beautiful south tour

The Beautiful South

Formed in 1989, The Beautiful South continued the adult pop theme started by founders Paul Heaton and Dave Rotheray's former band, The Housemartins more...

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The Beautiful South Concert Setlists & Tour Dates

The beautiful south at belladrum tartan heart festival 2012.

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The Beautiful South at The NEC lakeside, Birmingham, England

• Prettiest Eyes
• Pretenders to the Throne
• Baby Please Go
• Especially for You
• Blackbird on the Wire
• Closer Than Most
• The Mediterranean
• Old Red Eyes Is Back

The Beautiful South at GuilFest 2010

The beautiful south at wychwood festival 2010.

• A Little Time

The Beautiful South at Campus, Sunderland, England

The beautiful south at hallam fm arena, sheffield, england, the beautiful south at manchester evening news arena, manchester, england.

• One Last Love Song
• We Are Each Other
• From Under the Covers
• Song for Whoever
• Worthless Lie
• Rotterdam (Or Anywhere)

The Beautiful South at Hammersmith Apollo, London, England

The beautiful south at bournemouth international centre, bournemouth, england, the beautiful south at national indoor arena, birmingham, england.

The Beautiful South

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Most played songs

• Old Red Eyes Is Back ( 51 )
• You Keep It All In ( 51 )
• Song for Whoever ( 45 )
• Good as Gold (Stupid as Mud) ( 43 )

More The Beautiful South statistics

Mirko Bäumer Briana Corrigan Rianne Downey Paul Heaton Paul Heaton + Jacqui Abbott INKlings The Lilacs Chloe Lorentzen The Lottery Winners Caroline Lowe Old Red Eyes The South

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Artists covered

Bee Gees John Farrar Lush Fred Neil Ramones S Club Allen Toussaint Bill Withers The Zombies

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Gigs seen live by

578 people have seen The Beautiful South live.

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Paul Heaton & Jacqui Abbott

Plus special guest billy bragg.

• Date 17 Dec 2022
• Venue The O2 arena
• Availability On sale now

Event Details

Paul Heaton & Jacqui Abbott have announced that they will be bringing their headline show to The O2 on Saturday 17 December 2022.

Paul Heaton & Jacqui Abbott’s new album ‘N.K-Pop’ will be released on Friday 7 October. They have already made two songs available from the album – the poignant ballad ‘Still’, which was described as ‘beautifully heart-breaking’ by Dawn French, and the gospel pop song ‘Too Much For One (Not Enough For Two). Paul & Jacqui’s previous album ‘Manchester Calling’ went straight to No 1 on its release in March 2020.

Paul Heaton’s song writing genius was recognised at the prestigious Ivor Awards 2022 where noted author/radio DJ Stuart Maconie presented him with a long overdue gong for ‘Outstanding Song Collection’. Heaton is one of the UK’s most successful songwriters with some 15 million album sales under his belt. He first came to prominence in the early 80s as front man of The Housemartins (the same group that gave us Norman ‘Fatboy Slim’ Cook). The Housemartins released two albums ‘London 0 Hull  4’ (’86) and ‘The People Who Grinned Themselves To Death’ (’87). 

In ’88 Heaton formed The Beautiful South, who released 10 hugely successful albums - ‘Welcome To The Beautiful South’ (’89), Choke (’90), ‘0898 Beautiful South’ (’92), ‘Miaow’ (’94), ‘Blue Is The Colour’ (’96), ‘Quench’ (’98), ‘Painting It Red’ (2000), ‘Gaze’ (’03), ‘Golddiggas, Headnodders & Pholk Songs’ (’04) and ‘Superbi’ (’06).   In 2001 Heaton took a break from The Beautiful South and released his first solo album ‘Fat Chance’. The Beautiful South called it a day in 2007 citing ‘musical similarities’. 

Jacqui Abbott was lead vocalist in The Beautiful South from ’94 to 2000 and she sang many of their signature hits including ‘Rotterdam’, ‘Perfect 10’, ‘Don’t Marry Her’ and ‘Dream A Little Dream’.  Paul Heaton went on to release two further solo albums: ‘The Cross-Eyed Rambler’ (’08) and ‘Acid Country’ (’10).  In 2011 Heaton wrote a musical called ‘The 8th’ based on the Seven Deadly Sins and asked Jacqui to sing one of the parts. They have since released four acclaimed albums as a duo: ‘What Have We Become’ (’14), ‘Wisdom, Laughter and Lines’ (’15), ‘Crooked Calypso’ (’17) and ‘Manchester Calling’ (’20).  In 2019 Paul released a career spanning compilation of his biggest hits entitled ‘The Last King Of Pop’.

Important Information - How to download your tickets on The O2 app

For this show, if you’ve purchased your tickets from theo2.co.uk or AXS.com you’ll need to display your ticket on your phone via The O2 app. Ticket purchasers will receive an email with news and information on  AXS Mobile ID tickets  and how you can download your tickets to your phone. 

If you’ve bought your tickets for this show via AXS then you can re-sell your tickets with AXS Official Resale   which gives you a safe, simple, and fair way to buy and sell tickets.

For more information on re-selling tickets from AXS and other ticket agents  click here .  

Please note:  If you purchase  resale   tickets for this show through any website other than via theo2.co.uk or axs.com, your tickets may not be valid and access to the venue could be refused.

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Win tickets to the Beautiful South's Paul Heaton and Jacqui Abbott UK tour

2 December 2022, 09:00

Paul Heaton and Jacqui Abbott have announced an autumn UK tour, including some of the biggest shows they have ever played as a duo.

