Southampton City Guide

Southampton has only been a city since the 1960s and has a strong maritime heritage. The city centre is mostly pedestrianised so makes walking and getting around very easy and safe. This port city is protected from English Channel storms by the Isle of Wight.

If it is retail therapy you want then Southampton has three major shopping centre's to cater for you. You have a choice of the West Quay shopping centre which has around 96 shops to tempt you.

Next is The Mall which is a more offers a more generic shopping experience, then last but not least The Bargate shopping centre which is aimed at the younger clientele.

If it is entertainment you want then you may want to try the Leisure World centre which is located on West Quay road and consists of a multi screen cinema a Casino, nightclub and numerous bars and restaurants.

If you are looking for a more cultured experience then the historic old town in Southampton is for you. The main entrance to the walled town of Southampton was through the Bargate at the northern end of the town castle, which still stands.

Around half of the original one mile of town walls survives, with nearly half of the original 29 towers and six of the eight gates still standing.

You cant visit Southampton without going to the Port which is one of the country's busiest and most successful which can handle virtually any type of cargo and with its natural deep water harbour the worlds largest vessels can use it.