Old Town Travel Guide
Southampton
Popular places to visit
Tudor House and Garden
Peer back into the day-to-day lives of Southampton’s Norman and Tudor residents at the city’s most important historic house, garden and ruins.
Medieval Merchant's House
This surviving treasure provides a rare glimpse of a typical medieval English townhouse and offers a simpler alternative to the ornate Tudor House.
Southampton Cruise Terminal
One of the busiest cruise ports in England is just a few steps from the historical and entertainment attractions of Southampton.
University of Southampton
Tour an oceanographic research institute, watch independent theater productions and see designs by notable British architects at this 150-year-old university.
Mayflower Theatre
From touring West End musicals to magic shows, stand-up comedy to children’s entertainment, this historic theater serves up Southampton’s best entertainment.
Mayflower Park
Sit on a bench in this riverside park where over the ages other visitors have witnessed the passing of famous vessels and the naming of new ones.
Things to do
Southampton: Post-Cruise Tour to London via Salisbury, Stonehenge and Windsor
Portsmouth: The D-Day Story Entry Ticket
Portsmouth: Old Portsmouth Historical Walking Tour
Winchester: Historic Castles and Cathedrals Walking Tour
Full Day Private Shore Tour in Romsey from Southampton Port
Top hotels in Old Town
The Star Hotel
We had a lovely warm welcome, what a beautiful historic building. We just loved the whole atmosphere of this hotel. It was centrally located as well, making it easy to see Southampton without a vehicle.
Reviewed on 2 Nov 2025
Ennios Boutique Hotel Rooms
Excellent repeat stay at Ennios; rooms clean and comfortable, breakfast wonderful and staff professional, attentive and friendly.
Reviewed on 29 Oct 2025
The Winchester Hotel & Spa
***
Reviewed on 24 Oct 2025
Moxy Southampton
Everything was great.
Reviewed on 1 Nov 2025
Leonardo Hotel Southampton
clean room and friendly staff. Central location and quiet. Good breakfast selection
Reviewed on 3 Nov 2025
Meon Valley Hotel, Golf & Country Club
I read the reviews after booking and to be honest I was not expecting much, but it was lovely. Room spacious and clean, bathroom clean and well stocked. Lots of tea and coffee in room, along with biscuits. Are in the hotel, excellent hot food!!
Reviewed on 19 Oct 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Old Town
Southampton City Centre
The lively bars and waterfront views are top of the list for many visitors to Southampton City Centre. A stop by Southampton Maritime Museum or Southampton Passenger Terminal might round out your trip.
St Mary's
While there might not be top attractions in St Mary's, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Southampton Cruise Terminal and St. Mary's Stadium.
Maritime Quarter
If you're spending some time in Maritime Quarter, Ocean Village Marina and Solent Sky Museum are top sights worth seeing.
Ocean Village
You'll enjoy the restaurants and parks in Ocean Village. You might want to make time for a stop at Ocean Village Marina or Harbour Lights Picturehouse.
Bedford Place
While Bedford Place isn't home to many top sights, Southampton Cruise Terminal and Southampton Guildhall are some notable places to visit nearby.
The Polygon
While there might not be top attractions in The Polygon, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Southampton Cruise Terminal and Mayflower Theatre.
