What is SEA LIFE London Aquarium?
The SEA LIFE London Aquarium features a huge array of fish, reptiles, and aquatic mammals, all housed in zones themed around their natural habitats. It's one of the most popular attractions in London, boasting over a million visitors every year. If you're into marine life, this London aquarium is a must-see!
What can I see there?
When you step into this sea life experience, expect to see lots and lots of aquatic animals—around 500 different species, to be precise. There are 14 different zones in total, each offering a unique look into various aquatic worlds. For instance, you can explore the Rainforest Adventure section, which is home to catfish and crocodiles, terrapins, and swarms of piranhas.
Don't forget to visit Penguin Point if you love seeing adorable penguins. If you're a fan of corals, you'll be thrilled to explore the UK’s largest living coral reef at the Coral Kingdom. And the Ocean Tunnel is like stepping into a serene underwater realm, complete with Green Turtles and glittering schools of fish.
Is it all just looking at stuff in tanks?
Yes, it is and no, it isn’t. The Sea Life London Aquarium has thought long and hard about how it displays its differently themed tanks and underwater worlds, with walkthrough tunnels taking you right through tanks and glass walkways acting as viewing platforms over the water. The best is the Shark Walk, which takes you right over the Pacific display, with sharks swimming majestically directly beneath your feet. You’ll also find a couple of touch pools where you’ll get the chance to stroke a starfish.
How can I get there?
Swim, of course. No, that’s not true. Go by public transport if at all possible. Westminster and Waterloo are the closest tube stations. You’ll find it right next to the Eye. Waterloo Train Station is the closest mainline train station. Check the Transport for London Journey Planner to see how to get there from where you’re staying. If you need to travel by car, there’s a QPark car park in Westminster.
How much does it cost to get into the aquarium?
A standard ticket is £40, with discounted early-booking discounted rates and various promotions for children's tickets. The Sea Life London Aquarium also holds adult-only lates once a month (except June, July and August). Tickets include a glass of Prosecco upon arrival. Ideal for a date night!
If you want to propose at the Sea Life London Aquarium (a diver displays a ‘Will you marry me sign?’ from inside a tank and you get a half bottle of Champagne), it’ll cost you £250. Rumours that the salt in the seawater tanks is harvested from the tears of those who get their proposals rejected are as yet unconfirmed.
Are there time slots?
During peak times, yes. For all standard tickets, you’ll be given a time slot window when you’ll be admitted to the attraction. You’ll be turned away if you arrive more than 15 minutes late for your time slot.
When is the SEA LIFE London Aquarium open?
The Sea Life London Aquarium is generally open 7 days a week. During peak times, it opens at 9.30am and closes at 7pm, with last entry at 6pm. On off-peak days, it's open from either 10am or 11am to 6pm. It's closed on Christmas Day and may close early for special events.
I heard it’s pretty busy.
You heard right. As one of London’s most popular family-friendly attractions, it’s a busy one. On Saturdays and bank holidays, it’s busy all day long. And during the school holidays. Turn up after 4pm or before 11am for the best chance of it being a little quieter. If you can, go during the week when school’s on. If you’ve got kids...don’t tell them you went without them.
Is SEA LIFE London Aquarium accessible for those with disabilities?
It is wheelchair accessible, with lifts and ramps. Guide dogs are allowed, and carers with proper documentation can enter free of charge.
Are they a ‘good’ zoo?
You mean, do they do positive things for animals and the environment?
Yes, that.
Well, yes they do. They’ve set up a sanctuary in a large bay just off an Icelandic island. Inhabitants include two Beluga whales who were previously held in captivity. The SEA LIFE London Aquarium supports lots of conservation charities, including Save Our Seas and the Shark Trust. And you’ll see a lot of information on conservation issues throughout the exhibits.
Anything else I should know about SEA LIFE London Aquarium?
Yes. It gets busy. And when it gets busy, it gets hot. Bring water. Water, water everywhere, but not a drop to drink. There are more than 2,000,000 litres of the stuff here, but you don’t want to sip any of it. Think about the heat when choosing your outfit and maybe leave your comedy Nemo bodysuit at home.
Not done with top tourist attractions on the south bank of the Thames yet? Well...look here.
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