Getting to Southampton

Southampton is an accessible city with its own international airport which provides the most convenient gateway for most visitors choosing to holiday here or in other Hampshire cities. Alternatives include a busy ferry port for those travelling from the Isle of Wight, or road options for those wishing to travel either by coach or private/rental vehicle. Finally, the city is well-connected to the countrys extensive rail network via Southampton Central Station.

By car

Travelling to Southampton by car from the north of England or from London is straightforward; take the M3 and then the M27. Visitors travelling from the west, Bristol and Wales should take the A36. Coming from the east, take the A27/M27 and exit at Junction 8.

By rail

Southampton is served by Southampton Central Railway Station, a mainline station connected to the Wessex Line; South Western Main Line and the West Coastway Line. The UKs extensive railway network makes it feasible to get to Southampton from most significant destinations, with speedy services to and from London and other cities. Those travelling from Europe by Eurostar can reach Southampton easily on a connecting service from London.

By bus

National Express offer coaches from most UK cities with regular daily services. For more information visit their website at: www.nationalexpress.com/home/hp.cfm. Regional bus companies offer services between Southampton and neighbouring cities such as Bournemouth and Portsmouth.

By air

Southampton airport serves the city of Southampton and a variety of other Hampshire cities, with connections to most major UK cities as well as European destinations including Brussels, Hanover, Amsterdam, Paris, Dusseldorf and Alicante. The airport is just seven kilometres from the city and can be reached in less than 15 minutes by road.

By ferry

Southamptons ferry port serves daily sailings from East Cowes on the Isle of Wight. The Red Funnel Ferry Company offers crossings on a conventional passenger ferry that take just 55 minutes and on high-speed ferries that take only 22 minutes. For more details, visit their website at: www.redfunnel.co.uk/.

Southampton International Airport

Southampton International Airport is a one terminal airport situated in Hampshire County in the south of England. The airport is the chief gateway to the region, providing easy access to popular holiday towns such as Bournemouth, Portsmouth and Winchester.

Southampton airports only terminal offers a varied selection of passenger facilities including financial amenities such as ATMs and a bureau de change. Wi-fi access is available across the terminal for those with notebook computers. A small selection of outlets is available for drinks, dining and takeaway food including the Delice de France pastry shop, a licensed bar and a branch of Starbucks.

Duty-free shopping can be found beyond passport control, while on the landside of the terminal, theres a branch of WH Smiths selling its usual selection of newpapers, books, magazines, confectionery and refreshments

Southampton airport transportation

A train station situated less than 100 metres from the terminal provides convenient and speedy connections with the city and beyond. A public bus service (number 101) operates from outside of the terminal to the city centre; buses run daily with decreased frequency on Sundays. Passengers requiring taxis will find the office of Airportcarz located outside the terminal. Cabs can be booked on arrival or ahead by calling: +44 870 224 5000.