Blue Planet Aquarium: A Premier Underwater Adventure in Ellesmere Port
Explore Europe’s largest shark collection and immersive underwater tunnels at Blue Planet Aquarium, a thrilling marine adventure for all ages.
Blue Planet Aquarium in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, is one of the UK’s largest aquariums, featuring Europe’s biggest collection of sharks and a spectacular 71-meter underwater tunnel. Open daily from 10am to 5pm, it offers immersive marine exhibits, interactive talks, feeding demonstrations, and unique diving experiences. Families and marine enthusiasts alike can explore over 100 exhibits showcasing thousands of aquatic animals, reptiles, and insects in an engaging and educational environment.
A brief summary to Blue Planet Aquarium
- Longlooms Rd, Ellesmere Port, CH65 9LF, GB
- +441513578804
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning on weekdays to enjoy fewer crowds and a calmer atmosphere.
- Book tickets online in advance to skip queues and secure your preferred entry time.
- Don’t miss the scheduled animal talks and feeding demonstrations for a more engaging visit.
- Consider the shark dive experience for a unique underwater adventure with expert guides.
- Explore the outdoor play area and see the pelicans for a break from indoor exhibits.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving to Blue Planet Aquarium from central Chester takes approximately 20-30 minutes via the M53 motorway. Parking is available on-site but can fill up during peak times. Parking fees typically range from £5 to £10 per day.
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Train and Bus
Take a train to Ellesmere Port station, around 2 miles from the aquarium. From there, regular bus services connect to the aquarium area in about 10-15 minutes. Train fares from Chester start at £5 return, and bus fares are approximately £2-£3.
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Bus
Stagecoach X1 bus from Chester or Service 1 from Liverpool run regularly to Cheshire Oaks near the aquarium. The journey takes 30-50 minutes depending on the starting point. Tickets cost around £4-£6.
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Taxi
Taxis are available from Ellesmere Port train station or nearby towns, with fares typically ranging from £8 to £15 depending on distance and time of day.
Blue Planet Aquarium location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Blue Planet Aquarium
Immersive Marine World and Iconic Shark Tunnel
Blue Planet Aquarium boasts one of Europe’s largest collections of sharks housed within a massive 3.8 million litre Ocean Tank. The centerpiece is a breathtaking 71-meter underwater tunnel that allows visitors to walk through and observe sharks, rays, and other marine life swimming overhead and around them. This immersive experience offers a rare close-up perspective of the ocean’s predators in a safe, controlled environment.Diverse Exhibits and Interactive Experiences
Beyond sharks, the aquarium features over 100 exhibits with thousands of animals from around the globe, including clownfish, regal tangs, seahorses, poisonous frogs, venomous spiders, snakes, and playful otters. Scheduled talks and feeding demonstrations add an educational layer, with divers entering tanks to showcase animal behaviors and feeding routines. Visitors can also explore the venom section for a thrilling encounter with some of the world’s most dangerous creatures.Family-Friendly Atmosphere and Outdoor Play
Designed with families in mind, Blue Planet Aquarium offers an outdoor play area that complements the indoor exhibits. Children can enjoy interactive zones and see pelicans in a naturalistic setting. The aquarium’s layout and facilities are accessible and welcoming to all ages, making it a perfect day out for families, school groups, and marine enthusiasts.Unique Diving Opportunities
For adventurous visitors, Blue Planet Aquarium operates as a PADI Dive Centre, offering shark dive experiences for both adults and juniors. These cage-free dives in the Ocean Tank provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim alongside sand tiger sharks, nurse sharks, and other species under expert supervision, catering to beginners and experienced divers alike.Location, Accessibility, and Visitor Amenities
Situated at Cheshire Oaks, just off Junction 10 of the M53 motorway, the aquarium is easily accessible by car and public transport. The nearby Ellesmere Port train station and regular bus services connect visitors conveniently. On-site amenities include a café, seating areas, restrooms, and information boards. The aquarium is open daily from 10am to 5pm year-round, except Christmas Day, with last entry one hour before closing.Conservation and Educational Commitment
Blue Planet Aquarium is dedicated to marine conservation and education, offering engaging programs that raise awareness about aquatic ecosystems and species preservation. Through interactive exhibits and talks, visitors gain insight into the importance of protecting our oceans and the diverse life they support.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bridge Of Sighs
7.6 km
A haunting 1793 stone bridge where condemned prisoners took their final steps before execution—Chester's most poignant historical crossing.
Pemberton's Parlour
7.7 km
Explore Pemberton's Parlour, a striking red sandstone tower on Chester’s historic city walls, revealing centuries of medieval and Victorian heritage.
