I recently visited an attraction that I haven’t been to as a child, it has been so long that I don’t have memories of the experience. If I do, they have blended in with all of the other aquariums I have visited since. I have kind have given it away by now (if the title hadn’t already) but that attraction was SEA LIFE London Aquarium. If you’ve never been before, it is a captivating destination nestled in the heart of the South Bank, just steps from the iconic London Eye. The aquarium is thoughtfully divided into themed zones, each carefully curated to reflect specific marine habitats. Each of these provide visitors with useful signage and the opportunity to interact with an array of species. I often wonder when visiting aquariums how much the fish enjoy watching people walk by, or if they are secreting plotting their escape similar in style to Finding Nemo. Lets dive right in and explore the aquarium!
The first section you are introduced to is Atlantic Depths, a serene and immersive introduction to the aquarium’s journey beneath the waves. Dimly lit and designed to evoke the mysterious atmosphere of the deep ocean, this area showcases a range of fascinating species native to the cooler waters of the North Atlantic. The setting is both calming and a little haunting, with gentle lighting and ambient sounds that create a sense of being deep beneath the sea. Informational displays throughout explain the creatures’ ecology and habitats, adding an educational layer to the visual experience. It’s a perfect starting point that sets the tone for the aquatic adventure ahead; beautiful, mysterious, and full of wonder. I also think it is important to connect visitors with the fish and other marine life found in the waters off their own shores relatively quickly. Most people forget that fish (among other species in the ocean) can be endangered as the life below the waves are usually out of sight and out of mind, so hats off to you here SEA LIFE!
The next section you come to is Ray Lagoon. This shallow, open-top tank allows visitors to get an up-close look at various species of rays, and some other related species. The Lagoon features undulate rays (Raja undulata) which are a type of skate and one of the rarest UK species, and now bred in captivity via SEA LIFE’s national breeding programme to support their recovering population. You may also spot the lesser spotted dogfish (Scyliorhinus canicula) a species often found in shallower UK waters. One of the individuals in the tank was swimming in such a way that it’s snout was out of the water, just asking to be booped, despite the signs everywhere asking you not to touch the fish. Unfortunately, due to the glare of the lights and the busy nature of the aquarium, I wasn’t able to get any better photos than that below. As they glide effortlessly through the water, their rhythmic, wing-like movements create a calming spectacle. The Lagoon provides the perfect place for visitors to observe the rays’ smooth, undulating forms, inviting a sense of quiet awe.
Onwards on your journey, you are greeted with the Open Oceans zone. This immerses visitors in a dazzling underwater world built around the replica bones of a grey whale (Eschrichtius robustus). Glimmering schools of tropical fish including purple tangs (Zebrasoma xanthurum) and zebra sharks (Stegostoma tigrinum) around the skeletal structure, while majestic southern stingrays (Hypanus americanus) patrol the sandy seabed and small cownose rays (Rhinoptera bonasus) glide overhead, creating a serene and dynamic display. Above, gentle green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) drift by. This zone showcases a wide mix of tropical ocean species, offering a beautifully curated contrast to the British coastal creatures seen elsewhere in the aquarium. Visitors can also walk through a glass tunnel, providing a striking underneath view of these creatures in motion, illuminated by shifting light that mimics patterns of the open ocean. This tank is quite large and there are other areas throughout the aquarium that offer a slightly different view. To me, the highlight is the life‑size replica whale skeleton which provides educational context on the sheer size and ecological importance of whales in marine ecosystems
My favourite part of the aquarium was probably the Pacific Shipwreck, although there wasn’t much ship left. What do stand out are a number of Easter Island‑style Moai heads that jut from the sandy wreckscape. These giant stone faces evoke a sense of ancient mystery, while powerful sharks cruise serenely past them in a tank that feels both cinematic and alive. Visitors can expect to see sleek blacktip reef sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus), imposing sand tiger sharks (Carcharias taurus), and bottom‑dwelling nurse sharks (Ginglymostoma cirratum) that sometimes lie together in so‑called “cuddle puddles”. Also roaming the wreckage is Betty the bowmouth guitarfish (Rhina ancylostoma), a striking creature that blurs the line between shark and ray, and a species I am not sure I have seen in captivity before. The most impressive thing about this tank is the sense of wonder but also safety you feel around these large and often misrepresented species. Films like Jaws have caused huge rifts between the public zeitgeist and reality when it comes to sharks, so it was welcoming to overhear people speaking fondly of the species on display. Overall, the Pacific Shipwreck tank combines dramatic aesthetics with alive-in-the-moment marine life to create one of the most memorable areas in the aquarium.
