We had a hot tub getaway in Southampton late this summer. It was the first time my family and I had ever been there. It was a refreshing change to be near the river. Normally, we do woodland or seaside getaways. The crisp afternoon river breeze blew the mental cobwebs away. While there, we also took the opportunity to explore Winchester town centre for a few hours. It’s picturesque and inspired us to plan a follow-up visit over the festive season in time for Winchester Cathedral’s globally renowned Christmas market. Then, life began ‘lifing’; we had to cancel our plans. Nonetheless, it doesn’t mean I can’t share with you what’s happening in Southampton over the festive season.
Brief History of Southampton
In my previous post on Southampton, I didn’t go into the area’s history. Let’s remedy that first. Southampton is a port city in Hampshire, known for its university and football team. The harbour caters to enormous cruise ships like Disney’s and Carnival UK’s dock. Even the Mayflower docked there in 1620 en route to America with English Pilgrims seeking religious freedom!
Further back, when the Normans arrived in 1066, Southampton was the main connection between Normandy and the South of France. Then in the 12th century, circa 1180 AD, the Bargate was built as the main entrance to the medieval walled town. During WWII the Bargate was used as an air-raid shelter. The city also has literary links to Jane Austen. Jane is buried in Winchester Cathedral but lived in Southampton for two years in Old Town, known as the heritage quarter from 1807 to 1809.
The Festive Calendar
Now let’s bring it back to the present day; Southampton has a lot to offer over the festive season. Here are my picks:
15th November – 5th January 2025 Southampton Christmas Market
Bargate and Guildhall Square
Open daily 10.00 – 22.00
15th November 2024 – 23rd February 2025 Jane Austen exhibition at God’s House Tower: In Training for a Heroine
22nd November – 5th January 2025 Westquay on Ice Westquay Esplanade
Open daily 10.00 -22.00
4th January 2025 Guided Tour: Clock Tower SeaCity Museum 10:15 – 11:15 11:30 – 12:30
TIP for Cruise Passengers: Cruise passengers and crew can leave luggage at Burlington House offers. Book at reception Monday – Friday (9 am – 5 pm). Support items such as wheelchairs and mobility scooters can also be stored there. Drop-off and collection services directly to the terminal are available every day of the week (from 8 am – 5 pm) including weekends. CLICK HERE for further details and more storage options over the festive period visit the website.
Getting There
London Waterloo to Southhampton Central just over one hour. Paddington to Southampton Central via Reading almost 1 ½ hours. Visit the trainline for the most affordable options for you. If you plan on driving, Southampton Council signposts parking locations on their website. Let me know how trip went, if you visit. Tell me all about in below in the comment box.
Finally, there’s more staycation inspiration here on the blog and follow me @xpatathome on Instagram, my profile can do with some love.
Photo Credits: Feature Image Pexels.com
Southampton Christmas Market Visit Southampton
