live all those years ago.
One of the finest examples has to be the medieval town gate called Bargate which is one of the best examples in the UK. Bargate also forms the cities logo.
If you wish to explore the heritage of the city a little more then there are a number of museums that are worth a visit namely the Maritime museum near the waterfront, the medieval merchants house with its glimpse of 14th century living and of course the Museum of Archaeology.
If you’re hoping to see some of the best Art Galleries or Museums outside London, then again Southampton offers you plenty of choice. The elegant art deco City Art Gallery is at the heart of the cultural quarter and the nearby Millais Gallery features the work of less well-known up and coming artists.
Southampton also has a thriving music and arts program throughout the year with cultural music events taking place throughout the city and many live music venues. Which are popular with both the young and older city revellers?
If you prefer classical or jazz then perhaps the Turner Sims concert hall will be more to your liking as it features many classics renditions as well as local and international performers.
Southampton is also well known for its outstanding retail centre so if you fancy a bit of retail therapy during your visit you will not be disappointed as the shopping centre here is rated as one of the top ten in the country.
Whether you are simply going to use Southampton as a base for your vacation or are planning to stay a little longer there will be plenty to keep you entertained in this vibrant city. For more information Southampton events visit Southampton City Web.
Filed under Travel and Leisure