Attractions Nearby Southampton, Day Trips and Excursions

(Southampton, Hampshire, England, UK)

Southampton is close to so many truly world-class attractions, with something for everyone, regardless of age. Those looking for historical buildings and a glimpse into the past will find the nearby cathedrals at both Salisbury and Winchester equally appealing, while Stonehenge, situated on Salisbury Plain, is a truly exceptional attraction and just a short drive from central Southampton, being famous all over the world.

Day Trips and Excursions

Although Southampton has a number of waterfront areas where marinas, yachts and water sports are amongst the main attractions, the spectacular stretches of golden sands at the resort of Bournemouth lies around 30 miles / 48 km to the south-west, close to both Poole and Christchurch. Many visitors to Southampton often visit Bournemouth for the day, with other attractions including two long piers, seafront amusements, theatres, shops and an oceanarium.

Also only a short distance from the city of Southampton is Portsmouth, which can be found approximately 22 miles / 36 km to the south-east. Portsmouth has been an important port city for many years and its best tourist attractions are often based on its maritime past, such as Nelson's acclaimed HMS Victory and the remains of the 16th-century Mary Rose ship.

Southampton is also near to the Isle of Wight , a large island just a few miles to the south. Regular Red Funnel ferries link the city and the Isle of Wight, with both day trip and short break tickets being surprisingly inexpensive.

Famous attractions close to Southampton are plentiful and varied, many of which are based in and around the New Forest, in the Brockenhurst and Lyndhurst areas. Popular such attractions include Beaulieu and its enormous National Motor Museum, the spectacular Exbury Gardens, where springtime azaleas create a true riot of colour, and Marwell Zoo in Winchester, with tigers, penguins, zebras, giraffes, camels and more.