Whether you are a visitor, local or moving to Southampton, you probably already have a good idea about what the city offers. The universities, the shopping centres and its waterside location are all obvious attractions in this bustling city.
However, we want to focus on some of the lesser-known gems on offer. There is much more to Southampton than many people realise, and we are ready to reveal some of the secrets.
Close to the city centre, Ocean Village Southampton is the UK’s only 5* marina, complete with shops, bars, a restaurant, a spa hotel and a cinema. It is a hive of activity and the perfect place to enjoy your leisure time, whether you own a boat or not. Pop here for a coffee or meal, enjoy some retail therapy and watch the yachts come and go.
This 365-acre vast green space in the heart of the city is a delightful place to visit. Firmly established by 1228, it has been enjoyed by locals for generations and now offers woodland, grass areas, ponds, lakes, playgrounds, a water park and the ever-popular weekly Park Run.
Oxford Street is the ultimate destination for food and drink. Take you pick of traditional pubs, cocktail bars, clubs, and even a cabaret bar at The London Hotel that hosts drag acts, bingo evenings and music. When it comes to food, there are choices from around the world including Greek, Italian, a steakhouse, bottomless brunch and pub meals. Are you feeling hungry?
How much do you know about Southampton’s history? At The Sea City Museum, discover 200,000 years of local history covering the Romans, Saxons, WWII and more. Learn about the ill-fated RMS Titanic and its links to the city with the help of an interactive model of the ship, artifacts and real-life stories. This museum is a must-visit to delve deeper into the area’s incredible history and a real hidden gem amongst Southampton attractions.
The life of the Supermarine Spitfire began in Southampton and the Solent Sky Museum tells its exciting story. Learn about this aircraft alongside over 20 others: flying boats, fighter jets, leisure craft… plenty to promise the whole family an interesting day out.
In nearby Swanwick, Bursledon Brickworks in the star of an important local industry. Founded in 1897, this site is now dedicated to preserving the past, with interesting exhibits including steam-run machinery (fired up monthly). If you are interested in finding out about Southampton’s history and culture, this is a must-visit gem of an attraction.
Hidden in Southampton’s city centre is this fascinating historic building, telling an 800-year-old story and giving insight to times past. If you want to travel back even further, King John’s Palace, a Norman house, is next door and accessible via the Tudor House Garden. Interactive displays make for an engaging experience perfect for all the family.
Now for something completely different: your local farm shop and pick-your own. Fresh, seasonal produce and a fun day out to the east of the city should certainly be classed amongst the best Southampton attractions. Pickwell Farm is a go-to for delicious food while supporting local business.
Once a year, Mayflower Park is transformed into a city within a city. The Boat Show is an iconic and must-visit event showcasing technology from the marine world: superyachts, catamarans, kayaks, paddleboards and every other kind of water-craft imaginable. Alongside the boats themselves you will find all the maritime clothing, equipment and services you could hope for, as well as food and drink to keep you sustained.
Finally, you may not be aware while in Southampton of just how close you are to the delightful New Forest, but it is only a short drive, cycle or train ride away. Whether you are heading out for a walk, horse ride, pub lunch or saunter round a characterful village, you should make the most of being neighbours with this stunning national park.
At Charters, we are local residents in and near Southampton and have been helping people move here for many years. While we know the property market inside out, even we still find new Southampton attractions from time-to-time. That is one of the joys of this part of the world: there is so much to discover for every age and interest.
If you are interested in buying, selling or renting in Southampton, please get in touch with your local Charters team. We will be delighted to discuss how we can help.
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