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SEA LIFE London Aquarium

Discover over 500 marine creatures and immersive underwater worlds at SEA LIFE London Aquarium, a captivating family-friendly attraction on the South Bank.

4.3

Situated in the Riverside Building at County Hall on Westminster Bridge Road, SEA LIFE London Aquarium is a premier indoor attraction showcasing over 500 marine species across 14 immersive themed zones. Visitors can explore captivating exhibits such as the Ocean Tunnel, Seahorse Kingdom, and the UK's largest living coral reef. The aquarium offers engaging experiences including daily talks, feeding sessions, and interactive touch pools, making it ideal for families and marine enthusiasts alike.

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 2.5 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon 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 secure your preferred entry time and avoid queues.
  • Visit on weekdays, especially mornings, for a quieter experience with less crowding.
  • Don’t miss the daily feeding sessions and talks for engaging insights into marine life.
  • Explore the interactive Rockpool Explorer zone where you can touch starfish and crabs.
  • Check out the exclusive adult-only SEA LIFE Lates events for a unique evening experience.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Take the London Underground to Waterloo Station, served by the Jubilee, Bakerloo, and Northern lines. From there, it is a 5 to 10-minute walk to the aquarium located in the County Hall building. Typical travel times from central London are 15 to 30 minutes. Tickets for the Tube cost approximately £2.50 to £5 depending on the zone and time of travel.

  • Bus

    Several bus routes stop near County Hall, including routes 211, 381, and RV1. Bus travel times vary but generally range from 20 to 40 minutes from central London areas. Bus fares are around £1.65 with an Oyster card or contactless payment. Note that buses may be subject to traffic delays during peak hours.

  • Taxi or Rideshare

    A taxi or rideshare from central London locations such as Trafalgar Square or Covent Garden to SEA LIFE London Aquarium typically takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares in the range of £10 to £20. Note that parking near County Hall is limited and expensive, so public transport is recommended.

  • Walking

    If staying nearby on the South Bank or Westminster area, walking to the aquarium is a pleasant option. Walking times range from 10 to 25 minutes depending on your starting point. The route is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for most visitors.

SEA LIFE London Aquarium 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 SEA LIFE London Aquarium

A Dive into London's Underwater World

SEA LIFE London Aquarium invites you to explore the mysteries of the ocean right in the heart of the city. Located within the iconic Riverside Building at County Hall, this expansive aquarium is home to more than 500 species spread across 14 themed zones. From the mesmerizing Ocean Tunnel, where sharks and rays swim overhead, to the colorful Coral Kingdom bustling with clownfish and yellow tangs, the aquarium offers a vivid glimpse into marine biodiversity. Visitors can encounter gentle green sea turtles, playful penguins, and exotic rainforest creatures like poison dart frogs and piranhas.

Immersive Zones and Interactive Experiences

The aquarium’s design encourages discovery and interaction. The Rainforest Adventure immerses guests in a tropical environment, while the Rockpool Explorer provides hands-on experiences with starfish, crabs, and anemones in shallow pools. The Shark Walk is a thrilling highlight, allowing visitors to walk over a transparent tunnel with sharks swimming beneath. Daily talks and live feeding demonstrations bring the creatures to life, offering educational insights into their behaviors and conservation needs.

Conservation and Education at the Core

Beyond entertainment, SEA LIFE London Aquarium is deeply committed to marine conservation. It supports rescue efforts, habitat restoration, and public education to inspire ocean stewardship. The aquarium’s initiatives aim to protect vulnerable species and raise awareness about the challenges facing marine ecosystems worldwide. Visitors can learn about these efforts through informative displays and special events.

Setting and Atmosphere

Housed in a historic riverside building adjacent to the London Eye, the aquarium benefits from a striking location on the South Bank of the Thames. Its indoor environment ensures a comfortable visit regardless of weather, with thoughtfully designed spaces that blend modern and naturalistic aesthetics. The atmosphere is lively yet relaxing, suitable for families, solo travelers, and groups seeking a unique urban nature experience.

Visitor Experience and Practical Details

Most visitors spend between one and two hours exploring the aquarium, though enthusiasts may linger longer to absorb every detail. The venue is accessible, with facilities catering to diverse needs. It operates daily with varying opening hours, typically from 10am to 5pm, and last entry is an hour before closing. Tickets can be booked online, offering options for flexible entry times. The aquarium also hosts exclusive adult-only evening events, providing a different ambiance and the chance to connect with marine life after hours.

Nearby Attractions and Connectivity

SEA LIFE London Aquarium’s prime location near Waterloo Station makes it easily reachable by public transport. Its proximity to landmarks like the London Eye and the South Bank cultural district means visitors can combine their visit with other iconic London experiences. This integration enhances its appeal as a key stop on any London itinerary, blending education, entertainment, and urban exploration.

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