Bonewaldesthorne's Tower
7.8 km
Medieval gatehouse controlling Chester's western defenses, standing sentinel on Britain's most complete city walls.
Ancient Roman Columns, Chester
7.8 km
Roman column bases marking Chester's legacy as a major legionary fortress and potential capital of Britannia.
Chester Town Hall
7.8 km
A stunning Victorian Gothic Revival landmark, Chester Town Hall is the historic heart of Chester’s civic and cultural life.
Chester Visitor Information Centre
7.8 km
Explore Chester's rich history and vibrant culture at the Visitor Information Centre, your essential resource for navigating this historic city.
Chester War Memorial
7.8 km
A solemn neo-medieval tribute to fallen soldiers, unveiled in 1922 within Chester Cathedral's historic grounds.
Uffington House, Chester
7.9 km
Victorian literary landmark where author Thomas Hughes built his Chester residence in 1885.
Eastgate Clock
7.9 km
A Victorian clock atop a Roman gateway, Eastgate Clock is Chester’s most iconic meeting point and one of England’s most photographed timepieces.
Crypt Chambers
8.0 km
Medieval crypt meets Victorian Gothic Revival in Chester's most architecturally significant commercial building.
Chester Cross
8.0 km
Medieval heart of Chester where Roman streets meet Tudor architecture and civic tradition.
Roman South East Corner Tower
8.1 km
Explore the enduring Roman South East Corner Tower, a sentinel of Chester’s ancient fortress and a testament to Roman military engineering.
Sick To Death
8.2 km
Discover the intriguing world of medicine, death, and history at Sick To Death Museum in Chester, a unique tourist attraction rich in captivating exhibits.
Chester Roman Gardens
8.2 km
Discover the enchanting Chester Roman Gardens, where history and nature unite in a picturesque park setting in the heart of Chester.
The Nine Houses
8.2 km
Explore Chester's historical gem, The Nine Houses, showcasing exquisite architecture and deep-rooted heritage in the heart of the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Coliseum Shopping Park
0.3 km
A bustling retail and leisure hub in Ellesmere Port offering diverse shopping, dining, and family-friendly amenities with excellent accessibility.
Designer Outlet Cheshire Oaks
0.5 km
The UK’s largest designer outlet with over 140 stores, festive events, and dining in a lively, family-friendly setting.
Chester Attractions Partnership
2.8 km
Your welcoming gateway to Chester’s history, tours, and local insights, located in the iconic Town Hall.
National Waterways Museum Ellesmere Port
2.9 km
Explore Britain’s rich canal heritage through historic boats, interactive exhibits, and scenic docklands at Ellesmere Port’s National Waterways Museum.
Lions
3.7 km
Explore Chester Zoo's vast wildlife sanctuary, home to thousands of animals and immersive habitats, blending conservation with unforgettable family adventures.
Spirit of the Jaguar
3.7 km
Explore one of the world’s finest jaguar habitats in a lush South American-themed exhibit at Chester Zoo, home to elusive big cats and fascinating rainforest species.
Tropical Realm
3.8 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant warmth and exotic wildlife of Chester Zoo’s Tropical Realm, a lush indoor rainforest habitat.
Butterflies journey
3.8 km
Step into a vibrant tropical paradise at Chester Zoo’s Butterfly Journey, home to over 30 species of free-flying butterflies and lush exotic plants.
Aquarium
3.9 km
Explore Europe’s largest shark collection and a stunning underwater tunnel at Blue Planet Aquarium, a family-friendly aquatic adventure near Chester.
Elephant Statue
3.9 km
A charming bronze baby elephant statue gifted by Chester Zoo, nestled in the historic streets of Chester – a delightful photo stop for all ages.
Camels
3.9 km
Encounter majestic desert dwellers at the UK's premier conservation zoo
Flamingos
4.0 km
Discover the stunning Caribbean flamingos and witness rare chick hatchings at Chester Zoo’s vibrant and lively flamingo habitat.
Giant Otter
4.0 km
Discover the captivating Giant Otters of Chester in a serene, naturalistic setting perfect for wildlife lovers and families alike.
Chester Zoo
4.0 km
Explore the UK's largest zoo, home to 35,000 animals and immersive tropical habitats, championing conservation and unforgettable family adventures.
Andean Bear
4.2 km
Discover the captivating Andean Bear in Chester—a unique wildlife experience highlighting conservation and education.
Essential places to dine
Las Iguanas - Cheshire Oaks
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Latin American flavors and cocktails in a lively, family-friendly setting at Las Iguanas, Cheshire Oaks.
