Explore Southampton travel tips and stories. Vacations ideas, cruises, spa and resorts

Located in the very heart of the cultural and commercial capital of the South, the city of Southampton is one of the UK’s greenest cities, with 10 large parks and the Common, which covers an area equivalent to 163 football pitchers. The city has grown dramatically into a lively and cosmopolitan hub of culture, entertainment, nightlife and shopping. Just over an hour from London, its location also makes it easy to travel to Europe and beyond either by ferry or from the city’ nearby airport.

These days, everywhere in Britain seems to be a city of culture, but few places can genuinely match Southampton’s culture offerings: some of the best UK art galleries outside London, two fantastic theatres, three cinemas, and countless concerts, festivals and events.

Mad about sport? You can indulge your passion at a variety of spectacular sporting venues that play host to Championship football, major sailing events, and county and test match cricket. When you want a change of scenery, it’s only a short drive to golden beaches along miles of stunning coastline, and acres of open woodland in the New Forest to explore on foot, bike or horseback.