The former Beautiful South members will be joined by special guest Billy Bragg at all shows.

Dates include London's O2 Arena, Manchester's AO Arena and Sheffield's Utilita Arena, and you can now win a pair of tickets to the venue of your choice: London, Manchester, Birmingham, or Nottingham.

To enter, just fill in the form below.

Paul Heaton & Jacqui Abbott on Smooth, December 2022 - Specific Rules

1. The Paul Heaton & Jacqui Abbott promotion (‘ Promotion ’) is organised by Global (as defined in the General Terms and Conditions). The Promotion will run from Friday 2nd December to Sunday 4th December on Smooth. Global is the Promoter. The ‘Promotion Partner’ mentioned in these Specific Rules is SJM Concerts.

2. IMPORTANT : The Promotion is subject to these Specific Rules and the General Terms and Conditions which are available here (together, the ‘ Promotion Terms and Conditions ’). Entry into the Promotion constitutes acceptance of these Specific Rules and the General Terms and Conditions.

Details of the Promotion:

3. To enter the Promotion, you must go online to the Promotion entry page at smoothradio.com/win], register your details and submit an answer to the multiple choice question provided. lIsteners must also select the venue they are entering to win tickets for. There will be one pair of ticekts available for each venue,

4. Online entry will open at 09.00on 02/12/2022and close at 23.59 on 04/12/2022. Entries received before or after this time will not be included in the Promotion.

5. Within 10 hours of the closing time of the Promotion, all eligible entries will be entered into a draw. [One] correct entry will be selected for each venue at random and the winning entrant[s] will be contacted by one of our representatives via [email OR telephone on the telephone number on which you entered]. If such winner does not respond within 12 hours from being contacted, they will forfeit their right to the prize and we shall be entitled to select another winner by another random draw. That subsequent winner must respond to the notification email within 12 hours on the date on which they are notified, or they will also forfeit the prize.

6. We and the Promotion Partner may publish and publicise your name, image, social media handle and/or profile picture, your nearest geographical location (for example, your nearest city, town or county) and your entry], and we may refer to your [and any applicable third party’s (for example a guest/travel companion)] association with the Promotion and/or the prize, in any and all media, worldwide, in perpetuity, for publicity and PR purposes solely in connection with the Promotion.

7. In relation to winners (and runners up if applicable), you understand that we and our Promotion Partner may: (i) interview you and your guest(s)/travel companion(s) which we may film, photograph and/or record and; (ii) film, photograph and/or record, you and your guest(s)/travel companion(s) in connection with the Promotion, either by telephone or in person, and we may use such films, recordings and/or photographs for publicity and PR purposes in any and all media, worldwide, as often and for as long as we consider appropriate or desirable, in connection with the Promotion. We may also publish your and your guest(s)/travel companion(s) name, image, social media handle and/or profile picture.

Eligibility:

8. The Promotion is only open to residents of the UK aged 18 and over, and who are based in the UK at the time of entry.

9. Entry is restricted to one entry per person; duplicate entries will be excluded from the Promotion.

10. Four winning entrants will each receive 1 pair of tickets to Paul Heaton & Jacqui Abbott.On entering the competition listeners will choose which venue they are entering to win tickets for.

· 1 pair of tickets to see Paul Heaton & Jacqui Abbott on Tuesday 6thDecember 2022 at Nottingham Motorpoint Arena

· 1 pair of tickets to see Paul Heaton & Jacqui Abbott on Thursday 8thDecember 2022 at Birmingham Resorts World Arena.

· 1 pair of tickets to see Paul Heaton & Jacqui Abbott on Saturday 10thDecember at Manchester AO Arena

· 1 pair of tickets to see Paul Heaton & Jacqui Abbott on Saturday 17thDecember at London the O2.

12. You must, at your own cost, comply with all necessary checks, and/or tests required for travelling to and from and entering and exiting your travel destination/venue. This includes, but is not limited to, purchasing, organising, undertaking, recording and/or registering any required Covid-19 tests. We will not be responsible for any costs incurred by you in complying with this clause, nor will we purchase, organise, undertake, record and/or register any required Covid-19 tests.

13. You must comply with all applicable rules, regulations and guidance relating to Covid-19, both in the UK and your travel destination/venue. We are not responsible for your failure to comply with such rules, regulations and guidance.

14. You acknowledge and agree that, without limitation to the provisions of Clause 12 of the General Terms & Conditions, our ability to fulfil a prize and/or perform any of our obligations under the Promotion Terms and Conditions could be affected by an actual or threatened epidemic, pandemic, disease or quarantine and/or any corresponding governmental action, guidance and/or ruling (including but not limited to any Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office guidance) (collectively ‘Covid Measures’).

15. Any other costs and expenses which are not specifically included in the prize description are excluded and will be the sole responsibility of the winner. By way of example, without limitation, transport is not included within the prize.

16. The prize is non-transferable and non-refundable

17. We reserve the right to substitute the prize with another prize of equal or greater value at our absolute discretion.

18. For all enquiries in connection with the Promotion please contact our customer support team at https://global.com/contact/ .

Data Protection:

19. Your personal data that you provide to us will be collected and processed by us, our licensees (including Communicorp UK Limited) and our Promotion Partner as well as the prize providers, and if applicable, our service providers, network operators and suppliers in order to administer and fulfil the Promotion. Your personal data may also be disclosed to the Phone-paid Services Authority, Ofcom and/or the Advertising Standards Authority at their reasonable request for regulatory purposes, for example, in order to prevent, investigate and detect crime, fraud or anti-social behaviour and comply with law enforcement agencies and applicable advertising codes.

