Southampton, also known as Soton, is a city with a long maritime history. The Titanic’s departure from Southampton has made it a well-known cruise port. In addition to that, it is renowned for its thriving student community, historic museums, and exhilarating nightlife. It’s frequently an overlooked location worth including in your travel plans! Continue reading to discover more about the marvels of Hampshire’s largest city.
Titanic’s Last Stop
You’ve probably seen James Cameron’s 1997 incredible “Titanic“. A lot of people are aware that the doomed passenger ship’s first voyage was to New York. But were you aware that the ship left Southampton?
Yes, the city is home to one of Britain’s bustling and most well-known deep-water cruise ports. Although the RMS Titanic was constructed at the Belfast Shipyard in Northern Ireland and licensed in Liverpool, the ship’s 1912 journey infamously started from Southampton.
In 2010, a monument to the ship’s engineers who perished was introduced. The ceremony in East Park attracted more than 100,000 locals, demonstrating powerfully how closely the city is connected to the ocean.
West Quay
Southampton’s top shopping area is West Quay. The complex, in the heart of the city and with over 130 shops, is the go-to place for shopping for locals and many people from the surrounding area. There are stores for brands like Footlocker, John Lewis, Lego, Apple, and many others.
In the mood for meatballs and want to find great furniture simultaneously? Well, you’re in luck! They have IKEA and a few other name-brand shops and eateries located in the West Quay retail park. Give us a call, and one of our executive chauffeurs will drive you around the Quay in one of our luxurious Southampton taxis.
Medieval Town Towers and Walls
The towers and walls of medieval Southampton are well-known. These remain intact due to the strategic importance it holds because of its beautiful coastline. The towers and walls, mainly found in the city centre, create an intriguing contrast with the more contemporary design of West Quay and other structures. One such well-known structure is the God’s House Tower. It served as a home for hand cannoneers and cannons. Similarly, the Bargate Tower formerly served as the city’s entrance.
New Forest National Park
Even though it’s not strictly in Southampton, people love this little escape from reality. This park is an extremely large forest only a few miles west of the city. Many locals use the park as a common mini vacation to do outdoor activities, like kayaking, hiking, or seeing the abundant wildlife that calls it home. These include owls, deer, wading birds, bats, butterflies, otters, and even wolves.
For park visitors looking for a break from the natural beauty, there are lots of activities available, including walking and cycling routes, an archery range, a vehicle museum, and a kids’ amusement park!
Excited to check out Southampton? Let Go Comfort be at your side. We’re an executive taxi service in Southampton. Need a cruise transfer or a Southampton airport taxi that will get you to the cruise port and airport in time? We’ve got your back! Don’t worry about transportation or logistics; everything is taken care of by our executive chauffeurs. Reach out and book a ride today!