Hotels with History

Our city of has a rich maritime history and much of this can be celebrated in places to stay. Take a look at the following hotels which have a special past that’s just waiting to be explored by you…

The Mercure Southampton Centre Dolphin Hotel

Dating back over 500 years, the Dolphin is Southampton’s oldest hotel and is Grade II Listed for its historic features. Having been a resting place for weary travellers over the centuries, the hotel was also the place where famous Hampshire-based author Jane Austen celebrated her 18^th birthday back in 1793. The hotel boasts many original features including bay windows and original beams, plus modern conveniences such as WiFi.

The Star Hotel

Once one of Southampton’s coaching inns, The Star Hotel is located centrally on the High Street. During the early 1880s, the hotel was visited regularly by royalty and the Victoria room commemorates the then Princess Victoria’s visit here in 1831 (Princess Victoria later to become Queen Victoria).

Best Western Chilworth Manor

Around four miles from the city centre, Chilworth Manor is an impressive Edwardian mansion, turned hotel. It originally was a manor house on the Chilworth Estate before becoming a hall of residence for the University of Southampton in the late 1960s. Today, this Best Western hotel offers traditional character set within twelve acres of landscaped grounds and is conveniently located only a short distance from Southampton International Airport and from the motorway network.

The Pig in the Wall

This boutique hotel is part of the famous ‘Pig’ hotels. Twelve unique bedrooms are set within our city’s Medieval walls and includes the Snug Room that’s complete with original beams and slanted ceilings. Local produce is celebrated at the hotel with food and drink served from just a 25-mile radius.

Elizabeth House Hotel

Located on The Avenue, the Elizabeth House Hotel was originally two Victorian houses. It was opened around sixty years ago by an ex cruise-line steward and photos in the reception remind guests of this connection. Many original Victorian features have been retained including high ceilings, stained glass and plasterwork.