The Southampton Guest Guide

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1 the Southampton 2011 Please leave for the next guest. www.thesouthamptonguide.com Become a cultural tourist, delve into history and shop to your heart’s content.

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A comprehensive visitor magazine exclusively for staying guests across the city of Southampton. Distributed through hotels & guest houses The Southampton Guest Guide is a lifestyle magazine promoting places to visit, things to do, places to shop, eat and drink within Southampton.

Transcript of The Southampton Guest Guide

Page 1: The Southampton Guest Guide

1

the Southampton

2011

Please leave for the next guest.

www.thesouthamptonguide.com

Become a cultural tourist, delve into history and shop to your heart’s content.

Page 2: The Southampton Guest Guide

2 3

Welcome

the Southampton

2011

Our aim with The Southampton Guest Guide is to provide you with

a wealth of information, including the hidden secrets that will make your

stay truly memorable. Located on the beautiful south coast of England,

Southampton is a city of growing international renown. Regarded as the

cruise capital of Northern Europe, Southampton plays host to over 4 million

visitors a year and offers a vibrant, cultural experience for all who stay.

With over £800m of investment underway, the city boasts the

exciting mix of dynamic business developments, a diverse range

of cultural venues, events and outstanding historical features.

Superb retreats, retail therapy and medieval town walls all add

up to a unique environment just waiting to be enjoyed.

2012 is set to be a big year in Southampton with the opening of a new

Sea City Museum, the Titanic Centenary, 175 years of P&O and of course

The Olympic Games. We hope that you will join us again and experience

what Southampton has to offer.

Whether you are in the city for

an overnight stay, few days or a

weekend short break, we hope

that you emerge from your stay

enlightened and reinvigorated.

We look forward to welcoming

you again, very soon!

Welcome to the Southampton Guest Guide and a relaxing stay, whatever your itinerary.

Jo CooperManaging Director The Marketing Collective

SOUTHAMPT

ON A

ND

REGION HOTELIERS ASSOCIATIONOUTHAMAN

D REG HOTELIERSOCIATIO

The Southampton Guest Guide is distributed within members of the Southampton and Region Hoteliers Association and Southampton Small Hoteliers Group.

the Southampton

Keep up to date with events in and around Southampton with The Southampton Events Guide Scan the barcode opposite with a QR reader and find out what is on now.

www.thesouthamptonguide.com

PAGE4 A Pilgrim’s Progress

6 Southampton’s Old Town

7 Tudor House & Garden

8 Old Town New Discoveries

9 What’s Coming to Southampton

10 Art & Theatre

12 Theatre & Dining

14 WestQuay Southampton

16 Bedford Place Boutique

18 Vintage Chic

19 John Lewis: All Under One Roof

20 Feast of Flavours

21 Grand Café: Affordable Luxury

22 The Ideal Collection

24 The Heart of the City

25 Interview with Shelley Jory-Leigh

26 Southampton the Cruise Capital

28 City of Sport: Hope for 2012

30 Suggested Itineraries

32 Great Days Out

34 Up and Coming Events

The Southampton Guest Guide is published by The Marketing Collective Ltd. Telephone 023 80001655.

Information correct at the time of publication. The Marketing Collective Ltd. do not endorse any of the products and service presented in the Guide, and cannot be held responsible for any loss, damage or inconvenience incurred as a result of changes to advertised information. Always check details before making arrangements. With thanks to: Southampton City Council, Cheryl Butler, Southampton Hoteliers Association. Printed by Halcyon Print Management 01435 868890

www.themarketing-collective.com

MD Jo Cooper | Editor Fiona Garth | Designer Tina Scahill.

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Southampton has welcomed tourists for nearly

a thousand years, its popularity began as

a place of pilgrimage in the twelfth century

being on the route to Canterbury. After the

murder of Thomas Becket, (Archbishop of

Canterbury) in 1170, King Henry II travelled

from his lands in France and landed at Southampton, where

he had a castle. From there he journeyed onto Canterbury

to make his own pilgrimage as atonement for his role in

Becket’s death. Pilgrims wanting to follow the route the

king had taken started to flood into Southampton. Along

the route hospices sprung up to serve the needs of these

travellers. In Southampton the Maison Dieu or God’s House

was built by the wealthy merchant and

port reeve, Gervaise Le Riche, once a

large complex on Winkle Street there

are still almshouses and a chapel

dedicated to St Julien, the patron saint

of travellers. Henry’s castle survived till

the seventeenth century and the castle

mound can be seen at Castle Way, its

outer bailey wall still stands as does the

magnificent castle vault and the remains

of castle hall. For those truly wishing to

experience the act of pilgrimage, the first

leg of the route would have been a day’s

walk to Winchester, where you can still stop at the hospital of

St Cross and ask for wayfarer’s dole to fortify you for the rest

of your journey.

Royal Weddings always attract visitors and in 1554 the port

of Southampton was full of ships bringing a royal bridegroom

to marry the Queen of England. Philip of Spain, the most

eligible bachelor in Europe, landed on the 20th July. He took

mass in Holy Rood Church and was entertained in the town

for three days before travelling to Winchester Cathedral

to marry Mary Tudor. He exhorted his followers to take up

English customs and to illustrate what he meant drank a

cup of beer. It may have been an omen but it rained for the

full three days of the king’s visit. In St Michael’s church can

be found Philip of Spain’s chest. It was not left by the king

but was placed in the church some thirty four years later. In

1588 England and Spain were at war and a mighty armada

was launched against Mary’s sister, Queen Elizabeth I.

Southampton provided a ship called The Angel as part of the

defence fleet. The Spanish fleet was repelled off the Isle of

Wight and their tight formation was finally broken when Sir

Francis Drake sent in fire ships, ships that

had been set ablaze and floated into the

midst of the wooden Spanish ships whilst

they were at anchor. The Spanish had to

cut their anchors and flee. One of the fire

ships was The Angel. After the victory,

returning soldiers and sailors, many sick

and injured, were off loaded in ports around

the country and left to make their own way

home. Admiral Hawkins was so shocked

he set up a chest in Chatham to collect

alms for them and many churches around

the country did likewise. The boxes were

ironically called, Philip of Spain’s chests. Holy Rood church

was bombed during World War II and now remains as a

memorial to the merchant navy, St Michael’s is the only one

of Southampton’s original medieval churches still being used

as church and can be visited most days.

Ghost WalksIf you want to meet some of

Southampton’s more gruesome

residents, why not join the Sarah

Siddons Fan Club theatre company

on their infamous ghost walks at

Halloween and Christmas?

October 31st and November 1st

at 7pm and 9pm, departing from

Holy Rood Church, High Street,

Southampton ‘Harry Houdini’s

Horrible Halloween’.

On October 31st 1911 Harry Houdini

unveiled his famous water torture

act in Southampton, a hundred years

later he is back to see how the town

has changed and uncover stories of

torture and watery deaths!

Tickets £5 from Southampton Visitor

Centre call 023 8033 3333

The Christmas Ghost Walks also

depart from Holy Rood Church

at 7.30pm on the 12th, 14th and

16th December ‘From the horses

mouth’ takes an unexpected look at

Southampton’s dark underbelly!!

Southampton Guest Guide: History

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Southampton’s links to maritime history are

world famous and continue to fascinate

tourists and residents alike. One of the best

ways to explore on foot is by following the

newly named QE2 Mile. This pedestrian route

runs through the heart of both the historic

and contemporary city centre. Linking the Cultural Quarter,

three parks and three shopping centres, the route runs

from the area around the Cenotaph, known as Above Bar,

through to the Old Town area, known as Below Bar.

Continuing further on brings you to Southampton’s

waterfront and docks.

Highlights en route include outstanding historical features,

such as the Titanic memorial in East Park, a magnificent

granite memorial dedicated to the heroic engineering staff,

and Southampton’s remarkable Bargate, part of the original

city wall which date back to 1260 AD.

The QE2 Mile was officially named in 2009, following

consultation with local residents and businesses.

Southampton was home to the famous RMS Queen

Elizabeth II between 1967 and 2008. Residents voted

overwhelmingly to celebrate the 40 year relationship with the

QE2 and saluted the cruise liner by naming the mile after her.

Eleven pairs of plaques have been laid from the Bargate

down to the waterside, marking key events in the city’s

history. The plaques

represent everything

from the early Roman

settlement in the city,

to the opening of

the National

Oceanography Centre.

Walk the Walk... The QE2 Mile is one of a number of distinctive walks you

may take through Southampton. Four of Southampton’s

walking Heritage Trails begin from the QE2 Mile:

The Jane Austen Trail •

The Titanic Trail •

The Parks Trail •

The Old Town Walk – •

new for Summer 2011

For further information,

visit Southampton’s Tourist

Information Centre on Civic

Centre Road.

Anchored in Southampton’s Old TownThe world renowned shipping company Cunard Line donated

the QE2 anchor to Southampton, which is newly placed

alongside the refurbished Holy Rood Church, along the QE2

Mile. The sheer size of the anchor is impressive, requiring

extensive ground work prior to placement.

Holyrood Church itself has a fascinating past. Rebuilt in

1320, having previously been located in the city centre,

it became a target for German bombers during the Second

World War and in 1940 was left in ruins. The church was

restored in 1957 and dedicated as a memorial to

Merchant Navy seafarers, with the church scheduled

as an ancient monument.

Since 2004 considerable refurbishment work has been

undertaken, with funding made available by the Heritage

Lottery Fund and the Merchant Navy Association. Holyrood

now stands strong, with glorious photographic displays and

superb lighting ensuring that it remains a central feature of

the city by day or night.

Southampton will be opening the doors to

the spectacular Tudor House and Garden

once again this summer and is an attraction

not to be missed during your stay.

Tudor House is arguably Southampton’s

most important historic building,

encompassing over 800 years of history on one site.

The impressive timber framed house facing St Michael’s

Square was built at the end of the 15th century.

In 1911, the corporation purchased the house and gardens,

renovating them and opening them to the public in 1912, as

the first municipal museum in Southampton. Now almost 100

years later, Tudor House and Garden is set to open again

to visitors.

