Southampton Oxford Train

The city of Southampton has always been influenced by the sea. The Hampshire city lies at the northern tip of Southampton Water which is a deep water estuary where the rivers Test and Itchen meet. Southampton city centre lies in between the two rivers. The Town Quay is the city's original public quay which can date its origins back to the 13th century. The Eastern Docks in the city were created in the 1830's by reclaiming mud flats between the rivers Itchen and Test estuaries. The Western Docks were created in the 1930's when the Southern Railway Company commissioned a major land reclamation and dredging programme.

One of the main advantages of Southampton Water is that it has a double high tide which makes the movement of large ships much easier. This is not caused as popularly supposed by the presence of the Isle of Wight, but is a function of the shape and depth of the English Channel. The double high tide is perhaps one of the reasons why Southampton Water hosts many of the world's largest and luxurious cruise ships.

Southampton is home to Southampton Football Club, sometimes referred to as "The Saints", who play in the Premier League at St Mary's Stadium, having relocated in 2001 from their 103-year-old former stadium, "The Dell".

Located in the county of Oxfordshire, the city of Oxford is roughly 50 miles to the west of London. The city is known throughout the world as home to the historic Oxford University, founded in the 12th century, which is the oldest university in the United Kingdom. Oxford's famous "Dreaming Spires" refer to the medieval churches and colleges that dominate the bustling modern town in all their Gothic splendour. Picturesque architecture and a vibrant modern life (driven by students, light industry and technology) set in the rolling countryside of Oxfordshire make this a great destination.

Oxford city centre is very compact and easily walkable with many areas of the city centre pedestrianised. All major tourist sights are well-signposted. The narrow streets of the city centre are pedestrian-friendly, difficult for cars and full of beautiful buildings that will draw your attention upwards.

The preferred mode of transport for the university student is the bicycle and like Amsterdam, Copenhagen or Beijing, there are hundreds of them. Most trains into Oxford allow bicycles to be carried for free. Fortunately, there are cycle lanes on virtually ever street near the centre; however, you will sometimes be sharing the road with other motorists.