National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham
Dive into the UK's only 360° Ocean Tunnel and meet playful penguins, rescued sea otters, and thousands of marine creatures at Birmingham’s premier aquarium.
The National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham offers an immersive underwater adventure in the heart of the city. Featuring the UK's only 360° Ocean Tunnel, playful Gentoo penguins, rescued Alaskan sea otters, and over 2,000 marine creatures, this aquarium blends education, conservation, and entertainment. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, attend feeding demonstrations, and enjoy a family-friendly environment with engaging displays for all ages.
A brief summary to National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham
- The Water's Edge, Brindley Pl, Birmingham, B1 2HL, GB
- +441216342610
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-3 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-3 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-3 pm
- Thursday 10 am-3 pm
- Friday 10 am-3 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-3:30 pm
Local tips
- Book tickets online in advance to secure entry and enjoy discounted prices, especially during weekends and school holidays.
- Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter experience, ideal for families with young children and photography enthusiasts.
- Plan to spend 1.5 to 3 hours to fully explore the exhibits and attend feeding demonstrations or educational talks.
- Take advantage of special Quiet at the Aquarium sessions on the first Sunday of each month for a sensory-friendly visit.
- Use nearby city centre car parks as there is no dedicated parking at the centre; the venue is cashless, so bring contactless payment methods.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train
Birmingham New Street Station is approximately a 15-minute walk from the centre, providing frequent regional and national train services. From the station, accessible pedestrian routes lead directly to Brindleyplace. No additional fare is required beyond your train ticket.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve the Brindleyplace area, with stops within a 5-minute walk of the SEA LIFE Centre. Bus travel times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on starting location. Tickets cost between £2 and £5 for single journeys.
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Car
There is no dedicated parking at the SEA LIFE Centre. Visitors should use nearby city centre car parks such as the Brindleyplace or Mailbox car parks, typically charging £3–£6 for a few hours. Walking from parking areas takes about 5 to 10 minutes.
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Walking
If staying nearby in central Birmingham, walking to the centre is convenient and accessible, with flat terrain and pedestrian-friendly streets. Walking times from central hotels range from 10 to 20 minutes.
National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham
A Window to the Underwater World
Step into the National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham and immerse yourself in a vibrant aquatic environment that brings the ocean's wonders to landlocked Birmingham. The centre is home to over 2,000 creatures, including tropical sharks, giant stingrays, a giant green sea turtle named Mo, and a captivating colony of Gentoo penguins. The highlight is the UK's only 360° Ocean Tunnel, where you walk through a transparent tunnel surrounded by marine life swimming overhead and alongside you, creating an unforgettable experience of being beneath the sea.Unique Marine Residents and Conservation Efforts
Among the centre's standout features is the Marine Mammal Rescue Facility, where visitors meet the UK's first rescued Alaskan sea otters, Ozzy and Ola. The centre is deeply committed to conservation and animal welfare, providing educational talks and feeding demonstrations that highlight the importance of protecting marine ecosystems. The Jelly Invaders exhibit mesmerizes with its display of various jellyfish species, while the Reef Edge showcases a diverse array of reef inhabitants, emphasizing biodiversity and environmental stewardship.Interactive and Family-Friendly Experiences
Designed to engage visitors of all ages, the centre offers interactive exhibits that are especially appealing to children. Educational programs and talks are scheduled regularly, making it an ideal destination for school groups and families. Special events, such as Quiet at the Aquarium sessions on the first Sunday of each month, provide sensory-friendly environments for visitors with sensitivities. The centre's layout includes accessible facilities, seating areas, and a gift shop that complements the visit.Location and Atmosphere
Situated at The Water's Edge, Brindleyplace, the SEA LIFE Centre is nestled within Birmingham's vibrant city centre, surrounded by restaurants and cultural venues. The building’s modern design complements the aquatic theme, and the atmosphere inside is lively yet tranquil, allowing visitors to enjoy both the excitement of discovery and moments of quiet reflection. The centre's lighting and layout are optimized for photography enthusiasts, particularly in the afternoon when natural light enhances the underwater displays.Planning Your Visit and Practical Information
Open year-round with varying hours, the centre typically welcomes visitors from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on weekdays and extends hours on weekends and during school holidays. Booking tickets online in advance is strongly recommended to secure entry and benefit from discounted prices. While there is no dedicated parking, numerous city centre car parks are nearby. The centre is cashless, accepting contactless payments only. Visitors usually spend 1.5 to 3 hours exploring, depending on their interest level and participation in talks or feeding sessions.Engagement Beyond the Visit
The National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham encourages ongoing engagement with marine conservation through its educational outreach and annual events. Multi-attraction tickets allow visitors to combine their visit with other regional highlights like LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre and Warwick Castle, making it a key part of a family-friendly itinerary in Birmingham. The centre’s commitment to sustainability and wildlife protection is evident in its operations and visitor experience, fostering awareness and appreciation for the aquatic world.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historic England
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Chamberlain Memorial
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The Best of Birmingham Trail
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The River
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Chamberlain Clock
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An elegant Edwardian clock tower at the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, built in 1903 as a memorial to Joseph Chamberlain and recently restored to its former glory.