Both the house and Westgate Hall, formerly known as

Tudor Merchants Hall, have been renovated thanks

to a £3.5million grant from the Heritage Lottery

Fund and a further £1.8million from the Council.

Discover interactive displays and exhibits revealing the

finer details of the past and the lives of the those whose

who lived and worked in Tudor House. A vivid sound and

light show in the Banqueting Hall will introduce you to

the house and to some of the characters such as John

Dawtrey, who built Tudor House and William Spranger,

who saved it from demolition at the end of the 19th

century as well as Tudor Lord Chief Justice, Sir Richard

Lyster and Victorian milliner, Eliza Simmons each with

their personal insight to the period in which they lived.

Display panels with striking visual graphics and illustrations

by artist Andy Gammon, show how the house might

have looked during the different periods. Each room

within Tudor House is set in a different historical context,

allowing the story of the house to develop as you walk

through the building. Each room displays objects from

various collections both on cases and on open display

with some carefully selected objects available to handle.

After a tour of the house, enjoy a cream tea in the cafe whilst

looking over the garden which has been carefully renewed

and replanted, with guidance from the original designer,

Dr Sylvia Landsberg.

The cafe, garden and

function room may be

booked for weddings

and business events.

Southampton Guest Guide: History

For further information on

Holyrood Church contact

Southampton’s Tourist

Information Centre

on 023 8083 3333

or online at

www.visit-southampton.co.uk

Further details on

Tudor House and Garden

are available at

www.tudorhouseandgarden.

com

H

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If you wish to combine your historical visit with historical

places to eat or drink, there are two pubs vying for the

title of the oldest in the city. The Red Lion on the High

Street has the longest history as a

pub dating back to the 12th century

but the Duke of Wellington on Bugle

Street, although built in the 13th century,

has vaults and a cellar dating back to

the 12th century. Both are worth a visit,

where you may sit by the log fire and

imagine visitors gone by doing the same.

At the southern end of the High Street,

Town Quay has a range of eateries in

historic buildings overlooking the water.

Kuti’s Thai restaurant is now in what

was once the gatehouse to the Royal

Pier. The Old Town is also home to the recently refurbished

Dolphin Hotel, a famous coaching inn since the 17th century.

During Southampton’s Spa-town period of 1750 - 1820, it

became a fashionable centre for those who came to take the

waters. With many famous guests including Queen Victoria,

Lord Admiral Nelson and Jane Austen. Miss Austen lived in

Southampton between 1806-1809 and

during this time the winter assemblies

were being held at the Dolphin Hotel. It

was at one of these functions that Jane

Austen scornfully commented that she

regretted, “That so many young women

were without partners, and each of them

with two ugly naked shoulders.”

The hotel also claims to have been

visited by Shakespeare and company,

who are said to have performed in

the courtyard.

There are a variety of speciality and

independent shops around the Bargate extending down East

Street and the High Street into the Old Town. Stay a little

longer and enjoy a different side of Southampton.

Southampton Guest Guide: History

As well as being steeped in history Southampton’s Old Town has a rich choice of cafés restaurants and bistros, particularly around Holyrood Place and along East Street.

Old Town neW discoveries

Watermark WestQuaySouthampton has exciting plans for a fantastic new shopping

and visitor experience called Watermark WestQuay. The plan

is to create new public plaza on the old Pirelli site with the

impressive historic walls forming a spectacular backdrop for a

new restaurant quarter and high quality shopping experience.

The proposals feature a luxury multiplex cinema, a range of

new cafes and restaurants, public open

space and pocket park, a new retail

offer for the city, a hotel with up to 150

bedrooms and a landmark residential

building, including approximately

200 apartments. Initial plans for the

development have been agreed and it is

hoped that the development will get the

go ahead soon.

Cultural QuarterSouthampton’s Cultural Quarter is becoming an area alive

with arts, heritage, entertainment, events, music, colour and

dramatic architecture. Located at the top of the QE2 Mile, the

Cultural Quarter is wrapped around by the Victorian Grade II

listed parks and has the new Guildhall Square at its heart, the

setting for an array of major open air events.

The Cultural Quarter contains the

Mayflower Theatre, one of the most

successful theatres outside London,

Southampton’s Guildhall which is one

of the South’s largest multi-purpose

entertainment venues hosts some of the

biggest names in music and comedy.

The City Art Gallery has a collection of over

3800 works which are officially recognised

for their national importance.

In April 2012 the Sea City visitor

attraction will open. This multimillion

pound conversion of the Grade II former

Magistrates’ Court building includes a stunning contemporary

pavilion which will hold two permanent exhibitions telling

Southampton’s 2000 year history as a gateway to the world

and Southampton’s Titanic Story and the hidden history

of RMS Titanic’s crew. The new pavilion will attract touring

arts and heritage exhibitions and the first exhibition will also

commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Titanic disaster.

In 2012 work is set to start on Southampton’s New Arts

Complex, set to launch in 2015. This will enliven the Guildhall

Square and will bring a new contemporary art gallery,

community video and film production and performing

arts centre with two new auditoria and café bar. It will

also provide space on the ground floor for up to six new

restaurants, cafés and bars to spill out onto Guildhall Square.

For further information on

Southampton’s Tourist

Information Centre

on 023 8083 3333

or online at

www.visit-southampton.co.uk

Southampton Guest Guide: Future

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The Nuffield is

Southampton’s only

professional producing

theatre, based

on the University

Campus in Highfield.

The Nuffield’s work

takes place not just on stage, in the

street, in schools, but in the head and

in the heart, and is characterised by

variety, inventiveness, imagination and

skill. The company produces, tours,

collaborates, commissions, presents

visiting companies, and plays a leading

role in Southampton’s cultural life.

In 1964, with support from the

Nuffield Foundation, the University

of Southampton built a theatre

on its campus for the people of

Southampton. Nearly twenty years

later on 1 November 1982, The Nuffield

became an independent producing

theatre funded by the Arts Council

England, Southampton City Council,

the University of Southampton and

Hampshire County Council. Over the

next 25 years, The Nuffield came to

be recognised as a major

force in British theatre.

Today The Nuffield creates award

winning productions which frequently

tour internationally. The Company’s

focus as a centre of creativity in

Southampton remains its highest

priority, and alongside its own

productions, The Nuffield Theatre

presents the best national and

international touring companies,

as well as offering opportunities for

adults and children to participate

in theatre activities that enrich,

educate and simply entertain.

A varied programme of events offers

something for everyone, and the

autumn 2011 season is no exception.

As well as a busy season of top

quality theatre in the main house

and studio (see listings), The Nuffield

Theatre offer Saturday morning

children’s theatre and regular stand-

up comedy gigs starring some of

the best comedians on the circuit,

including Tom Stade, Craig Campbell,

Andy Parsons and Miles Jupp.

The Cafe Bar at the Nuffield Theatre

provides a wonderful setting for a

pre-show drink or dinner. Please

pre-book your table to avoid

disappointment, by calling the

Box Office on 023 8067 1771.

At the John Hansard

Gallery you can

explore world-class

contemporary art,

just fifteen minutes

from Southampton

city centre. Based on the University

of Southampton’s picturesque Highfield

campus for over thirty years, the Gallery

is free and presents five different

exhibitions each year, featuring today’s

most innovative artists.

The best contemporary art allows you

to see, experience and think about the

world differently. The John Hansard

Gallery celebrate

this by showcasing

a rich variety of

work, from new

talent to major

international

figures, and from

painting and

sculpture to film,

photography,

installations and

digital media.

Forthcoming exhibitions in 2011 include

Turner Prize-nominated artists Jane

and Louise Wilson, whose haunting,

large-scale photographs of the

Chernobyl disaster, twenty five years

on, open in July. And in the autumn the

Gallery welcomes a host of emerging

artists from Europe in the exhibition

‘Manufacture’, exploring the idea of

production in 21st century art.

Throughout the year you can also take

part in a range of events and activities,

including artist talks, and workshops

for children, young people and families,

and a programme of seminars and

conferences.

The John Hansard Gallery also leads

a range of community

initiatives and off-site

projects across

the city.

At the Gallery

you’ll find a friendly

welcome, free tea

and coffee, plus all

the latest art books,

magazines and gifts

in the shop. Admission

is free, and the Gallery

is open Tuesday to Friday, 11am - 5pm

and Saturday 11am-4pm.

The Gallery is situated on the west side

of the University Campus, just a few

minutes walk from the Nuffield Theatre

and Turner Sims Concert Hall. Getting

there is simple by public transport. From

Southampton City Centre catch the

Uni-link U1 bus to Highfield

Interchange. The journey takes just

twenty minutes, with up to six buses

leaving each hour.

The best contemporary art allows you to see, experience and think about the world differently.

Venue details:

John Hansard Gallery

University of Southampton

Highfield, SO17 1BJ

Telephone: 023 8059 2158

[email protected]

www.handsardgallery.org.uk

AuTumN 2011 THeATRe SeASON

14 – 17 Sept Othello – The Nuffield Theatre Company and Yellowtale Theatre

20 – 22 Sept macbeth – Platform 4

23 – 24 Sept Those Magnificent Men – New Perspectives Theatre Company

26 Sept Sid Lester’s Big Night In – Written and performed by Sue macLaine

27 Sept– 1 Oct Bang Bang Bang – Out of Joint

4 – 8 Oct Speechless Shared experience

11 – 15 Oct Dick Turpin’s Last Ride A Theatre Royal Bury St edmunds Production

17 – 19 Oct external – GeTINTHeBACKOFTHeVAN

20 – 29 Oct Scrapyard – A New Play by maggie Nevill The Nuffield Theatre Company

24 Oct 451 Apples and Snakes’ bi-monthly poetry night

1 - 2 Nov The Death Song – You Need me

3 – 5 Nov Gandini Juggling: motet, in collaboration with Circo Aereo

8 – 10 Nov memoirs of a Biscuit Tin – maison Foo

11 – 12 Nov A Clockwork Orange Volcano Theatre Company

14 – 16 Nov World of Wrong – The Two Wrongies

17 – 19 Nov Pedestrian – Theatre Bristol

21 – 23 Nov Zanzibar Cats Poems by Heathcote Williams performed by Roy Hutchins

12 Dec 451 Apples and Snakes’ bi-monthly poetry night

24 Nov – 7 Jan The Nuffield’s Christmas Show

Southampton Guest Guide: Cultural Tourist Venue details:

The Nuffield Theatre

University of Southampton

Highfield, SO17 1BJ

Telephone: 023 8067 1771

www.nuffieldtheatre.co.uk

Page 7: The Southampton Guest Guide

12 13

Theatre dininG

The Mayflower Theatre is the most prominent

theatre along the South coast, bringing the

West End experience to Southampton. The

theatre has a long standing history of hosting

major West End plays and spectacular touring

musicals. Ballet, opera and comedy all find a

home on the boards and with the recent investment of £1.6

million, guaranteeing access to large stage structures, the

physical presence of the touring companies is enormous.

