South Western House, Southampton

South Western House is a Grade II listed building situated adjacent to the old Terminus Railway Station, near to Dock Gate 4. It is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. It was built as a hotel by a private developer about 1865, who leased the land off the London & South Western Railway Company.

Its heyday was in 20s and 30s, during the golden age of ocean liners, when 4 funnelled liners competed for the Blue Riband. The entire building is steeped in historical events. Rich and famous guests included royalty, politicians, and movie stars, such as Spencer Tracy and Debora Kerr. Tom Mix was once said to have ridden his horse through the Foyer. The reputation of the hotel grew on both sides of the Atlantic being known to thousands of travellers.