The Jewellery Quarter Birmingham
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Birmingham's glittering historic heart where Victorian workshops craft timeless jewels amid cobblestone charm and creative revival.
Workers Memorial
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The Jewellery Quarter
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Bullring & Grand Central
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St Chad's Catholic Cathedral
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Perrott's Folly
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St. Martin's
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Museum of the Jewellery Quarter
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The Selfridges Building
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Edgbaston Waterworks Tower
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Unmissable attractions to see
Ikon Gallery
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Birmingham Walk of Stars
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Discover Birmingham’s rich cultural heritage through a vibrant walk of fame honoring its legendary icons along Broad Street.
Eleven Brindley Place
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A prestigious Grade A office building in Birmingham’s vibrant canalside Brindleyplace, blending modern workspaces with cultural and transport connectivity.
Symphony Hall
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Experience world-class acoustics and vibrant live performances at Birmingham’s iconic Symphony Hall on Broad Street.
Regency Wharf
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Scenic canals, vibrant dining, and cultural events converge at Birmingham’s dynamic Regency Wharf.
Gas Street Basin
0.2 km
Historic canal basin at Birmingham’s heart blending industrial heritage with vibrant waterside leisure and scenic urban charm.
The Roundhouse
0.3 km
Explore Birmingham’s iconic 19th-century horseshoe-shaped Roundhouse, a vibrant hub of heritage, culture, and canal adventures by the waterside.
Boulton, Watt and Murdoch
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Iconic gilded bronze statue celebrating Birmingham’s industrial pioneers Boulton, Watt, and Murdoch on Broad Street.
Centenary Winter Carousels
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Experience festive joy and colorful carousels in Birmingham’s vibrant Centenary Square during the magical winter season.
Lock 1, Farmers Bridge Locks
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Historic flight of 13 canal locks showcasing Birmingham’s industrial heritage and vibrant urban waterways.
Library of Birmingham
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Discover the Library of Birmingham: a modern architectural gem with vast collections, rooftop gardens, and vibrant cultural spaces in the city’s heart.
The Secret Garden
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Discover a peaceful rooftop oasis with stunning city views atop Birmingham’s iconic Library of Birmingham.
LEGOLAND Discovery Centre & LEGO Store Birmingham
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An indoor LEGO playground in Birmingham with rides, Miniland, 4D cinema, and endless building fun for children aged 3–10 and their families.
Lock 3, Farmers Bridge Locks
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Discover the historic Lock 3 within Birmingham’s iconic Farmers Bridge Locks, a captivating canal engineering marvel in the city centre.
Hall of Memory
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Essential places to dine
Bank Restaurant Bar & Grill
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Sophisticated grill classics and fresh seafood in a stylish Brindleyplace setting with scenic canal terraces and vibrant atmosphere.
The Coconut Tree Birmingham
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Experience vibrant Sri Lankan street food and unique island Cocotails in a lively, colorful setting at The Coconut Tree Birmingham.
Aria Restaurant
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Glass-roofed fine dining sanctuary serving seasonal British cuisine in Birmingham's city centre.
Bistrot Pierre - Birmingham
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Authentic French bistro on Birmingham's canalside, serving traditional cuisine at accessible prices in a Grade II listed building.
Noel’s Bar and Restaurant
0.5 km
Mediterranean charm meets Birmingham's waterfront—where fresh pasta, charcoal grills, and craft cocktails create unforgettable canalside dining.
Opheem
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Experience Michelin-starred Indian cuisine reimagined with British seasonal flair in Birmingham’s elegant Opheem.
Dishoom Birmingham
0.6 km
A vibrant 1960s Bombay café in central Birmingham, serving bold Indian street food and classics in a theatrical, nostalgic setting with a large outdoor terrace.
