What to do in Southampton

Activities, attractions and tours

Southampton showing heritage elements, heritage architecture and a castle
Southampton
Southampton
Southampton
Solent Sky Museum showing aircraft and interior views

Places to Visit in Southampton

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let Expedia.co.nz help you find the most exciting and fun things to do in Southampton, England while also allowing you to save a ton on travel arrangements. Regardless of whether you’re an urban explorer or an intrepid outdoor enthusiast, we can help you decide exactly what to do and see during your time in town.

Our thorough travel guides offer you an insider’s perspective on all of the best Southampton attractions from NZ$12, making it easy for you to decide which places to visit and when. And by using Expedia.co.nz to set your sightseeing schedule, you can take in more of the enchanting attractions this area is famous for.

From group Southampton tours and must-see landmarks to personal guides who take you off-the-beaten track, Expedia.co.nz offers you over 51 of the most popular events, activities, and attractions in this corner of the world. So whether you’re travelling alone, alongside a loved one, or with the whole family in tow, be sure to browse through our extensive travel guides prior to your plane touching down in this spectacular Southampton. We even have a massive selection of flights, car hires, and accommodation for you to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Start your search today, and you’ll be having the time of your life before you know it.

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Recommended things to do in Southampton

Number of things to do
51
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Bar & Club Night Pass to multiple venues in Southampton: NZ$12
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Southampton

Discover the most popular places to visit in Southampton

Southampton Cruise Terminal

Southampton Cruise Terminal

One of the busiest cruise ports in England is just a few steps from the historical and entertainment attractions of Southampton.

Southampton Cruise Terminal
University of Southampton

University of Southampton

Tour an oceanographic research institute, watch independent theater productions and see designs by notable British architects at this 150-year-old university.

University of Southampton
Mayflower Theatre featuring signage and theatre scenes

Mayflower Theatre

From touring West End musicals to magic shows, stand-up comedy to children’s entertainment, this historic theater serves up Southampton’s best entertainment.

Mayflower Theatre
Mayflower Park

Mayflower Park

Sit on a bench in this riverside park where over the ages other visitors have witnessed the passing of famous vessels and the naming of new ones.

Mayflower Park
New Forest Wildlife Park

New Forest Wildlife Park

Enjoy an outing to New Forest Wildlife Park during your stay in Southampton. Wander through the lush forest and waterfront in this quaint area.

New Forest Wildlife Park
Solent University

Solent University

This city center university forms part of the Cultural Quarter, a district home to galleries, museums, parks and performing arts venues.

Solent University
Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway

Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway

All aboard for a classic steam railway journey through gorgeous Hampshire woodlands and colorful flower displays packed with fascinating and rare blooms.

Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway
SeaCity Museum

SeaCity Museum

Sail back into Southampton’s rich nautical past at this state-of-the-art museum created to mark the 100-year anniversary of RMS Titanic’s ill-fated maiden voyage.

SeaCity Museum
Netley Abbey

Netley Abbey

Find out about the history of Southampton with a stop at Netley Abbey. Wander the lush forest and waterfront in the area.

Netley Abbey

Explore areas of Southampton

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Southampton City Centre

4/5(26 area reviews)

The lively bars and waterfront views are top of the list for many visitors to Southampton City Centre. A stop by Southampton Maritime Museum or Southampton Passenger Terminal might round out your trip.

Southampton City Centre
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Ocean Village

You'll enjoy the restaurants and parks in Ocean Village. You might want to make time for a stop at Ocean Village Marina or Harbour Lights Picturehouse.

Ocean Village
Southampton showing heritage elements, heritage architecture and a castle

Old Town

While visiting Old Town, you might make a stop by sights like Tudor House and Garden and Oceans - A unique Southampton Experience.

Old Town
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The Polygon

While there might not be top attractions in The Polygon, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Southampton Cruise Terminal and Mayflower Theatre.

The Polygon
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Freemantle

If you're spending some time in Freemantle, Southampton Cruise Terminal and River Test are top sights worth seeing.

Freemantle
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Portswood

Portswood is popular for its ample dining options, and you might make a stop by The Common, a top place to visit in the area.

Portswood

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from Southampton

Fareham

Fareham

Winchester featuring heritage architecture and a fountain

Winchester

Photo by Joel Mathew

Romsey

Brockenhurst

Brockenhurst

Photo by Matt Orchard PT

Wickham

Photo "Shedfield" by Hugh Venables (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Hugh Venables (CC BY-SA)

Shedfield

Photo by C J West

Locks Heath

Photo "Cadnam" by ValP (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by ValP (CC BY-SA)

Cadnam

Frequently asked questions

Is Southampton worth visiting?
Providing a blend of walking trails and cycling, there are plenty of things to do in Southampton. While you're here, visit Paultons Family Theme Park - Home of Peppa Pig World, a major attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Southampton?
Once you've visited leading attractions like Paultons Family Theme Park - Home of Peppa Pig World and New Forest Wildlife Park, spend some time discovering the food and retail options in Southampton.
What is the top tourist attraction in Southampton?
You can't leave without exploring Paultons Family Theme Park - Home of Peppa Pig World, rated the top tourist attraction in Southampton.
Is three days enough to stay in Southampton?
You can easily enjoy leading attractions like Mayflower Theatre, New Forest Wildlife Park and Tudor House and Garden with a three-day stay in Southampton. On average, most travellers book two days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so stick around longer and head to Salisbury.
Is Southampton a walkable city?
It depends on what you plan to do and see in Southampton. Several sights, such as Mayflower Theatre and Tudor House and Garden, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll through some of Southampton's neighbourhoods, Southampton City Centre is 0.64 kilometres away from downtown, while Ocean Village is 2 kilometres away from the city centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Southampton with kids?
Deciding what to do in Southampton with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're holidaying with teenagers or toddlers, there are plenty of family-friendly sights to keep everyone busy here.

What to do in Southampton for adults?
Wickham Estate and Civic Centre are just a couple of the things to do in Southampton. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Southampton?
One of the simplest ways to find free things to do in Southampton is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on hip neighbourhoods, parks and other attractions you can visit without reaching into your pocket. Weston Hard Woolston Beach is one sight that doesn't charge an entrance fee.