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.
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.
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.
Located at the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, The Mary Rose Museum was established in 1984 in honor of legendary naval warship 'Mary Rose' that served King Henry VIII for 33 years. The primary exhibit of the museum, it was built in 1510 and was the biggest vessel of its kind at the time, weighing about 500-tons in its prime. Primarily used only during wars, the ship sank in 1545 only to be only discovered 426 years later in 1971.
Regarded as one of the tallest edifices of the United Kingdom, the Spinnaker Tower soars at a height of 170 meters (560 feet)! Offering views from its three decks, the tower offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the Portsmouth harbor, the Isle of Wight and the South Coast. During the day, you can stand amazed at the glittering views of the sea. As dawn sets in, the Spinnaker Tower offers spectacular views of sparkling lights. Besides offering breathtaking views of the sea, the Spinnaker Tower also serves as an event space for private functions, corporate events, and concerts.
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.
The 286 building is the former Swaythling Methodist Church which was built in 1932, currently this place hosts three different churches, namely- Swaythling Methodist Church, the City of Life Church and the very modern Flower of Justice Church. Though the premises are owned by the original congregation, all the three churches work in partnership and hold various services and christian events. The structure is a Grade II listed building since 1997.
Dating back to the 15th century, the St Nicolas church is a well known parish in North Stoneham. This church is popular for a number of things, some of which includes a one hand clock and the set of ten bells in the bell tower. The church has a history with bell ringing and is still quite popular for it. This is an Anglican Parish and is a Grade II listed building which was built in Gothic style.
God's House Tower is formed by the joining 13th Century gatehouse and 15th Century gallery and three-storey tower. This building has served the town with a dual purpose as it was the town gaol and the Museum of Archaeology (closed in September 2011). The architecture of this building is worth marveling which are embellished with arched gateways and beautiful windows. The interiors of the gateway have ruins and remains of a mural stairway connecting to a parapet.
The beautiful and historic Nunwell House lies in the town of Brading in Isle of Wight. This lovely manor belonged to the Oglander family since Norman times. The family militaria has been maintained in the house and one can enjoy breathtaking views of the Brading Harbour from the manor. This splendid house has exquisite furnishings, a pleasant garden and has been listed as Grade II in the Statutory List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest by English Heritage.
The beautiful St. Mary's Church lies in the parish of Cowes in Isle of Wight. The church was built in 1866 in place of a chapel from 1816. Designed by Arthur Cates in Victorian style, this church has a two manual organ which is deemed to be "one of the finest on the island". The chancel was extended in 1900 and houses an organ, the 'High Altar' and a choir. Located next to the Northwood Park, this church is at a short walking distance from the town center.