Southampton is a fantastic starting point for exploring some of England’s most charming and interesting sights. Its location makes it easy to hop onto tours that combine history, literature, and stunning landscapes. We particularly like the Bath and the Cotswolds Day Tour from Southampton. It offers a private, relaxed way to explore two of southwest England’s highlights—Bath’s Roman baths and the quintessential Cotswolds villages—without the hassle of driving yourself. This tour’s focus on comfort, flexibility, and in-depth sightseeing makes it a top pick, especially if you want a mix of history and countryside.
Plus, Southampton shines as a base for multi-day trips like the 2-Day Stonehenge, Cotswolds, Bath, and Oxford Private Tour. This option is perfect for travelers eager to tick off several major sights with expert guidance, without the stress of planning logistics. Whether you’re interested in immersive day trips or longer personalized tours, Southampton’s proximity to these fascinating destinations makes it an ideal jumping-off point.
1. Bath and the Cotswolds Day Tour from Southampton
At number 1 on our list, this private day tour offers a relaxed yet comprehensive way to experience Bath’s Roman spas, the Jane Austen Center, and the stunning architecture of Bath Abbey. You’ll start with a walking tour of Bath’s most famous sights, including the Royal Crescent, the Circus, and the Pulteney Bridge. Afterward, you’ll have time to independently explore the Roman Baths, which are included in your ticket, giving you a chance to soak in history at your own pace.
The afternoon is dedicated to exploring the Cotswolds, famous for its rolling hills and picture-perfect villages. Stops in Castle Combe and Lacock offer quintessential scenes straight out of a fairy tale, with quaint cottages, artisan shops, and historic charm. The tour’s private format means you can customize stops and enjoy plenty of comfort and flexibility. Reviewers consistently praise this trip for its seamless logistics and engaging guide, with comments like, “Andrew and Sonia were outstanding guides with answers to our many questions.”
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for travelers who want a personalized experience that covers both history and scenic villages, all in one day.
2. 2-Day Stonehenge, Cotswolds, Bath and Oxford Private Tour from Southampton
For those with a bit more time, the two-day private tour hits the highlights like Stonehenge, Bath, and Oxford. Starting from Southampton at 9 am, your guide will take you to Stonehenge, one of the world’s greatest archaeological wonders, where you’ll enjoy a 1.5-hour visit to marvel at its mysterious stones. The next stop is Bath for a half-day exploration, including a guided tour of the city and free time to visit the Roman Baths independently—perfect for history lovers.
Day two introduces you to the Cotswolds and Oxford, with stops at charming towns like Burford, known for its medieval architecture. Your guide handles all logistics, so you can enjoy the scenery and deepen your understanding of each site. This tour is perfect if you want a flexible, private experience that balances sightseeing with personal exploration. Multiple reviewers comment on the guide’s personable approach and tailored itinerary, noting, “Ian was amazing, we saw the most beautiful parts of the Cotswolds.”
Bottom Line: This trip suits travelers eager to pack in multiple major sights over two days, with the convenience of a private guide and customized stops.
3. Southampton: 2 Hour Guided Walking Tour with Medieval Vaults
If you’re interested in local history, this guided walking tour offers a quick but rich introduction to Southampton’s past. During this 2-hour stroll, your guide will take you through the medieval walls and underground vaults, often hidden beneath unassuming buildings. You’ll learn about Southampton’s Roman, Saxon, and Viking history, with stops at several medieval vaults and historic sites.
This tour is a great way to get a sense of the city’s timeline in a short amount of time, especially if you enjoy stories of the city’s layered past. The intimate setting allows for questions and personalized insights, making it a good choice for history buffs or those with limited time. While reviews are currently unavailable, the focus on underground vaults and medieval architecture makes it a compelling option for curious travelers.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history enthusiasts who want a quick, engaging overview of Southampton’s medieval and ancient past.
