SEA LIFE London Aquarium
Dive into London’s premier marine world with over 500 species, immersive underwater tunnels, and inspiring conservation efforts at SEA LIFE London Aquarium.
Located in the Riverside Building at County Hall on Westminster Bridge Road, SEA LIFE London Aquarium is the capital’s premier marine attraction. Home to over 500 species and 2 million liters of water, it offers 14 immersive zones including the Ocean Tunnel, Coral Kingdom, and Penguin Point. Visitors can explore diverse marine life from sharks and turtles to jellyfish and tropical fish, alongside educational talks and feeding sessions. Open daily with accessible facilities, it’s a captivating experience for all ages.
A brief summary to SEA LIFE London Aquarium
- Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, London, SE1 7PB, GB
- +442079678025
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 11 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book tickets online in advance to save money and secure your preferred entry time, especially during peak seasons.
- Dress in layers as some aquarium zones are warm while others, like the penguin area, are cooler.
- Visit during weekdays or early hours to avoid crowds and enjoy clearer views of exhibits.
- Take advantage of combined tickets with nearby attractions such as the London Eye for a full day of sightseeing.
- Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult; facilities include lifts and baby-changing rooms on every floor.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground and Rail
Take the London Underground to Waterloo Station, served by the Jubilee, Bakerloo, and Northern lines. From there, it’s a 5-7 minute walk to the aquarium. Travel time from central London stations ranges from 10 to 20 minutes. Waterloo is well connected and accessible, though expect moderate crowds during peak hours. No additional fare beyond standard Tube pricing.
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Bus
Several bus routes stop near County Hall on Westminster Bridge Road, including routes 211, 77, and 381. Travel times vary between 20 to 40 minutes from central London depending on traffic. Buses operate frequently during the day but may be slower during rush hours. Standard London bus fares apply.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby on the South Bank or near the London Eye, walking to SEA LIFE London Aquarium is a pleasant option. Expect a 10 to 20-minute walk along flat, paved paths suitable for all mobility levels. This route offers scenic views of the Thames and city landmarks.
SEA LIFE London Aquarium location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about SEA LIFE London Aquarium
A Window into the Underwater World
SEA LIFE London Aquarium invites visitors to journey beneath the waves without leaving the heart of London. Situated within the iconic Riverside Building at County Hall, the aquarium houses over 500 species across 14 themed zones spread over three floors. Its Ocean Tunnel is a highlight, allowing you to walk beneath sharks, rays, turtles, and tropical fish swimming overhead, creating an immersive underwater experience. From the vibrant Coral Kingdom, home to the UK’s largest living coral reef, to the playful Gentoo penguins at Penguin Point, the aquarium showcases the diversity of marine life in vivid detail.Exploration and Education Combined
Beyond the spectacular displays, SEA LIFE London Aquarium serves as a vital center for marine conservation and education. Interactive zones like Rockpool Explorer let you touch starfish and crabs, while daily talks and feeding demonstrations deepen your understanding of marine ecosystems and animal welfare. The Rainforest Adventure introduces you to exotic species such as poison dart frogs and dwarf crocodiles, blending tropical biodiversity with aquatic wonders. The aquarium’s commitment to conservation is evident in its efforts to rescue sea animals and restore habitats, inspiring visitors to become ocean guardians.Design and Atmosphere
The aquarium’s design balances immersive naturalistic habitats with modern accessibility. Its glass tunnels and large tanks are thoughtfully arranged to maximize viewing angles while maintaining animal welfare standards. The environment inside varies from warm tropical zones to cooler areas like the penguin enclosure, encouraging visitors to dress in layers. Despite being a bustling urban attraction, the aquarium offers a tranquil and scenic escape where the sounds of water and marine life create a calming ambience.Visitor Experience and Practicalities
A typical visit lasts between one and two hours, allowing time to explore at your own pace. Facilities include lifts and baby-changing rooms on every floor, ensuring accessibility for families and those with mobility needs. Food and drink are not permitted inside to protect the animals and maintain cleanliness. The aquarium is open seven days a week, with varying hours depending on the day, and last entry is generally one hour before closing. Tickets can be booked online, with options for anytime entry and combined tickets with nearby attractions like the London Eye.Location and Connectivity
SEA LIFE London Aquarium’s prime location on London’s South Bank places it next to the London Eye and close to major transport hubs. Waterloo Station is the nearest underground and rail station, just a short walk away, served by multiple lines including the Jubilee, Bakerloo, and Northern. Nearby stations such as Embankment and Lambeth North also provide convenient access. This central setting makes the aquarium an ideal stop for families, tourists, and marine enthusiasts exploring London’s cultural and entertainment offerings.Conservation Legacy and Future Outlook
As one of the UK’s leading marine conservation centers, SEA LIFE London Aquarium plays an active role in protecting ocean life. It supports the SEA LIFE Trust’s global initiatives, including rescue, rehabilitation, and habitat restoration projects. The aquarium continually updates its exhibits and educational programs to reflect the latest scientific knowledge and to engage visitors in sustainability efforts. Whether you’re here to marvel at marine creatures or learn about ocean preservation, SEA LIFE London Aquarium offers a meaningful and memorable experience that connects city life with the wonders of the sea.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
South Bank Lion
0.1 km
Majestic 1837 Coade stone lion guarding Westminster Bridge, symbolizing London’s resilience and rich heritage.
