Southampton is a great place to visit for a day trip. Located on the south coast of England, Southampton is a bustling city with plenty of things to do and see. From its historic docks and museums to its stunning beaches and countryside, Southampton has something for everyone. The Top 20 Southampton Day Trips offer visitors the chance to explore the area and its attractions. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, a walk in the park, or a boat trip on the River Itchen, there’s something for everyone. With a range of activities to choose from, you’re sure to find something that suits your interests.
1. Visit the Southampton Maritime Museum
Located in the heart of Southampton, the Southampton Maritime Museum is a great day trip for the whole family. The museum is home to a variety of maritime exhibits, from historic ships to maritime art. Guests can explore the museum’s many interactive displays and learn about Southampton’s rich maritime history. The museum also features a café, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch.
2. Tour the Mayflower Memorial
The Mayflower Memorial, located in Southampton, is a historic monument that marks the departure of the Mayflower Pilgrims in 1620. Visitors can view the impressive bronze statue and learn about the history of the Mayflower and the Pilgrims who made the journey.
3. Explore the Tudor House Museum
The Tudor House Museum is a great day trip for history buffs. The museum showcases a collection of artifacts and art from the 16th and 17th centuries, including furniture, pottery, and paintings. Visitors can also explore the museum’s gardens, which feature a variety of plants and trees.
4. Visit the Solent Sky Museum
The Solent Sky Museum is a great day trip for aviation enthusiasts. The museum features a variety of aircraft, from historic planes to modern military jets. Visitors can explore the interactive displays, watch a film in the museum’s theatre, and take a guided tour of the exhibits.
5. Take a Stroll Through Southampton Common
Southampton Common is a large, open park located in the centre of the city. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the park, explore the ponds and gardens, and enjoy the tranquility of the area. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great spot for bird watching and wildlife spotting.
6. Visit the Southampton Art Gallery
The Southampton Art Gallery is a great day trip for art lovers. The gallery showcases a variety of artworks, from traditional paintings to modern sculptures. Visitors can also explore the interactive displays and take part in guided tours of the gallery.
7. Take a Walk Along the Waterfront
The Waterfront in Southampton is a great spot for a leisurely stroll. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the River Itchen and the city skyline, and take in the sights and sounds of the area.
8. Tour the Southampton City Art Gallery
Located in the centre of the city, the Southampton City Art Gallery is a great day trip for art lovers. The gallery features a variety of artworks, from traditional paintings to modern sculptures. Visitors can explore the interactive displays and take part in guided tours of the gallery.
9. Explore the SeaCity Museum
The SeaCity Museum is a great day trip for history buffs. The museum showcases a variety of artifacts and art from the 16th and 17th centuries, including furniture, pottery, and paintings. Visitors can also explore the museum’s gardens, which feature a variety of plants and trees.
10. Take a Boat Trip Around the Harbour
Taking a boat trip around Southampton Harbour is a great way to spend a day. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the river and the city skyline, and take in the sights and sounds of the area. Boat trips are available throughout the day, so visitors can choose the time that suits them best.
11. Visit the Southampton City Walls
The Southampton City Walls are a great day trip for history buffs. The walls date back to the 13th century and are a great way to explore the city’s history. Visitors can take a guided tour of the walls and learn about the city’s past.
12. Take a Trip to the Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight is a great day trip for those looking for a more adventurous day out. Visitors can explore the island’s stunning coastline, take part in a variety of water sports, and enjoy the island’s charming villages and towns.
13. Visit the WestQuay Shopping Centre
The WestQuay Shopping Centre is a great day trip for shoppers. The centre is home to a variety of shops and restaurants, making it the perfect spot for a day of retail therapy. Visitors can also take in the stunning views of the River Itchen from the centre’s rooftop terrace.
14. Take a Guided Tour of the City
Taking a guided tour of the city is a great way to explore Southampton’s history and culture. Guests can learn about the city’s past, visit historic sites, and explore the city’s many attractions. Tours are available throughout the day, making them the perfect way to spend a day in the city.
15. Visit the Itchen Navigation
The Itchen Navigation is a great day trip for those looking for a unique experience. Visitors can take a boat trip along the river, explore the area’s stunning wildlife, and take in the sights and sounds of the area.
16. Explore the Royal Victoria Country Park
The Royal Victoria Country Park is a great day trip for nature lovers. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and rabbits. Guests can explore the park’s many trails and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
17. Visit the National Oceanography Centre
Located in the heart of Southampton, the National Oceanography Centre is a great day trip for those interested in science and technology. The centre is home to a variety of interactive exhibits, from marine biology to oceanography. Visitors can also take part in guided tours of the centre and learn about the fascinating world of oceanography.
18. Take a Trip to Netley Abbey
Netley Abbey is a great day trip for history buffs. The ruins of the abbey date back to the 13th century, and visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the site’s history. The abbey is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great spot for bird watching and wildlife spotting.
19. Go to the Southampton City Museum
The Southampton City Museum is a great day trip for history buffs. The museum showcases a variety of artifacts and art from the 16th and 17th centuries, including furniture, pottery, and paintings. Visitors can also explore the museum’s gardens, which feature a variety of plants and trees.
20. Take a Trip to the New Forest
The New Forest is a great day trip for nature lovers. The forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and badgers. Visitors can explore the park’s many trails and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.