20. By entering a Promotion, you acknowledge that any personal data provided by you in connection with the Promotion will be processed as set out above and in accordance with our Privacy Policy which sets out full details of how we process personal data and how you can exercise your rights as a data subject, and our Promotion Partner’s Privacy Policy [SJM Concerts Privacy Policy link ]. Please ensure you have read and understood our Privacy Policy and our Promotion Partner’s Privacy Policy before entering any Promotion. If you are required to submit a guest(s)/travel companion(s) personal data to enter a Promotion, you must ensure that your guest(s)/travel companion(s) have given you consent to provide us and our Promotion Partner with their personal data.

21. You may be asked if you want to opt-in to marketing from us and/or our Promotion Partner when you enter a Promotion. If you choose to opt-in, we and/or our Promotion Partner will use your personal data for marketing purposes (see Global's Privacy Policy and our Promotion Partner’s Privacy Policy for more details). You can withdraw your consent to marketing at any time by unsubscribing.

22. We, our Promotion Partner and the prize providers may transfer and process personal data outside of the EEA and UK for the purposes of administering the Promotion. Where any transfers are made outside of the EEA or UK we and the Promotion Partner will ensure appropriate safeguards to protect your personal data are in place.

23. We will hold your personal data for a period of up to 3 years in order to comply with our regulatory obligations.

24. You may request the removal of your personal details from our database by contacting [email protected] . If you request that your personal details be removed prior to the conclusion of a Promotion, you will forfeit your right to enter the Promotion and/or claim any prize and we reserve the right to select another entrant to participate in the Promotion or withdraw the prize and select another winner, as applicable.

Please ensure that this description is exactly as in the agreement with the prize provider

Please contact the compliance manager if you need any advice or if the competition/mechanic is complicated.

Tickets for Paul and Jacqui’s tour dates will remain at £30, and will be available at 9.30am on Thursday, September 1 here .

The full dates are:

26: SWANSEA Arena

27: LLANDUDNO Cymru Arena

28: BLACKPOOL Opera House

1: BRIDLINGTON Spa

2: GLASGOW OVO Hydro

3: STOCKTON Globe

5: PORTSMOUTH Guildhall

6: NOTTINGHAM Motorpoint Arena

8: BIRMINGHAM Resorts World Arena

9: SHEFFIELD Utilita Arena

10: MANCHESTER AO Arena

17: LONDON The O2

Paul Heaton & Jacqui Abbott - Still

Paul Heaton and Jacqui Abbott’s new album N.K-Pop is released on October 7, including the recent singles ‘Still’ and ‘Too Much For One (Not Enough For Two)'. Their previous album Manchester Calling was a number one success in March 2020.

Former Housemartins star Paul Heaton created The Beautiful South in 1988, and they released 10 successful albums until their split in 2007. Jacqui Abbott was the band's lead vocalist from 1994 to 2000.

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• Latest News
• Paul & the band featuring Rianne Downey to play Cardiff Castle 23 January 2024
• Paul & Jacqui Announcement 25 April 2023
• Paul & Jacqui’s November/December UK tour dates 25 August 2022
• Paul & Jacqui's brand new album ‘N.K-Pop’ 20 July 2022

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The South tour dates 2024

The South is currently touring across 1 country and has 12 upcoming concerts.

Their next tour date is at Don Valley Bowl in Sheffield, after that they'll be at The Devils Arse at Peak Cavern in Castleton.

Currently touring across

Upcoming concerts (12) See nearest concert

Mosfest Sheffield

The Devils Arse at Peak Cavern

Poole Harbour Festival

The Boileroom

Back 2 Festival

Subscription Rooms

Band On The Wall

Eric Morecambe Centre

The Crescent

ARC Stockton Arts Centre

St Mary's Chambers

Holmfirth Picturedrome

Past concerts

The Factory Live

View all past concerts

Recent tour reviews

Brilliant to see the south again, fabulous evening, love the venue, feels up close and personal, great songs including some new ones that I’ve not heard before - it’s a PERFECT 10

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The South formed back in 1988 under the name of 'The Beautiful South' and have still been doing well touring around the UK. They had several hit singles, my favourite one being their song 'Perfect 10' as well as their number 1 single 'A Little Time'. After a successful career, which included 15 million record sales and ten albums, some of the members thought it was time to quit. But not everyone was ready to leave it behind, Dave Hemingway, Ali Wheeler and Paul Heaton decided to carry on and renamed themselves 'The South'. With more members joining their new band they got to work on releasing more singles and touring together, gathering a good group of loyal fans along the way. In 2013 they released their album 'Sweet Refrains' and went on to do another successful UK tour, selling out many venues. Although they lost the beautiful part of them they still have a lot to give, their live shows provide an electric feeling that could get any venue, whether small or large dancing along with them. I can't say their outfits or their songs are particularly modern in my opinion, but their performance, with well-planned lighting and the enthusiasm they have on stage becomes infectious and made me want to hear more even as the last song was finished.

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On their 1989 debut, ‘Welcome To The Beautiful South,’ the UK outfit made their introduction to the world as a new breed of jaunty indie pop with bite.

