This gallery is one of the finest in the south of England and is a European Award Winner. Its collection spans six centuries from Old Masters to Modern British. The Main Hall celebrates 20th-century British art, with changing displays in the side galleries. Each year a fantastic variety of temporary exhibitions are hosted, ranging from Michelangelo and Da Vinci to contemporary artwork. You can take a lovely cool float through interlocking halls, refresh yourself at Fountains Cafe and then browse through the gift shop for cards and prints.

This quaint Tudor-style museum contains a minstrel's gallery, creaky floorboards, old kitchens and one of Henry VIII's cannons, among thousands of other artifacts. It also allegedly contains the ghost of Anne Boleyn, who stayed here with Henry when the house was owned by Sir Richard Lyster, Lord Chief Justice of England. There is a replica Tudor-style garden at the back featuring a mulberry tree planted by Huguenots in 1570 that drips with fruit in the summer. On sunny days the garden is full of scented herbs and flowers, making it perfect for some quiet contemplation.

This memorial opposite Mayflower Park commemorates the departure of the Pilgrim Fathers in the Mayflower and the Speedwell from Southampton in August 1620. It was unveiled in 1913 and features a copper replica of the Mayflower plus plaques commemorating both the pilgrims and the two million US troops who left Southampton during World War II more than 300 years later. If you can officially trace your ancestry back to the pilgrims, you can have a plaque added to the memorial.

Solent Sky - Hall of Aviation is a must-see for aviation buffs and a great tribute to one of Southampton's heroes, R J Mitchell, the designer of the legendary Spitfire, which was built in Southampton. Exhibits at the museum include a real Sandringham flying boat, a Spitfire and 13 other aircraft, plus masses of photos, models and engines. After taking in the exhibitions, why not stroll across to Ocean Village for a look at the yachts.

As the name alludes Ocean Village is a waterfront development and one of the UK's biggest marinas. You never know who you might bump into in one of its seafront restaurants or cafes, especially during mega-events like the International Boat Show in September. The real attraction is sitting on the waterfront, looking at a forest of masts with a glass in your hand and recognizing famous yachts and faces.

Situated on the site of the old zoo, this is a small center for the study of ecology and local wildlife. Inside are a range of exploratory activities, such as worksheets to fill out, puzzles to do and things to marvel at through microscopes. There is also a display of native animals and a tiny gift shop to soak up any spare pocket money. Outside there are a series of nature reserves. You have to stick to the paths so that the wildlife is not disturbed.

Known as the lungs of the city, Southampton Common is a site of special scientific interest. It is home to the great crested newt and species of orchid and also houses the Hawthorns Urban Wildlife Centre. Here you can learn more about the abundant wildlife in this area. The whole family will enjoy a trip to the Common, with children's play areas and a fun pool, as well as beautiful countryside with lakes, woods and heathland. Approximately 325 acres in area, it is connected to the city center by The Avenue.

Ensconced within the New Forest National Park, the Longdown Activity Farm is a fascinating family-friendly destination. This sprawling farmyard is home to a host of gregarious animals, which include alpacas, Pygmy goats, Kunekune pigs, cattle, adorable chicks and many more. Complementing your heartwarming interactions with these animals are the hands-on activities offered here, which include the likes of bottle-feeding kid goats, duck feeding and a host of other exciting Animal Encounter Experiences. Additionally, the farmland comprises a picnic area, a large playground, a modest museum and a gift shop.

Among the few noted villages that lie along the National Park in the County of Hampshire is Beaulieu. One can visit the hamlet of Buckler's Yard and see the Georgian cottages while visiting the village. Another significant place of interest is a small maritime museum and a modern yachting marina. The British National Motor Museum which has many historic motor vehicles is also worth a tour. Also part of Beaulieu are the historic Beaulieu Abbey and Beaulieu Palace House. Tourists who head to the New Forest also stop here and see some of the local birds which are a specialty.

This small 18th-century village is one of the most attractive and unusual villages in England. Set on the banks of the Beaulieu River in the New Forest, Buckler's Hard was the scene for parts of A Man for All Seasons. You can visit a maritime museum, take a river cruise, go on a woodland walk or just take in the natural beauty of this historic village. A trip to Beaulieu, under two miles away, is also recommended.

Marwell is one of Britain's leading zoological parks. Founded in 1972, the zoo is home to over hundreds of rare and endangered species. It specializes in hoofed animals, but also features a wide variety of creatures ranging from giraffe to spiders. Such is the expanse of the zoo that one can find trains carrying visitors around the enclosures. Followed by the exhilarating meets and greets with the animals if you find yourself feeling peckish, do head to the on-site restaurant or the slew of picnic sites. The gift shop here is an inviting space too, offering a host of intriguing and informative resources.

Tucked away in Southern England, New Forest National Park is an inviting destination for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Home to a bevy of hiking trails, activity centers and cozy accommodations, the park packs in a bouquet of recreational opportunities. Whether you are looking to indulge in water sports, cycling, horse riding, sailing, rambling or carriage riding, this dreamy getaway has got you covered. Additionally, one can spot a host of wildlife and native birds prancing and gliding around the dense forestland. One can also find a number of world-class restaurants here, offering plentiful, delectable cuisines.