County Hall
0.1 km
Historic Edwardian Baroque landmark on London’s South Bank with iconic river views, cultural venues, and rich civic heritage.
Chindit Memorial
0.4 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the daring Chindit special forces and their leader Major General Orde Wingate’s legacy.
Westminster Hall
0.4 km
Step into Westminster Hall, a majestic medieval masterpiece that has witnessed a millennium of British history, law, and monarchy.
The Cenotaph
0.5 km
Britain’s national war memorial in Whitehall, a solemn tribute to the fallen of the World Wars and later conflicts.
Statue of Oliver Cromwell
0.5 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Oliver Cromwell, standing outside Westminster Hall as a symbol of Britain’s turbulent 17th-century history and contested legacy.
King Charles Street
0.5 km
Explore King Charles Street, a historic London government hub famed for its grand Victorian architecture and pivotal role in British political life.
King Charles Street Arch
0.5 km
A grand 1908 triple-arched gateway in London’s Whitehall, rich in sculptural detail and historical significance.
The Women of World War II
0.5 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring over seven million British women’s vital roles during World War II.
Millicent Garrett Fawcett Statue
0.5 km
Honoring Millicent Garrett Fawcett, the first woman commemorated in Parliament Square, inspiring equality through her iconic statue and legacy.
The Gurkha Soldier Statue
0.5 km
A solemn tribute to the fearless Gurkha soldiers guarding Britain’s legacy on Horse Guards Avenue.
Southbank Centre
0.5 km
Explore London's vibrant cultural hub at Southbank Centre, where art, music, and creativity come alive along the River Thames.
Statue of George V
0.6 km
A dignified white Portland stone statue honoring King George V, standing proudly in Westminster’s historic Old Palace Yard.
Mahatma Gandhi statue
0.6 km
Visit the Mahatma Gandhi statue in Parliament Square, a symbol of peace and non-violence nestled among London's historic landmarks.
Dover House
0.6 km
Historic neoclassical mansion on Whitehall, home to the Scotland Office with a unique rotunda entrance and rich aristocratic past.
Unmissable attractions to see
Shrek's Adventure London
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Step into a magical world of fairy tales and fun with Shrek and friends on London’s South Bank, perfect for families and kids aged 6 to 12.
The London Dungeon
0.1 km
Step into London’s darkest history with live actors, thrilling rides, and immersive storytelling in the heart of the South Bank.
Build-A-Bear Workshop - Westminster Bridge
0.1 km
Create your own cuddly companion in this vibrant, family-friendly toy workshop by the Thames at County Hall.
Memorial wall
0.1 km
A heartfelt 500-metre mural along the Thames commemorating every UK life lost to COVID-19 with over 245,000 hand-painted hearts.
The London Eye Millennium Pier
0.2 km
A modern riverside gateway beside the London Eye, connecting you to iconic London landmarks and vibrant Thames river journeys.
London Eye Ticket Office
0.2 km
Discover London's skyline from the iconic London Eye, an unmissable experience offering breathtaking views of the city's landmarks and vibrant atmosphere.
lastminute.com London Eye
0.2 km
Experience breathtaking 360-degree views of London’s iconic skyline from the towering lastminute.com London Eye on the South Bank.
Westminster Bridge
0.2 km
Experience the historic charm and stunning views from Westminster Bridge, an iconic London landmark linking culture and architecture.
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
0.2 km
Modern luxury and iconic views converge at Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge, your gateway to the heart of London’s South Bank.
The Queen's Walk
0.2 km
Explore The Queen's Walk in London for stunning river views, rich history, and vibrant culture along the iconic Thames River promenade.
Florence Nightingale Museum
0.2 km
Explore the inspiring legacy of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, at this engaging museum in the heart of London’s South Bank.
