Cornish Seal Sanctuary
Helston, Cornwall
About Cornish Seal Sanctuary
Nestled along the serene banks of the Helford River, the SEA LIFE TRUST Cornish Seal Sanctuary is Cornwall’s only seal rescue centre and a true haven for marine life. As a charity dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of seal pups, the Sanctuary plays a vital role in protecting these vulnerable creatures along the Cornish coastline. Each season, from September to March, the Sanctuary cares for over 70 seal pups in need, addressing issues ranging from malnourishment and infections to separation from their mothers.
A visit to the Cornish Seal Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and witness the remarkable stories of survival and care. The Sanctuary’s Animal Care Team shares captivating accounts of rescues, bringing the individual tales of their seals to life. Each rescued seal has its own unique story, and visitors can learn about their journey from rescue to recovery and, for many, their eventual release back into the wild.
Those that unfortunately cannot be released into the wild, due to lifelong medical conditions or injuries that prevent them from thriving in their natural habitat, are given a permanent home here with us. These residents become cherished ambassadors for their species, helping to educate visitors about the importance of conservation and the threats faced by marine wildlife. The Sanctuary provides them with a safe and nurturing environment, ensuring they live out their lives with the best possible care.
The Sanctuary isn’t just about seals, we are also home to rescued Icelandic puffins from our sister Beluga Whale Sanctuary, providing people with the unique experience to see these incredible little birds up close! It’s also a place where all ages can enjoy a variety of experiences, from educational talks to interactive activities. Children will delight in the pirate play area, quiz trail, and year-round special events. Regular talks by the Entertainments Team provide fascinating insights into the lives of the seals and other resident animals, offering a chance for visitors to ask questions and deepen their understanding of marine conservation.
For those seeking relaxation, the Café is the perfect spot to unwind with a coffee while enjoying views of the Helford River. The Sanctuary’s picturesque woodland walk provides a peaceful retreat, inviting visitors to explore nature’s beauty. Along the way, you can meet some of the Sanctuary’s other residents, including beavers, goats, and rare breed sheep.
As a SEA LIFE TRUST charity, the Cornish Seal Sanctuary relies on public support to continue its vital work. Every visit contributes to their mission of protecting marine life and raising awareness about the challenges facing seals and their habitats. Visitors leave not only with unforgettable memories but also with a deeper appreciation for the importance of conservation efforts.
Whether you’re a family seeking adventure, a nature enthusiast, or someone looking to make a meaningful impact, the Cornish Seal Sanctuary offers something for everyone. With its blend of education, fun, and conservation, it’s a destination that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit. Come and make new friends today at this extraordinary sanctuary, where every visit helps to ensure a brighter future for seals and marine life in Cornwall and beyond.
We have been established for nearly 50 years!
Gweek in Cornwall has been the home to The Seal Sanctuary for nearly fifty years.
Our mission is to rescue and provide expert care for sick, injured, or distressed seals and other marine animals in need of help who are found around our shores. After rehabilitation, we release them back into their natural environment once they are back to full health. Each year, we rehabilitate over 70 grey seal pups from local coastal waters and bring them into our specialist Seal Hospital.
Alongside our resident seals, we have just welcomed ten Icelandic rescue Puffins from our sister Beluga Whale Sanctuary in Iceland. We are the only place in the UK where you can see rescue puffins up close. Join us at Puffin Island to enjoy watching these characterful birds and hear their rescue stories.
Onsite Helford View Cafe
Take a break at our on-site café with views across the Helford River! Enjoy hot and cold drinks, delicious cakes, and sandwiches. Treat yourself to freshly baked Cornish pasties and warm sausage rolls, perfect for any appetite. Whether you're recharging during your visit or grabbing a quick bite, our café has something for everyone!
Kid's playground
Ahoy, young adventurers! Jump aboard the pirate ship and set sail with your shipmates in our exciting Discovery Cove Playground. Perfect for keeping little ones entertained while you enjoy a coffee, this fun-filled play area blends education and adventure, allowing kids to explore, learn, and play all at once. Endless fun awaits!
Facilities
Toilets
Free Wifi
Gift Shop
Onsite Parking
Accessible Toilets
Baby Changing
Food Available
Wheelchair Friendly
Dog Friendly
Pushchair Friendly
Card Payments Accepted
Wheelchair Hire
Opening Times
- Monday, 11:00 - 16:00
- Tuesday, 11:00 - 16:00
- Wednesday, 11:00 - 16:00
- Thursday, 11:00 - 16:00
- Friday, 11:00 - 16:00
- Saturday, 11:00 - 16:00
- Sunday, 11:00 - 16:00
See the website for seasonal opening times.
Pricing & Tickets
- Child (3-16) : £19.99
- Adult (17-18+) : £22.99
- Babies and Toddlers (0-3) : Free
General AdmissionAdults: £22.99Kids (3-15): £19.99Under 3's: FreeSeniors: £21.99
Book in advance for cheapest tickets
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Plan Your Visit
Typical visit time 3 - 4 hours
Suitable for Kids and Adults too
Food & Drink Options
We offer a range of pasties, sausage rolls and sandwiches which vary seasonally. We always have vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options available. We also offer a range of hot and cold drinks plus snacks, including savoury and sweet options.
Our hot drink prices start from £2.75, we offer hot food from £3.75 and sandwich options from £2.50.
FAQs
Parking
Toilets
Family Friendly Options
Food & Drink
Accessibility Information
Tickets & Bookings
Private Hire & Birthday Parties
Public Transport
Contact Details
Transport Information
There is a bus route into Gweek which is a 5-minute walk to the Sanctuary.
Verification & Last Updated
Verified Status:
This attraction has been claimed and verified. All information has been recently checked.
Last Updated: 15:20 28/05/2026
Cornish Seal Sanctuary Reviews
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