What to Do in Southampton Cruise Port, United Kingdom: Top 8 Picks

LAST UPDATED January 26, 2025 BY Katarina Komazec

Located on the southern coast of England, Southampton is one of the busiest ports in the United Kingdom, with a long history as a key hub for trade and travel.

With five modern cruise terminals conveniently located near the city center, Southampton is one of the UK’s most important cruise ports and serves as a major homeport for Northern Europe itineraries, alongside the port of Amsterdam in the Netherlands.

Southampton is renowned for its connection to the Titanic, its charming Old Town, and its thriving cultural scene.

It serves as a gateway for cruise travelers to explore nearby destinations like Winchester, Stonehenge, London, and Windsor, which you can visit on a guided tour or by train or bus.

In this article, we’ll provide an overview of Southampton Cruise Port, share insider tips for a smooth embarkation, and highlight the top 8 things to do in and around Southampton to make the most of your visit.

Southampton Cruise Port Overview

Southampton cruise port is located around 80 miles/129 km from London.

It features five cruise terminals: City, Ocean, Mayflower, Queen Elizabeth II, and Horizon, all located within walking distance of the city.

Each terminal accommodates only one cruise ship at a time, and cruise lines are not assigned to specific terminals.

If a cruise line has multiple ships in port on the same day, they will be docked at different terminals.

All five terminals offers basic facilities for embarkation and disembarkation, while shopping and dining options can be found in the city.

Each cruise terminal has both short-term and long-term parking for those guests arriving by car.

There are plenty of hotels conveniently located near each of the cruise terminals. You can explore the best hotels near Southampton Cruise Port here.

Southampton Central Railway Station is located within a short drive from all five cruise terminals, taking approximately 10 minutes to reach the Western Docks and 15 minutes to the Eastern Docks.

Ocean Cruise Terminal

The Ocean Cruise Terminal is the newest and most modern of Southampton’s five terminals.

Situated in the Eastern Docks, it is approximately one mile from Southampton’s Old Town and it takes a 20-minute walk or a quick 5-minute drive from the city center.

There is no public transport connecting the terminal to the Old Town, so walking or taking a taxi are the only options.

Ocean Cruise Terminal Address: Berth 46-49, Dock Gate 4, Cunard Road, Southampton, SO14 3QN

Queen Elizabeth II Cruise Terminal

Located in the Eastern Docks like the Ocean Cruise Terminal, this terminal is about 2 miles from Southampton’s Old Town, taking approximately 12 minutes to reach by car. Access to the terminal is through Dock Gate 4.

It is the furthest terminal from Southampton’s hotels, railway station, and coach station.

Similar to the other terminals, it offers minimal facilities outside the departure and arrival lounges.

The nearest hotels to the Queen Elizabeth II Terminal are situated in the Old Town.

Queen Elizabeth Terminal Address: Berth 38/39, Dock Gate 4, Southampton, SO14 3GG

City Cruise Terminal

The City Cruise Terminal is located in the Western Docks and can be accessed through Dock Gates 8, 10, or 20.

Together with the Horizon Cruise Terminal, it is the nearest terminal to Southampton’s coach and railway stations, reachable with a 20-minute walk.

The terminal is about 1.6 miles from the city center, a 10-minute drive, or approximately 0.6 miles (a 15-minute walk) if you take the shortcut.

There is no public transport that connects the City Cruise Terminal and the city center; taxis and walking are the only option.

City Cruise Terminal Address: Berth 101, Western Docks, Herbert Walker Avenue, Southampton, SO15 1HJ

Mayflower Cruise Terminal

The Mayflower Cruise Terminal is located in the Western Docks and is not within walking distance of Southampton’s hotels, railway, or coach stations.

Access to the terminal is via Dock Gates 8, 10, or 20.

It is 1.4 miles from Southampton Railway Station and 1.8 miles (about a 10-minute drive) from the city center. There is no public transport connecting this terminal and the city center.

