Overview:

Another popular south coast location for a bit of a party! This location offers a good diversity of possible nights out and offers the atmosphere that is lively but is maybe a little more laid back than other larger cities.

Getting Around:

Even though the city centre is quite spread out much of it is easily walkable and because the land is mostly flat, it's great for cyclists. If that doesn't suit, buses run regularly with most starting from central points around the city.

Must See/Must Do:

• Walk the QE2 mile to see the most historic landmarks of the city, including the Titanic memorial.
• The bargate medieval gatehouse in the city centre.
• The annual Southampton boat show
• Visit the Maritime Museum to get the Titanic story in detail
• Wander through the unspoilt nature of New Forest.
• Do a weekend-long start sailing course.
• Visit the City Art Gallery for its collection of British modern art.
• Experience the Oceana super club.
• Go drinking in Bedford Place

History and Culture:

The city that launched the doomed Titanic has been strategic port city for centuries.  Unfortunately, Southampton's importance as a port, and as the manufacturing home of the Spitfire plane, invited heavy bombing in World War II and as a consequence much of its architectural heritage has been destroyed. In the years since, Southampton has rebuilt and become an active port city with a thriving cruise ship business again. The city has a modern feel in some parts with redevelopment over recent years. The two universities in the city give a young and vibrant feel to the seaside city.

Nightlife:

Plenty of sailors and plenty of students make for plenty of pubs, so join in the fun at the waterfront Platform Tavern for live jazz and local ale, or head to The Marina area for a choice of up market bars. The Portswood and Bedfod place area is a student favourite.  Head for The Hobbit, student-y but quirky enough to make worthwhile or for something a little more lively the Orange rooms is always a good time. With the jewel in Southampton’s crown being the Oceana super club which is a venue that doesn’t ever disappoint with quantity not pushed to one side and replaced with quantity.

Eating & Drinking:

Bedford Street and Oxford Street have a wide selection of restaurants representing ethnicities from Mexican and Moroccan to Indian to the ever-popular late-night kebab house. With all types of varieties of food from pizzeria to sushi on offer you won’t be going hungry. You'll find good value even if Bedford Street might not be attracting any Michelin viewers any time soon. Oxford Street is the fancier – and pricier – side of town for restaurants.