Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Cambridge to Southampton

Cambridge and Southampton are two beautiful cities located in southeast England. They are both an excellent starting and ending point for a road trip full of adventure and history. The journey covers a distance of about 133 miles, and the best route is via the M25 and M3. The halfway point of the trip is Hillingdon, XGL. Here is an overview of the top things to see and do on this road trip:

1. Visit the University of Cambridge

The University of Cambridge is the second-oldest university in the English-speaking world. It was founded in 1209 and has produced some of the world's most influential thinkers, including Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, and Stephen Hawking. The beautiful and historic buildings of the university are open for visitors, and the guided tours are particularly informative.

Interesting fact: The university's library has over 8 million items, including rare books, manuscripts, and maps.

2. Explore the Imperial War Museum Duxford

The Imperial War Museum Duxford is an aviation museum located near Cambridge. It has an impressive collection of aircraft, including military planes from World War I and II, Spitfires, and Concorde. Visitors can explore the interiors of some of the planes and learn about the history of aviation. The museum also hosts special events throughout the year, including airshows.

Interesting fact: The museum was an operational RAF base during World War II and played a crucial role in the Battle of Britain.

3. Discover the Historic City of Winchester

Winchester is an ancient city that served as the capital of England during the Anglo-Saxon period. It has a rich history dating back to Roman times, and visitors can see many historical landmarks, such as Winchester Cathedral, which is one of the largest cathedrals in Europe. The city also has several museums and galleries, including the Winchester City Museum and the Winchester Discovery Centre.

Interesting fact: Winchester was once known as Venta Belgarum and was a major Roman town.

4. Walk Along the Famous White Cliffs of Dover

The White Cliffs of Dover are an iconic symbol of Britain and are one of the most famous natural landmarks in the country. The cliffs are made of chalk and have a striking white appearance that can be seen from far away. Visitors can walk along the cliffs and take in the breathtaking views over the English Channel. There is also a visitor center with exhibitions about the history and geology of the cliffs.

Interesting fact: During World War II, the cliffs were an important defensive barrier and were manned by soldiers and spotters.

5. Enjoy the Sun, Sand and Sea in Southampton

Southampton is a vibrant city that offers visitors a blend of history, culture, and entertainment. The city has a rich maritime history, and visitors can explore the Titanic Trail, which takes them on a tour of the sites associated with the ill-fated ship. Southampton also has several art galleries, museums, and theaters. For those who enjoy the seaside, the city has several beaches, including Calshot Beach and Weston Shore Beach.

Interesting fact: Southampton was the point of departure for the Mayflower, which carried the Pilgrims to the New World in 1620.

Conclusion

The road trip from Cambridge to Southampton covers a distance of about 133 miles and takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes. Along the way, visitors can enjoy the best of England, from the historic university city of Cambridge to the vibrant seaside town of Southampton. The top things to do on this trip include visiting the University of Cambridge, exploring the Imperial War Museum Duxford, discovering the historic city of Winchester, walking along the White Cliffs of Dover, and enjoying the sun, sand, and sea in Southampton. Each of these destinations has something unique and fascinating to offer, making this road trip an unforgettable experience.