SOUTHAMPTON
Coasting through a seafaring city
You’d have to be a true landlubber to visit Southampton and not be intrigued by its seafaring past. This bustling south coast city is steeped in marine heritage – a rich, briny history that stretches back over the millennia. Its sheltered position on an estuary in Southampton Water led to the settlement becoming a Roman trading port as far back as 70AD. Later, shipbuilding grew into the city’s primary industry and the first dock opened during the Industrial Revolution. Economic development quickly followed, and Southampton became known as “the Gateway to the Empire”, with shipbuilding yards dominating its industrial skyline and the view as you approach by sea.
THE MODERN CITY
Today, the city’s connection with its ports is stronger than ever – a few years ago it was named by the Journal of Commerce as the most productive container port in Europe (with an average of 71 container moves per hour). However, tourism forms an increasing part of the picture and Southampton is now home to some of the world’s largest cruise ship companies, including Cunard and P&O. Other notable industries include aerospace and
car manufacturing, electrical engineering and IT. But it’s not all about work. Southampton’s universities (Southampton, and Southampton Solent) mean the city hums with student life – restaurants, shops and nightlife create a vibrant atmosphere day and night.
TIME TO EXPLORE
There’s so much to do in Southampton, it’s best to spend at least a night or two in the city. If you’re after a place to stay, head for the shabbychic B&B the Pig in the Wall. “Pig” hotels have since become a highly successful chain, but this bijou Southampton branch was one of the first, created in 2012 by Robin Hutson (who had previously founded then sold the Hotel du Vin chain). Not only does the Pig give you a stylishbut-cosy bed to lay your head, but it also has a “deli bar” serving charcuterie boards, salads and great wines by the glass to guests and visitors.
Southampton is a wonderful place for retail adventures, too. The Westquay shopping centre contains just about every major brand in the book – from John Lewis to Apple – and in 2017 it sprouted an extension, Westquay South. There are also plans to regenerate the city’s Bargate Quarter, to include 24 premium retail and restaurant units.
More entertainment can be found at the Mayflower theatre, which stages all manner of productions. But during the day, the best way to experience the city is to get out on the water itself. Unsurprisingly, Charlie Tulloch, from RYA Sailing School, First Class Sailing, agrees. “Southampton’s history is defined by its proximity to the coast. The city attracts a huge variety of shipping, and whether you are an experienced skipper or an intrepid first-timer, you will likely see a fascinating selection of craft on the water. The area offers lots of interesting rivers and creeks to practise sailing, such as the River Hamble off Southampton Water, or the Beaulieu River in the New Forest (the mouth of which is in the Solent), or Cowes and Newtown Creek on the Isle of Wight – all within a day’s sail or less from Southampton.”
If the maritime culture piques your interest, visit the Seacity Museum, which has a range of permanent and special exhibitions. Sound like hungry work? For a smart supper, you can’t go far wrong with Ceno in the Portswood district. Alternatively, for breakfast, lunch or dinner with a nautical twist, try Cove by the waterfront. Whether it’s a day on the water, a restful night’s sleep or a delicious dinner you’re after, Southampton’s a coastal city that’s worth more than a punt.