A short break in Southampton, Hampshire means time for serious shopping in the West Quay Shopping Centre, a look at classic and cutting edge art in the Southampton City Art Gallery, taking in a show at the Mayflower Theatre or remembering the tragic tale of the Titanic in the Southampton Maritime Museum.

The West Quay Shopping Centre is a popular place to shop in Southampton and you’ll find all the big name stores.  Situated in Southampton city centre, The West Quay Shopping Centre is laid out over three floors and has lots of places to eat.

A short walk from the West Quay Shopping Centre is the Southampton City Art Gallery.  Entrance to the Southampton City Art Gallery is free and there’s a fascinating programme of exhibitions.

The Spitfire, the famous fighter plane, was designed and developed in Southampton.  You can see the important role the city played in the history of flight at Solent Sky, the Museum of Aviation. Further more, if you plan on visiting the city or anywhere else in the south of England, Southampton Airport is serviced by connections from around the U.K. and many of the largest cities in Europe.

Things to do in Southampton . . .

• There’s plenty to keep you busy in Southampton but it is also a good base to explore the New Forest and Beaulieu.
• You can also catch the ferry across to the Isle of Wight.  Sail down Southampton Water and see the busy shipping, from enormous container ships to elegant cruise liners that dock regularly in Southampton.
• A short walk from the West Quay Shopping Centre is the Southampton City Art Gallery.  Entrance to the Southampton City Art Gallery is free and there’s a fascinating programme of exhibitions.

More Southampton Information

Southampton Tourist Information Centre is located just off of the high street and has plenty of events and accommodation recommendations.

Southampton hotels range from boutique to backpacker, and from luxury to low-key. Accommodation in Southampton also includes a wide range of friendly Southampton bed and breakfasts.

For more information, visit the official tourism website for Southampton.