West End productions brought to Southampton

include Les Misérables, Miss Saigon and Phantom

of the Opera. Audiences enjoy the space of the

auditorium and facilities, which may sometimes be

lacking in the smaller London venues. However, the

theatre is designed to create a cosseted atmosphere,

ensuring a feeling of comfort during your stay.

Ovation is the aptly named restaurant on site, featuring

mouth watering menus which are heavily influenced by the

best seasonal and fresh produce. The first class service

rounds off your meal, leaving you ready to enjoy a show

or return home, having enjoyed a wonderful evening.

Originally an Art Deco styled theatre, opening in 1928 as

the Southampton Empire, the theatre changed its name to

the Gaumont in 1950, finally becoming The Mayflower in

1987. The Mayflower stage has been graced over the years

by the great stars of the 1930’s, including Laurel and Hardy,

Gracie Fields and glorious ballet dancer Anna Pavlova.

Famous musical acts in recent years include hit makers of

pop The Beatles, Rolling Stones, Queen and Elton John.

The forthcoming season will see The Mayflower

play host to world class entertainment for all.

The No.1 Greatest Musical, Grease, is back from 5th July

for just two weeks only! Danny Bayne (winner of ITV’s

Grease Is The Word, Hairspray) returns as Danny with Carina

Gillespie (Grease, Buddy) as Sandy and Ice Champion Robin

Cousins guest stars as Teen Angel. Dust off your leather

jackets, pull on your bobby-socks and get ready for the

most fun-filled, high octane Rock’n’Roll party of the year.

Shaun the Sheep makes his stage debut in Shaun’s Big

Show from 10 – 13 August. Join Shaun and his friends in

their very own live show. All your favourite characters from

the hit BBC show will be here including Bitzer, Shirley,

Timmy and the rest of the flock in this magical, fully

choreographed music and dance extravaganza. Featuring

pigs in tutus, and a flock of unruly sheep, introduce this

ideal show to your little ones. Adults will enjoy the fun too.

SLASK The Polish Song and Dance Ensemble

introduce their popular show from 29 – 31 August.

Slask has been described as one of the grandest

and most dazzling spectacles in the world.

Finally, as the last hurrah before the kids go back to school,

we bring the world’s

first Scratch and Sniff

musical, Mr. Stink, to

the stage between

1 – 3 September.

With productions such

as Sister Act, Dirty

Dancing and Oliver!

arriving in 2012, why not

take note of the best in

live entertainment.

What do you say...“This was my 4th trip to the restaurant, We booked for a

pre theatre meal and it was lovely. The service is fast so

there are no anxieties about missing the show. The atmothere are no anxieties about missing the show. The atmothere are no anxieties about missing the show. The atmo-

sphere is friendly and the food is delicious with a large sphere is friendly and the food is delicious with a large

choice on the menu.” reviewed on 8th June 2011.

What do you say...“Have dined at Caffexpresso a couple of times and

had an excellent experience on both occasions. The had an excellent experience on both occasions. The had an excellent experience on both occasions. The

food is superb and the service first class. Definitely food is superb and the service first class. Definitely

recommend a visit.” reviewed on 10th May 2011.

Welcome to

Caffexpresso is a modern continental bar & bistro in

the heart of Southampton, a great setting in which

to relax and unwind.

Only a two minute walk from The Mayflower

Theatre and Southampton Central Train Station,

Caffexpresso is perfect for pre theatre dining.

The menu includes fresh seasonal dishes, all day

breakfasts, gorgeous homemade cakes and of

course, high quality coffee. Complimentary nibbles

are served with drinks after 5pm and the bistro is

fully licensed.

Day out? start with a good breakfast: company do,

stag do, day out from Southampton Central station.

Caffexpresso is a great meeting point!

Open Monday to Friday from 6am, Saturday from

7am, closed Sunday.

Contact: 023 8023 8181 Address: Frobisher House Nelson Gate,

Southampton, SO15 1GX

To browse through the menus and testimonials, visit www.cafexpresso.co.uk

TM

Buon Gusto promises you truly authentic Italian

cuisine in contemporary, elegant surroundings, right

in the heart of Southampton. The restaurant has

been delighting diners for over 20 years.

Your culinary journey will take you through

beautifully crafted menus, all of which are available

to view online. The emphasis is on fresh, locally

sourced produce, ensuring that you only taste the

catch of the day.

Buon Gusto is known for hosting special occasions

and beautifully situated and chic private rooms are

available for hire. Bookings are taken online and by

phone. Located opposite The Mayflower Theatre and

near to WestQuay Shopping Centre.

The restaurant is open Monday to Saturday, 12pm

until 11.30pm and on Sundays, 2pm until 10pm.

Contact: 023 8033 1543 Address: I Commercial Road, Southampton, SO15 1GF

To review customer testimonials, photos and menus visit www.buongusto-southampton.co.uk

Buon GustoRestorante I tal iano

Venue details:

The Mayflower Theatre

Commercial Road

Ticket information:

023 8071 1811

www.mayflower.org.uk

Southampton Guest Guide: Cultural Tourist

© A

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el M

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r

Page 8: The Southampton Guest Guide

Serious Shopping WestQuay is the ultimate destination for stylish shoppers

heading for a day out in Southampton. If you’re struggling to

choose from the array of fashion on offer, pay a visit to John

Lewis, Next or GAP, where the stores’ personal shoppers

are ready to provide that extra special personal service,

helping you put together the perfect outfit. Beauty advisors at

John Lewis and The Body Shop are also on hand to provide

individual advice on skincare and cosmetics for that final

finishing touch.

Big name Brands Boasting the biggest line up of top brands in the region,

WestQuay brings together fashion, beauty, homeware and

much more all under one roof. Anchor stores John Lewis

and Marks & Spencer are joined by leading fashion retailers

such as French Connection, Coast, Karen Millen, Zara and

River Island, making WestQuay a must-visit destination for

all fashion fans. Adding to the line up are other iconic brands

including Apple, Pandora, Swatch, Hollister and GAP.

Tasty Treats After all that retail therapy, WestQuay’s Food Terrace if the

perfect place to relax and re-energise. Choose from Nando’s,

the home of the famous Portuguese Peri-Peri chicken, Café

Giardino, YO! Sushi, and a host of other delicious food

retailers. Those in search of a lighter bite or a simple cup

of coffee can pay a visit to a number of cosy cafés located

around the centre, including Costa Coffee, Prêt A Manger and

the popular John Lewis Café.

exciting events Providing the perfect backdrop to your shopping trip,

WestQuay’s exciting calendar of events throughout the year

are guaranteed to provide you with a great day out. Helping

to keep the kids happy during the holidays will be WestQuay’s

summer event, with a host of great entertainment for young

shoppers – and the young at heart! – in early August.

The very latest trends for autumn and winter will be

showcased live on stage at WestQuay’s autumn style event

later in the year, a must-visit for any stylish shopper taking

place on Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th October. Fashion fans

will be treated to live catwalk shows and bespoke workshops

where you’ll be given up-to-the-minute colour, style and

beauty advice – all for free!

As the year draws to an end, WestQuay will be filled with

festive fun to help really get you in the Christmas spirit!

The dazzling display of Christmas lights will be officially

switched on as part of an afternoon of family entertainment

on Thursday 17th November, with the seasonal treats

continuing from 17th until

24th December. Young

shoppers should keep

an eye out for Father

Christmas himself! And

of course, WestQuay is

packed with perfect gift

ideas to suit every style,

taste and budget.

WestQuay, located in the heart of Southampton city centre, boasts over 90 stores spread over three shopping levels. With a host of big name brands, action-packed events, fantastic fashion and more, it’s easy to see why WestQuay has become the south coast’s premier shopping destination.

For further information

about WestQuay, its retailers,

events and much, much

more please visit

www.west-quay.co.uk

or find us on

Facebook and Twitter.

14 15

Southampton Guest Guide: Shop to your heart’s content

Page 9: The Southampton Guest Guide

16 17

48 Bedford Place Southampton SO15 2DG1a High Street Botley Hampshire SO30 2EA

www.scarpini.co.uk

Rupert Sanderson � Pedro García

Juicy Couture � See by Chloé � Holster

French Sole � Bettye Muller � Sam Edelman

Lola Cruz � CocoRose � Bourne

Pretty Ballerinas

Scarpini_SottonGG_Qtr_June:Scarpini_SottonGG_Qtr_June 26/5/

A beautiful selection of womens wear from A beautiful selection of womens wear from French Brand Devernois. Cleverly created to. Cleverly created toco-ordinate outfits for all occasions.co-ordinate outfits for all occasions.www.devernois.fr 47 Bedford Place, Southampton,47 Bedford Place, Southampton,SO15 2DG. Tel: 023 8023 7501SO15 2DG. Tel: 023 8023 750110am till 5pm. 10am till 5pm. Mon to Sat.

Scarpini specialises in designer shoes, boots, exclusive jewellery and luxurious accessories. As well as stores in Botley & Bedford Place, Scarpini also caters for the internet shopper where customers may browse and order shoes online.may browse and order shoes online.www.scarpini.co.uk48 Bedford Place Tel: 023 8022 5466

The Lounge is a unique Craft Cafeis a unique Craft Cafeis a unique Craft Cafe Bar offering home-made food andoffering home-made food andoffering home-made food andcreative sewing workshops.workshops.www.loungecafe.co.ukwww.loungecafe.co.uk31 Bedford PlaceTel: 023 8023 6616

Southampton Guest Guide: Shop to your heart’s content

Bedford Place offers a fascinating selection of small independent shops and stylish boutiques. This part of the city is also filled with bars and bistros all within easy reach of the city centre and parks.

