Southampton

Welcome to Southampton

A short history of Southampton

Southampton has a fascinating history that dates back to the Roman era. It was originally known as Clausentum and served as a major trading port. Over the centuries, Southampton grew in importance and became a significant hub for maritime activities. It played a crucial role in the Norman Conquest and the Hundred Years' War. Southampton was also the port from which the Mayflower set sail in 1620, carrying the Pilgrims to the New World. Today, it is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and a thriving maritime industry.

FAQ for Southampton

What is the best way to get there?

• Southampton has excellent transport links, including an international airport, train station, and major road connections.

What is Southampton famous for?

• Southampton is famous for its maritime history, including the Titanic's ill-fated voyage and the Mayflower's departure.

What are five interesting facts about Southampton?

• Southampton is home to one of the largest cruise ports in Europe.
• The city has a medieval town wall that can still be seen today.
• Southampton is the birthplace of the Spitfire, an iconic World War II fighter plane.
• The city has a thriving music scene and is known for producing popular bands like Coldplay and Craig David.
• Southampton is home to several beautiful parks and green spaces, including the Southampton Common.

How did Southampton get its name?

• The name Southampton is derived from the Anglo-Saxon words "Suth" (south) and "Ham" (hamlet or village), indicating its location in the southern part of England.

What are some travel tips for Southampton?

• Make sure to visit the historic Old Town and explore its medieval streets and Tudor buildings.
• Take a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the views of the bustling port.
• Don't miss the opportunity to visit the SeaCity Museum, which tells the story of Southampton's maritime heritage.
• Try some local specialties, such as the famous Southampton pie and locally brewed beers.

Do I need a visa?

• If you are a citizen of the United Kingdom or a European Union member state, you do not need a visa to visit Southampton.
• For citizens of other countries, please check the visa requirements before your trip.

When is the best time to visit Southampton?

• The best time to visit Southampton is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is pleasant and many outdoor events take place.

Are there local customs I should know for i.e. Drinking, Greetings, Public transit?

• In Southampton, it is customary to greet people with a handshake or a polite nod.
• When using public transit, it is common to queue and wait for your turn.
• The legal drinking age in the United Kingdom is 18, and it is customary to buy rounds of drinks when socializing with friends.

What is the time zone for Southampton?

• Southampton follows Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) during standard time and British Summer Time (BST) during daylight saving time.

What are the voltage/plug types?

• The voltage in Southampton is 230V, and the plug type used is the standard UK three-pin plug.

What is the currency?

• The currency used in Southampton and the United Kingdom is the British Pound (GBP).

Are ATMs readily accessible?

• ATMs are readily accessible throughout Southampton, and most major credit and debit cards are accepted.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Southampton?

• Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in Southampton, including major establishments, hotels, and restaurants.

Can you use ApplePay and Google Pay?

• Yes, ApplePay and Google Pay are accepted in many shops, restaurants, and other establishments in Southampton.

How much do I tip in Restaurants/bars, Hotels, Taxis, Tour guides, etc.?

• Tipping in Southampton is customary but not obligatory. It is common to leave a 10-15% tip in restaurants and bars if the service was satisfactory.
• In hotels, it is customary to tip the hotel staff, such as porters and housekeeping, with a small amount of money.
• For taxis, rounding up the fare or giving a small tip is appreciated.
• For tour guides, a tip of around 10% of the tour cost is customary if you enjoyed the experience.

Accommodation in Southampton

City Information for Southampton

Founded	Population	Elevation
circa 70 AD	Approximately 250,000	13 meters (43 feet)

Average temperatures for Southampton

Season/Month	Temperature (Celsius)	Temperature (Fahrenheit)
Spring (March - May)	8-15°C	46-59°F
Summer (June - August)	15-22°C	59-72°F
Autumn (September - November)	10-17°C	50-63°F
Winter (December - February)	4-9°C	39-48°F