The streets of Southampton reveal its historic past, a city that first gained importance in 1066 when it became a vital port for the Normans. Remnants of the medieval city walls are still there to this day, adding a mix of modern conveniences with historic charm to a visit to this city. From the sea to the air, here are a few museums and historic attractions to check out:

SeaCity Museum: This interactive museum is also the home of Southampton’s Titanic story, with a permanent exhibit sharing the tragic story of RMS Titanic and how it shaped the city for generations. It features more than 200 artefacts, giving a clear representation of the sights and sounds of Southampton in 1912.

God’s House Tower: Part of Southampton’s Old Town, this building has changed many times over the last 800 or so years. In fact the oldest part of the building was constructed in 1189, called God’s House Gate. The tower was built in 1400 to house gunpowder and cannons, chosen for its view over the Solent. Fast forward a few hundred years and it was converted into an archaeology museum in the 1960s until 2011. Now, as of 2019 the building has been restored and reopened as an arts and heritage venue with a robust schedule of exhibitions, events, workshops, and more. There’s also a café and bar serving small batch coffee, fresh buns and pastries, focaccia sandwiches, and refreshing beers from SteamTown Brew Co.

Tudor House & Garden: Another medieval building in town to check out with a similar 800 years of history is Tudor House & Garden, located an eight-minute walk from God’s House Tower. It’s the oldest museum in Southampton, open since 29th July 1912 the latest iteration of a building that’s served many functions over the years including housing merchants who benefitted from the port’s export status in the 1400s. This beautiful building also features the Tudor Knot garden, with more than 100 plants and flowers, formal pathways, and low box hedges that recreate a traditional garden from the 1500s. There’s also a café here overlooking the garden.

Solent Sky Museum: Though, Southampton may be known as being a major port and a hub for cruise ships and other vessels (like our high-speed ferries!). It has a proud history of aviation as well. The Solent Sky Museum has more than 20 Spitfire aircraft, showcasing the product of the area being an important place for aviation research and development from 1910-1960. One of the coolest things to see here is the Beachcomber, a flying boat from a time when Southampton was the home of the world’s largest flying boat operation. Two museums in one, this location is also home of the Hampshire Police and Fire Heritage Museum featuring artefacts, photos, and more stories of those who have served Hampshire and Isle of Wight.

Taking the Red Jet to Southampton is the perfect way to get to St. Mary’s Stadium to watch the Saints play. It’s around 30 minutes to walk from the ferry terminal to St. Mary's Stadium and there’s no better way to soak in the atmosphere of match day than with a walk through the city. Of course a few stops along the way always add to the experience, with plenty of pubs to check out including The Red Lion—with a cellar from the Norman era and German beer hall Stein Garten serving food and drink. 

Whether it’s shopping, a day of exploring, visiting families and friends, or just a change of scenery, Red Funnel makes it easy for Isle of Wight residents to leave your vehicle behind and take the passenger ferry. Book your crossing and get out and explore Southampton and beyond.