Where do I start with Coral Kingdom? One of the most impressive things is that it is home to the UK’s longest living coral reef display, stretched across a dramatic 40‑foot (approx. 12 m) coral tank. This exhibit was extremely popular with the younger visitors as you can probably imagine, hoping to get the opportunity to say hello to Nemo. There are a large number of clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris) darting through anemones, dozens of blue regal tangs (Paracanthurus hepatus), yellow tangs (Zebrasoma flavescens), and shimmering sea goldies (Pseudanthias squamipinnis), as well as cardinalfish (Pterapogon kauderni) and other reef fish weaving through the colourful coral gardens. The reef itself is home to over 55 species of coral, from branching stony species like galaxy coral (Galaxea fascicularis) and torch coral (Euphyllia glabrescens) to delicate sea fans and soft corals, all part of the Aquarium’s thriving coral propagation and conservation programme. As you take in the vibrant visuals, the tank’s rich biodiversity becomes clear, each adapted perfectly for reef life. Coral Kingdom isn’t just beautiful, it’s a living classroom highlighting reef ecology, the threats corals face from climate change and pollution, and the vital work being done to preserve and propagate these fragile wonders. After all, approximately 44% of reef-building coral species are threatened with extinction and more than 70% of the world’s coral reefs are threatened. Without drastic change and increased awareness, the future for corals does not look bright.
Another of the more peaceful areas of the aquarium is Seahorse Kingdom, which allows visitors to view and learn about the marvels of seahorses. Here, the graceful Pot‑bellied Seahorse (also known as the Bigbelly Seahorse; Hippocampus abdominalis) and one of the largest seahorse species, growing up to 35 cm in length anchors itself to seagrass while gently sucking plankton and tiny shrimp through its straw‑like snout. Alongside them glide elegant pipefish, whose slender bodies camouflage among seaweeds, and the distinctive razorfish (Aeoliscus strigatus), which swims with a head‑down, tail‑up posture to mimic sea urchin spines while awaiting zooplankton prey. This immersive zone captivates not only with its aesthetics but with nature’s reproductive magic: male seahorses and pipefish are the nurturing parents, carrying and giving birth to live young in their brood pouches. The exhibit highlights how these species rely on camouflage, slow movement, and constant feeding (sometimes ingesting thousands of tiny prey per day) to survive and ensure the safety of their brood. Seahorse Kingdom also serves as a conservation showcase: SEA LIFE London participates in breeding programmes to protect vulnerable seahorse species and educates visitors about the global threat they face. As an example, over 150 million seahorses are captured each year for traditional medicine or souvenirs! The tanks in this area are there inviting you to discover these mythical‑looking creatures and the conservation efforts that support them.
Moving onwards on your journey is the Rainforest Adventure, which offers an immersive journey into the lush, vibrant world of tropical rainforests. There are a number of screens and other interactive elements throughout with various videos or tasks that feature the broadcaster and adventurer Ben Fogle. Among the species on display are a number of reptiles (yay!) including an African dwarf crocodile (Osteolaemus tetraspis) called Forrest, a snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina) called Bowsa and some rescued former pet terrapins. The terrapins on display were once unwanted pets that had been released into the wild. Let me take the time now to remind you that this action is illegal and that if you see a feral terrapin in the wild in the UK, to record it here. Thanks in advance. Additionally, there are piranha (Pygocentrus nattereris), pacu (Colossoma macropomum), red-tailed catfish (Phractocephalus hemioliopterus), andgiant gourami (Osphronemus goramy). It is a shame there are no amphibians here but there is a colony of leafcutter ants (Atta cephalotes). Leafcutter ants always help to demonstrate the importance of teamwork, so when you visit make sure you stop for a few moments to watch these industrious insects carry leaf fragments along suspended ropes and tunnels. Pay attention to how they all work as one to achieve the same end goal. Their intricate trails and constant activity offer a unique glimpse into the complex social structure of one of nature’s most organised insect societies. As a species, we could learn a lot from them.
