Are all areas of the attraction accessible by wheelchair?

Yes, all areas are wheelchair accessible. Some alternative routes may have more difficult terrain rather than our main routes. However, all key areas of the site are accessible.

Can wheelchairs be rented? If so, what is the cost?

Yes, wheelchairs can be rented. The cost is £1 per rental. We have one manual wheelchair available for guest use. There is no charge for this, and it is given on a first-come, first-served basis.

Do you offer special assistance for visitors in the wheelchair?

Yes, special assistance is available.

Is Cornish Seal Sanctuary wheelchair friendly?

Yes, Cornish Seal Sanctuary is wheelchair friendly and has accessible toilets. Some alternative routes may have more difficult terrain rather than our main routes. However, all key areas of the site are accessible.

Is Cornish Seal Sanctuary baby friendly?

Yes, there are baby changing facilities.

Are all areas of the attraction accessible with a pushchair?

Yes, all areas are pushchair friendly.

Is there a restroom for mothers that are breastfeeding?

No, there are no breastfeeding rooms available.

Yes, Cornish Seal Sanctuary is dog friendly

Is there food and drink available to buy?

Yes there is dining and snack options.

Can visitors bring their own food?

Yes, guest are allowed to bring their own food There are baby food facilities available.

How much does food and drink typically cost for a family of 4?

For a typical family of 4, food and drink costs around £27.

How far is the parking from the attraction?

There is on-site parking available

Can parking spaces be pre-booked or reserved?

No, parking can not be pre-booked or reserved.

Are there accessible spaces for visitors with disabilities?

Yes, there are accessible spaces for visitors with disabilities. Accessible spaces are located outside the front entrance. Please ask at reception if you require and help or assistance.

Does your attraction offer private hire, for parties or events?

No, there is no private hire at Cornish Seal Sanctuary.

How frequent is public transport to the attraction?

There are public transport links but checking the bus timetable is recommended.

Do visitors need to pre-book time slots or tickets to get into the attraction?

Yes, Cornish Seal Sanctuary had stated that you will need to pre-book. Book onlne 2 days in advance to receive 20% off standard ticket price

Do you offer Blue Light discount?

We offer 50% off on the door for up to two people.

Do you offer concessions for carers.

We offer a free carer ticket for anyone purchasing a ticket with a disability; proof is required.

Can I use a discount voucher online?

Unfortunately, vouchers are currently only valid for use on the door.

Do I have to pre-book?

No, you no longer need to pre-book a timeslot to visit us. If you already have tickets, discount vouchers or want to be flexible with your arrival time, then you can simply turn up at the Sanctuary.

I already have a 12-month ticket. Can I use it?

Yes, just turn up at the Sanctuary with your signed tickets and you will be able to gain entry.

Is the retail shop open?

Yes, our retail shop will be open every day.

Are there toilets available?

Yes, there are toilets available to the public.

Are there baby changing facilities available?

Yes, there are baby changing facilities available

Are there accessible toilets?

Yes, there are accessible toilets available Next to the visitor toilets, no key required.

Cornish Seal Sanctuary | Day Out With The Kids

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

Regular 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

General Admission

Child (3-16) : £19.99
Adult (17-18+) : £22.99
Babies and Toddlers (0-3) : Free

General Admission
Adults: £22.99
Kids (3-15): £19.99
Under 3's: Free
Seniors: £21.99

Book in advance for cheapest tickets

Find other attractions similar to Cornish Seal Sanctuary by visiting our attraction tickets section.

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.

Parking

: Yes, there is parking.
: No, there is no parking fees.
: There is on-site parking available
: No, parking can not be pre-booked or reserved.
: Yes, there are accessible spaces for visitors with disabilities.
Accessible spaces are located outside the front entrance. Please ask at reception if you require and help or assistance.

Toilets

: Yes, there are toilets available to the public.
: Yes, there are baby changing facilities available
: Yes, there are accessible toilets available
Next to the visitor toilets, no key required.

Family Friendly Options

: Yes, there are baby changing facilities.
: Yes, all areas are pushchair friendly.
: No, there are no breastfeeding rooms available.
: Yes, Cornish Seal Sanctuary is dog friendly

Food & Drink

: Yes there is dining and snack options.
: Yes, guest are allowed to bring their own food
There are baby food facilities available.
: For a typical family of 4, food and drink costs around £27.

Accessibility Information

: Yes, all areas are wheelchair accessible.
Some alternative routes may have more difficult terrain rather than our main routes. However, all key areas of the site are accessible.
: Yes, wheelchairs can be rented. The cost is £1 per rental.
We have one manual wheelchair available for guest use. There is no charge for this, and it is given on a first-come, first-served basis.
: Yes, special assistance is available.
: Yes, Cornish Seal Sanctuary is wheelchair friendly and has accessible toilets.
Some alternative routes may have more difficult terrain rather than our main routes. However, all key areas of the site are accessible.

Tickets & Bookings

: Yes, Cornish Seal Sanctuary had stated that you will need to pre-book.
Book onlne 2 days in advance to receive 20% off standard ticket price
: We offer 50% off on the door for up to two people.
: We offer a free carer ticket for anyone purchasing a ticket with a disability; proof is required.
: Unfortunately, vouchers are currently only valid for use on the door.
: No, you no longer need to pre-book a timeslot to visit us. If you already have tickets, discount vouchers or want to be flexible with your arrival time, then you can simply turn up at the Sanctuary.
: Yes, just turn up at the Sanctuary with your signed tickets and you will be able to gain entry.
: Yes, our retail shop will be open every day.

Private Hire & Birthday Parties

: No, there is no private hire at Cornish Seal Sanctuary.

Public Transport

: There are public transport links but checking the bus timetable is recommended.
: Gweek

Contact Details

Get Directions

The Seal Sanctuary
Gweek
Helston
Cornwall
TR12 6UG
England

Tel: 01326221361

Visit Website

Transport Information

There is a bus route into Gweek which is a 5-minute walk to the Sanctuary.

Verification & Last Updated

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This attraction has been claimed and verified. All information has been recently checked.

Last Updated: 15:20 28/05/2026

Cornish Seal Sanctuary