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They say not to bite the hand that feeds you and yet Paul Heaton, and his UK outfit The Beautiful South, have built their musical foothold as one of pop music’s greatest talents and biggest dissidents. With a knack for marrying melodic hooks with wry sometimes twisted lyricism, The Beautiful South’s subversive streak was only obvious after you realized what you were singing along to. On their 1989 debut, Welcome To The Beautiful South , they made their introduction to the world as a new breed of jaunty indie-pop with bite.

But this winning formula of sharp lyricism couched in bright pop melodies really began with the seminal 80s pop-soul band, The Housemartins, where singer-songwriter Paul Heaton and drummer-turned vocalist David Hemingway spun their societal observations into infectious pop hits on their 1986 debut album, London 0 Hull 4, featuring the single “Happy Hour.” Then in 1988, during the very peak of their popularity, the group split, and Heaton and Hemingway shifted their sights from garage pop to Top Of The Pops . With a new line-up consisting of former Housemartins’ roadie, bassist Sean Welch, Hemingway’s former Velvetones bandmate, guitarist and co-songwriter Dave Rotheray, and drummer Dave Stead, the group was primed to make their entrance.

Listen to Welcome to the Beautiful South .

Best Iggy Pop Songs: 20 Tracks With An Insatiable Lust For Life

A dark comedic streak.

Even if you were caught off guard by the lilting harmonies and finger-snapping choruses, the controversial cover hinted at the dark comedic streak that would become the thru-line of the band. Conceived by artist Jan Saudek, the cover depicted a woman with a gun in her mouth, and another with a man smoking, which was famously banned by the American retail chain Woolworths, resulting in an alternative cover with an innocuous teddy bear.

Welcome To The Beautiful South doesn’t follow a linear narrative, but is best represented by the two songs that bookend the album. From Willie Nelson ’s “Sad Songs and Waltzes” to Carly Simon’s “You’re So Vain,” songwriters have been spinning sorrow into gold records and at the cost of the relationships for millennia, but never has the exploitative nature of this arrangement been so purely distilled as “Song For Whoever.” Heaton’s hilarious parody of a songwriter who can’t remember the name of his lovers is delivered in such a beautiful timbre, the sting of the critique is almost missed. “Deep so deep, The number one I hope to reap/Depends upon the tears you weep, So cry, lovey cry” is the antithesis of the typical song with a girl’s name in them and yet it reached No. 2 in the UK charts.

Socialist politics with gospel harmonies

The entirety of the album is one pop hook after another, merging Heaton’s socialist politics with gospel harmonies and clever vocal interplay, particularly on their second single, “You Keep It All In,” which featured Northern Irish singer Briana Corrigan as guest vocalist and later full-time band member. True to form, the song paired a 60s jazz-pop instrumental with lyrics around a deeply dysfunctional relationship that you could whistle along to, cracking both the UK and US charts at No.8 on the singles chart and No. 19 on Billboard ’s Alternative Chart, respectively. This vocal sparring would be just one of many that would characterize The Beautiful South’s catalog.

Heaton, with his swooning vocals and fervent delivery, has drawn comparisons to everyone from Fine Young Cannibals vocalist Roland Gift to Morrissey, but he told the UK publication Louder Than War that he based his style of singing on David Bowie ’s Hunky Dory , where “Bowie’s voice is softer and more adventurous here than on his more operatic 80s albums and a higher range.”

Outside of the boundaries of Northern soul

Adventurous to be sure, Heaton and the rest of the “South” ventured outside of the boundaries of northern soul, with the inclusion of jazz-beats, sophisticated piano melodies, and New Wave guitars to create the sound of The Beautiful South that would last for almost 20 years. While original lyricism was their raison d’être, they weren’t afraid to throw in an unexpected cover, especially their brilliant take on the 80s R&B hit “Girlfriend” by Pebbles . “I’ll Sail This Ship Alone” throws another curveball, with Heaton in a rare moment of vulnerability finally shows a chink in his armor on this melancholic ballad.

Along with the usual suspects in his crosshairs: alcoholism (“Woman In The Wall”), the music industry (“Straight At 37”), and politicians (“Oh Blackpool”), Heaton turns his pen on the audience on the grand, penultimate track “Love Is…” asking the elusive music fan, “Twenty-five years from now, will you come to my cremation?”

It’s been more than 25 years and ten albums later and The Beautiful South is still a household name in the UK, with the oft-recalled statistic that one in every seven UK households owns a copy of Carry on up the Charts: The Best of The Beautiful South since it went five times platinum.

Welcome To The Beautiful South can be bought here .

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Paul Heaton & Jacqui Abbott

• Website: www.whathavewebecome.net

Thoughtful contemporary pop from Paul Heaton and Jacqui Abbott, ex-The Beautiful South.

Paul Heaton & Jacqui Abbott have announced an autumn UK tour playing some of the biggest shows they have ever done as a duo. They will be joined by very special guest Billy Bragg.

Paul Heaton & Jacqui Abbott's new album 'N.K-Pop' is released on 7th October. They have already made two songs available from the album - the poignant ballad 'Still', which was described as 'beautifully heartbreaking' by Dawn French, and the gospel pop song 'Too Much For One (Not Enough For Two). Paul & Jacqui's previous album 'Manchester Calling' went straight to No 1 on its release in March '20.

