Southampton
Southampton has been a settlement since Roman and Saxon times, in Roman times the town was known as Clausentum. The Roman Ruins are situated in a suburb called Bitterne Manor. In Saxon times the town was known as Hamwic. Its privileged position on England's south coast made it Britain's premier trading post. The town became walled in the medieval era, and some remnants of these defences remain throughout the city, most notably the Bargate in the middle of the city centre. Southampton was devastated by bombing during the Second World War, meaning that much of the city and its heritage was destroyed. As such the town and its architecture has quite a modern feel to it.
Southampton has grown rapidly in the past 30 years, becoming one of the twenty largest cities in England. With a population of almost 230, 000 and a student population of close to 40,000, the city is a vibrant cultural hub complete with highly sought after water views. Property prices are lower than average compared to other south coast locations.
On average Southampton experiences a mild climate, warmer than most English cities. Summer highs average at 21°C and summer lows average at 11°C. Winter highs average at 8°C and winter lows average at 1.5°C Temperatures are favourable.
Southampton residents have access to a sophisticated public transport system consisting of trains and buses. The railway network offers direct routes to locations including Portsmouth and London. The predominant form of local travel is via the cities bus service. Southampton Airport is located four miles north of the city centre..