Whatever you’re doing – working or studying – there are few things more important than the place in which you live. Fortunately for students at Warsash Maritime Academy, there are few more exciting places to be than Southampton.

Settled in the middle of the South Coast, Southampton has it all; from bustling cosmopolitanism to proximity to some of the most naturally beautiful landscapes in the entire world.

Here, we take a look at five things which are sure to keep students happiest at Warsash.

1. It is a city based around the water

Anyone looking to enroll in a bosiet training course is sure to have a love of the water. If this is the case, there really is no city better to be in than Southampton.

Southampton sits on the Solent, immediately across from the Isle of Wight. With Southampton Water finding its way inland, the city is almost surrounded by water meaning that views of some of the world’s newest and biggest cruise ships are never far away.

Weston Shore

Weston Shore, Southampton, UK

Image by Steve via Flickr

Itchen Bridge

Itchen Bridge, Southampton, UK

Image by Steve via Flickr

Southampton Common

Southampton Common, UK

Image by Joe Price via Flickr

2. Proximity to the New Forest

Southampton borders the New Forest, an area of true natural beauty with a rich and fascinating history. When you’re looking for some peace and quiet and to get away from the bustle of the city for a short period of time, having such a treasure nearby is priceless.

Palace House

Palace House, New Forest, UK

Image by Elvin via Flickr

Southampton New forest

Southampton New forest, UK

Image by Mucky Paws via Flickr

3. Thriving music scene

Southampton is a city with a great culture for young people. While most of the UK‘s cities have their fair share of ordinary nightclubs, few can boast a music scene which is as lively as Southampton’s. From the city’s Guildhall to the famous Joiners bar, there are plenty of places to see your favourite national and local bands.

Monster Ceilidh Band at Talking Heads

Monster Ceilidh Band at Talking Heads, Southampton

Image by Ben Grantham via Flickr

4. The Saints

Like many cities, Southampton’s football team; the ‘Saints’ is considered one of the city’s real gems by the locals. The Saints are currently in the Premier League, providing a great source of entertainment for students coming to town at the weekend in search of something to see and do.

St Mary’s Stadium

St Mary's Stadium, Southampton, Uk

Image by Ian via Flickr

5. It is packed with history

Whether you’re a real history buff or just someone who enjoys a city with a bit of soul, Southampton won’t let you down. Maritime students will have plenty of opportunity to learn about the city’s naval history, while the city walls tell more about the history on dry land.

The Bargate

The Bargate, Southampton, UK

Image by Steve via Flickr

Gordon Avenue

Gordon Avenue, Southampton, UK

Image by David Win via Flickr