Miller & Carter Cheshire
0.3 km
Savor expertly aged British steaks and vibrant bar dining in the heart of Cheshire Oaks, Ellesmere Port’s premier steakhouse destination.
Mowgli Street Food Cheshire Oaks
0.6 km
Authentic Indian street food bursting with vibrant flavours, served in a welcoming and lively setting at Cheshire Oaks Outlet Village.
The Cheshire Yeoman
5.6 km
A warm, family-run country pub in Ellesmere Port serving traditional British dishes in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Made in Italy
7.0 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Chester’s vibrant dining scene.
Sticky Walnut
7.0 km
Intimate modern European bistro in Chester’s Hoole, famed for seasonal dishes, warm service, and a cozy, refined atmosphere.
The Faulkner Pub, Bar & Restaurant
7.1 km
A vibrant Hoole gastropub blending fresh local cuisine, lively bar vibes, and welcoming community spirit in the heart of Chester.
Pacinos
7.3 km
Family-run Italian and Mediterranean fine dining in Chester's city centre since 1986.
The Bird In Hand
7.3 km
A charming Chester pub blending traditional British fare with creative dishes in a cozy, welcoming village setting.
Chai Station - Vegetarian vegan Indian
7.4 km
Authentic vegetarian and vegan Indian flavors in Chester’s cozy, welcoming eatery with a personal touch.
Pierogi | Handmade Polish Dumplings
7.4 km
Authentic handmade Polish dumplings in Chester’s cozy Brook Street eatery, blending tradition with fresh, comforting flavors.
Porta Wine & Tapas Bar
7.6 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Chester’s historic district.
Green House
7.6 km
A stylish Chester tapas restaurant blending gourmet small plates, inventive cocktails, and warm hospitality in a modern setting.
Bollicini
7.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine and stylish Milanese-inspired dining in the heart of Chester’s historic city centre.
Siam Thai & Teppan-Yaki
7.6 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and captivating Japanese teppanyaki performances in Chester’s vibrant canal-side restaurant.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Port Arcades Shopping Centre
1.9 km
A central shopping hub in Ellesmere Port offering diverse stores and a traditional market in a covered, accessible setting.
mirror mirror boutique
6.5 km
Find your unique style at Mirror Mirror Boutique, Chester's premier clothing shop offering trendy apparel and personalized fashion advice.
Olivia & Smith
7.0 km
Discover bespoke jewellery, stylish handbags, and unique gifts at Olivia & Smith, Chester’s charming boutique for quality and personalized service.
erj Boutique & Lifestyle
7.0 km
Discover curated womenswear, footwear, jewellery, and homeware in Chester’s vibrant Hoole at erj Boutique & Lifestyle.
Lagenlook Clothing Boutique - Pale Grey Boutique
7.2 km
Explore unique Lagenlook fashion at Chester's Pale Grey Boutique, where style and elegance meet individuality in every layer.
The 2nd Floor Independent Shop
7.5 km
Discover quirky, unique fashion and gifts with friendly service in Chester’s charming independent boutique on Upper Northgate Street.
Queens Road Shopping Centre
7.6 km
Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Queens Road Shopping Centre in Chester, where retail therapy meets local charm.
CH.ONE
7.7 km
Discover quirky, stylish bargains at CH.ONE, a unique ladies' clothing boutique in the heart of Chester's vibrant Northgate Street.
Chester Zoo at The Market
7.8 km
Discover unique wildlife gifts and support global conservation at Chester Zoo’s vibrant market stall in the heart of Chester.
The Crystal Hut New Chester Market
7.8 km
Discover the vibrant world of healing crystals and spiritual gifts at The Crystal Hut, Chester’s colorful gem in Exchange Square market.
The Gift Shop
7.8 km
Unique gifts and novelties in the heart of historic Chester's medieval city center.
Lee Louise Chester Ltd
7.9 km
Discover Chester’s oldest timber-framed shop, a vibrant treasure trove of crystals, holistic gifts, and unique fashion in a historic 1571 building.
Lily Vintage Boutique
7.9 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage fashion at Lily Vintage Boutique in Chester’s historic St Werburgh Street.
Foxy Frox Boutique
7.9 km
A stylish women’s clothing boutique in Chester’s historic center, offering contemporary fashion with a personal touch and a relaxed, independent vibe.
The Mug Doctor
7.9 km
Chester's specialist mug retailer offering personalized drinkware and quirky gift finds.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Under the oak bar
0.3 km
Cozy bar retreat in Ellesmere Port’s Cheshire Oaks, blending local ales, live music, and a friendly atmosphere for shoppers and visitors alike.
