When I find myself in Southampton, the obvious choice is to head down to the harbour and watching in an almost hypnotic state the twinkling sea as it ebbs and flows. Hotels by the sea in Southampton are perfect for those early morning bracing walks.

There are the medieval wall ruins that are so incredible it is impossible to get bored with revisiting them. A visit to Southampton is incomplete with sparing a long moment at the sea memorials devoted to the Titanic and the Pilgrim Fathers.

I am no shopper, so I tend to head away from the harbour without turning back, parking at lovely Southampton Common. Packed with relaxation and tranquillity the common is a SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest) for its unique and special wildlife and flora. Next stop, the New Forest for ponies, a spot of cycling and an enjoyable ramble deep in the heart of nature. With so much nature within a short journey of a busy and well built city centre, how can anybody in their right mind resist the allure of clean air and a glimpse of a squirrel?