16

Cloud WineCloud WineCloud Wine is an

independent old independent old independent old

fashioned wine, fashioned wine, fashioned wine,

spirit and beer spirit and beer spirit and beer

shop. Interesting shop. Interesting shop. Interesting

and unusual!and unusual!and unusual!

45 Bedford Place,45 Bedford Place,45 Bedford Place,

Tel: 023 8022 8015Tel: 023 8022 8015Tel: 023 8022 8015

Naturally Healthy Naturally Healthy - The Independent Health Store. Organic Independent Health Store. Organic Health Foods and Drinks, Shampoo, Health Foods and Drinks, Shampoo, Body Lotion and Gifts Including: Body Lotion and Gifts Including: Solgar, Quest, Vogel, Higher Solgar, Quest, Vogel, Higher Nature, Bach Nature Remed, Bach Nature Remed, Australian Bush Flowers, New Nordic Australian Bush Flowers, New Nordic and more.30b Bedford Place30b Bedford PlaceTel: 023 8033 0585Tel: 023 8033 0585

Arcana is one of Southampton’s most established salons. With stylishly modern decor and a relaxing ambiance, Arcana offers the ultimate hair and beauty experience.www.arcanauk.com46 Bedford Place Tel: 023 8063 1292

W. J. French & SonW. J. French & SonW. J. French & Son is an is an is an independent family run business independent family run business independent family run business independent family run business independent family run business independent family run business specialising in the fitting of high specialising in the fitting of high specialising in the fitting of high specialising in the fitting of high specialising in the fitting of high specialising in the fitting of high specialising in the fitting of high specialising in the fitting of high quality branded shoes for all the quality branded shoes for all the quality branded shoes for all the quality branded shoes for all the quality branded shoes for all the family, trusted and trading in family, trusted and trading in family, trusted and trading in family, trusted and trading in family, trusted and trading in family, trusted and trading in family, trusted and trading in family, trusted and trading in family, trusted and trading in Southampton since 1803.Southampton since 1803.Southampton since 1803.www.wjfrenchandson.co.ukwww.wjfrenchandson.co.ukwww.wjfrenchandson.co.uk40 Bedford Place 40 Bedford Place 40 Bedford Place Tel: 023 8022 6542 Tel: 023 8022 6542 Tel: 023 8022 6542 Tel: 023 8022 6542

At Hepwright’s Hepwright’s Hepwright’s Hepwright’s you will find wonderful hand picked vintage wonderful hand picked vintage wonderful hand picked vintage wonderful hand picked vintage clothes, accessories, homewares, clothes, accessories, homewares, clothes, accessories, homewares, clothes, accessories, homewares, textiles and collectibles.textiles and collectibles.textiles and collectibles.textiles and collectibles.www.hepwrights.comwww.hepwrights.comwww.hepwrights.comwww.hepwrights.com34 Bedford Place,34 Bedford Place,34 Bedford Place,34 Bedford Place,Tel: 07733 766 746Tel: 07733 766 746Tel: 07733 766 746Tel: 07733 766 746

Page 10: The Southampton Guest Guide

With four floors of the best

fashion, home and technology,

and over 350,000 possible

purchases, why not take up

the free services and individual

consultations on offer to make

your visit even more enjoyable.

The celebrated fashion

and beauty floor is newly

refurbished. Located on the

Upper Ground floor, you’ll be

amazed by the top brands that

are exclusive to John Lewis

in the area. Fashions include

Lauren by Ralph Lauren, Reiss

and Rene Derhy with Mango,

Ghost, Hugo Boss Black and

Bastyan joining us in autumn

2011. Truly a paradise for

fashion aficionados and with

fashion advice from experts

who know our collections

inside out, they’ll ensure you

always find the clothes you love

at a price that’s right for you.

Many women in the UK

reportedly wear the wrong

size bra, but our lingerie fitting

service is here to help. They’re

able to measure your bust size

accurately and help you choose

the right bra to enhance your

shape and ensure your comfort.

Luxury beauty ranges include

Crème de la Mer, Aveda,

Laura Mercier, Rituals, Bobbi

Brown and Liz Earle. Take

advantage of the excellent

cosmetics customer service,

which enables you to try

all products before you

commit to your purchase. For

those who prefer dedicated

pampering, a visit to the

Elemis and Decleor treatment

rooms is a must. Visit the

top floor to find a haven of

tranquillity and an abundance

of aromas in the Clarins Spa.

The nursery advice service

will not only help your young

ones get off to the best start

in life but also help make your

pregnancy and first years of

parenting more comfortable.

Timeless furniture, adorable

clothing and nursery necessities

are all available here.

The bespoke, in-store Home

Design Service ensures that

you’ll receive the very best

advice from the moment your

appointment starts and is

tailored to your individual

needs. The expert advisors

have the product knowledge

and practical experience to

inspire you in turning your home

interior dreams into a reality.

Located on the top floor, you’ll

find the Place to Eat, serving

sumptuous goodies, including

freshly baked pastries and

omelettes cooked to order. Sit

with your choice of coffee, tea

or even a glass of wine and

watch the cruise liners sailing

in and out of Southampton

water. The stunning views

from your seat are an added

bonus to your meal.

Our free ‘Click and Collect’ is

also very popular. Simply place

your order online at johnlewis.

com by 7pm, and we’ll deliver

it to your chosen shop for you

to collect after 2pm the next

day. This service is available

from all John Lewis shops,

and in an increasing number

of Waitrose branches.

‘Never Knowingly Undersold’,

is our lifelong commitment

to providing customers with

the best value through great

products, at great prices,

supported by great service.

We have always matched

prices on a like for like basis

including comparable terms

and conditions. In September

last year we deepened our

price-match promise to our

customers by extending it to

including online competitors

who also have a high street

presence, so do ask in-store

if you have any questions.

Reserve your appointment

for any of these services at

John Lewis, WestQuay,

by contacting 023 8021 6400

or see a member of staff

in store.John Lewis Southampton, situated at the heart of WestQuay, is designed to leave you feeling delighted with your retail experience.

18 19

There was a time when vintage

shops had a reputation for

being jam-packed, untidy

and even a bit smelly.

But all that has changed and

vintage expert Catherine Wright

of Hepwright’s in Bedford Place,

Southampton says that shops like

hers are the new face of vintage.

“I hope visitors find my shop is

as bright and welcoming as a

designer boutique. We don’t pack

the rails so it is easy to browse.

Stock changes all the time and

we try to offer as much for the

mainstream fashion shopper as

well as the vintage collector. We

sell clothes and accessories that

real women can wear every day.”

All the clothes and accessories at

Hepwright’s are bought locally by

Catherine and she can often tell you

the story of who used to own them.

“I always say I’m running an

adoption agency for clothes. The

previous owners entrust their

beautiful garments to me – and

they tell me they are pleased

they are going to be bought by

someone who will love them

just as much they did.”

Vintage clothing has moved

into the mainstream and is

no longer the preserve of the

young and trendy or flamboyant

individuals who like to dress-up.

“If you want something a little

bit different, vintage shops are

the ideal place to go. Not only

are the clothes more individual,

but the shops are independently

run by people with a passion for

fashion. We’ve got everything

from 1910 cotton tea dresses,

1950s party frocks, beaded

gowns from the 1980’s and

everything in between. I love it

when we can help style customers

for big events like Goodwood

Revival or a Christmas Ball.”

But you don’t have to dress top

to toe in vintage fashion to get

the look. A pretty silk scarf or

a brooch added to your high

street outfit can transform it

into you own unique look.

Hepwright’s has always

specialised in clothes for women,

but Catherine is launching a

men’s collection in Autumn 2011

including jackets, bags and suits.

“There is such a demand for good

quality clothing from the chaps. We

can’t leave them out any longer!”

Once you find Hepwright’s, it’s

only a short walk to another

Southampton vintage shop

The Beatnik Emporium. Right

opposite the Cenotaph in Watts

Park, you can’t miss its colourful

hand painted sign and windows

full of vintage curiosities.

Open Tuesday to Saturday 10am to

5pm. Occasional late nights during

the week & Sunday afternoons

- see the website for details.

Private appointments. Hire options

available. Alterations service.

Vintage dressing up parties.

Styling service. Gift vouchers.

Southampton Guest Guide: Shop to your heart’s content

1970s Spotty Coat Dress £24

1980s Metal Flower Brooch £12

1980s Suede Trousers £65

1940s Green Blouse £18

1980s Apricot Day Dress £381980s Apricot Day Dress £381980s Apricot Day Dress £38

1980s Gold Hoop Earrings £18

1950s Pink Party Dress £120

1960s Lizard Handbag £55

Looking for something different? Take a walk on Southampton’s alternative side

1970s French Knickers £14

HEPWRIGHT’S

34 Bedford Place,

Southampton. SO15 2DG.

Tel: 07733 766 746

www.hepwrights.com

Open Tuesday to Saturday

10am to 5pm. Other times

by appointment.

1970s Stripe Sunglasses £25

Page 11: The Southampton Guest Guide

20 21

Today, former Wedgewood

Ballroom is home to a

quirky and wonderfully

unique Bar, Bistro

and Restaurant.

Just a moment from

Oxford Street, and centrally located to

the City’s Docks and Shopping Centres,

Grand Café is the perfect place to

enjoy light lunches, afternoon tea and

early dinners in a informal bistro. The

Grand Café Restaurant is bursting with

an eclectic mix of classic British styles

and elaborate flamboyance offering an

exciting dining area.

There is much history

attached to the site

itself and of those

who visited it in the

past. Delicious Dining

Group who own

eight of Hampshire’s

finest restaurants

and bars including

The Grand Café

have taken great care ensuring

that the conversion reflects the

architectural status it holds and that

the local distinctiveness remains.