4. Southampton: Jane Austen’s Birthplace & Winchester Day Tour
For literary lovers, this Jane Austen-focused trip does more than just scratch the surface. You’ll visit her birthplace in Steventon and her home in Chawton, where she penned many of her beloved novels. The tour includes a visit to the Winchester Cathedral, where Jane Austen is buried, along with a walking tour of the city’s historic sites.
Rated 4.9 out of 5, this tour combines cultural insights with scenic drives through the Hampshire countryside. Guides share engaging stories about Austen’s life and works, enriching your understanding of her influence. The itinerary is well-paced, with time for exploring and a lunch stop at a local pub or cafe. Reviewers mention the guides’ enthusiasm and depth of knowledge, making it a hit among literature fans.
Bottom Line: Ideal for fans of Austen or those interested in England’s literary heritage, combining history, scenery, and a bit of literary magic.
5. Private Lake District Tours
If your travels take you further north, the Private Lake District Tours offer tailored experiences around Windermere and Keswick. These 10-hour trips are flexible, accommodating up to 7 people, and include stops at iconic spots like Windermere Lake and the charming town of Keswick. You’ll enjoy a lunch at a local pub, soaking in the scenery and tranquility of one of England’s most scenic regions.
The tour’s flexibility means you can choose what sights interest you most—whether it’s boat rides, lakeside walks, or exploring quaint villages. The guides are described as fun and knowledgeable, making it suitable for families or groups who want a personalized experience. Keep in mind, this is a longer trip, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with full-day excursions.
Bottom Line: Perfect for nature lovers and those wanting a custom, relaxed day in England’s Lake District.
6. Southampton Ghost Tour
If you’re after something a bit spooky, the Southampton Ghost Tour offers a 1-hour theatrical walk through the city’s darkest stories. With live actors and haunted tales, you’ll explore historic streets, the Southampton Vaults, and Tudor House, learning about the city’s most haunted locations.
While reviews are not listed, the combination of theatrical storytelling and historic sites makes this tour a fun option for those interested in ghost stories or looking for an entertaining evening activity. It’s a short, lively experience that adds a different flavor to your Southampton visit.
Bottom Line: Ideal for night owls or families looking for a lively, spooky experience.
7. Southampton: Spitfire History Guided Walking Tour
History buffs interested in WWII will find this Spitfire-themed tour engaging. It covers the development and impact of the Supermarine Spitfire and the city’s role during the Blitz. The 2-hour walk takes you past murals, sites of factories, and shadow factories integral to wartime production.
Guests have described guides as knowledgeable and passionate. The tour provides a clear narrative of Southampton’s wartime resilience and the significance of the Spitfire in Britain’s defense. It’s an affordable way to connect with aviation history and understand the city’s wartime story.
Bottom Line: Best suited for WWII enthusiasts or aviation fans who want a concise, engaging walk through Southampton’s war history.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Picking the best tour depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you love history and scenic villages, the Bath and Cotswolds Day Tour offers a full day of sightseeing with flexibility. For a deeper dive into multiple sites, the 2-Day private experience provides comprehensive coverage with expert guidance.
Literature lovers should consider the Jane Austen Tour, which immerses you in Austen’s Hampshire. Those interested in WWII history or aviation may prefer the Spitfire tour or the Ghost tour, respectively.
Practical considerations include budget—these range from around $17 for the ghost tour to nearly $1,500 for a private Lake District trip. Shorter options like the 2-hour guided walk are perfect for quick insights, while multi-day tours suit travelers wanting an immersive experience.
Final Thoughts
Southampton offers a surprising variety of tours that cater to different interests. For a balanced mix of history, scenery, and personal attention, the Bath and the Cotswolds Day Tour stands out as an excellent choice. If you’re pressed for time but want a rich overview, the 2-hour guided walk provides a quick taste of the city’s medieval past.
Travelers with more days or specific interests in literature or world war history will find the longer, more specialized tours rewarding. No matter which you choose, booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot on these popular experiences.