Ready to take the plunge? Read our round-up of accessible aquariums and enjoy a great day out
National Marine Aquarium, Plymouth
The UK’s largest aquarium, The National Marine Aquarium is home to a colossal variety of fish and other marine species.
The Atlantic Ocean display tank is the largest single marine exhibit in the country. Over 2.5 million litres of water provide a home for a diverse community of rays, sharks and colourful reef fish, representing the ecosystems of the world’s second largest ocean.
A great deal of consideration has gone into making the aquarium fully accessible.
On arrival, disabled drivers have three allocated parking spaces. Manual wheelchairs are available free of charge. The aquarium is fully serviced by ramps or lifts, corridors are wide and there are rest areas throughout the attraction. Disabled toilets are found about one-third of the way around the exhibit.
“The aquarium welcomes in excess of 300,000 visitors each year,” highlights a spokesperson. “Many of these visitors have special requirements for access. All of our staff are happy to help you in any way they can and to provide the best service for you to have an enjoyable experience.”
Visit www.national-aquarium.co.uk or tel 0844 893 7938.
Deep Sea World, Fife
A 40-minute drive from Edinburgh, Deep Sea World has the longest underwater moving walkway in Europe – what a way to experience the aquarium’s fascinating sea creatures. As well as an impressive collection of Tiger Sharks, Deep Sea World is home to piranhas, seals, and stingrays, amphibians and an array of tropical fish.
Parking is no problem thanks to disabled parking spaces. The entire space is wheelchair and mobility scooter friendly with ramps throughout the aquarium. And there are accessible toilets too.
Visit www.deepseaworld.com or tel 01383 411880.
Anglesey Sea Zoo, Wales
Anglesey Sea Zoo focuses on the best of British marine wildlife. Fascinating creatures from around the coasts of the UK can be viewed in 40 tanks, from octopus, lobsters and seahorses to conger eels and jellyfish.
Four dedicated car parking spaces for wheelchair users and blue badge holders are available, and are only 10 metres from the entrance. Self-propelling wheelchairs are available to borrow. The only steps inside the aquarium exhibition space are those to access the pier tank from above, which can also be seen from a different angle below.
Full staff assistance is given to all visitors who may require it. And the gift shop is fully wheelchair accessible too. Tables in the Rockpool Café may be reserved in advance, and staff are happy to bring trays to tables if requested.
Visit www.angleseyseazoo.co.uk or tel 01248 430411.
Blue Planet Aquarium, Chester
The largest aquarium in the North West, visitors can get up close to one the UK’s largest collection of sharks thanks to a 71-metre underwater tunnel. Shark dives are on offer too if you’re feeling brave!
The Blue Planet Aquarium is designed with access for everyone in mind. Recognised by The Rough Guide to Accessible Britain as the UK’s Finest Aquarium, facilities include dedicated accessible parking, lift access to each floor and ramps throughout the attraction. Accessible toilets are found throughout the building and wheelchairs are available to hire.
Visit www.blueplanetaquarium.com or tel 0151 357 8804.
Sea Life, Brighton
Sea Life Brighton is the world’s oldest operating aquarium and is home to over 1,500 ocean inhabitants. There are six zones in total, feeding experiences and even a glass-bottom boat.
Whilst one area does not have full access, the rest of the space is gloriously accessible and there are step-free access to the restaurant too. There is, of course, a disabled toilet… and staff have disability training.
Visit www.visitsealife.com/brighton
Like what you see? Check our our reviews of accessible restaurants.
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