The Birmingham Stable
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A lively Birmingham pizza and cider bar with thin-crust sourdough, craft ciders, and a buzzing industrial-chic vibe – perfect for casual dinners and bottomless brunches.
Turtle Bay Birmingham
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Experience vibrant Caribbean flavours, lively reggae vibes, and 2-for-1 cocktails in the heart of Birmingham’s city centre.
Adam's Restaurant
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Michelin-starred modern British fine dining in Birmingham with creative cuisine, elegant Art Deco style, and impeccable service.
La Galleria
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Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Birmingham at La Galleria, where tradition meets generous portions and cozy charm.
The ARK Birmingham
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A vibrant fusion of authentic Indian cuisine and dynamic nightlife in Birmingham’s city center.
Orelle
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Sophisticated French fine dining on the 24th floor with panoramic views across Birmingham’s skyline.
Pasta Di Piazza
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Authentic Italian dining with generous portions and warm service in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter.
Lasan Indian Restaurant & Cocktail Bar
0.8 km
Experience Birmingham’s premier fine dining Indian restaurant blending authentic flavors with modern culinary artistry in the stylish Jewellery Quarter.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Harvey Nichols
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Discover luxury fashion, beauty, and gourmet delights at Harvey Nichols Birmingham, a premier designer department store in The Mailbox.
Fine Jewellery Collections & Bespoke Design Service
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Discover bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where custom gems and fine collections craft heirlooms with personal stories etched in gold.
Miniso
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Bright, affordable design and collectable character goods — a family-friendly stop for pocket-money treats in Grand Central.
SACET
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Ethical elegance awaits at SACET, Birmingham's sustainable jewellery gem in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter—where timeless craft meets modern conscience.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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Discover quirky, affordable Scandinavian gifts and everyday essentials that bring joy and creativity to Birmingham’s city center.
Urban Outfitters
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Discover stylish apparel, unique homewares, and a vibrant shopping vibe at Urban Outfitters Birmingham in the city centre.
Buff Jewellery
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Timeless minimalist jewellery handcrafted in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter—personalised birthstone designs blending sentiment, subtlety, and modern British elegance for everyday sparkle.
Artfull Expression
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Top Jewellery UK
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Quarter Jewellery
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Independent jeweller on Warstone Lane offering commissions, valuations and attentive, workshop‑minded service in the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
Ivy and Rose Gift Shop
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Adamas Antique Jewellery
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Beauty & the Button
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The Works
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Arnett Creations - Unique Quality Jewellery
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Alchemist Brindleyplace
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Slug & Lettuce - Birmingham
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All Bar One Brindleyplace
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Be At One - Brindley Place Birmingham
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Pitcher & Piano Birmingham
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Malt House
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The Botanist Gas Street Basin
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The Distillery
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Boom Battle Bar Birmingham Broad Street
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Aluna
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Gas Street Social
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The Pig & Tail
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Queen's Arms birmingham
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Theatrix Birmingham
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Fox and Chance
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Popworld - Birmingham
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Reflex - Birmingham
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Spin into 80s-00s nostalgia at Reflex Birmingham: revolving dance floor, karaoke booths, neon vibes, and epic sing-alongs on Broad Street's party strip.
Rosies - Birmingham
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Snobs
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King of clubs
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What do you mean
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PAVO Birmingham
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Vibrant African fusion lounge and nightclub in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where bold flavors meet electrifying beats until 4am on weekends.
Tunnel Club Birmingham
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Dive under Birmingham's arches into Tunnel Club's seven-room warehouse wonderland, where house, techno, and hip-hop fuel all-night dances amid pounding bass and vivid lights.
Mango Night Club
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A high‑energy Bristol Street nightclub serving Afrobeats, hip‑hop and R&B for late‑night dancers and party crowds in central Birmingham.
Bambu Nightclub
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101 Night Club
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Unleash your nightlife spirit at 101 Night Club, Birmingham's vibrant center for music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.
Sobar
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Nightingale Club
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Birmingham's legendary LGBTQIA+ superclub: three floors of pulsating beats, go-go glamour, and five decades of unapologetic queer joy in the Gay Village.
Dreams Night club and Shisha
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Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter gem fusing aromatic shisha clouds with thumping club beats until 5am—pure late-night energy on Barr Street.
DIAMOND SPARKLEZ
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Ignite your night in Birmingham's diamond district at this glittering nightclub, where top DJs, stunning lights, and electric crowds create pure nightlife magic.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Family Friendly
- Fun-filled
- Educational
- Relaxing
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