The Lodge Bar
6.9 km
A cozy Chester bar blending classic pub charm with modern cocktails and fine wines in the vibrant Hoole district.
The Deva Tap
7.3 km
Discover Chester’s quirky craft beer gem with a vibrant atmosphere, diverse brews, and a welcoming beer garden on Brook Street.
The Old Harkers Arms
7.6 km
A cozy canalside pub in Chester blending historic charm, quality ales, and classic British fare in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
The Cornerhouse
7.7 km
A lively Chester bar blending craft beers, live music, and a welcoming vibe for memorable nights and celebrations.
City Tavern
7.8 km
Historic Chester pub blending traditional charm with lively entertainment, great food, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Revolution Chester
7.8 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Chester city centre, perfect for socialising, dining, and celebrations with expertly mixed drinks and vibrant atmosphere.
Music Hall Tap
7.9 km
Chester’s lively craft beer pub with rustic charm, live sports, and a vibrant social scene in the heart of the city.
Metronome Jazz Bar
7.9 km
Chester’s intimate jazz bar with live piano, vinyl classics, and a warm, candlelit atmosphere for a perfect night out.
Brewhouse & Kitchen - Chester
7.9 km
Chester’s vibrant brewpub serving award-winning craft beers, hearty British classics, and a lively community atmosphere on Love Street.
Red Door
8.0 km
Vibrant late-night cocktail bar and restaurant in Chester’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively music.
Watergates Bar
8.0 km
Historic 12th-century crypt pub in Chester city centre, serving classic British fare and real ales in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
Palm Cocktail Bar & Eatery
8.0 km
Chester’s vibrant cocktail bar with expertly crafted drinks, lively atmosphere, and friendly service on historic Watergate Street.
Havana Chester
8.0 km
Lively Cuban-inspired bar and restaurant on Chester’s historic Watergate Street, offering vibrant music, tapas, and creative cocktails.
Prohibition
8.0 km
Step into Chester’s Prohibition for expertly crafted cocktails and a vibrant 1920s speakeasy vibe in a cozy, intimate setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Mandy & Graham’s
6.0 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at Mandy & Graham’s, where pulsating beats and lively crowds create unforgettable party nights.
Rosies - Chester
7.9 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at Rosies, a multiroom club with rooftop terrace, VIP lounges, and cutting-edge sound over three lively floors.
Cruise
8.0 km
A multi-floor nightclub in Chester offering vibrant music, premium drinks, and lively nightlife across seven bars.
Chester City Club
8.0 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at City Club, where modern beats meet historic charm in the heart of St Peters Churchyard.
BONOBO Bar & Canteen
8.1 km
A vibrant two-floor bar and canteen in Chester blending American eats, cocktails, video games, and lively music for a unique nightlife experience.
Ewloe Social and Community Club Ltd
13.7 km
Experience the heart of Deeside at Ewloe Social and Community Club, where fun, games, and community spirit come together.
The Establishment
15.2 km
A vibrant Widnes nightclub offering lively events, friendly staff, and a spacious venue for unforgettable nights out.
Supper Club at Blundell Street
16.3 km
Liverpool's ultimate supper club: fuel up on hearty meals, then dance the night away to drag shows, tributes, and non-stop hits near Echo Arena.
North Wales Celebrations Wedding & Party Disco DJ
16.4 km
Elevate your celebrations with North Wales Celebrations - the premier mobile disco DJ service for unforgettable weddings and parties.
The Blue Angel Nightclub
16.5 km
Liverpool's dingy dive for 60s rock legends, dirt-cheap drinks, and sweaty throwback dances—where The Beatles once rocked and students still rage till dawn.
Cool It
16.6 km
A multi-level, student-friendly nightclub on Seel Street offering loud DJ nights, bargain entry and packed late‑night dancefloors.
Heebie Jeebies
16.7 km
Liverpool's eclectic nightlife heart: multi-level bar, live music basement, courtyard hangs, and anthemic nights until dawn on Seel Street.
EBGBS
16.7 km
Liverpool's gritty basement nightclub where live indie gigs, craft cocktails, and underground vibes fuel epic nights until 4am in the heart of Seel Street.
BrooklynMixer
16.7 km
Liverpool's original R&B haven on Seel Street: three floors of hip-hop beats, craft cocktails, leather lounges, and private party vibes from dusk till dawn.
Pure Nightlounge
16.7 km
Liverpool’s boutique R&B nightspot with VIP booths, tight dancefloor energy and a late-night, fashion-forward vibe.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Family Friendly
- Fun-filled
- Educational
- Lively
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Educational
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly