Glamping near Southampton with showers

Southampton is all about the water and always has been. It should come as no surprise then to know that most of its sights and attractions have a watery appeal. If visiting Southampton on a camping holiday, you might like to head for the Seacity Museum, which tells the maritime history of the town, from where the Titanic launched on her ill-fated voyage. You may also want to take a cruise on the Solent or catch a ferry to the Isle of Wight. Although the docks are now a thoroughly modern affair, Southampton old town still offers reminders of times gone by, including the Tudor House and Gardens, which reveals 800 years of history.

Away from the sea, Southampton’s other appeal is its location in the middle of the Hampshire coastline. It’s easily reached from London and just a 30-minute drive from the historic city of Winchester, which is a nice place to visit on a camping holiday. It’s also a gateway to the New Forest National Park, where walking, cycling, and horse-riding opportunities abound. Within the boundaries of the national park, Beaulieu’s country house, gardens, and National Motor Museum are additional popular places to visit.

For families with kids who love theme park rides, Paultons Park which includes Peppa Pig World, is hard to beat. For more information and ideas of things to do on a camping or glamping holiday in Southampton, head to Lyndhurst’s New Forest National Park visitor centre.

Ferries set sail from Southampton to the Isle of Wight, where rugged sea cliffs and golden sands provide a spectacular backdrop for campers. Hike along the Isle of Wight Coastal Path, marvel at the multi-colored cliffs of Alum Bay, and ride the chairlift over the white chalk rocks of The Needles. Or perhaps time your visit for annual events like the Isle of Wight Festival or Cowes Week yachting festival.

North of Southampton, the cathedral city of Winchester sits on the western edge of the South Downs AONB, where you can hike, bike, or horseback ride along more than 2,000 miles of trails. Explore the chalk hills and ancient yew forests, trek along part of the South Downs Way, or head down to the coast to admire the white chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters. Whether backcountry camping or sleeping in a luxury yurt, plan for a late night—stargazing in this International Dark Sky Reserve is an unmissable experience.