Location & Transportation
Southampton's excellent South Coast location means that travel links by road, rail, sea, and air are unmatched in the region. I always check out the Travelling to Southampton page for extra details before exploring.
Here are some handy tips for navigating the port:
- For detailed maps and terminal info, refer to this resource covering Southampton's four cruise terminals.
- A fifth terminal, the Horizon terminal, opened in July 2021 at Dock Gate 10 – it’s eco-friendly with shore power and over 2,000 roof-mounted solar panels, mainly serving MSC and NCL ships.
- Taxis are abundant with short rides into town costing roughly £5. It’s just about a 5-minute cab ride to the train station where you can catch one of four trains per hour to London (70–90 minute journey).
For the latest updates, the Port Authority is a great resource.
Nearby Lodging
There are several hotels within walking distance of the cruise terminals, many of which offer special packages for cruise passengers. These are perfect if you want a convenient place to rest before or after your cruise.
Sightseeing
Southampton is full of history and charm. I love wandering through its Old Town and uncovering treasures from centuries past:
- Stroll through Old Town to admire medieval town walls and The Bargate, one of England’s finest historic town gates.
- Explore streets like Bugle Street, lined with buildings that tell fascinating stories from different eras.
- Visit historic churches, including one where Philip of Spain once heard mass before a royal journey.
- Take a walk along the waterfront, now home to peaceful cruise ships and container vessels—a reminder of Southampton’s vital role during events like the D-Day landings.
- Don’t miss Solent Sky, a nearby museum with a fantastic display of historic aircraft.
Tours & Excursions
There are plenty of ways to see more of the area:
- Use local taxis to reach the town center and train station (fares around £5–£8) for further adventures.
- Hop on a train for a day trip to London—trains run frequently with a journey time of about 70–90 minutes.
- At the train station, you can also catch a National Express bus for trips to London or Heathrow.
These options make it easy to combine a port visit with a taste of England's capital or explore more of Southampton’s own rich maritime heritage.
Shopping
Southampton offers a pleasant shopping experience:
- Wander just past The Bargate along Above Bar, the main shopping street.
- Visit West Quays shopping mall for a mix of high street brands and independent stores.
- Everything is within easy walking distance, so you can enjoy browsing casually while soaking in the local atmosphere.
- For more shopping tips, check out Visit Southampton.
Dining
When it comes to food, Southampton doesn’t disappoint:
- Enjoy a range of dining options from quick bites to sit-down meals, with everything from traditional British fare to international cuisine.
- I recommend sampling some local specialties in the town center or near the waterfront—the choices are abundant and delicious.
Culture & Local Events
Southampton’s history and maritime heritage are celebrated through a variety of cultural events throughout the year. Here’s what you might find:
- Local festivals and events that reflect the city's rich history, including maritime celebrations and art shows.
- Many shops and attractions keep extended hours during peak times, so you’ll have plenty of time to explore.
- In the UK, it’s common for credit cards and contactless payments to be accepted almost everywhere, though carrying a bit of cash is handy for smaller purchases. Tipping isn’t compulsory, but many restaurants appreciate a tip of about 10% for good service.
- Safety tip: Enjoy the vibrant crowds but keep an eye on your belongings, especially in busy tourist spots.