Southampton

While many see Southampton as a university town or a gateway to the Isle of Wight, this Hampshire hub is also a destination in its own right. It's seen plenty of maritime action over the years, including the departure of the ill-fated Titanic, whose tragic story is recounted at the SeaCity Museum.

There's more, though. At the Southampton City Art Gallery, you can browse its impressive collection of modern British works. Or, you can get up close to vintage Spitfires at the Solent Sky Museum. After an afternoon of sightseeing, you can dive into one of the airy restaurants for a bite to eat or catch one of the city's shows.