Everyone loves a touch-tank at an aquarium and so Rockpool Discovery is the place where you can do just that. There is a slight twist however. Gone are the days when you could gently touch and explore marine life such as starfish, anemones, crabs, and sea urchins. This is mainly due to increased awareness of the welfare and needs of these animals. Instead, Rockpool Discovery offers visitors to interact in artificial rockpools with infertile ray and shark eggs (also called mermaid’s purses) in, which can be picked up or squished gently. The pools have artificial anemones and other familiar rockpool inhabitants to reduce the risk of harm to both the animals and visitors alike. The species of fish that lay the mermaid’s purses can be found off of Britain’s coastline and so you may be fortunate enough to find these washed up on one of our beaches in the near future. Expert staff are on hand to share interesting facts and answer questions, making it a perfect opportunity for curious minds to connect with the marine environment in a safe way. Therefore, Rockpool Discovery is both educational and fun, encouraging respect and wonder for the ocean’s residents.
The Polar Adventure zone is home to the aquarium’s most charismatic residents, the gentoo penguins (Pygoscelis papua). These lively birds are endlessly entertaining, waddling along rocky shores or zipping through the water like torpedoes. The immersive design of the enclosure gives visitors excellent underwater viewing opportunities, showcasing the penguins’ agility and energy in a way that’s both amusing and educational. As you explore, you’ll learn about the challenges these animals face in the wild due to climate change and the importance of protecting their fragile ecosystems. Nearby there are some interactive displays where you can come face-to-face with other polar animals such as polar bears (Ursus maritimus), narwhals (Monodon monoceros) and walruses (Odobenus rosmarus), which are far too big to house within the aquarium. Other species housed alongside the penguins include the spiny lobster (Palinurus elephas) and the sea bream (Sparus aurata). Just as a warning, this is probably the busiest part of the aquarium and you may be waiting around a little while for a good view of the penguins.
Conservation Cove is a dedicated space where visitors can learn about the aquarium’s vital conservation efforts and how they can help protect marine life. Through interactive displays and real-life success stories, the exhibit highlights key issues such as plastic pollution, overfishing, and habitat destruction. Visitors can discover the work SEA LIFE (and SEA LIFE Trust) does to help conserve marine species, as well as their campaigns to protect vulnerable species around the globe. Conservation Cove inspires guests of all ages to take action for the oceans and become champions of marine conservation in their everyday lives.
The last part of the aquarium you pass through before entering the gift shop and losing all of your money, is Ocean Invaders. This exhibit provides an interactive journey into the mysterious world of jellyfish. Featured within are a variety of jellyfish species in stunning, colour-changing displays that highlight their hypnotic movements and alien-like forms through a circular tank. Visitors can explore different zones that reveal the life cycle, survival strategies, and incredible adaptations of these ancient creatures. My favourite part of Ocean Invaders is an interactive game where you design your own jellyfish and try to survive in an ocean full of predators, plastic pollution and increasing climate change. This was a fun strategy game that was harder than it originally seemed. I hope that some of the younger visitors leant about the threats facing jellyfish from this and what it takes to be successful in todays world, from a biological perspective. Most importantly, combined with the tanks of jellyfish, it showcases the vital role of these misunderstood species in ocean ecosystems.
SEA LIFE London does an excellent job of combining entertainment with conservation. Many of the exhibits include messages about the threats facing marine habitats, such as plastic pollution, climate change, and overfishing. Throughout your visit, you’ll find educational panels and digital interactive displays that make these issues accessible and engaging, especially for younger visitors. While SEA LIFE London isn’t the largest aquarium in the world, it makes up for its size with clever design, immersive storytelling, and a genuine commitment to marine conservation. It’s well-suited for families, tourists, and even solo visitors looking for a unique escape in the city. Whether you’re marvelling at the leafcutter ants, smiling at the penguins, or learning about coral bleaching, this hidden urban aquarium provides a memorable and meaningful experience beneath the surface. To help demonstrate a little more visually some of the species you’re likely to find at SEA LIFE London, please enjoy the video I have prepared below.
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