Southampton Parish, Bermuda facts for kids
Southampton Parish is one of the nine special areas, called parishes, that make up the island of Bermuda. It's located at the southwestern end of the main island. This parish is named after Henry Wriothesley, 3rd Earl of Southampton, who lived from 1573 to 1624. He was an important person in England during the time Bermuda was first settled.
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Exploring Southampton Parish
Southampton Parish is known for its beautiful beaches and amazing views. It's a popular spot for both locals and visitors who want to enjoy the natural beauty of Bermuda.
Where is Southampton Parish?
This parish is found on the western side of Bermuda. It stretches across the narrow part of the island, from the Great Sound on one side to the Atlantic Ocean on the other. This means you can often see water on both sides as you travel through it!
What Makes Southampton Special?
Southampton Parish is home to some of Bermuda's most famous landmarks. It has lovely sandy beaches, perfect for swimming and relaxing. The parish also has a mix of homes, hotels, and natural areas.
Famous Landmarks in Southampton
- Gibbs Hill Lighthouse: This is one of the oldest cast-iron lighthouses in the world. You can climb to the top for incredible views of the entire island and the ocean. It's a great place to see how big Bermuda really is!
- Horseshoe Bay Beach: Often called one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Horseshoe Bay is famous for its pink sand and clear blue water. It's a fantastic spot for families to play and swim.
- Church Bay: This bay is known for its amazing coral reefs close to the shore. It's a wonderful place for snorkeling because you can see lots of colorful fish and sea creatures in the calm water.
A Bit of History
Like all of Bermuda's parishes, Southampton has a long history. It was one of the original eight tribes (parishes) created in 1617. The parish was named to honor the Earl of Southampton, who was a key investor in the Virginia Company. This company helped settle Bermuda.
How Parishes Were Formed
When Bermuda was first settled, the land was divided into eight main sections. These sections were called "tribes" at first, and later became known as parishes. Each parish was named after an important English person or company that helped with the early settlement of Bermuda.
Fun Things to Do in Southampton
Southampton Parish offers many activities for young people and families.
- Beach Fun: Spend a day at Horseshoe Bay, building sandcastles or playing in the waves.
- Lighthouse Climb: Challenge yourself to climb the Gibbs Hill Lighthouse for a breathtaking view.
- Snorkeling Adventures: Explore the underwater world at Church Bay. Remember to be respectful of the marine life!
- Exploring Nature: Walk along the coastal paths and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Southampton Parish is a vibrant part of Bermuda, offering a mix of history, natural beauty, and fun activities for everyone.
Images for kids
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A view from Gibbs Hill, 1857