Paul Heaton's songwriting genius was recognised at the prestigious Ivor Awards 2022 where noted author/radio DJ Stuart Maconie presented him with a long overdue gong for 'Outstanding Song Collection'. Heaton is one of the UK's most successful songwriters with some 15 million album sales under his belt. He first came to prominence in the early 80s as front man of The Housemartins (the same group that gave us Norman 'Fatboy Slim' Cook). The Housemartins released two albums 'London 0 Hull 4' ('86) and 'The People Who Grinned Themselves To Death' ('87). In '88 Heaton formed The Beautiful South, who released 10 hugely successful albums - 'Welcome To The Beautiful South' ('89), Choke ('90), '0898 Beautiful South' ('92), 'Miaow' ('94), 'Blue Is The Colour' ('96), 'Quench' ('98), 'Painting It Red' (2000), 'Gaze' ('03), 'Golddiggas, Headnodders & Pholk Songs' ('04) and 'Superbi' ('06). In 2001 Heaton took a break from The Beautiful South and released his first solo album 'Fat Chance'. The Beautiful South called it a day in 2007 citing 'musical similarities'. Jacqui Abbott was lead vocalist in The Beautiful South from '94 to 2000 and she sang many of their signature hits including 'Rotterdam', 'Perfect 10', 'Don't Marry Her' and 'Dream A Little Dream'. Paul Heaton went on to release two further solo albums: 'The Cross-Eyed Rambler' ('08) and 'Acid Country' ('10). In 2011 Heaton wrote a musical called 'The 8th' based on the Seven Deadly Sins and asked Jacqui to sing one of the parts. They have since released four acclaimed albums as a duo: 'What Have We Become' ('14), 'Wisdom, Laughter and Lines' ('15), 'Crooked Calypso' ('17) and 'Manchester Calling' ('20). In 2019 Paul released a career spanning compilation of his biggest hits entitled 'The Last King Of Pop'.

2022 saw Heaton reach a significant birthday, which he celebrated in typically idiosyncratic style by putting £1,000 behind the bar of 60 carefully chosen pubs across the UK and Ireland so that fans could have a drink on him.

Tickets on sale Thu 1 September 9.30am

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15 Best Waterfalls in South Iceland to Visit in 2024

L ooking for the best Waterfalls in South Iceland to visit on your next trip? This list details the most beautiful waterfalls found along Iceland’s South Coast, from popular must-visit waterfalls to hidden gems.

There are over 10,000 waterfalls throughout the country of Iceland. Not only are there thousands of waterfalls in Iceland, but the dramatic landscape gives these waterfalls a magical feel. Exploring waterfalls on the south coast is sure to be a highlight of your time in Iceland.

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15 Best South Iceland Waterfalls

Below are 15 of the best South Iceland Waterfalls to visit on your next trip to Iceland. Many of these are easily accessible, while a few require some hiking to get there.

1. Seljalandsfoss

Location: Þórsmerkurvegur, 861, Iceland

How to Reach: Located directly off Route 1 (the Ring Road).

Hike Duration: None, just a short walk from the car park

Time Needed to Visit: 30 Minutes to 1 Hour

One of the most captivating waterfalls of Iceland’s Southern Coast is the breathtaking Seljalandsfoss. This impressive waterfall drops 60 meters (197 feet), and creates a dramatic sight.

One of the most unique aspects of Seljalandsfoss is that you can actually walk behind the waterfall . This is a super cool experience, although make sure to bring your rain coat because you will get a little wet!

Seljalandsfoss is one of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland due to its stunning natural beauty. It is easily visited by driving from Reykjavik or by taking a tour like this one .

This waterfall can get crowded due to the popularity. To get the best views, I highly recommend getting there early . We arrived at Seljalandsfoss by 7am and it was an amazing experience as it was just us and one other person.

Want to visit the best waterfalls but not planning to rent a car? Click here to for a full day tour of South Iceland

2. Gljúfrabúi Waterfall

Location: Þórsmerkurvegur, 861, Iceland (Located next to Seljalandsfoss)

How to Reach: Located directly off Route 1.

Hike Duration: No hike, requires a walk between the cavern opening

Time Needed to Visit: 30 Minutes

While Gljúfrabúi is located just a short walk from the popular Seljalandsfoss, many people completely miss it. This is because it is a hidden waterfall .

To access Gljúfrabúi, you will actually walk through a small cave opening between the two cliffs. Once inside, you can see the waterfall from above . It is a really unique experience and definitely a must-see spot.

Make sure to bring your raincoat for this one, because you will get wet as the water lightly cascades down around you. At certain times of the year, the entrance can have water and so its best to wear waterproof shoes too.

3. Skógafoss

Location: Skógafoss, 861, Iceland

How to Reach: Located just off of Route 1

Hike Duration: None, just a short walk from the parking area.

Time Needed to Visit: 30 minutes

Skogafoss is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls . Its is only a two hour drive from Reykjavik, making it easy to reach by car. It is also one of the best Iceland waterfalls to visit in winter as there is no hike required.

Skogafoss is also one of the largest waterfalls in Iceland. It is has an astonishing width of 25 meters (82 feet) and a height of 60 meters (197 feet).

You can view Skogafoss from in front of the magnificent falls. However, next to Skogafoss is a staircase that will take you above the waterfall . While it is a steep climb, it is worth it for the stunning views.

At the top of the staircase is also a famous hiking path that is popularly known as Waterfall Way . By hiking around 1.5 miles, you will pass by several other smaller waterfalls.

Just make sure to turn around after 1.5-2 miles and head back as the hike does not loop around. Instead it becomes the Fimmvörðuháls Trail to Thórsmörk , an intensive 25km hike for experienced hikers.

4. Kvernufoss

Location: 861 Evindarhólar, Iceland

How to Reach: Park at the Skogar Museum, walk towards the river in the back and follow it until you reach the waterfall.

