The Solent Questions

Why is Southampton called Solent? The exact origins of the name Solent are lost in the mists of time, but it is thought that it may be a bird place-name reflecting the congregations of the Northern Gannet or Solan Goose around the coast.

What is the Solent in Southampton? The Solent Estuarine System consists of Southampton Water, the West Solent, the East Solent and Spithead, Portsmouth, Langstone and Chichester Harbour. These are all drowned Pleistocene river systems above Tertiary (mostly Eocene) clays and sands with minor limestones.

What is the Solent famous for? The Solent is famous for hosting the interational sailing event Cowes Week. King Henry VIII Navy Warship the Mary Rose sunk in the Solent, in 1982 a feat or dedication and technology raised the ship off the seabed and is now displayed in the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.

Is Solent and Southampton the same? Mergers between Southampton College of Art, the College of Technology and the College of Nautical Studies at Warsash laid the foundations for what is now Solent University. Since becoming a university, Solent has helped over fifty thousand students from all walks of life to make the most of their potential.

Is Solent a good university? Solent University offers fantastic facilities in its well-stacked libraries, work areas and classrooms. Particularly, the media facilities are top class. Courses at Solent are expansive and come with first-class teaching from its lecturers and tutors.

What is the number for Solent accommodations? Need help? If you're unhappy or at all worried about your new home, call our accommodation team on 023 8201 5040, or visit the accommodation office on the third floor of the Andrews building in East Park Terrace.

What are the benefits of studying in Solent University? Why choose us? At Solent, our international student population spans across more than 100 countries in six continents – giving our campus and classrooms a diverse, multicultural feel. Outside of the classroom, you will be joining the 30,000 students who already call Southampton home.