Mayflower Cruise Terminal Address: Berth 106, Dock Gate 10, Herbert Walker Avenue, Southampton, SO15 1HJ

Horizon Cruise Terminal

The Horizon Cruise Terminal, Southampton’s fifth and newest terminal, opened in the summer of 2021.

Located in the Western Docks, it sits adjacent to the City Cruise Terminal, about a 17-minute walk (0.7 miles) from the railway station and 1 mile (20 minutes) from the city center.

Designed with green technology in mind, the Horizon Terminal is the first in the UK to feature roof-mounted solar panels and shore power facilities, enabling cruise ships to reduce pollution by plugging into shoreside power.

As Southampton’s largest cruise terminal, it can accommodate two mid-sized vessels simultaneously or one very large vessel.

The terminal is a joint venture between MSC Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line, which have signed partnership agreements to use the facility.

It also regularly hosts luxury cruise lines such as Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises.

Horizon Cruise Terminal Address: Berth 102, Herbert Walker Avenue, Western Docks, Southampton, SO15 1HJ

Getting Around & Helpful Resources

• Southampton is relatively flat and accessible, making it easy to explore on foot or with mobility aids, especially in the city center and key attractions. Most areas, including the cruise terminals and main sights, offer good accessibility for visitors with limited mobility.
• The best way to get around Southampton and visit its main attractions is by walking, using public transport, or taking taxis.
• Walking: Many of Southampton’s top attractions, such as the Old Town, SeaCity Museum, and Tudor House, are within walking distance of the city center and the cruise terminals (especially City and Horizon Terminals).
• Buses: Southampton has a reliable bus network operated by Bluestar and First Bus, connecting the city center to nearby attractions and surrounding areas like Winchester or the New Forest.
• Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis are readily available at cruise terminals, the railway station, and around the city. Rideshare services like Uber are also a convenient option for shorter journeys.
• Trains: For attractions outside Southampton, such as Winchester, Salisbury, or Portsmouth, the South Western Railway offers frequent and fast train services from Southampton Central Railway Station. Trains to London Waterloo run approx. twice per hour, with an average journey time of around 1 hour 20 minutes each way. It’s advisable to check the schedules in advance and book tickets ahead, especially in peak season.
• Tours and Excursions: Guided tours or private excursions are ideal for visiting nearby highlights like Stonehenge, Windsor, or the New Forest, especially if you’re short on time. Check out Southampton tours and activities
• Renting a car to visit places further from Southampton, such as Stonehenge, the New Forest, or Winchester, can be a good option if you prefer flexibility and feel comfortable driving on the left-hand side of the road. However, public transport like trains and guided tours are often more practical for destinations like London or Salisbury, where parking can be challenging.
• Hiring a private transfer is another hassle-free alternative for reaching nearby attractions or airports.
• The best ways to get from London airports to Southampton Cruise Port include direct train services from London Waterloo to Southampton Central, private transfers, or shuttle buses operated by private companies that cater specifically to cruise passengers. These shuttles often run from Heathrow or Gatwick and are a convenient and cost-effective option for groups or solo travelers. Book a private transfer through Viator here.
• The best shopping areas in Southampton include Westquay Shopping Centre for a mix of high-street and designer brands, the Marlands Shopping Centre for smaller shops and boutiques, and the Old Town and Oxford Street for unique independent stores and local finds.
• The currency in Southampton, as in the rest of the United Kingdom, is the British Pound Sterling (£). See the currency converter
• The best time to cruise from Southampton is between May and September, when the weather is warmer and ideal for exploring both the city and popular Northern Europe destinations.
• Check the weather in Southampton
• Southampton Port Authority official website
• Southampton cruise timetables
• Port Location

Top 8 Things to Do in Southampton Cruise Port

1. Southampton’s Old Town and City Highlights

If you’re spending time in Southampton before your cruise, the Old Town and city center are packed with fascinating attractions and rich history waiting to be explored.

Start your journey at the SeaCity Museum, where you can learn about Southampton’s maritime heritage.

This interactive museum offers a moving exhibit on the Titanic, showcasing the city’s deep connection to the ill-fated voyage—it was from here that the ship set sail in 1912.

