Attraction Information
Embark on a fascinating journey beneath the waves at SEA LIFE Scarborough. This spectacular aquarium, nestled in the charming seaside town of Scarborough, offers families an unforgettable experience with its rich array of marine life, beautiful creatures and engaging exhibits.
From the mysterious depths of the ocean to the vibrant life in our local waters, SEA LIFE Scarborough provides an educational and exciting day out for all ages!
Are you ready to dive into this aquatic adventure?
Discover the Wonders of the Deep
As you step into SEA LIFE Scarborough, you're transported into a world of aquatic wonder. The centre is home to a variety of incredible creatures, from the graceful rays and jazzy jelly fish to the intriguing octopuses and colourful clown fish, ensuring there's always something to captivate the young and the young at heart.
The aquarium is divided into themed zones, each offering a unique glimpse into different aquatic environments and curious critters.
The breath-taking 200,000l Ocean Tunnel is a fan-favourite attraction, where you can walk beneath a tropical ocean and marvel at the sharks swimming overhead. The journey through different habitats, from the Great Barrier Reef to the Amazon, keeps the adventure fresh and exciting throughout. You can discover a whole host of amazing creatures of the deep and find out all the fascinating facts about them as you explore the incredible beauty of their habitat.
From blacktip reef sharks and adorable rescue seal pups to coral reefs, Asian short-clawed otters and so many more fascinating sea creatures. It's not all about coastal waters here though...if you wander into the Rainforest you can immerse yourself in all things creepy crawlies. And, discover a bright and bold world with poison arrow dart frogs and green tree pythons!
SEA LIFE Centre Scarborough is also home to Yorkshire's only Seal Hospital! Where you can follow the journey of their seal pup patients from rescue to rehabilitation and release. Did you know they rescue over 30 injured seal pups each year?! Make sure to keep an eye out for their resident seals!
Don't forget to venture into the outdoor attraction and meet the resident otters! And say hello to our beautiful feathered friends the Humbolt penguins on Penguin Island. We absolutely love cheeky penguins - we would definitely recommend spending a good amount of time at Penguin Island. It is worth it!
When the British weather has turned sunny, you can head outside for a round of mini-golf... pirate-style! Or take the kids to the Beach Bites Adventure Playground and watch as they explore and navigate through fun obstacles, clamber through tunnels and play with amusement games! It is a wave-tastic outdoor adventure playground.
Interactive Experiences
What sets SEA LIFE Scarborough apart is its focus on interactive experiences. The Rockpool Encounter allows children to touch a starfish or hold a crab, an opportunity that delights and educates simultaneously.
It’s not just about observing; it’s about engaging with the natural world in a hands-on way. And learning more about the life in the ocean depths.
Conservation at Its Heart
Conservation is a key part of the SEA LIFE Centre's ethos. The centre's Breed, Rescue, Protect initiative educates visitors on the importance of marine conservation, offering insights into what they can do to help protect ocean life.
This focus on conservation aligns with the values of many families, providing a meaningful dimension to their visit.
Seasonal Events and Feeding Demonstrations
SEA LIFE Scarborough hosts a variety of seasonal events, daily talks and feeding demonstrations. These events are not only entertaining but also provide valuable learning experiences, allowing children and parents alike to gain deeper insights into the lives of marine creatures!
Accessibility and Facilities
The centre is designed with families in mind. It's fully wheelchair accessible, as well as for pushchairs, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience.
Please note, during peak season, it's advised to leave pushchairs in the car, as it'll get quite congested.
Food & Drink
If all that deep diving into the ocean has left you feeling hungry, we suggest popping over to The Adventurers Cafe for hot or cold food, light refreshments and even ice cream! There are picnic benches to relax on that are also beside the seal pool!
Plus, if you'd like to take the sea home with you, head into the gift shop and browse a selection of sea-themed goodies.
Why We Recommend SEA LIFE Scarborough
SEA LIFE Centre Scarborough is full of charming creatures and amazing exhibits that'll leave you in awe of marine life! There's so much to see and do around the centre and you'll be sure to learn some fascinating facts along the way. The centre is also accessible with disabled parking, disabled toilets, step-free access and sloped access! It is the perfect day out for the whole family! After all, what's better than seeing an Asian short-clawed otter and seals?
On a more serious note, we love how SEA LIFE Scarborough relays important messages throughout the centre to children and adults alike. There's a big emphasis on recycling plastics and taking care of the planet - they have even organised their own beach clean-up!
We'd definitely say the highlight of SEA LIFE Scarborough is the shark tunnel (and the penguins), it's amazing to watch as the sharks gracefully glide over your head! So make sure to add this to your itinerary!
SEA LIFE Centre Scarborough is more than just an aquarium; it's a journey into the heart of our oceans. With its combination of education, conservation, and interactive fun, it's a destination that provides a rich, engaging experience for the entire family. It is a sea-rrific place for some quality family time fun! Whether you're a local or a visitor to Scarborough, a day out at SEA LIFE is a must-do for any family looking for an enriching and enjoyable experience.
- Fascinating Marine Life
- Shark Tunnel
- Gorgeous Seals
- Asian Short-clawed Otters
Yorkshire's Only Seal Hospital
Follow the journey of injured seal pups from rescue, and rehabilitation to release.
Tee Off With Pirate Adventure Mini Golf
When the sun is shining and there's no grey cloud in sight, head outdoors for a fun-filled adventure with pirate-themed mini golf!
Meet Cute Otters
Get up close and personal with the adorable Asian short-clawed otters!
Facilities
- Toilets
- Gift Shop
- Accessible Toilets
- Baby Changing
- Wheelchair Friendly
- Pushchair Friendly
- Card Payments Accepted
Opening Times
- Monday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Tuesday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Wednesday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Thursday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Friday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Saturday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Sunday, 10:00 - 17:00
Please note that opening times can vary, so please check SEA LIFE Scarborough's website.
Pricing & Tickets
- Child (3-14) : £18.00
- Adult (15-18+) : £20.00
Standard Ticket - From £16.00 up to £22.00 per adult
Standard Ticket - From £14.00 up to £18.00 per child (3-14 years old)
Parent & Toddler - £16.00
Anytime Entry Ticket - £25 per adult
Anytime Entry Ticket - £23 per child (3-14 years old)
Under 3's go free
Marine Biologist Experience - £180 per person (11+ years old)
Sharks After Dark - £175 for a family (up to 6 people)
Breakfast With The Seals - £70 per person (£60 with an annual pass)
Please note that pre-booking before your visit is essential.
Book in advance for cheapest tickets
Find other attractions similar to SEA LIFE Scarborough by visiting our attraction tickets section.
Plan Your Visit
Typical visit time 2 - 3 hours
Suitable for Kids and Adults too
FAQs
No, there is no parking.
There is no on-site parking, but there is a pay and display car park outside SEA LIFE Scarborough. Parking between November and February is free, but charges do apply between March and October.
Contact Details
Scarborough Sea Life & Marine Sanctuary
Scalby Mills Road
Scarborough
North Yorkshire
YO12 6RP
England
Tel: 01723373414
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