Travel Directions to National Oceanography Centre
The National Oceanography Centre's waterfront campus is located at Dock Gate 4 in Southampton (postcode: SO14 3ZH), which is a 30-minute walk or short bus ride from Southampton Central train station (details below), and 10-to-20-minute walk from the suggested hotels. The location of NOC on Google Maps is here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Dar7ZDFnBZw1am2v5. The Unlink bus service U1C runs right to NOC’s front entrance from many locations in the city.
We recommend delegates travel by public transport to the 2026 VMSG meeting. There is no parking available in our on-site car park except for those who require it for accessibility. For those that require a car, alternative parking is available in the public car parks at either Town Quay or Ocean Village
How to find us by car (postcode for SatNav SO14 3ZH)
By car the National Oceanography Centre has direct links from the M3, A33, M27 and A27. If using the M3 leave at Junction 13. Follow signs to Dock Gate 4 and the Waterfront for approximately 6 miles. If using the M27 leave at Junction 5, which is signed for Southampton/Airport/Eastleigh/A335. Follow the signs to the Waterfront, Dock Gate 4.
How to find us by train
Southampton has two main train stations: Southampton Airport (Parkway) or Southampton Central Station. National Oceanography Centre is 2 miles from Southampton Central train station, and is connected to both of these train stations by the Unilink bus service (U1C).
How to find us by coach
National Express provides regular coach services to Southampton from central London, Heathrow, Birmingham, Bournemouth and the north. Southampton Coach Station is at Western Esplanade, in the city centre. From Southampton Coach Station you will need to walk to the nearby Southampton Central train station, where you can continue your journey to National Oceanography Centre Southampton by the UniLink bus service (U1C).
Accommodation
VMSG have agreed preferential rates with the below hotels in Southampton.
Leonardo Royal Hotel Southampton Grand Harbour
Known for its character and ambience, our Leonardo Royal Hotel is ideally situated on the Southampton waterfront, just five minutes by car from Southampton Port. Please use the group code EVENT to bring up the best available rate at any time of the year (ensure you choose the correct city and hotel). Note this group code does not appear to work on all internet browsers, so you may need to try more than one.
To access the hotel website click here
Moxy Southampton
Moxy Southampton is a stylishly designed eco-friendly hotel which is centrally located and near Westquay shopping centre and restaurants. All 208 bedrooms have ensuite bathrooms and a private workspace.
To access their rates click here
Voco Hotel
Nestled in the heart of Southampton’s vibrant waterfront, Voco Southampton offers comfort, convenience, and has stunning views of the cruise terminals in a prime location.
To access their rates click here