A maritime capital long called the “gateway to the world”, Southampton has since emerged as a bucolic surprise of a satellite city, just 90 minutes outside of London (traffic allowing, of course.) Along these storied shores – famously the departure point of the RMS Titanic – the air is crisp (#18, with a pinch of sea salt) and nature is closer than you’re expecting. Eleven Green Flag-certified parks, plus ample urban forestry, power Southampton’s #11 spot in our Green Space subcategory, and the Isle of Wight’s famed beaches are a ferry ride away. Venture 15 minutes out, and the New Forest National Park greets you: 566 square kilometres of protected wilderness, with a wildlife park to boot.
Emboldened by its bustling port, healthy labour force (#23), and Europe’s 9th most-educated populace, Southampton is rearing to make big plans. Chatter around a revitalised St. Mary’s Waterfront includes an expanded football stadium, enlivening the sports scene in South East England. Then there’s the city’s Renaissance Vision, launched last year, which lays out ambitious plans to create a new district in its West Bay, regenerate the Mayflower Waterfront, and reintegrate industrial districts into its historic city centre.