Don’t miss the “Southampton’s Titanic Story” exhibit, which focuses on the lives of the local crew members.

Next, step back 800 years at the Tudor House and Garden, a beautifully restored timber-framed house nestled in the Old Town.

Inside, you’ll find exhibits showcasing Southampton’s Tudor and Victorian history, with artifacts, period furniture, and intriguing stories about the lives of its former residents.

The gardens outside display historic herb and flower beds, reflecting traditional planting styles of the time.

Take a stroll along the Medieval Walls, some of the best-preserved city walls in England. These historic fortifications were built to defend Southampton from invasions in the 14th century.

Don’t forget to admire the Bargate, a striking medieval gate that once marked the entrance to the city and now serves as a symbol of Southampton’s rich past.

If you are in a mood for some shopping, head to Westquay Shopping Centre, just minutes from the Old Town.

This bustling mall offers a mix of high-street brands, luxury shops, and plenty of dining options, making it the perfect spot to pick up any last-minute essentials or simply unwind before your cruise.

Explore Southampton tours and activities

2. London

A day trip to London from Southampton offers the chance to explore some of the UK’s most iconic landmarks.

Visit Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the monarch, and take a stroll through nearby St. James’s Park.

Don’t miss the Tower of London, home to the Crown Jewels and centuries of history, and enjoy the stunning views of the city from the London Eye.

Explore the fascinating exhibits at the British Museum or admire the grandeur of Westminster Abbey and the iconic Big Ben.

The fastest and easiest way to reach London is by train from Southampton Central to London Waterloo, with regular services running throughout the day.

Once in London, use the Tube (London Underground) or hop-on hop-off buses to navigate the city efficiently.

Plan your visit carefully to prioritize your must-see landmarks, as London’s attractions are vast, and travel times between them can add up.

Check out London tours and activities

3. Salisbury and Stonehenge

Visiting Salisbury and Stonehenge is a popular shore excursion from the port of Southampton.

Located a 45-minute drive from the port, Salisbury is a historic city in the county of Wiltshire, known for its stunning medieval architecture and rich heritage.

Its most famous landmark is Salisbury Cathedral, a masterpiece of early English Gothic design, home to the tallest church spire in Britain and one of the original copies of the Magna Carta.

The city also features a charming town center with cobbled streets, historic buildings, and a bustling market square that has been in use for centuries.

Salisbury serves as a gateway to Stonehenge, located just a short drive away.

Stonehenge is one of the world’s most iconic prehistoric landmarks, located on Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire.

This mysterious stone circle, believed to be over 4,500 years old, was likely used for ceremonial or astronomical purposes.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it draws visitors from around the globe who come to marvel at its massive stones, some of which were transported from Wales.

The nearby visitor center offers fascinating exhibits, including ancient artifacts, and provides insights into the people who built this extraordinary monument.

The easiest way to get to Salisbury is by train from Southampton Central, with trains leaving every half hour. The train ride takes between 30-40 minutes.

As there is no train station in Stonehenge, the best way to get there from Salisbury is by taxi or Stonehenge Tour Bus, both available at Salisbury Railway Station.

Stonehenge Tour Bus takes you directly to Stonehenge and Old Sarum (an ancient hill fort), and the tickets can be bought online or at the station.

The distance between Salisbury and Stonehenge is approx. 10 miles, and the journey takes 20 minutes.

Explore Salisbury and Stonehenge tours from Southampton

4. Windsor Castle

A visit to Windsor Castle is a must for anyone interested in British history and royal traditions.

As the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, it has served as a royal residence for over 1,000 years and remains a favorite retreat for the British monarchy.

Inside, you can explore the magnificent State Apartments, adorned with priceless artwork and exquisite furnishings, and visit St. George’s Chapel, the resting place of numerous monarchs, including Queen Elizabeth II.

Don’t miss the Changing of the Guard, a ceremonial display of British pageantry that takes place outside the castle.

After your castle tour, you can enjoy a scenic walk along the River Thames or explore the quaint streets of Windsor’s town center, packed with shops and cafes.

