South East's Waterside
Map
of South East of England
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HMS
Warrior |
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on the image for larger version |
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South East England offers a complete range of waterscapes
– from the Thames and Medway estuaries to enchantingly rural canals.
The south east is packed to the gunnels with maritime heritage and plays
host to many flagship waterside events. Soak up the fascinating history
of seafaring in Portsmouth and Chatham, and watch great sporting events
like the Henley Royal Regatta and Cowes Week.
Sailor’s delight
What better place to start than Southampton? If boats
are your passion then the Southampton Boat Show in September is a must
with the latest luxury yachts on display. Or follow the Titanic Trail
on foot around the city to see landmarks associated with the ill-fated
ship. Offshore, the Solent is studded with all manner of craft.
If you want to learn to sail try a two-day course at Calshot
Activities Centre. RYA (Royal Yachting Association) instructors and a
wide choice of craft will get you off to a flying start. Experienced sailors
can push their skills to the limits too and canoeing, windsurfing, kitesurfing
and powerboating are also on offer. Hayling Island is the birthplace of
windsurfing so, if you’re a fan, go and pay homage. If you prefer
to sit back and relax, take an evening cruise from Eastbourne’s
marina along the coast to Beachy Head.
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Couple
On Board the HMS Victory |
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on the image for larger version |
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Into battle
Naval heritage abounds in the south east. Heave ho to
The Historic Dockyard Chatham to discover three warships – HMS Cavalier,
HM Submarine Ocelot and HMS Gannet – or tales of courage in the
RNLI gallery. Enjoy the pleasures of the Medway, including a trip on the
coal-fired paddle steamer Kingswear Castle, or follow part of the Maritime
Heritage Trail through the 80-acre site and uncover secrets of over 400
years of history!
Portsmouth has been home to the Royal Navy for more than
500 years. Explore the warships HMS Victory and HMS Warrior 1860 and see
the Mary Rose, lost for centuries in the Solent. Experience what life
was like on the Victory’s gun decks at Trafalgar!, the Royal Naval
Museum’s loud and lively multimedia walk-through attraction. Across
the harbour in Gosport, enjoy a fascinating guided tour of the UK’s
only walk-through submarine, HMS Alliance at the Royal Navy Submarine
Museum.
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