Fun for all the family – 10 things to do in Southampton this summer

Southampton, famed for the Titanic’s maiden voyage, home to the Spitfire and one of the most vibrant cities the UK has to offer, there’s a reason why this old town should be on your radar. For most of us, summer can’t come quickly enough. After months of uncertainty, homeschooling, and not making any plans, you can finally start to get excited. Reconnecting and sharing experiences that are fun for all the family doesn’t have to be overwhelming. 

Here are 10 things to do in Southampton this summer to get you started:

SeaCity Museum

Hands down one of the most eye-opening maritime museums you could wish for, Southampton’s SeaCity Museum is a treat for the whole family. The unmissable “Titanic Story” offers a fresh perspective on the world’s most infamous maritime disaster told from the surviving crew’s real-life stories. 

Other highlights include the one-ton replica of the Southampton born ocean liner RMS Queen Mary and the celebratory exhibit, “Gateway to the World.” Within the exhibit you can explore how people from the Middle Ages interacted with the city. The Titanic court case re-enactment is not to be missed either!

Mayflower Theatre

Originally named the Empire Theatre, the Mayflower was born out of the roaring twenties and has continued to reinvent itself over the years. Some of the world’s most iconic artists including Jimi Hendrix, The Rolling Stones, Queen and The Beatles have all stood on its iconic stage. Today, you are more likely to catch high calibre theatre productions such as War Horse, Blood Brothers and the Full Monty or one of Britain’s favourite stand-up comedians such as Sarah Millican and Bill Bailey. 

Sail on the solent

With the solent being the gateway to Europe and beyond, you can get Cruises from Southampton to many European destinations. With many passengers choosing to take a three or four-day cruise to southern Spain, Greece, and other meditterranean countries, staying in the area is the ideal stepping stone to a holiday getaway.

Exciting Escapes

Unlike your typical family game, Southampton’s top rated escape room throws the instruction manual out the window. With sixty minutes on the clock, will you crack the case and beat the room? At Exciting Escapes, you can fully immerse yourself in an interactive world. Whether you are stuck in 1941 trying to defuse a German bomb or uncover a buried secret from the Cold War era, the whole family can put their skills to the test. 

Solent Sky Museum

Although the Titanic often claims the spotlight, Southampton is also home to Supermarine. By itself that may not sound too impressive until you realise that they designed the formidable Spitfire F.24 and the Supermarine S.6. What’s more, Supermarine’s legacy lives on within the museum’s halls – perfect for the aviation enthusiast and inquisitive mind! Other impressive highlights include a de Havilland Vampire, a Slingsby Grasshopper training glider and a vast collection of propeller and jet engines made by iconic British companies Bristol, Napier and of course, Rolls-Royce. 

Tudor House and Garden

Stepping back in time to the 15th century is all possible within the remarkable Tudor House and Garden. Within its walls you can get acquainted with the people who lived and worked there throughout the centuries, all while you take in the Tudor-era decor and period furniture. Every chapter of the house’s history can be traced through the wonderfully designed interactive displays and artefacts on show. From its time as a notorious 19th century slum to housing some of the city’s most sought after bonnet-makers and bookbinders, there’s enough to keep everyone’s interested peaked. The fascinating story doesn’t stop there. Outside you will find the Renaissance-style garden which is home to the Norman-era King John’s Palace. 

Hythe Ferry

If you fancy touring Southampton Water, booking passage on the regular Hythe Ferry crossing will allow you to see some of the huge vessels moored in the harbour. Once you reach the other side, you can explore the extraordinary Hythe Pier and view some of the areas rare wildlife from its shores. While there, take a ride on the quirky heritage tramway before you start the next leg of your journey through the beautiful New Forest National Park. 

SS Steamhall

Immerse yourself in British maritime history aboard the country’s largest working steamship. Either book the whole family in for a memorable excursion or pop onboard to see the working ship in all its glory. Recognised as part of the National Historic Fleet, the SS Steamhall serves as a sea going tribute to this day. Unlike the Hythe Ferry, you can get a real taste of what it was like during the golden age of steam. 

New Forest National Park

Bursting with spectacular scenery, ancient beech glades and home to numerous wild New Forest Ponies, there’s a reason why this stretch of versatile land is home to one of the UK’s most beloved national parks. Located within ten miles from the city edge, you can journey through enchanting woodland, heathland and its large swathes of unenclosed pastures. Later, make your way down to the village of Brockenhurst and hire a bike. Whether you’re young or old, the timelessness and beauty of the park will make you want to visit again and again.

Manor Farm Country Park

Manor Farm Country Park is the perfect day out for all ages to enjoy. Set on an idyllic Victorian farm, you can see a range of farmyard animals such as sheep, cows, pigs, donkeys, chickens and draft horses. From there, you can get stuck in and learn about how a farm works and all the activities involved such as milking, sheep shearing and see the combine harvester in action! Away from the animals, you can tour the Victorian schoolroom, historic farmhouse and barns, the blacksmith’s forge and more. 

Southampton Common

Southampton Common is one of the city’s worst kept secrets. The Site of Special Scientific Interest is home to some of the country’s rarest wildlife that can be found living in its various ponds, waterways, grasslands and woodland. With the Hawthorns Urban Wildlife Centre leading the charge, you can learn about all the incredible species of plants and animals that have made a home in the common.  Throughout the year, the common is also a vibrant cultural hub that has staged several events such as The Common People music festival and several biannual fairs. Whether you want to check out the sights or get swept up in a live music event, make sure you check out what’s on before planning your visit. 

Southampton is a rich, vibrant city that showcases some of the most remarkable examples of history, music and the arts. Which of our list made your top 10?