4 Days of Family Fun in Southampton, UK

Discover family fun in Southampton, where history and excitement collide!

19 July 2023

A family-friendly trip to Southampton, United Kingdom offers a perfect blend of history, outdoor adventures, and coastal charm. Explore the fascinating maritime history at the SeaCity Museum or embark on a guided tour of the medieval Bargate. Take a stroll in the beautiful Southampton Common or enjoy a day at the kid-friendly, award-winning Mayflower Park, offering stunning views of the waterfront and a range of recreational activities.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Sunny Start & Seafaring Tales

  • Rise and shine at the quirky "Maritime Manor Hotel," with nautical-themed rooms sure to delight the kids.
  • Embark on a journey through time at the SeaCity Museum, complete with interactive exhibits and fascinating tales from Southampton's maritime past.
  • Explore Southampton's Old Town and rub shoulders with medieval ghosts at the Tudor House and Garden, a treasure trove of history.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Southampton Water, spotting yachts, cruise ships, and perhaps the Loch Ness monster!
  • Refuel at "The Dancing Duck," a charming family-friendly pub offering hearty grub and a delightful duck-themed play area.
Day 2

Medieval Merriment & Seaside Wonders

  • Step back in time at the medieval marvel of Southampton Castle, where knights once jousted and damsels awaited rescue (or not!).
  • Treat the mini-explorers to a visit to the Solent Sky Museum, where they can marvel at vintage aircraft and even hop into a cockpit replica.
  • Soak up the sun at the lovely shores of Calshot Beach, building sandcastles, splashing in the waves, and indulging in ice cream delights.
  • Discover the enchanting world of underwater creatures at the Southampton Oceanography Centre, where turtles, sharks, and seahorses await.
  • Satiate your appetite with a seafood feast at "The Kraken Shack," a charming waterfront eatery serving up the freshest fish and chips in town.
Day 3

Parks Galore & Wildlife Wonder

  • Unleash your inner detective at the intriguing Murder Mystery Trail in Southampton's parks, weaving through green spaces and gathering clues.
  • Marvel at exotic animals and rescue a pretend penguin at the New Forest Wildlife Park, a sanctuary for a wide range of furry and feathery creatures.
  • Traverse the treetops and navigate zip lines at Go Ape, an exhilarating adventure course nestled in the beautiful Itchen Valley Country Park.
  • Take a leisurely boat trip along the River Hamble, spotting graceful swans and playful seals lazing on the banks.
  • Savor a scrumptious meal at "The Mad Hatter's Tea Party," a whimsical eatery serving afternoon tea delights and quirky treats inspired by Alice in Wonderland.
Day 4

Adventure Awaits & Farewell, Southampton!

  • Get your blood pumping at the Alpine Snowsports Centre, where you can ski or snowboard regardless of the season.
  • Take a captivating journey through Southampton's Titanic Story, uncovering the city's connections to the ill-fated ocean liner.
  • Immerse yourself in nature at the Royal Victoria Country Park, where you can picnic, fly kites, or simply enjoy a scenic walk.
  • Bid Southampton adieu with a quirky twist at "The Flying Saucer Café," an eclectic eatery offering intergalactic treats and UFO-inspired decor.
  • Depart with memories of an unforgettable family adventure in Southampton, promising to return for more maritime marvels and whimsical wonders.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Southampton by plane is to fly into Southampton Airport, which is the closest airport to the city center. Some airlines that offer flights to Southampton Airport include British Airways and Flybe.

Car

The best way to get to Southampton by car is to take the M3 motorway if coming from London, or the M27 motorway if coming from other parts of the UK. It is also possible to take other major roads, such as the A31 or A36, to reach Southampton.

Train

The best way to get to Southampton by train is to take a train to Southampton Central Station. Many train companies, such as South Western Railway and CrossCountry, operate trains to this station from various locations across the UK.

Boat

The best way to get to Southampton by boat is to take a ferry from one of the nearby ports, such as Portsmouth or Lymington. Several ferry companies, such as Red Funnel and Wightlink, operate services to Southampton.

Bus

The best way to get to Southampton by bus is to take a National Express coach, which operates services to Southampton Coach Station from various locations across the UK.

More travel plans

Weekend Wanderlust Guide: Southampton, UK

Southampton is a bustling port city located on the English Channel in southern England. Visitors can explore the city's maritime history by visiting the SeaCity Museum and the Titanic engineer's memorial, and also enjoy shopping at the Westquay Shopping Centre or taking a stroll through the green spaces like the Southampton Common. Head out to the surrounding countryside to visit the New Forest National Park with its picturesque wildlife and scenic walking trails.

Southampton Adventure: 2 Days of Hidden Gems

Southampton is a historic port city located on England's south coast. As a tourist, you can explore its maritime heritage at the SeaCity Museum or climb aboard the Titanic trail to learn more about the ill-fated ship. Southampton also boasts a lively arts and restaurant scene, with plenty of galleries, theaters, and eateries to explore.

Romantic Weekend in Historic Southampton

Southampton, United Kingdom offers the perfect blend of history and romance, making it an ideal destination for couples. Walk hand-in-hand through the historic streets, with Tudor buildings and cobblestoned streets providing the perfect backdrop for a romantic stroll. Indulge in the local cuisine and explore the natural beauty of the area, with beaches and parks offering plenty of opportunities for picnics and cozy moments.

Southampton: A Romantic Day Trip by the Sea

Southampton, UK provides the perfect romantic getaway with breathtaking ocean views and a bustling harbor. Couples can explore historic landmarks such as the Tudor House and Gardens or venture out to the New Forest National Park for a romantic hike or picnic. At night, lovers can indulge in delicious seafood dinners and watch the sun set over the Solent.