SEA LIFE London Aquarium
Merlin Entertainments · London
Walk through shark tunnels and discover thousands of marine creatures at the South Bank aquarium. The penguin feeding sessions are especially popular with young children.
Babies & toddlers (0–2)Pre-schoolers (3–5)Primary (6–10)Premium (£££)IndoorHalf day
Why families love it
- The glass tunnel walkway puts you directly underneath sharks and rays, creating genuine gasps from children as these enormous creatures glide overhead.
- Penguin feeding times draw the biggest crowds, but the rockpool experience lets little ones actually touch starfish and crabs under expert supervision.
- The jellyfish displays are mesmerising for all ages, with backlit tanks creating an almost hypnotic effect that can calm even the most energetic toddlers.
Best for
Families with children aged two to ten who love animals and aren't fazed by dark spaces or crowds, particularly useful on rainy London days.
Good to know
Book online in advance for significant savings and timed entry slots that help avoid the worst queues. The penguin feed happens at set times, so check the schedule when you arrive and plan your route backwards from there. Pushchairs are allowed but the tunnels get congested, so baby carriers work better during busy periods. The gift shop exit is unavoidable, so prepare children in advance or budget extra.
Practical info
- Age guidance
- Children under three years go free, though even one-year-olds seem captivated by the larger tanks and colourful fish displays.
- Typical cost
- Tickets cost around £35 per adult when booked online in advance, with genuine savings compared to paying on the door during peak times.
- How long to allow
- Most families spend two to three hours here, though you could rush through in ninety minutes or linger longer if children are particularly engaged.
- Last checked
- May 2026