Blue Planet Aquarium, Ellesmere Port
Explore Europe’s largest shark collection and a stunning underwater tunnel at Blue Planet Aquarium, a family-friendly aquatic adventure near Chester.
Blue Planet Aquarium in Ellesmere Port near Chester is one of the UK’s premier aquatic attractions, featuring Europe’s largest collection of sharks in a massive 3.8 million litre tank. Visitors can walk through a 71-metre underwater tunnel to see sharks and rays swimming overhead, explore over 100 exhibits with thousands of marine creatures, and enjoy daily dive shows and feeding talks. The aquarium is family-friendly, accessible, and open year-round from 10am to 5pm, closed only on Christmas Day.
A brief summary to Aquarium
- 68 Caughall Rd, Chester, Upton, CH2 1LP, GB
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Book your tickets online in advance to avoid queues and secure entry, especially during weekends and holidays.
- Visit in the morning before noon on weekdays for a quieter, more relaxed experience.
- Don’t miss the daily dive shows and feeding talks in the Aqua Theatre for close-up marine life encounters.
- Consider the shark diving experience if you’re looking for an adventurous and unique activity.
- Explore the outdoor trail and children’s play areas to extend your visit beyond the aquarium exhibits.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Stagecoach X1 bus from Chester or Service 1 from Liverpool to Cheshire Oaks. Buses run regularly with a journey time of approximately 30-45 minutes. From Cheshire Oaks, the aquarium is a short walk. Tickets cost around £5-£8 one way.
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Train and Bus
Travel by train to Ellesmere Port station, about 2 miles from the aquarium. From there, local buses or taxis provide a 10-minute transfer. Train journeys from Chester take about 15 minutes with fares around £5-£7.
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Car
Driving to Blue Planet Aquarium is straightforward via the M53 motorway, junction 10. Onsite parking is available free of charge. Travel time from Chester city centre is approximately 15 minutes. Parking can be busy during peak times.
Aquarium location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Aquarium
A Premier Aquarium Experience in the North West
Blue Planet Aquarium stands out as one of the leading aquatic attractions in the UK, situated in Ellesmere Port near Chester. It houses one of Europe’s largest collections of sharks, displayed in a breathtaking 3.8 million litre tropical tank. The highlight is a 71-metre underwater tunnel that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the underwater world, watching sharks, rays, and other marine life glide overhead. This unique feature offers an unforgettable perspective on marine ecosystems.Diverse Marine Life and Themed Zones
Beyond the sharks, the aquarium boasts over 100 exhibits spread across nine themed zones. Visitors can encounter a wide variety of marine and freshwater species from around the globe, including colourful clownfish, regal tangs, pufferfish, as well as reptiles such as tortoises and snakes. The Venom exhibit adds an adventurous twist, showcasing lionfish, tarantulas, and viper snakes. This diversity ensures an engaging experience for all ages and interests.Interactive and Educational Activities
Blue Planet Aquarium offers daily dive shows and feeding talks held in the Aqua Theatre, a large viewing window that provides close encounters with marine life. These sessions are both entertaining and educational, suitable for families and marine enthusiasts. For the adventurous, the aquarium provides PADI-recognised shark diving experiences, including junior and adult sessions where visitors can learn scuba diving techniques and dive alongside sand tiger sharks.Visitor Facilities and Accessibility
The aquarium is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for families, school groups, and visitors with additional needs. Facilities include onsite parking, proximity to public transport, and amenities such as a gift shop with ocean-themed souvenirs. The venue is open daily from 10am to 5pm, except Christmas Day, with last entry one hour before closing. Its location near Cheshire Oaks Retail & Leisure Park makes it convenient for combining with shopping or dining outings.Planning Your Visit
Visitors are encouraged to book tickets in advance to avoid queues and secure their preferred date, especially during peak times. Mornings before noon and weekday afternoons tend to be quieter, offering a more relaxed experience. Typical visits last around three hours, though families may spend longer exploring the outdoor trail and children’s play areas. Seasonal changes affect closing times, so checking the latest schedule before visiting is advisable.Conservation and Community Engagement
Blue Planet Aquarium is committed to marine conservation and education, aiming to inspire visitors about the importance of aquatic ecosystems. Through its exhibits and programs, it raises awareness about marine biodiversity and the need to protect ocean habitats. The aquarium also hosts school trips and special events, fostering community engagement and learning opportunities for all ages.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Family Friendly
- Fun-filled
- Educational
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
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
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- 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
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