Hike Duration: 1km one way

Time Needed to Visit: 1 hour

Kvernufoss is another hiddem gem waterfall located nearby the famous Skogafoss . Less people know about this waterfall, which gives it a serene and peaceful nature.

The waterfall is in a scenic gorge , surrounded by the lush green Icelandic landscape. It has a height of around 30meters high (98 feet), and is a stunning waterfall to visit.

To reach this this enchanting waterfall , you’ll park at the Skogar Museum and head towards a small river in the back of the museum. You’ll cross a small field with a fence to get to the river. Next, follow the river trail around 1km and you’ll reach Kvernufoss.

5. Svartifoss

Location: 785 Skaftafell, Iceland

How to Reach: Located off Route 1 is the Skatafell Parking and Visitors Center. From there it requires a 1.5km hike.

Hike Duration: 1.5 km one way

Time Needed to Visit: 2 hours

Located in the Skaftafell Nature Reserve of Vatnajökull National Park is the beautiful Svartifoss. It is one of the best sights to see in the national park, and is worth visiting.

Svartifoss is known for its dark, basalt columns and rugged rocks. In fact, the name Svartifoss means “black falls.”

The mystical waterfall even served as an inspiration for the architect that created the famous Hallgrímskirkja in Reykjavik . You’ll notice the sides of Svartifoss match that of Hallgrímskirkja.

This was one of my favorite waterfalls to visit in Iceland’s south coast. The hike there is uphill at first but provides some great view points over the landscape. Once you arrive at Svartifoss it is the perfect place to relax and take in the scenic nature.

Tip: Svartifoss is a 4 hour drive from Reykjavik, nearby the famous Glacier Lagoon . Due to the distance, I highly recommend spending at least one night at Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon .

6. Öxarárfoss

Location: 806 Thingvellir, Iceland

How to Reach: Park at the Thingvellir National Park Visitor Center, then walk the path around 1.7km to the waterfall.

Hike Duration: 1.7km one way

Time Needed to Visit: 1-2 hours

Öxarárfoss is a beautiful waterfall surrounded by dramatic rocks. It is easy to get to and requires a scenic walk on a nicely paved path surrounded by rugged cliffs.

Öxarárfoss is located in Thingvellir National Park , which is a protected natural area known for its geological and historical significance .

Historically speaking, Thingvellir was where the Vikings would hold an Althing, an Icelandic parliament that began in 930 AD. During this event, the Viking Icelanders would pass laws, settle disputes, and share news.

Geologically, Thingvellir National Park is where the North American and European tectonic plates meet.

It is one of the only places in the world where you can see a ridge between two continents. You can even snorkel between the two continents at Silfra .

7. Gullfoss

Location: Gullfoss Nature Reserve, 35, 846, Iceland

How to Reach: Located in the Golden Circle, off from Route 35.

Hike Duration: None, short walk from the parking area.

The gem of the Golden Circle is Gullfoss. This beautiful waterfall is actually a double waterfall that has a height of 32 meters (105 feet). Its located along the Hvítá river and is fed by Langjökull, Iceland´s second largest glacier.

The name Gullfoss stands for Golden Waterfall and the stunning waterfall certainly lives up to its name.

The Golden Circle is one of the most popular driving routes due to its close proximity to Reykjavik, and so Gullfoss can get rather crowded . To see it without the crowds, you’ll want to get there early in the morning or in the evening.

Gullfoss is one of the must visit attractions in the Golden Circle, and if you don’t want to drive there are plenty of Golden Circle tours like this one that visit it.

8. Faxi Waterfall

Location: Biskupstungnabraut, 806, Iceland

How to Reach: Located in the Golden Circle, off Route 35.

Hike Duration: None, a short walk from the parking area.

Faxi Waterfall is another waterfall found in the Golden Circle . It is also known as Faxafoss or Vatnsleysufoss in Icelandic. While not very tall, it has an impressive width and is fed by the Tungufljót River.

As it is on the Golden Circle Route, it is easy to combine visiting Faxi Waterfall with other highlights such as Secret Lagoon, Geysir, and more.

Often overlooked for Gullfoss, Faxi Waterfall is worth visiting when driving the Golden Circle. It was less crowded and is a scenic waterfall to check out.

9. Gjáin Waterfall

Location: Stangarvegur, 804, Iceland

How to Reach: Take Route 1 to Skeiða- og Hrunamannavegur (Route 30), Next, turn right onto Route 32, then left on to Háifoss (Road 332) for 500m, then left onto Stöng (Road 327) for 3km until you reach a small parking area.

Hike Duration: None, just a short walk.

Gjáin Waterfall is one of the best off the beaten path waterfalls in Iceland . While this incredible place is a little more difficult to get to, it is so worth visiting .

The waterfall is actually a series of small waterfalls in a valley, surrounded by lush greenery. There will likely be very few other tourists which makes it an enchanting place to visit.

For Game of Thrones fans, you may recognize Gjáin Waterfall as one of the filming sites with Aria and the Hound (season 4, episode 5).

Located about 10-15 minutes drive down the road from Gjáin Waterfall are the ruins of a Viking Settlement Longhouse , which is a unique thing to check out.

To get to you will need a 4×4 SUV because the last mile is on an F-road . In Iceland, it is illegal to drive regular cars on an F-road. The road itself isn’t too difficult (no river crossings) but it is uneven and has some sharp gravel so drive slowly on the last mile or so.

