Learn about Southampton at the SeaCity Museum
At the SeaCity Museum, you can follow centuries of Southampton’s rich maritime history, trading routes, and claims to fame. This includes stories of everyday sailors and merchants and, of course, a detailed exhibit on the RMS Titanic, which set sail from the city's docks in 1912.
Visit the Southampton City Art Gallery
Conveniently next to the SeaCity Museum, the Southampton City Art Gallery houses an impressive collection of art spanning six centuries. Its focus is on contemporary British works and temporary exhibitions. The gallery is free to enter and family-friendly.
Go to new heights at the Solent Sky Museum
Southampton isn’t just about sea navigation! Come to the Solent Sky Museum for the history of aviation in Southampton. This family-friendly museum features a collection of iconic aircraft, including the Supermarine Spitfire.
Attend a show at the Mayflower Theatre
Catch a West End show, musical, or live performance at the UK’s third-largest theater, the Mayflower Theatre, which hosts a variety of top-quality productions throughout the year.
Step back in time at the Tudor House and Garden
The Tudor House and Garden was established in 1912 as Southampton’s first museum. The house dates back to 1491 and showcases over 800 years of Southampton’s history through interactive exhibits. The garden is a model of the medicinal plants and foods that would have been typical of a Tudor garden at the time. Keep in mind that unlike most museums, the Tudor House is open on Mondays but closed on Fridays.
Walk along the Medieval City walls
About a 10-minute walk from the Tudor House are some of the best-preserved medieval city walls in England. These walls include the Bargate gatehouse and a lookout tower.
Stroll in one of Southampton’s many green spaces
This might be your last time on land for many days, so enjoy the many parks and natural spaces Southampton has to offer before your cruise.
Southampton Common
This large public park, located in the north of the city, has expansive green spaces, ponds, and woodlands. It is perfect for a leisurely walk and a picnic.
East Park
East Park is in the center of the city and has a memorial to the Titanic's engineers, rock gardens, fountains, and paths. It is also adjacent to Hogsland, Palmerston, and Watts Parks.
New Forest National Park
Just a short drive from Southampton, this beautiful national park offers stunning landscapes, walking trails, and the chance to see free-roaming ponies and other wildlife.