St Andrews Aquarium
Discover a captivating underwater world and more at St Andrews Aquarium, perched on scenic cliffs with daily interactive animal experiences.
A Coastal Gem with Stunning Views
Perched on the north-facing cliffs of St Andrews, the aquarium boasts spectacular views of the famous West Sands and St Andrews Bay, setting a breathtaking backdrop for your visit. The Victorian-era building, rich with character, houses a diverse collection of aquatic and terrestrial creatures, making it a unique blend of natural beauty and wildlife wonder.Diverse and Fascinating Animal Collection
Inside, you’ll encounter an impressive variety of over 120 species. From native British sharks and rays to exotic tropical fish like lionfish and piranhas, the aquarium showcases both familiar and rare aquatic life. Beyond the water, meet charming meerkats, playful penguins, intriguing reptiles, and even spiders and frogs, each adding to the rich tapestry of animal life on display.Engaging Daily Demonstrations
The aquarium brings its inhabitants to life through interactive feeding sessions and talks. Highlights include shark and ray presentations at noon and 3pm, meerkat feedings at 12:20pm and 3:20pm, and the popular penguin feeding at 2pm. These sessions offer fascinating insights into animal behavior and conservation efforts, enhancing the educational experience.Family-Friendly and Educational Atmosphere
St Andrews Aquarium is a family-run venue that emphasizes animal welfare and environmental education. It offers a welcoming environment for visitors of all ages, with special feeding experiences available for those over eight years old. The aquarium also features a marine-themed gift shop and a café serving snacks and light meals, making it easy to spend a full, enjoyable day here.Accessibility and Visitor Information
While the Victorian building presents some accessibility challenges, the aquarium strives to accommodate all visitors and welcomes registered assistance dogs. Nearby parking is available, and the aquarium is open year-round except for a few holiday closures. Tickets are reasonably priced, with family and annual passes available, ensuring great value for a memorable outing.Commitment to Conservation and Community
Beyond entertainment, the aquarium is dedicated to conservation and education, inspiring visitors to appreciate and protect marine and terrestrial wildlife. Its location and diverse exhibits make it a vital cultural and natural attraction within St Andrews, blending local heritage with global biodiversity.Local tips
- Plan your visit around the daily feeding talks—sharks and rays at 12pm and 3pm, meerkats at 12:20pm and 3:20pm, and penguins at 2pm for the best interactive experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the Victorian building has some stairs and limited wheelchair accessibility.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the nearby West Sands beach for stunning coastal views.
- Take advantage of the marine-themed gift shop for unique souvenirs and educational toys.
- Consider booking a feeding experience if you are over eight years old for a hands-on opportunity to help feed seals, penguins, or meerkats.
A brief summary to St Andrews Aquarium
- The Scores, St Andrews, KY16 9AS, GB
- +441334474786
- Visit website
- 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
Getting There
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Bus
Local Stagecoach buses connect St Andrews town center with nearby areas, with stops within 10 minutes walking distance from the aquarium. Services run frequently during the day, with single fares around £2-£4. Check schedules in advance as frequency reduces in evenings and weekends.
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Car
Driving to St Andrews Aquarium is straightforward with nearby parking at Bruce Embankment car park, about 100 yards away. Seasonal parking charges apply from April to September, typically £1.50 to £3 per hour. Expect busy conditions during peak tourist season.
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Taxi
Local taxi services can provide direct transport to the aquarium from St Andrews town center or train stations, with typical fares ranging from £5 to £10 depending on distance and time of day.
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Walking
If staying in central St Andrews, the aquarium is accessible by a 15 to 20-minute walk along scenic streets and coastal paths. The route includes some cobblestone sections and gentle slopes, suitable for most walkers but not wheelchair accessible.