The building began life as the South

Western Hotel, designed by John

Norton, opening its doors in 1872. The

hotel served many passengers using the

London & South Western Railway. The

long frontages along Canute Road and

Terminus Terrace were heavily influenced

by the French Renaissance, and laid

on with a heavy hand. The windows

are elaborately framed, fronted with

balconies and ornate ironwork. The roofs

have slated double pitches, mansard

fashion with attic dormer windows. The

complicated roofline was a characteristic

of the designer John Norton’s style.

The grandeur reflected the wealth of the

shipping industry at that time and public

areas were particularly beautiful, with

a great deal of marble and elaborate

ironwork on the passenger lift shafts

and the staircases. In fact the main

staircase was the prototype for the

grand staircase on the Titanic. The mural

by A Scott-Moncrieff on

canvas in the Summer

Dining Room, of the

Pilgrim Fathers setting

sail to the new world

can still be seen.

The exterior is still linked

by a fine canopy of steel

to the original station

terminus building. Large

additions were made

in the 20th century as the liner trade

reached its zenith. Serving as the main

accommodation for travellers due to

embark on a cruise, the extravagant

architecture encapsulated the wealth

and prestige of the port at that time.

The Restaurant itself was originally

the Wedgwood Ballroom, with a

traditional blue and white colour

scheme which may still be seen in

the plasterwork. Only a few of these

examples remain today within the

United Kingdom, mostly in London.

Two very notable guests include

Sir Winston Churchill and American

President Dwight Eisenhower. During the

Second World War these prominent men

planned the D-Day invasion, in privacy

on the first floor. Photographic evidence

shows that the Queen Elizabeth, the

Queen Mother also visited the Hotel and

danced in the Wedgwood Ballroom.

The Grand Café offers a relaxed

atmosphere where you can enjoy

superbly cooked and presented

natural food; specially hung beef

and lamb from local farms, fish

straight from local suppliers and

fresh vegetables sourced daily.

Venue details:

Grand Café

South Western House

SO14 3AS

Telephone: 023 8033 9303

www.grand-cafe.co.uk

Southampton Guest Guide: Fork and Cork

Southampton offers a gastronomic experience

with influences from the diverse local

population, location and the availability

of fresh, locally grown produce.

Across the many restaurants,

bistros, pubs and cafes you will find

excellent food and drink always on the menu.

The heady mix of fresh, local and exotic produce with

new food tastes

all come together

in Southampton

in a celebration of

dishes and wines

and whatever your

personal taste, you’ll

be sure to find what

you are looking for.

Turtle Bay,

newly launched

and located in

Guildhall Square, brings the secrets of Caribbean food

to the city. The menu celebrates the traditional cuisine

found across the islands, including the marinades,

fresh fish and obviously an extensive cocktail menu!

Special events at Turtle Bay include Limbo dancing and

steel band music; truly enhancing all your senses.

For those who prefer a meditereanean feel to dining, a

visit to the Spanish La Esquina in Oxford Street is a must.

An impressive menu includes not only vegetarian and

gluten free options but also allows you to travel through

the many regions of Spain, at a leisurely pace. Italian food

reigns supreme at Buon Gusto, a truly authentic restaurant

where the food is presented in a stylish fashion, to fit with

the surroundings. Cafexpresso close the The Mayflower

Theatre is a modern continental bar and bistro with a

mouth-watering menu. With two Bella Italia restaurants in

the city, delicious pizza and pasta dishes are easy to find.

The Fat Fig in Bedford Place is a surprising find in the heart

of the city, with an

extensive Greek menu

that stays true to the

culture of beautifully

fresh food, transporting

you straight to one

of the islands.

With such a huge

influence coming from

the Polish community,

a number of Polish

restaurants have

gained national recognition for their quality and presentation.

Top of the list is undoubtedly Stacja PL, located in Onslow

Road. Off the beaten track for many, but well worth a visit,

with an incredible insight into the delicacies of Polish cuisine.

Undoubtedly the grandest experience in Thai food will be

found at Kuti’s Royal Thai Pier, on the Royal Pier at Town

Quay. Watch the sunset over the water as you indulge

yourself in the finest Thai cuisine along the south coast.

The Far East has a huge influence on restaurants in

Southampton but the true Japanese experience may be

experienced in a modern, contemporary environment

right in the heart of Southampton at Below Bar:

Zen offers a truly incredible array of fresh fish and

delicate delights at mouth-wateringly good prices.

If a more European style takes your fancy, you’ll appreciate

the menu at IKEA. Truly Swedish but at a fantastic

price and the largest restaurant in Southampton!

The Coriander Lounge on the High Street aims to restore

the lost primordial authenticity of Indian cuisine that

shares the same traditional cooking techniques and

ingredients that make the dishes exceedingly delicious.

Sometimes only a traditional roast will hit the spot and for

a quintessential English meal then your really should book a

table at the Duke of Wellington, located in Bugle Street.

It doesn’t get more atmospheric than this, with the history and

aromas surrounding you, a memorable evening is assured.

Steeped in history and located within a Grade II listed building, South Western House, the Grand Café was once Southampton’s grandest hotel used by first class passengers of the Titanic, with a history dating back to 1865.

Steeped in history and located within a Grade II listed building, South Western House, the Grand Café was once Southampton’s grandest hotel used by first

Page 12: The Southampton Guest Guide

22 23

The White Star, 28 Oxford Street, SO14 3DJBased in the thriving cosmopolitan

restaurant area of Southampton, The

White Star offers award-winning food

and accommodation. The historic

building has been central to the City’s

maritime heritage for over a hundred

years, and today still retains its unique

charm and elegance as the city’s

top gastro pub with a vibrant and

fashionable modern day twist. Food

is cooked with care and skill, using

fresh, locally sourced ingredients to

produce classic modern British dishes

for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Proudly

gaining 5 stars for the accommodation

and 2 AA Rosettes for the cuisine.

Upstairs boasts 13 individually styled

luxury guest rooms and a 3 bedroom

serviced apartment. Each is named

after one of the famous White Star Line

great liners or original J-class yachts

from the first America’s Cup, creating

a subtle yet cool maritime theme.

Cantina Mexican, 2a-3a Bedford Place, SO15 2BY Cantina sits in the bustling heart of

Southampton’s popular Bedford Place

district, and was the first restaurant

of its kind in Southampton. For more

than 10 years Cantina has focused on

delivering fresh and authentic flavours

of Mexico in a fun, friendly and lively

atmosphere. Using locally sourced

ingredients, all the food is prepared

and cooked on the premises to give

you an exciting range of authentic and

inviting dishes. Open all day, every day,

Cantina offers mouth-watering flavours

and exceptional value,

so there’s something

for everyone. With

great lunch and early

evening offers, A la

carte dining, tasty

cocktails plus market

tapas and light snacks

served all day. You can

even pop in for coffee

and enjoy free Wi-

Fi. The restaurant layout allows you

to choose how you wish to dine,

with intimate booth seating, casual

dining areas for drinks and nibbles,

to large tables for party bookings.

The Bugle, Hamble, SO31 4HAAward winning food and a warm

welcome are both central to this

waterside, Grade II listed gastro pub

in Hamble. Well-kept local real ales,

and a first class wines list accompany

exceptional British dishes. The seasonal

menu uses fresh, top quality ingredients,

sourced locally, plus ever changing daily

specials, along with traditional roasts

at weekends and children’s portions.

In addition to the bar and restaurant

areas, private dining is available

upstairs in ‘The Captain’s Table’ which

can accommodate up to 12 guests.

Alternatively, watch the boats go

by from the terrace overlooking the

river. Coffee, cake and free Wi-Fi also

make it the perfect place to stop by

anytime. Awarded

an AA rosette for its

dining and an entry

in Michelin’s Eating

Out in Pubs guide,

quality is assured.

Owner, matthew Boyle

talks the Guest Guide

through his business.

How do you differentiate your establishments from others?Each outlet has been styled individually

to take into account the history of the

buildings and surroundings. We pride

ourselves on providing premium quality

at affordable prices. The Ideal Collection

is about the personal touches and we

are always willing to do that little bit

more to leave a lasting impression.

We welcome strangers into our

business and they leave as friends.

What was the basis of your AA Rosettes award?We are very proud to receive and

retain 2 AA rosettes. These are

awarded to ‘the best local restaurants,

offering higher standards and better

consistency’.

Guests have received an outstanding welcome from The ideal Collection’s venues since 1999. Truly unique and individual establishments have enabled the group to remainat the forefront of the Southampton’s developing hospitality scene.

White Star Example Menu Dining room

Rosary goat’s pannacotta, •courgette flower tempura, rocket pesto, apple balsamic reduction

Treacle cured Hampshire •trout ‘gravadlax’ pickled cucumber, crème fraîche sorbet

Seared cod cheeks, Cornish •king’s, Lymington crab mayonnaise, borage leaves & flowers

Wood pigeon breast, new •Forest lambs ‘tongue’ lettuce, bacon lardons, honey mustard

duck egg, iOW blue & •chard tart, Pratt’s oil mash, garlic emulsion

Slow roast Hampshire pork •belly, watercress champ potato cake, tarragon Cox apples, cider gravy

new season lamb, carrot •purée, Rosary goat’s cheese mash, rosemary crumbed sweetbreads

Lymington rock samphire •& Poole clams

Hampshire rump steak, •Horseradish leaf béarnaise, slow roast tomato, hand cut fat chips.

Venue details:

The White Star,

Tel: 023 8082 1990

Cantina mexican,

Tel: 023 8022 0500

The Bugle,

Tel: 023 8045 3000

www.idealcollection.co.uk

There are so many amazing producers on our door step.

And executive Chef Jim, explains the

importance of using the best local

produce. Where do you start when compiling a menu?“When starting to write a new menu

I first make a note of everything

in season. I then piece it together

trying to include as much great local

produce as possible but not just using

local for the sake of it being local. It

has to be a great product. There are

so many amazing producers on our

doorstep. We use Hampshire Fare

& New Forest marquee websites

amongst other and use 50 mile radius

of our sites as a good rule of thumb

when selecting producers. Farmers

markets are also an essential element.

