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Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre

Discover the vibrant marine life of Cardigan Bay through interactive exhibits, dolphin-spotting, and conservation at New Quay’s marine wildlife centre.

4.7

Situated in New Quay, Wales, the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre offers an engaging experience focused on the marine life of Cardigan Bay. Housed in a heritage building overlooking the beach and harbour, the centre features interactive displays, binoculars for wildlife spotting, and educational games about local dolphins, seals, and seabirds. It also serves as a hub for dolphin-survey boat trips, connecting visitors to the bay's rich marine ecosystem.

A brief summary to Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre

  • Patent Slip Building, Glanmor Terrace, New Quay, SA45 9PS, GB
  • +441545560032
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
  • Budget
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the main season from April to November for full access to exhibits and dolphin boat trips.
  • Bring binoculars or use the centre’s roof cameras to spot dolphins and seals in the bay.
  • Book dolphin-survey boat trips in advance as they depend on weather and staffing.
  • Explore the educational Marine Code game to learn how to responsibly observe marine wildlife.
  • Combine your visit with nearby cafes and pubs in New Quay for a full day of coastal exploration.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    Take the local bus service from Aberaeron or Cardigan to New Quay, with a journey time of approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Buses run several times daily but check schedules seasonally as frequency reduces in winter. Walking from the bus stop to the centre is about 10 minutes on paved roads.

  • Car

    Driving to the centre from Aberaeron or Cardigan takes around 20 to 30 minutes via the A487 and local roads. Limited parking is available near the harbour; expect a short walk to the centre. Parking may be busy during peak season, so early arrival is recommended.

  • Walking

    If staying in New Quay, the centre is easily accessible on foot. The walk from the town centre to the Patent Slip Building is about 5 to 10 minutes on mostly flat, paved paths, suitable for most visitors including families and seniors.

Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre

A Hub for Marine Conservation and Education

Nestled in the heart of New Quay, the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre is a beacon for marine wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists alike. Located in the historic Patent Slip Building on Glanmor Terrace, the centre overlooks the picturesque beach and harbour, providing a scenic backdrop to its mission. It operates as part of The Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales and serves as an educational gateway into the diverse marine life inhabiting Cardigan Bay.

Interactive Exhibits and Wildlife Spotting

Visitors can immerse themselves in the marine environment through a range of interactive exhibits designed for all ages. The centre offers binoculars and remotely controlled cameras mounted on the roof, allowing guests to observe dolphins, seals, and seabirds in their natural habitat. The engaging Marine Code game educates visitors on responsible wildlife encounters, promoting awareness and conservation. A dolphin listening station plays recorded clicks and whistles, including stories such as that of Dixie the Dolphin, enriching the sensory experience.

Dolphin-Survey Boat Trips and Research

Beyond the centre, visitors can join guided dolphin-survey boat trips that contribute to ongoing marine research. These excursions, lasting from two to eight hours, provide a unique opportunity to see bottlenose dolphins and other marine mammals up close while supporting data collection efforts. The trips are weather-dependent and scheduled seasonally, typically from spring through autumn, enhancing the connection between visitors and the bay’s vibrant ecosystem.

Community Engagement and Volunteer Spirit

The centre is largely run by dedicated volunteers who bring passion and expertise to the visitor experience. This community involvement fosters a welcoming atmosphere and ensures that the centre remains a lively hub of learning and conservation. Alongside educational displays, the centre features a shop offering dolphin-themed gifts, including organic cotton apparel, supporting sustainable practices.

Seasonal Operation and Visitor Experience

Open from 9 am to 5 pm daily during the main visitor season, the centre’s availability aligns with peak wildlife activity and favourable weather. While the indoor space is compact and can feel warm on sunny days, it remains a popular stop for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and casual visitors. The centre’s location next to the RNLI lifeboat station and close to local cafes and pubs adds to its appeal as a convenient and enriching destination.

Preserving a Unique Marine Environment

Cardigan Bay is a designated Marine Protected Area, and the centre plays a crucial role in raising awareness about this special habitat. Through education, research, and community involvement, the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre helps safeguard the bay’s marine biodiversity for future generations, making it a vital landmark for environmental stewardship in West Wales.

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