Visiting
When are you open?
We’re open everyday including all weekends and bank holidays, except Christmas Day, from 10am.
Closing times vary with the seasons so check our Opening Times page before your visit. Last entry is always one hour before closing.
How long does it take to go around?
Average visit time is around 1hour to 1hour30mins, this will of course depend on your interest in marine life. We have 40 living displays, so by spending just 90seconds at each display your visit will be one hour long.
Tickets are valid for one full day so you are welcome to go around the aquarium as many times as you like. You can also leave the building and come back later if you like!
Do you have a car park?
As a city centre attraction we do not have our own car park, the closest is Millennium Square Care Park. There are lots of other city centre car parks too if you prefer. For full details on getting here and parking facilities please click here.
Do I have to pre-book tickets ahead of time?
We do not require you to pre-book, simply come along anytime when we are open and purchase tickets on arrival. You can also purchase tickets online in advance, tickets are flexible and can be used any one day within 6months from purchase.
Do you have anywhere for luggage?
We do not have any secure locker storage at the Aquarium, however anything that you don’t mind leaving unsecured such as buggies and umbrellas can be left at the entrance to the displays in our foyer area.
What happens if I lose something at the Aquarium?
We have a lost and found behind our ticketing desks so please speak to a member of staff during your visit who can take a look for you. If you have already left you can call to find out if we have it. Our telephone number is 0117 929 8929 and our office is open daily 9am-5:30pm.
Can I take a pushchair around the Aquarium?
The aquarium is fully accessible with ramps throughout and is wide enough for a double pushchair. You are very welcome to take your pushchair around with you or if you prefer, you can leave it at the entrance to the displays in our foyer area.
Can my child use a scooter, balance bike, roller skates or anything else similar around the aquarium?
We do not allow any scooters, bikes, skates (including shoes with wheels) around the aquarium. This is to keep everyone safe during their visit. The flooring is not suitable, ramps may be steep and the vibrations caused by wheels can upset the animals.
Can I bring an animal to the aquarium?
We do not allow any animals into the aquarium, except for assistance dogs. Please arrange alternative care for your pet ahead of your visit.
Online Tickets
If I buy tickets online how long are they valid?
Tickets purchased online are valid for any one day within 6months from the date of purchase.
Do I need to print my e-ticket?
You will receive a confirmation email when you purchase tickets online, simply show this confirmation email via print out or smart phone on arrival to the aquarium for admittance.
What should I do if I haven’t received a confirmation email?
Firstly, check your junk or spam folder but if you cannot find an email confirmation please telephone the aquarium so we can look into this for you. Our telephone number is 0117 929 8929 and our office is open daily 9am-5:30pm.
Disabled Visitors
Is the aquarium accessible?
The aquarium is accessible with disabled toilet facilities and ramps throughout, suitable for wheelchairs and mobility scooters. We allow working assistance dogs into the aquarium. For full details about our accessibility please click here.
Can my carer come in with me?
All disabled visitors pay our usual admission rate. If you require a carer for your visit, we admit one free carer with each paying disabled visitor on a 1:1 ratio. If any visitors require more than one carer, any additional carers can pay our concession rate. Proof of carer status is required (e.g. Carer’s Allowance, Carer Card, letter from GP outlining the need for a registered carer).
Visitors using a wheelchair are entitled to a free carer ticket to support their visit around the Aquarium. For further information on the layout of the building please visit our Accessibility page.
If you can’t find the answer to your query, please contact our friendly team.
Offices are open everyday (except Christmas Day) 9am-5:30pm.
Telephone
0117 929 8929