City Cruises London Westminster Pier
0.3 km
Experience the beauty of London from the water at Westminster Pier, your gateway to unforgettable Thames River adventures.
The Graffiti Tunnel
0.3 km
London’s largest legal graffiti gallery beneath Waterloo Station, where street art thrives in a constantly evolving urban canvas.
Westminster Millennium Pier
0.3 km
Experience London's iconic riverfront from Westminster Millennium Pier, your gateway to historic landmarks and scenic Thames cruises.
Westminster Pier
0.3 km
A vibrant river gateway beside iconic London landmarks, Westminster Pier invites you to explore the Thames and historic city sights from the water.
Essential places to dine
OKAN South Bank
0.1 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
Troia Southbank
0.1 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
The Archduke
0.4 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Ping Pong Southbank
0.5 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
wagamama southbank
0.5 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Strada Southbank
0.5 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
0.6 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Wahaca Southbank
0.7 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
The Garden
0.7 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
0.7 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.7 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
Bustronome London
0.7 km
Dine in luxury aboard a panoramic double-decker bus while touring London’s iconic landmarks with gourmet cuisine and fine wines.
Sapori
0.9 km
Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine with generous portions and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Westminster, London.
Ma La Sichuan
0.9 km
Experience authentic, boldly spiced Sichuan cuisine in the heart of Westminster with vibrant flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Osteria dell'Angolo
0.9 km
Classic Italian flavors and fresh pasta in a warm, elegant Westminster setting with attentive service and a visible kitchen.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Browns of London
0.1 km
Explore Browns of London for unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures in the heart of the city, perfect for memorable souvenirs from your travels.
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
0.2 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
0.3 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Houses of Parliament Shop
0.4 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)
0.4 km
Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
0.5 km
Discover creative gifts, sustainable homewares, and arts-inspired souvenirs on vibrant Mandela Walk, opposite Royal Festival Hall—a stylish treat amid South Bank's cultural heartbeat.
The Giftree London
0.6 km
Discover London's soul in souvenirs, crafts, and conveniences at this Lambeth gem—unique gifts, luggage storage, and local flair await.
Westminster Abbey Shop
0.7 km
Discover exclusive Abbey-inspired gifts and souvenirs that support Westminster Abbey’s heritage and conservation efforts.
Gifts of London
0.7 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Crest of London Ltd
0.8 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Sugar And Style
1.0 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
j-me original design ltd
1.0 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
1.1 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
1.1 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
1.2 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Primo Bar, London
0.2 km
Sophisticated South Bank cocktails and live jazz with Big Ben views—Primo Bar blends daytime lounge ease with electrifying nightly performances in stylish 60s-inspired surrounds.
Le Champagne Bar
0.2 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
All Bar One Waterloo
0.2 km
Sophisticated South Bank bar serving creative cocktails, sharing plates, and wines in a lively spot near Waterloo Station and the London Eye.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
0.2 km
Chic South Bank cocktail haven in County Hall: bottomless brunches, 2-for-1 sips, pub classics, and Thames views for London's liveliest lunches and nights out.
Bar @ 26 Leake Street
0.3 km
Experience London’s vibrant street art and nightlife culture at 26 Leake Street, a unique cocktail bar and event venue in Waterloo’s iconic graffiti tunnels.
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
0.3 km
Discover a hidden 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Waterloo serving expertly crafted cocktails in a seductive, vintage setting.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
0.4 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.4 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
0.5 km
Seasonal cocktails and classics from a cozy mobile bar at Southbank Centre Food Market, where Thames breezes mingle with market buzz and craft libations.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
0.5 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
The Spy Bar
0.7 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Westminster Arms
0.7 km
Historic Westminster pub with parliamentary division bell, Shepherd Neame ales, and cozy alcoves steps from Abbey and Parliament—timeless British charm in political heart.
Old Shades
0.8 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
Gordon's Wine Bar
0.8 km
Step into London's oldest wine bar, where history, candlelight, and award-winning wines create an unforgettable cellar experience.
The Understudy
0.8 km
Riverside craft beers, KERB street food, and Thames views at the National Theatre's lively bar – perfect for pre-show bites or late-night hangs on London's South Bank.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cirque Du Soul
0.2 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
0.2 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
0.3 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Heaven
0.8 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
Proud Late
0.9 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
TSQ Club
1.0 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.2 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Tiger Tiger London
1.3 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.3 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
The Penthouse London
1.3 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Luxe Club
1.3 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Café de Paris
1.3 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
The Scotch of St James
1.4 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
The Ivy Club
1.4 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
1.4 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Family Friendly
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
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
