SEA LIFE London Aquarium is on the South Bank, inside County Hall beside the London Eye. Its themed displays bring together marine life from sharks and rays to penguins, turtles and jellyfish. Walk through the glass Ocean Tunnel to see creatures moving overhead, then take time with the coral reef tanks and interactive areas. Information around the exhibits adds context for children and adults. It is an indoor stop that works well for families and for a rainy day, though busy periods can make it harder to pause at popular tanks.
A route through the exhibits
The aquarium is inside County Hall on the South Bank, close to the London Eye. Its displays are arranged in themed areas, taking visitors through different marine environments. Coral reef tanks, penguin displays and jellyfish are among the stops, alongside exhibits with sharks, rays and turtles.
Give yourself time to move through the exhibits without rushing. Information beside the displays helps explain the animals, so the visit can be as much about learning as looking. Children also have interactive areas to explore, including a touch tank. The aquarium is a family-oriented attraction, but the range of marine life gives adults plenty to look at too.
The Ocean Tunnel and marine life
The glass Ocean Tunnel is a central highlight: walk through as marine life moves around and above you. Sharks and rays are among the animals visible there, and the tunnel offers a different view from the surrounding tanks. Elsewhere, look out for turtles, seahorses, clownfish and glowing jellyfish displays.
The themed zones include coral reef and rainforest areas, as well as a section focused on penguins. The collection spans animals from different ocean environments, with displays that also introduce native British sea life. The variety means you can move from bright reef fish to larger animals such as sharks and turtles within the same visit.
Planning a visit
Set aside about two to three hours to explore at a relaxed pace. The aquarium can be busy, particularly around popular exhibits, so an off-peak visit gives you more opportunity to stop and look. Advance ticket booking is recommended. The route includes some low overhead areas, which may be awkward if you are taller than 6 feet 4 inches.
The location makes it straightforward to combine the aquarium with other South Bank stops. The London Eye is nearby, and Shrek’s Adventure and the London Dungeon are also in County Hall. If you need regular rest breaks, note that seating is limited in many areas. Lifts are available, and the entrance and restrooms are wheelchair accessible.
FAQ
Where is SEA LIFE London Aquarium?
It is in County Hall on the South Bank, beside the London Eye, at Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7PB.
How long do you need at SEA LIFE London Aquarium?
Allow about two to three hours to explore the exhibits at a relaxed pace.
What can you see at SEA LIFE London Aquarium?
The exhibits include sharks, rays, turtles, penguins, jellyfish, clownfish and seahorses, as well as themed coral reef and rainforest areas.
Is advance booking recommended?
Yes. Booking tickets ahead is recommended.
