The bustling city of Southampton is an attractive place to call home for many different reasons. It offers a unique blend of historical charm, nature retreats, and modern amenities, catering for both young professionals and families with children. Here are some of the key things that make Southampton an excellent place to live.
One of the major advantages of Southampton is its great infrastructure. The strategic location of the city offers quick access to M27 and M3 motorways, with convenient links to Portsmouth, Worthing, Bournemouth, and London. For those who prefer to commute by railway, there are also direct train services running from Southampton to the capital.
When it’s time for a holiday, Southampton could not be any more convenient, either. Its very own Southampton Airport offers both domestic and international flights, while major London airports are accessible in under 2 hours. And, boasting the leading port in the UK, Southampton welcomes hundred of cruises every year, further expanding travel possibilities for its residents.
Thanks to its maritime significance, Southampton is an economically strong city with great employment opportunities. In addition to the many port and cruise jobs available to its residents, the city is also home to the University of Southampton, which provides a number of teaching and research positions. Moreover, the Southampton General Hospital is a major employer for those working in the healthcare sector.
Southampton’s importance in the maritime industry stems from its fascinating past, deeply intertwined with the sea. Most notably, Southampton was the departure port for the ill-fated RMS Titanic liner in 1912, which famously sank after colliding with an iceberg.
This devastating event has not been forgotten in Southampton, and visitors have many opportunities to learn more about it. One of which is the SeaCity Museum, which houses interactive exhibits on Titanic as well as the city’s broader maritime history.
Southampton is home to an outstanding selection of educational institutions, from primary and secondary schools to colleges and higher education. Families with children will benefit from its 76 state funded and 4 independent schools, while young adults will find abundant Bachelor’s and Master’s degree options at the Southampton University.
Despite its urban character, Southampton does not have a shortage of nature spots! Situated at the heart of the city, Southampton Common is a large 365-acre public park, much loved by the locals. It’s the perfect nature escape for a peaceful stroll, featuring wetlands, lakes, ponds, grassland, and woodland. Not just that, it also provides numerous activities for families with children, including playgrounds with slides, swings, climbing towers, and even water features.
If you prefer a getaway outside the city, however, the area has plenty on offer too. The New Forest National Park, known for its stunning landscapes and free-roaming ponies, is just a short drive away, while the picturesque Isle of Wight is well-connected with regular ferry services from Southampton.
Its prime location on the Solent, a strait between mainland England and the Isle of Wight, is one of Southampton’s most appealing features. This 20-mile-long strait is not only an important shipping lane for freight and military vessels, but also a major recreational area for water sports and activities.
Whether you’re into yachting, sailing, or windsurfing, the Solent is a true playground for water sports enthusiasts. The annual Cowes Week – the largest sailing regatta of its kind in the world – is also hosted in the area.
For those in need of a bit of retail therapy, Southampton has a large selection of shopping opportunities, from charming boutiques to popular high street brands. The West Quay Shopping Centre, in particular, is a local favourite, housing over 100 stores and dining spots. With most of its facilities located in proximity, the Southampton city centre is a bustling hub for shoppers.
Lastly, Southampton’s vibrant culture and events make it a great place to live. The city is home to the Premier League football team, Southampton F.C., regularly playing at their local St. Mary’s Stadium. If cricket is your cup of tea, then the nearby Utilita Bowl hosts regular international matches too.
Besides sports events, Southampton hosts various cultural events, drawing crowds from across the country. The Southampton Festival of Music and Drama, Let’s Rock Festival, Summertime Live Festival, Mela Festival, and International Film Festival are just a few of the many events in the city.
With so much to do and see, it comes as no surprise that Southampton attracts an increasing number of residents every year. But, despite its many offerings, the city has an excellent selection of properties suitable for various budgets.
Whether you are a family with kids or a commuting professional, Southampton could be the right place for you! Browse our local properties or reach out to our experienced team of estate agents.
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