Tip: I highly recommend renting a 4×4 SUV with Blue Car . Blue Car is one of the highest rated car rental companies in Iceland. It is also a local Icelandic owned car company.

Click Here to Book a Rental Car with Blue Car

10. Fossálar Waterfall

Location: Fossálar Waterfall, 881, Iceland (along the Ring Road)

How to Reach: Located right off the Ring Road, there is a small parking pull off area on the other side of the road where you can park.

Hike Duration: None

Time Needed to Visit: 10 minutes

Fossálar Waterfall is a small, series of waterfalls located directly on the side of the Ring Road. It is a picturesque place to stop for some beautiful photos of the Icelandic landscape.

This waterfall is located right along Route 1 (the Ring Road) about 14km east of Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Iceland. Since it is located pretty far out, you’ll likely be the only person there. Just remember to pull off the road (don’t stop in the road for pictures).

11. Foss á Síðu

Location: Þjóðvegur, 881, Iceland (along the Ring Road)

How to Reach: Located right off the Ring Road

Time Needed to Visit: 5 minutes

Foss á Síðu is a stunningly beautiful roadside waterfall in Iceland. The waterfall itself is in private property so it isn’t possible to hike up to it, however it is an incredible waterfall to see from the side of the road .

You’ll see this waterfall from the Ring Road, about 12km east of Kirkjubæjarklaustur , Iceland. If you want to take a photo make sure to pull off to the side of the road. Its a beautiful waterfall and a nice spot for a quick photo.

12. Grófarlækjarfoss

Location: Grófarlækjarfoss, 785 Hof, Iceland

How to Reach: Located next to Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, just a short walk from the parking area

Hike Duration: 5 minute walk

Time Needed to Visit: 20 minutes

This hidden gem waterfall is located directly next to the Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon . Its an easy one to visit and there were no other people around when we went. You can get closer to the waterfall through a short walk, and it is extremely peaceful and serene.

If you go in the summer, there are beautiful purple Lupine flowers that are in full bloom, creating gorgeous scenery .

13. Systrafoss

Location: Systrafoss, 881 Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Iceland

How to Reach: You can see it from the parking area or follow the path for about 10-15 minutes for a closer view

Hike Duration: 10-15 minute walk

An iconic waterfall of Kirkjubaejarklaustur , Systrafoss is a small cascading waterfall. Its a pretty waterfall to see in the distance from the village, and there are picnic tables there in case you want to have some lunch with a view.

To see the waterfall closer up, there is a short trail that you can walk down. One of the walking trails will take you to the Sytravatn Lake , and it is about a 15 minute walk to get there.

Systrafoss is worth stopping at while driving through Iceland’s southern coast. The town of Kirkjubaejarklaustur is a good spot to fill up on gas and grab some lunch before heading further east, as there isn’t much else for miles after.

14. Rauðárfoss

Location: Rauðárfoss, 881 Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Iceland

How to Reach: From the parking area, follow the path for about 10 mintues and you’ll arrive at the waterfall.

Hike Duration: 10 minute walk

Time Needed to Visit: 45 minutes

Rauðárfoss is a small hidden gem waterfall that many people overlook, and so its likely that you’ll have the falls completely to yourself when visiting.

Rauðárfoss is located nearby Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Iceland . To get to the waterfall, you will have a short 10 minute walk from the parking area. As there aren’t many other people around, it is a very serene and relaxing area.

Nearby the waterfall you can continue to hike around on the short trail to Systrastapi Rock. Systrastapi Rock is a uniquely shaped rock that is very picturesque . You can go up it, but be very careful as we thought the trail up there was a bit uneven.

15. Stjórnarfoss

Location: Stjórnarfoss, 881 Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Iceland

How to Reach: There is a parking and camping area just across the street, and then it is a short walk to the falls.

Last but certainly not least is another one of my personal favorites, Stjórnarfoss. Stjórnarfoss is located near the town of Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Iceland.

Not only is Stjórnarfoss beautiful , but it is a very relaxing place to visit. The waterfall cascades into a crystal-clear pool of water, and is surrounded by greenery. We visited in June and it was filled with beautiful blooming purple lupine flowers .

Stjórnarfoss is the perfect place to have a picnic while enjoying the stunning Icelandic landscapes. There is also a camping area just down the street which is perfect for those driving camper vans or tent camping.

Map of the Waterfalls in South Iceland

There are quite literally thousands of waterfalls in Iceland. This map shows the locations of the best 15 waterfalls in south Iceland that are mentioned above.

Tips for Visiting Waterfalls in South Iceland

Wear a rain jacket to avoid getting wet

Waterproof shoes can be helpful

Be careful walking around as it can be slippery near some waterfalls

Visit popular waterfalls like Skogafoss early in the morning or in the evening to avoid crowds.

Always check weather and road conditions via Road.is or Vedur.is .

Driving is the easiest way to visit several waterfalls, one of the best rental car companies in Iceland is Blue Car .

If you prefer not to drive, there are guided tours like this one that will take you around South Iceland to some of the best waterfalls.

FAQ: Waterfalls South Iceland

Skogafoss is the large waterfall on the coast of south Iceland. This waterfall is one of the largest in Iceland, and has an impressive width of 25 meters (82 feet) and a height of 60 meters (197 feet). Skogafoss is a beautiful waterfall that is easy to access from the Ring Road, making it worth visiting.

Seljalandsfoss is the most picturesque waterfall in all of Iceland. It is incredibly beautiful with its cascading water dropping 60 meters (197 feet). Seljalandsfoss is absolutely worth visiting and is an easy waterfall to access in Iceland.

