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 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.
Jane Austen's House Museum is a must-see for literary buffs. Jane Austen moved here from Southampton in 1809 and began writing again, revising Sense and Sensibility, Pride and Prejudice and Mansfield Park. You can see where Jane wrote, sewed, made wine and enjoyed gardening. Her music book, a dress she wore, a quilt she stitched and the work table where she wrote her books are all on display. You can also see her donkey carriage - the door still creaks out a warning, as it did when Jane hastily hid her writing from visitors.
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.
The National Motor Museum at Beaulieu has a collection of old and unique vehicles unlike any other museum in the world. Whether you are visiting the museum for entertainment or for education, it is an interesting and fun experience either way! The National Motor Museum holds about 250 vehicles, from antique cars to speedy record breakers. To see everything in between, pay this spot a visit.
Portsmouth Cathedral is an Anglican cathedral church located in Portsmouth. This beautiful white stoned church has experienced the brutality of history on itself, it was destroyed several times in the past and rebuilt. So if you are in the city do not miss out on visiting this church.
St Joseph's is the oldest church in Southampton, dating from the 1800s. It is a good place to discover the maritime history of the city as the parish it used to serve consisted mainly of sailors, dock workers and other seafaring trades. The church buildings once housed the Stella Maris club, a spiritual, social and welfare organization for mariners and their families. It was a well known drinking club and drop-in point for sailors from all over the world. The church itself has some interesting features, such as the altar and the Gothic vaulted ceiling. It also houses the Titanic Restaurant Memorial (The).
If you are visiting Southampton on business or for a holiday, Destination Southampton provide a free and informative service. They can find and book accommodation for you, obtain conference and meeting venues and help you with transport, theater tickets, sightseeing and restaurant reservations. Their advice is completely impartial and they will try to answer any email inquiries within four hours. Call +44 845 226 9944 or fax +44 845 226 5484 for more.
Comfortably nestled in the famous Matterley Estate farm, The Matterley Bowl is a wonderful amphitheater, where a number of concerts and other outdoor events take place. Away from the hustle and bustle of the urban area, this spot is quite an entertaining one with music and dance being the flavor of every show. Do check the website for more information.
St. Stephen's Church is one of the old churches in Bournemouth. Completed in 1898, the church is magnanimous to look at and is certainly striking. Intricately designed, the edifice stands tall dwarfing the surrounding structures and can be seen from a distance. The altar, and marble pulpit are the first things you notice when you enter the church. The marble pulpit is strikingly beautiful and three scenes from the New Testament are beautifully carved. The statue of St. Stephen is sure to capture your attention. Besides the stone architecture, the wooden Choir stalls are one of a kind. The carvings on the Choir stalls are detailed and intricate. The glass painted windows will completely fascinate you. St. Stephen's is must on your itinerary when in Bournemouth.
Bournemouth Town Hall is one of the grandest structures in the heart of the city. The architecture is reminiscent of the Victorian era, when the town hall was built to serve as a hotel for visitors. The elegant staircases, the typically British castle-like decor, the stained glass windows and bustling surroundings are some features of the town hall. Currently under the jurisdiction of the Bournemouth Government, the Town Hall serves as a prestigious wedding venue as well. Call for further information.
Bringing a bit of culture and art into your kids' lives is the Bournemouth Youth Theatre. This theater, which operates from the St. Michael's School, organizes various programs and courses in performing arts that center around kids and, prominently, around their communication and performance skills. The courses, designed keeping kids in mind, delve into the nuances and other aspects of acting, dancing and singing. It is a great way to commence your child's aesthetic and cultural growth. For further information please see the website.