Whatever your lifestyle Southampton really does have something for everyone! Popular for its water sporting activities and lively atmosphere, yet beneath the modern streets lies history dating as far back as prehistoric times. Thanks to its proximity to the water's edge, the city quickly became recognised as an important trading post and a port as far back as Roman and Saxon times.

Today, the city is a hub of activity with a whole host of activities and entertainment facilities, not to mention the extensive shops, bars, restaurants and caf‚s with cuisine to suit all tastes. There is a fabulous collection of eateries offering Italian, French, Chinese or Indian dining, and you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to drinking! Southampton boasts an eclectic mix of trendy, late night bars and more traditional local pubs, as well as numerous nightclubs - what more could you ask for?

The oldest and biggest carnival in Hampshire takes place in this little village, every year on the last Monday in October. The event began in 1880 and strong local tradition dictates the burning of an effigy of the Earl of Southampton who was responsible for the damming of the river Meon, which prevented the villagers' free passage with the Solent.

Those with a love of shopping will truly appreciate the delights of the West Quay Shopping Centre - a premier shopping destination. You can while away the hours in more than 90 stores, which include John Lewis and Marks & Spencer or simply retreat to the centre's Food Terrace for lunch or coffee.

If you want to get your heart racing, then why not take advantage of one of Southampton's leisure centres? Whether you enjoy swimming, football, tennis or burning the calories at the gym, there's so much on offer, including a 9 and 18 hole golf course at Southampton Municipal.

Leisure World on West Quay Road is perfect for a day's family entertainment with its bowling alley, restaurants, bars and 13 screen cinema. By night, the development offers a casino and two nightclubs, and is said to be the largest dancefloor complex in the South.

Southampton also has many museums with historical delights that encompass anything from archaeological artefacts to maritime collections.

If it's a quiet life you're looking for, Southampton has achieved the title of the 'Green City' for its wealth of parks, open spaces, commons, Greenways, recreation grounds and allotments. Keen walkers can appreciate Southampton's beautiful countryside by taking part in a conservation trek on Southampton Common. Alternatively if you are searching for some history then why not visit Bitterne Manor on the site of Clausentum, the original Roman settlement.

Southampton is perfectly placed and enjoys excellent communication links. Direct train services link Southampton with many parts of the UK, with London Waterloo being just over an hour away. For the frequent jet-setter, Southampton Airport is home to more than 11 airlines, serving some 40 destinations.

The city is also within close proximity to the M27 coastal road and the M3 towards London.

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