As far as gaining accolades, I think

it is very important just to do your

own thing and believe in what you

are putting on the plate. We cook

for our customers not just our own

egos! Whether an establishment has

1, 2 or 3 rosettes, as long as your

customers love the food - that is what

counts! The accolades will follow if you

remain consistent with your delivery

and true to the seasons. But most

important of all is flavour! Everything

should delight your taste buds... “

Southampton Guest Guide: Fork and Cork

Page 13: The Southampton Guest Guide

24 25

Born in the city, Shelley not only runs her

hugely successful bridal company from

Southampton but also uses it as her

base as British Powerboat Champion.

Shelley is amongst the female boating elite of

Britain and proudly promotes boating on the

Solent, along with other inspirational figures, including Dame

Ellen MacArthur and Dee Caffari. A Global

Circumnavigation record attempt takes

place later this year, in which Shelley and

six male crewmates, including Skipper and

Director Alan Priddy, will attempt to smash

the standing record of 63 days to a mere

50 days. With only sixteen hours ashore to

attend to boat maintenance, the luxuries

of life will mostly certainly be absent.

However, Shelley more than makes

up for the lack of glamour on board

by attending numerous events in her

capacity as Business Southampton City Champion,

believing totally in what Southampton has to offer both

business entrepreneurs and travellers alike. Talking about

her experience of Southampton she says “Southampton

is a hidden gem but I doubt it will remain hidden for much

longer, with the major investment that is taking place.

I’ve seen how my family business has prospered over the

last 35 years and I also know how successfully the city

has played host to the cruise industry. Other cities are

impressive but with modern offices, great transport links and

outstanding culture, who wouldn’t wish to be based here?”

In her capacity as City Champion, Shelley will be host for

Ladies Day at this year’s Southampton Boatshow. She’ll

be undertaking the Powerboat Challenge, competing

against Jo Dixie from boat show sponsors PSP, the BBC’s

Helena Harland and Tara Russell from the Southern Daily

Echo. Whilst the other competitors could be forgiven for

going up against the World’s best, Shelley is herself slightly

nervous of the course, as the far slower pace and emphasis

on manovering around buoys will be very different to her

endurance skills, driving at 90 miles an hour.

Her achievements are even more

impressive when you consider that

Shelley herself is prone to sea sickness!

Life in the in the fast lane has presented

Shelley Jory –Leigh with challenges, not

only in managing a successful business but

also that of operating in the male dominated

world of boat racing Physical and mental

strength to one side, real passion and an

impulsive streak are her keys to success.

In her own words, Shelley sees her life as

“a contrast between the dark, greasy world of men and

racing and the gloriously white and feminine world of bridal

wear”. What decided Shelley on marriage after years in the

wedding industry?

“It’s quite simple. For

the 15 years that I’ve

been racing against

men, my husband

was the only one to

make me stop and way

anchor.” she said.

When looking for an icon to capture the contrasts of Southampton, look no further than Shelley Jory-Leigh.

For more information

on Shelley’s up and coming

adventures, visit

www.shelleyjory.com

or listen out for Shelley on her

BBC Radio Solent programme,

H2O.

Southampton Guest Guide: Icon

The Oxford Street Arts and

Design-led Craft Market is held on

the 4th Sunday of every month,

between 11am and 5pm, featuring

true artisan qualities, including

fine art, vintage jewellery and

sculpture. A tour of the local area,

a visit to the market and a pleasant

lunch would be a great way to

spend your day in Southampton.

Southampton Guest Guide: Fork and Cork

Undoubtedly at the heart

of Southampton’s

maritime history, Oxford

Street has played host

to a thousand years

of international trade

and war. Both have left their mark in

the form of historic architecture and a

wonderfully cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Oxford Street is home to a wide

range of unique artisan businesses.

In the footsteps of..Following Henry II pilgrimage to

Canterbury in 1174, Southampton had

an influx of French arriving wanting to

walk to follow in his footsteps.

A very wealthy Norman by the name

of Gervase Ia Riche felt sorry for

his fellow country man so much so

that he purchased the bottom end

of the city which included Oxford

Street. He had almshouses built and

a hospice called Maison Dieu (House

of God, Gods House Tower). The

lawns laid to the old bowling green

(Britains oldest bowling green) and St.

Julian’s Church was built and named

after the patron saint of pilgrims.

He left it to Richard the Lion Heart,

who left it to his brother King John.

In 1343 Edward III gave it all to his

wife Queen Phillipa to start her new

school Queens College Oxford. Which

is why we have Oxford Street, College

Street, John Street and Queens

Park. The bulk of that estate is still

owned by Queens College Oxford.

61 Oxford Street was the home of

Lucia Foster Welch (died March 1940)

who was Southampton’s first Lady

Mayor, councillor alderman and first

sheriff. Southampton is the only town in

England where the Mayor has the title

of Admiral of The Port. So Lucia Foster

Welch was England’s first Lady Admiral.

On visiting Oxford Street today, you

are greeted by a charming spectacle,

with a true cafe culture bringing the

shop fronts to life. For those seeking

history with their cream tea, step no

further than the White Star Tavern,

named after the famous White Star

shipping company. The White Star

holds two coveted AA Rosettes

and even boasts a roof garden.

Bistro dining is a key theme in Oxford

Street, with a fabulous array of

specialities including, but not limited

to, vegetarian and freshly baked

breads at The Olivetree Mediterranean

Restaurant, which is ideal for a romantic

dinner for two. Oxfords Bar and

Restaurant offers an extensive wine

list and regularly alters the daily menu

to make the most of freshly sourced

produce, especially fish and meat.

For entertainment, the London Hotel

offers a great cabaret experience. A

cosmopolitan atmosphere is on offer at

this predominantly gay pub, along with

great real ales and the quintessential

Sunday roast. The Poppadom

Express, located further down Oxford

Street, offers a vibrant, modern take

on Indian cuisine. An extensive,

scintillating menu has something for

every curry lover and the daily buffet

offers incredible value for money.

Located a short walk from Oxford Street

is the Grand Café. Originally used by

passengers of the Titanic, this Grade II

listed building was once Southampton’s

grandest hotel. Now, the Wedgewood

Ballroom is a unique bar, bistro and

restaurant, offering a truly remarkable

setting for your dining experience.

For those in the know, Oxford Street

is also home to the best Medi-Spa in

Hampshire, namely Dr Xavier’s Medi-

Spa Clinic. Visitors with limited time

in the city can still benefit from wide

range of professional cosmetic medical

and injectable treatments for lines,

wrinkles, skin health and appearance.

What better way to begin your holiday

or to return home to your friends than

looking and feeling truly refreshed?

Page 14: The Southampton Guest Guide

26 27

Currency mattersSouthampton city centre boasts a large number of currency exchange services, all

operating to a highly professional standard. Whatever your financial requirement, be

it money transfers, international and British currency or travellers cheques, all your

needs can be met in the city. Operators include the following establishments:-

Ocean Cruise Terminal

Berth 46/47

Dockgate 4

Eastern Docks

SO14 3 QN

023 8033 0730

Post Office @ Rymans

57 London Road

SO15 2WW

023 8071 0123

Mon-Sat 9-5pm, Closed Sundays

The Post Office buys and sells currency

and travellers cheques, all of which are

commission free. Travel Money Card

(EURO, US$) and Moneygram allows

you to receive or transfer money abroad

in only 15 minutes.

Bath Travel

91 Above Bar Street

SO14 2AR

023 8063 2403

Bath Travel aim to offer the best rates

in town, but more importantly a quick

service without having to queue plus a

0% commission charge to our clients.

The money Shop

25 Hanover Buildings

SO14 1JU

0843 309 3971

The Money Shop is the UK’s fastest

growing foreign exchange provider.

We offer great rates guaranteed

with 0% commission on all foreign

exchange. Worldwide money transfers

are also available.

Thomas Cook

WestQuay Shopping Centre

SO15 1QD

0845 308 9560 Open Mon-Fri 9-8pm

(Wed 10am), Sat 9-7pm, Sun 11-5pm

The Bureaux de Change offers a

full range of products and services,

inc. currency and traveller’s cheque

exchange (commission free) and

worldwide money transfers. Sterling

Travellers Cheques: 2% Commission

(minimum £3).

For further currency options visit

www.cruisesouthampton.com

Southampton Guest Guide: Cruise Capital

As the largest destination in northern Europe for the cruise industry, Southampton is used to providing all the travel services and expertise that guests require, both prior to boarding and on return.

An online map and a detailed information guide for cruise passengers is available

by visiting www.cruisesouthampton.com Concierge services, onward travel

options and chauffeur services are all detailed for your convenience.

For those wishing to view these stunning vessels or looking to book a future cruise,

a complete list of cruise calls is also available on the Cruise Southampton website.

Mayflower Park allows you to get up close to the liners with special events taking

place throughout the year to celebrate the naming and arrival of new ships.

If you wish to join the ships on the water, you can pick up the Hythe Ferry to

the waterside village of Hythe via the famous Victorian pier and the world’s

oldest pier train. Blue Funnel Cruises offer a variety of day cruises from

Ocean Village including Harbour Tours, River Cruises and Solent Cruises.

Celebrating175 years of heritageP&O Cruises have been perfecting the art of sea travel for many decades and are delighted that today, more British passengers choose to travel with us than any other cruise line. Our genuine love of sea travel, maritime knowledge and signature standards of service, fine dining, accommodation and entertainment have earned us the title of Britain’s favourite cruise line for four years running.

JOIN US FOR A GRAND EVENTFor the first time ever the seven ships of the P&O Cruises fleet will be together in Southampton on 3rd July 2012 in celebration of a very special milestone – the 175th anniversary of the formation of the Peninsular Steam Navigation Company.

Find out more at www.pocruises.co.uk/175

TRAC

ING

OUR ROOTS BACK TO

1837

175175thTH

ANNIVERSARYGRAND EVENT

Page 15: The Southampton Guest Guide

28 29

Southampton is home to Olympians

Peter Waterfield, Max Brick and Rob

Tobin and has produced outstanding

athletes over the years.

Active Nation welcomes you and thousands

of people to its seven leisure centres

every day, and reinvests every penny it makes into the

centres offering residents and visitors to Southampton

the best sporting facilities in the South East.