You can’t walk behind the waterfall at Skogafoss, but you can climb the stairs next to it for a spectacular view over the top of the waterfall. If you want to go behind a waterfall, visit the nearby Seljalandsfoss. At Seljalandsfoss you can take the pathway behind the waterfall for stunning views.

The Wrap Up: Waterfalls South Iceland

The waterfalls in South Iceland are absolutely worth visiting. You are sure to fall in love with the natural beauty of South Iceland’s waterfalls, from the stunningly beautiful Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss to the hidden gem waterfalls such as Gljúfrabúi.

Many of the waterfalls along the southern coast are easy to visit and accessible, making it possible for people of all ages and fitness levels to admire the stunning waterfalls in Iceland.

Planning to visit Iceland? Check out these related posts:

Is Iceland Worth Visiting? 15 Reasons to Visit

Do They Speak English in Iceland?

Best Puffin Tours in Iceland

25 Things to do in Vik, Iceland

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• These 7 Towns In New Jersey Have Beautiful Architecture

New Jersey is part of the mid-Atlantic along with New York , Pennsylvania , and Delaware , a region of the country with a long history and a plentiful supply of charming small towns. Despite extensive suburban development in parts of the state, several notable New Jersey towns have maintained their historic architectural character while adapting to modern times. Before planning your next architectural tour of the “Garden State,” check out these seven small towns that are full of character.

There was a short-lived New Sweden colony in the mid-Atlantic in the middle of the 1600s, and the town of Swedesboro is a fascinating remnant of that mostly-forgotten time. Following the Swedish log-building tradition, Swedesboro’s Nothnagle House (circa 1640) is quite likely the oldest log building in the United States. While practically a youngster in comparison, the 1784 “Old Swedes” Church is another historic architectural gem that exemplifies Swedesboro’s unique past. Other historic structures mark the march of time from the colonial period through the Victorian era and beyond, making Swedesboro perfect for an architectural walking tour.

South Orange

While not as ancient as Swedesboro’s Nothnagle House, South Orange’s Old Stone House (circa 1680) is one of the oldest homes in New Jersey. While the Old Stone House is in dire shape and in serious need of restoration, the town’s Montrose Street Historic District is loaded with well-maintained 1700s and 1800s landmarks such as the 1894 Village Hall. Time your walking tour to conclude downtown at dusk to get the full charming effect of the classic gaslamps. South Orange is also home to a modern architectural gem and one of the best live entertainment venues in the state, the South Orange Performing Arts Center.

Morristown is known as the “Crossroads of the American Revolution” due to its many connections to that critical era. General George Washington spent two wartime winters at the Ford Mansion (circa 1774), which is open to visitors, while his troops camped at what is now Morristown National Historic Park. Morristown is also home to Campfield House (circa 1760), the site of Alexander Hamilton’s wedding, and Speedwell Ironworks, the site of the world’s first successful telegraph system in 1838. Other highlights for your architectural walking tour of Morristown include the Federal-style Macculloch Hall (circa 1810) and neo-Gothic style St. Peter’s Church (circa 1911).

The central New Jersey community of Cranbury has been an important crossroads for some 300 years due to its location about halfway between New York City and Philadelphia . Today, that status is reflected in all the trucking warehouses along the highways but more beautifully in the roughly 200 buildings from the 1700s and 1800s located in the Cranbury Historic District. Start your walking tour at the Cranbury History Center, then explore the town and enjoy architectural gems like the 1897 Old Cranbury School (now the town hall), 1886 Silvers Mansion, and the Cranbury Inn, a town staple since around 1750.

Chatham is one of the wealthiest communities in New Jersey, as evidenced by street after street of lovingly restored Victorian homes from the 1800s that you will see on your walking tour. Chatham’s history, however, stretches back all the way to 1710, and earlier architectural must-sees include the William Day House (circa 1780) and the Jacob Morrell House, which George Washington visited in 1781 and which is now a fancy Italian restaurant. Be sure to pair up your architectural sightseeing with some great bird watching at the nearby Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge.

Cape May is the southernmost of the famous Jersey Shore beach towns, sitting on the Atlantic Ocean at the mouth of Delaware Bay . It also has the most historic look and feel of the state’s beach towns, with street after street of restored Victorian homes earning Cape May’s status as a National Historic Landmark and National Historic District. The opulent 1879 Physick House is but one of the architectural highlights awaiting your walking tour, which should also include the pedestrian-friendly Washington Street Mall. Continue your stroll along Cape May’s classic beach promenade, then head to nearby Cape May Point for some of the East Coast’s best birdwatching.

The town of Burlington was founded some 350 years ago and originally served as the capital of the short-lived West Jersey Colony. As a result, Burlington has an impressive collection of colonial-era buildings, most famously the Hutchinson-Revell House (circa 1685) that once welcomed a young Benjamin Franklin. Historic highlights continue wherever you walk in Burlington, with other notable houses, including author James Fenimore Cooper’s childhood home (circa 1780) and General Ulysses S. Grant’s home at the end of the Civil War. Check out the High Street district for even more examples of 1700s and 1800s architecture, along with great local shopping and dining options.

People often come to New Jersey with preconceived notions that it is just a collection of bland suburbs of New York City to the north and Philadelphia to the south. Yet the Garden State is so much more, with an impressive collection of small towns that have managed to maintain their historic character. Architectural highlights abound, from crude colonial log cabins to opulent Victorian mansions. So bring along your walking shoes and camera when you make your next visit to small-town New Jersey!

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