As the largest commercial port in Britain, Southampton is the starting point for many cruises from the UK. If you are planning to make the trip down the day before your ship departs, why not start your holiday early and see what this historic port city has to offer. Not only will you remove the stress of travelling the same day, but you can also experience what Southampton is all about and see all of the highlights that are on offer.
SeaCity Museum
Taking some time to understand how the cruising industry has developed can give you a more authentic cruising experience once you set sail.The newly-famed 'Gateway to the World' provides factual evidence using artefacts, film, audio and art installations to show how each era has impacted on Southampton from the early Saxon settlers to the British Empire.
Not for the faint-hearted, guests can get a first-hand experience of the tragic events of the Titanic in 1912 and learn more about this has affected the families and cities ever since. This also includes a 1:25 scale interactive model of the ship.
Tudor House And Garden
Holding over 800 years' worth of history, this extensive Tudor house has held much of its original heritage through its striking timber beams and lengthy collections. Some of the more noticeable pieces include the penny farthing, a popular means of transport at the time, dating back to the early 19th century.
There is also a copy of the Holy Book of Hours which contains many rules that it's said Christians should follow in their daily lives. If you are looking to plan a day trip, just adjacent to the garden lies King John's Palace, one of the first settlements built in the late 12th-century.
Solent Sky
As the leading institution for aviation research and development between 1910 and 1960, Solent Sky is now home to an astonishing collection of over 20 different planes from the golden era of air travel. As the main driving force for Britain during World War Two, you can see the legendary Spitfire and learn of its jaw-dropping tales.
There are also many commercial planes too, including the giant Short Sandringham flying boat that led the way for week-long aerial cruises. Finally, a plane from the famed Schneider Trophy Air Race, which was idolised for being the most dangerous sport on the planet, shows that the fastest aircraft could reach top speeds of 400mph. What's more, the museum doubles as a home for the Hampshire Police and Fire Heritage collection, too.
Southampton City Art Gallery
Attracting art lovers from around the world, Southampton City Art Gallery can be admired by travellers of all ages. Holding over 5,300 pieces dating from the Renaissance period to the present day, you can choose from a variety of informative tours or find your own pace. Different events are hosted throughout the year, so there will be no shortage of opportunities to see the great works of local and historic artists.
St Michael The Archangel
As the oldest building in Southampton that is still in use,St Michael the Archangel is the last remaining church from the original five that were found within the medieval walls of Old Southampton. Founded in 1030,the church still holds much of its heritage, even after enduring many French raids that would see it be rebuilt during the early 15th century.Today the church stands as a monument of Southampton's never-ending history and is still being used for its original purpose.
If you would prefer to avoid the hustle and bustle of the airports and enjoy a more authentic sailing from the UK, there are many different cruises from Southampton each month. Contact our friendly sales team via the freephone number above or complete the online enquiry form.