There are regular train services from Southampton Central to Windsor & Eton, with the journey taking around 2 hours each way.

If you are taking a taxi/private transfer, the ride takes around 1 hour 20 minutes.

Explore Windsor Castle tours from Southampton

5. New Forest National Park

New Forest National Park, located just 20 minutes’ drive from Southampton, is a beautiful destination known for its walking and cycling trails and unique wildlife.

The park is famous for its wild ponies, which roam freely across the open heathlands and forests.

You can also explore the picturesque villages of Lyndhurst, home to the New Forest Heritage Centre, and Brockenhurst, where ponies and donkeys are often seen wandering the streets.

With its mix of natural beauty and charming villages, the New Forest is a great place to visit for outdoor activities and a glimpse of rural England.

Explore New Forest National Park tours and activities

6. Winchester

Just a short 20-minute train ride from Southampton cruise port, Winchester is a historic city filled with fascinating landmarks and a rich cultural heritage.

Once the ancient capital of England, it is renowned for its medieval architecture, significant historical sites, and connections to King Alfred the Great.

A highlight of any visit is the stunning Winchester Cathedral, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Europe, known for its beautiful architecture and the resting place of Jane Austen.

Don’t miss the Great Hall, home to the legendary King Arthur’s Round Table, a must-see for history enthusiasts.

After exploring these iconic sites, take a leisurely walk through Winchester’s quaint streets, lined with independent shops, cozy cafes, and traditional pubs.

Winchester is best visited by train or car/taxi (the drive takes 30 minutes each way).

Check out Winchester tours from Southampton

7. Portsmouth

Located just 30 minutes’ drive from Southampton, Portsmouth is a historic coastal city with a strong maritime heritage and plenty to explore.

It is home to the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, where you can discover iconic ships like HMS Victory and the Mary Rose and learn about the city’s naval past.

For stunning views of the harbor and beyond, visit the Spinnaker Tower, or take a stroll along the lively waterfront at Gunwharf Quays, which offers shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Whether you’re interested in history, sightseeing, or simply enjoying the seaside atmosphere, Portsmouth has something for everyone.

The trains depart frequently from Southampton Central Station and the ride to Portsmouth takes around 40 minutes each way.

Explore Portsmouth tours and activities

8. Isle of Wight

Just a short ferry ride from Southampton, the Isle of Wight is a perfect destination for a day trip or a longer visit.

Known for its sandy beaches and stunning coastal scenery, it’s an ideal spot for relaxing by the sea or exploring the island’s natural beauty.

Don’t miss Osborne House, the magnificent summer retreat of Queen Victoria, where you can tour the opulent rooms and enjoy the picturesque gardens.

The island is also dotted with charming villages like Shanklin and Godshill, offering quaint cottages, tearooms, and boutique shops.

With regular ferries and plenty to see and do, the Isle of Wight is a delightful escape from the mainland.

Explore Isle of Wight tours and activities

Southampton Cruise Port: Your Gateway to the UK and Beyond

Southampton is not only one of the busiest cruise ports in the United Kingdom but also a fantastic destination to explore before setting sail.

From its rich maritime and medieval history to nearby attractions like the New Forest, Stonehenge, and Windsor, there’s no shortage of things to see and do.

From here, your journey can include iconic stops across the United Kingdom, like Edinburgh, where you can visit its famous castle and stroll along the historic Royal Mile, or Glasgow, known for its stunning architecture and lively arts scene.

Besides Norway, Iceland and Baltic Sea, other must-see destinations often featured in itineraries include the port of Belfast, with its Titanic heritage and access to the Giant’s Causeway, and Liverpool, a city rich in maritime history and home to The Beatles.

For nature lovers, ports like Invergordon open the door to the breathtaking Scottish Highlands, while Dublin offers a mix of vibrant city life and centuries-old landmarks.

Starting your cruise from Southampton lets you explore some of the Northern Europe’s most iconic destinations with plenty of history and scenery along the way. Happy cruising! 🙂

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You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Northern Europe, USA & Canada, Australia & New Zealand

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