Whether you are signing up for a commitment to get fit,

tone-up, lose weight or just looking for

some fun with your family or relaxation

with friends, Southampton has it all!

Get Active in Southampton!Active Nation offers a wide range of

activities for people of all ages, abilities

and levels. Paddle or sail all day long on

the river Solent or enrol for diving lessons

- there is something for everyone.

The Quays Swimming & Diving Complex

offers world class diving facilities,

a state-of-the-art gym and two amazing fitness studios

as well as a leisure pool with whirlpool and jets and a 25

meter swimming pool for the real swimming enthusiast.

Chamberlayne Leisure Centre provides a wide range

of sports including indoor football, trampolining,

badminton, table tennis, fitness classes and many

children’s activities. The venue has an Inclusive

Fitness Initiative (IFI) accredited and modern fitness

suite catering for the needs of disabled people.

Bitterne leisure Centre holds a leisure pool and a

25 meter pool, a top-of-the range fitness suite and offers

fitness classes, racket sports, martial arts, gymnastics

and children’s activities, to name but a few!

Set in a stunning 150 acre site on the outskirts of the city,

The Outdoor Sports Centre offers fabulous athletics facilities

with a newly refurbished eight lane international standard

athletic track hosting regional and national track and field

events. The centre also hosts 12 floodlit tennis courts, 5

cricket pitches, 2 synthetic and 5 grass football pitches

and a bowling green. Many other activities

are available including a new cyclo-cross

track, outdoor fitness facilities, hockey,

netball and crazy golf. This unique venue

is the perfect place for serious sports

fanatics or recreational athletes alike.

For water babies, the Southampton Water

Activities Centre (SWAC) is located in the

heart of Southampton’s historic waterfront

area offering thrilling water sports and

outdoor activities for all the adrenalin-

junkies out there. This is the perfect place

for sailing and power boating or to get a professional

qualification in First Aid, Sea Survival and Navigation.

Woodmill Outdoor Activities Centre is a multi-activity centre

in the heart of Southampton. It has one of the largest

kayaking and canoeing fleets in the South of England

and offers a wide range of exciting land based activities

including high rope, climbing, archery and much more!

Southampton Snow Sports Centre, the only one of its kind in

the South East, is located at The Outdoor Sports Centre, and

provides an incredible ski slope to improve your snowboarding

or skiing skills. The venue offers facilities for Ringo parties

and holds a number of events throughout the year.

Active Nation also manages a number of parks and

open spaces with football, rugby and pétanque

pitches, bowling greens and street sports facilities.

On the road to London 2012 In 2012 several local talented athletes, who are training

in Active Nation’s sporting facilities, will compete at

the London Olympics. Many of them have the potential

to come back with a medal around their necks!

The Quays Swimming and Diving Complex have an enviable

track record for developing world class divers. Currently

home to many senior Team GB members, including Peter

Waterfield, Max Brick, Chris Mears and Stacie Powell, who will

all be going for gold at individual and synchronised events.

All eyes will also be on two very young and upcoming athletes

training at The Outdoor Sport Centre: Freya Jones in Javelin

and Millie Clifford in the 400 and 800 meter hurdle events.

The London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay is a defining moment

for each Olympic Games. It will involve 8,000 inspiring

people carrying the Olympic Flame – one of the enduring

symbols of the Olympic Games – around the UK for 70

days. The aim is to spread the Olympic spirit as well as the

message of peace and friendship, and to start the Olympic

celebrations both here in the UK and around the world.

The Olympic Flame will arrive in the UK from Greece on

Friday 18 May 2012 and will pass through Southampton

on Saturday 14th July 2012 as it travels from Bournemouth

to Guernsey and back to neighbouring city, Portsmouth

as part of the rely before entering the Olympic Stadium

to light the cauldron in the Opening Ceremony and

formally start the London 2012 Olympic Games.

Southampton Guest Guide: City of Sport

For further information

on facilities, timetables

and events, please visit

www.activenation.org.uk

and click on the

‘Your Venue’ section.

Southampton enjoys a great relationship with sport and with the 2012 Olympic Games approaching fast, the light will be shining on the city!

Southampton encourages a more active and healthy lifestyle

Page 16: The Southampton Guest Guide

30 31

Itineraries

The Romantic GetawaySurprisingly, Southampton has all

the perfect ingredients for a fantastic

romantic weekend. Many hotels,

including the newly refurbished Dolphin

Hotel and White Star Hotel, boast

beautiful, character features including

log fires, luxurious furnishings and

grand settings. As the greenest city

on the South Coast, Southampton

has 12 lush green parks and a number

of city trails to explore. Stop for a

coffee and cake at one of the many

cafes enroute, including the wonderful

Caffexpresso on Nelson Gate.

You may be looking for a memento of

your time together and what better than

a piece of vintage jewellery, furniture or

clothing? Vintage fans rate Hepwright’s

Vintage Boutique at 34 Bedford Place

extremely highly. For those looking for a

funkier twist on their clothing collection,

the Beatnik Emporium at 202 Above

Bar Street is truly special. Evenings in

Southampton offer something for every

taste. You may wish to stroll through the

Old Town and stop for a drink and dinner

at one of the public houses in England,

The Duke of Wellington. For those who

crave romance on a grand scale, The

Grand Cafe is your dinner destination.

The magnificent Wedgewood ballroom,

frequented by first class passengers for

the Titanic, is now home to a superb

bar, bistro and restaurant. Original

features and the sheer spectacular

scale of your surroundings will

guarantee you the ‘wow!’ factor.

The Family Break Families of all ages will find a huge

amount to do in Southampton.

Whatever your children’s ages, all will

be captivated by the newly restored

Tudor House and Garden. A walk around

the Old Town and along the Old Town

Trail will bring your family into touch

with Southampton’s historical secrets,

dating back to medieval times.

For those who like a hands on

approach to art, the John Hansard

Gallery is ideal. Modern, touring

collections alongside tactile exhibits

ensure that children of all ages engage

with the themes around them.

Retail therapy is also a great

opportunity for parents to part with

their money! Southampton boasts

3 great shopping centres, namely

Bargate, The Marlands and WestQuay,

the largest shopping arena along the

south coast. Lunch options include

Yo! Sushi, Nando’s and Pizza Hut.

Families seeking sporting activities

will be delighted with the facilities at

Woodmill Centre, where you can try

your hand at a number of water sports,

including kayaking. For younger children

and keen swimmers, The Quays is a

great mix of family fun pools and Olympic

standard diving facilities. Located

near to WestQuay Shopping Centre,

this centre will provide hours of fun.

Dinner options for those with children

are extensive but for traditional family

food in contemporary surroundings,

head for Italian restaurant, Buon

Gusto on Commercial Road. Located

opposite The Mayflower Theatre,

why not head there for a pre-theatre

show, before taking the family to see

a West End production, including

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Grease.

The Business Stopover When your working day is done,

you’ll want to make the most of your

time in Southampton. WestQuay

Shopping Centre is open late Monday

to Saturday, giving you access to

fabulous stores including John Lewis.

When you are ready to head out for

the evening, Oxford Street provides

a fabulous range of chic bars and

restaurants. Oxfords Bar and Restaurant

offers you a great wine selection, along

with fresh fish and local produce. If

you are looking for a venue to entertain

business guests, Kuti’s Royal Thai

Pier at Town Quay and The Grand

Café are both magnificent options.

If you have extra time on your

hands, why not take a stroll along

one of the city’s walks, including

the Jane Austen Trail. Alternatively,

take a short taxi ride to the Nuffield

Theatre and enjoy contemporary

theatre productions at their best.

The Cruise Stop offYou’ve arrived in Southampton and

your holiday starts here! The city has

so much to offer cruising enthusiasts,

including the wonderful maritime history

which makes it so famous. The Sea

City Museum opens in the Summer of

2012 but in the meantime, why not take

a walk along the QE2 Mile, discovering

the extent of Southampton’s

connections to the sea, including the

QE2’s anchor, donated by Cunard

and located by Holyrood Church,

which is dedicated to lost seafarers.

Carrying on the maritime theme, stop

off at the White Star Hotel and soak

up the ambiance of the White Star

Lines, famous for launching the Titanic.

Boutique shopping is a wonderful way

of creating your cruise wardrobe, with

unique pieces available from Devernois

at 47 Bedford Place. Scarpini at 48

Bedford Place is home to the finest

footwear, including boots, evening and

day footwear. Hair and beauty is vital

and a visit to the Vintage Hair Lounge

at 118 High Street will leave your

locks and nails in tip top condition.

If you are looking for the best in top

brands and an exclusive shopping

service, which is second to none,

then John Lewis at WestQuay will

delight you. Cosmetics from decleor,

the Clarins day spa and the unique

shopping environment will leave

you feeling truly pampered.

Dining opportunities in Southampton

are extensive but prior to the grand

dining onboard ship you may prefer

a quieter, more intimate meal at La

Esquina Spanish tapas restaurant

or The Olivetree Restaurant, both

located in Oxford Street.

For more ideas and suggestions for

days out in Southampton, ask your

establishment for The Southampton

Pocket Guide; a comprehensive visitor

publication detailing attractions,

accommodation venues, places to

eat and drink including discount

vouchers for some of the most popular

eateries and a useful city map.

Southampton Guest Guide: Itineraries

Time waits for no man, or woman come to that. With your free moments being so precious, The Southampton Guest Guide has produced some suggested itineraries for your visit to Southampton.

Page 17: The Southampton Guest Guide

32 33

The beautiful county of Hampshire is

synonymous with writers such as

Jane Austen, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

and Charles Dickens, Hampshire

is the inspiration and setting for

many timeless classics.

The New Forest is a must for many visitors

to the region, enjoying unparalleled natural beauty and an

abundance of flora and fauna. Truffle hunting, pony trekking

and a visit to Buckler’s Hard, where Admiral Lord Nelson’s

fleet was created, should all take prime place on your to do

list. Beaulieu is home to the National Motor Museum where

you can see over 250 vehicles, before exploring Palace

House, home of the Montagu family,

and the remains of Beaulieu Abbey.

Winchester is a spectacular cathedral

city, where over 15 centuries of

Christian faith is captured in glorious

architecture, both throughout the city

and within the Cathedral itself. Priceless

treasures include the beautiful 19th

century organ and the finest medieval

wall paintings in England. Families and

astronomers would enjoy the delights

of the Intech Science Centre and

Planetarium, located just outside of Winchester. Marwell

Wildlife Park is also nearby, where conservation and an

astounding range of wildlife may be seen at its best.

Those seeking an insight in to the past of Hampshire may

wish to venture out on the unique Watercress Railway Line,

taking a choice of either steam or a loco through the county’s

famous watercress beds and alighting at a number of

character stations along route. Take a trip back to Victorian

times with a visit to Milestone’s Museum in Basingstoke.

At Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway, locomotives are

combined with beautifully arranged gardens. The Sir Harold

Hillier Gardens in Romsey is a 180 acre garden paradise

and boasts one of the largest Winter Gardens of its kind in

Europe. The Gardens are also open all year round.

Southampton’s neighbouring city of Portsmouth, offers an

insight into the south’s links with maritime history. Experience

the oceans at the Blue Reef Aquarium or glide to the top of

the Spinnaker Tower to see stunning views across the Solent.

Cross the water to Gosport and go on aboard HMS Alliance,

a WW2 submarine at the Royal Navy Submarine Museum

or discover the fascinating history of Royal Marines

at the Royal Marines Museum in Southsea.

Visit Staunton Country Park near Havant and enjoy

1000 acres of beautiful country park.

For families with younger children, a visit to Paultons Family

Theme Park at Ower on the edge of The

New Forest National Park is a must.

Paultons is home to over 60 family rides

and attractions including the world’s only

Peppa Pig World theme park as well as a

collection of exotic birds and animals.

Older families and those with a head for

heights will be delighted by the new

Go Ape site at Itchen Valley Country

Park, near Southampton. Exploring the

dizzy heights of the tree tops is most

certainly not for the faint hearted.

Explore the Isle of Wight from Southampton with Red Funnel

Ferries for great days out.

Whether you choose

to take a short break

or opt for a longer

stay, you’ll find many

adventures awaiting you.

On April 8th 1952 the Montagu family

home, Palace House, opened to visitors

for the first time and Lord Montagu

promised his house guests champagne

with dinner if there were more than

100 visitors by 6pm. The 100th visitor

had arrived by 12.30pm, so they had

champagne with lunch! Beaulieu

soon became and still is one of the

country’s leading tourist attractions.

Beaulieu’s immediate success was

attributed to Lord Montagu exhibiting

a number of historic cars in the Front

Hall of Palace House in a tribute to

his father, one of the great pioneers

of British motoring. This was the

springboard for a collection of vehicles

that have become world famous.

Originally displayed in the ‘Montagu

Motor Museum’, in 1972 the collection

was moved to its current home and

renamed the National Motor Museum. It

is now administered by a charitable trust

dedicated to preserving the collection

for the nation and safeguarding its

libraries, which are recognised as

being among the best in the world.

The birthplace of the ‘Autojumble’,

first held in 1967, Beaulieu now

holds a full calendar of wide-ranging

motoring events (April to October)

and is a popular venue for weddings,

music concerts and corporate events.

Despite increasing competition from

other attractions, and a wider choice

of leisure pastimes, Beaulieu continues

to rise to the challenge, offering a

wide variety of tailored activities

throughout the year and a number of

exciting exhibitions which currently

include the Secret Army Exhibition,

Surrey Sculpture Trail, the James

Bond Experience, World of Top Gear

and the Flying Lady Exhibition.

In celebration of Beaulieu’s diamond

anniversary, a major new exhibition

will be unveiled in the National Motor

Museum in January 2012, when

the museum will be celebrating

its own 40th anniversary.

Reached by ferry in just over 20 minutes

the Island boasts a fantastic range of

attractions as well as stunning unspoilt

scenery and fantastic blue flag beaches.

Red Funnel, the Isle of Wight specialist

runs both Foot Passenger and Vehicle

Ferry services from Southampton to

East and West Cowes on the Isle of

Wight. Easy to explore on foot, both

East and West

Cowes are wonderful

destinations, offering

visitors plenty to

do whatever the

weather.

Osborne House,

the former home

of Queen Victoria

and Prince Albert

is surrounded by

magnificent landscaped gardens and is

only a short walk from the Red Funnel

ferry terminals at East Cowes. Offering

a fascinating insight into the life of the

Royal family, the stately home is fitted

with the original opulent furnishings and

priceless artworks. The superb grounds

of the house are a joy to explore and

award fantastic views across the Solent.

West Cowes is famed as the birthplace

of yacht racing and is home to fabulous

boutique shops. Visitors can enjoy the

sights of yachts bobbing

in the marina, eat fresh fish

at nearby restaurants and

enjoy browsing designer

and independent shops

selling everything from

local produce to vintage

clothing and homeware.

The Isle of Wight is the

sunniest place in Britain

and if you’re lucky enough

to travel on a warm day the beaches

at Cowes are ideal for swimming and

relaxing with fantastic views of yachts

and cruise ships travelling across the

Solent.

If you fancy exploring beyond Cowes,

the Island offers plenty of family

attractions including castles, wildlife

sanctuaries and theme parks whilst

there are activities galore for adventure

seekers of all ages. For lunch or dinner,

there are also no shortage of award

winning restaurants and eateries serving

delicious local produce as well as cosy

rural pubs, stocking the finest Island ales.

www.ham

pshiretopattractions.co.uk

Time motors onas celebrates turning 60

60Southampton Guest Guide: Out and About

Red Funnel offer Isle of Wight

ferry travel, accommodation,

event and attraction tickets

and much more.

Visit www.redfunnel.co.uk

or call 0844 844 9988.

For more information and

details of events visit

www.beaulieu.co.uk

or contact 01590 612345

The isle of Wight makes a great day out if you’re staying in Southampton.

To find out further

information on these

and numerous other

attractions, please visit

www.hampshireattractions.

co.uk

Page 18: The Southampton Guest Guide

34

Visit www.thesouthamptonguide.com for a more up to date list of what’s on in and around Southampton.

From coast to countryside, whether your

passion is heritage, culture, shopping

or a fun-filled family day out, the world

renowned Hamble

Valley has it all.

Located to the east

of Southampton, this

area of outstanding

natural beauty is quite

literally at your feet.

Set alongside the

stunning River Hamble,

the Valley boasts

a variety of unique

family attractions, quaint villages and

over 1500 acres of unspoilt countryside.

Hamble River events take place

throughout the year, attracting world

class yachtsmen and racing enthusiasts.

Competition within the sailing world

is strong and many sailors come to

showcase their skills. Events include

Hamble Week, the Hamble Winter &

Spring Series, the Bursledon Regatta

and national World

Series competitions.

The essence of a sailing

lifestyle is captured

through

the marinas, chandleries,

restaurants and

boutiques, located

along the shoreline.

Indeed, numerous

opportunities present

themselves to way anchor and

investigate the local vintage ales.

Whether you are on a romantic short

break or visiting for the week with

a young family, you’ll wish you had

discovered the Hamble Valley sooner.

Southampton Guest Guide: Out and About

For further information on

glorious days out on the

River Hamble or your personal

journey through the

Hamble Valley, visit

www.hamblevalley.com

eventsDATe JuLY 2011

1-31 Hampshire Food Festival hampshirefare.co.uk

16 mela Festival artasia.org.uk

DATe AuGuST 2011

various Hampshire Open Studios southampton.gov.uk/events

6-13 Cowes week cowesweek.co.uk

DATe SePTemBeR 2011

16-25 PSP Southampton Boat Show southamptonboatshow.com

DATe OCTOBeR 2011

tbc Southampton Film Week southamptonfilmweek.com

various Black History month southampton.gov.uk/events

tbc music in the City musicinthecitysouthampton.org

DATe DeCemBeR 2011

various Christmas in Southampton southampton.gov.uk/events

DATe JANuARY 2012

28-29 Chinese New Year Celebrations

DATe FeBRuARY 2012

various 200 Years of Charles Dickens

DATe APRIL 2012

tbc Opening of the Sea City museum

various 60 Years of Beaulieu motor museum

10-15 The Titanic Centenary

DATe JuNe 2012

2-5 The Queens Diamond Jubilee

DATe JuLY 2012

various 175 Years of P&O

27-12 Aug

The Olympic Games

DATe AuGuST 2012

29-9 Sept

The Paralympic Games

DATe SePTemBeR 2012

14-23 PSP Southampton Boat Show

15-16 Southampton International Food Festival

Destination Southampton is Southampton’s official conference and accommodation bureau offering assistance with events, conferences and short breaks. Visit www.destinationsouthampton.com for more information on hotels, events and venues.

in 2012 Southampton is hosting a number of significant events, celebrations and remembrance.

2011 major attractions to look forward to.

National Motor MuseumPalace House & GardensBeaulieu Abbey James Bond ExhibitionWorld of Top Gear

NEW EXHIBITIO N FOR 2011

Beaulieu, New Forest, Hampshire SO42 7ZN Exit 2 M27 Tel 01590 612345 www.beaulieu.co.uk Open daily 10am

ENJOY A GREAT DAY OUT

Page 19: The Southampton Guest Guide

The Isle of Wight -It’s closer than you think.

Accommodation. Event tickets.

Attraction tickets.Ferry travel.

Enjoy the beautiful Isle of Wight in just 25 minutes from Southampton.

The Isle of Wight is the perfect location for a day trip - packed with countless attractions and miles of beautiful countryside and stunning coastline. Explore spectacular royal residences and fairytale castles, see exotic creatures at the Island’s wildlife parks, enjoy more than 500 miles of footpaths and sample delicious, freshly cooked local produce.

The Island has it all – and you could be there in 25 minutes on a Red Jet or under an hour with Red Funnel's Vehicle Ferries from Southampton.

Visit www.redfunnel.co.uk Call 0844 844 9988

FootPassengerfares from only

return.*

£7.80

*Terms and conditions apply.