OVERVIEW
The London Sea Life Aquarium is situated in the heart of the city, on the Southbank between Westminster and London Waterloo. It is perfectly located for visitors putting together an itinerary of attractions on the Southbank, such as the London Eye, Big Ben, a river Thames Cruise or visit to the National or Tate Art Galleries.
The aquarium is home to over 500 species in 14 themed zones, with sections on the polar environment, rockpools, exotic fish (the piranas!), jellyfish and coral habitats.
It is both interesting for adults and fascinating for kids. We really loved our visit as part of a larger family celebration. Read on to discover why it all went so well.
Photo Gallery
OUR EXPERIENCE
Did the staff make us feel welcome?
The London Seal ife Aquarium staff at the ticket booth were neither friendly or unfriendly, and they seemed totally unfazed by the fact that the four of us spent at least 5 minutes face down looking at the fish swimming under the floor panel at the entrance!
Once we were in the aquarium there were a few staff members around offering object handling or bits of extra information and they were nice and friendly.
Did we have to queue?
I expect it does get very busy during peak periods, and queues do form outside.
However I am sure it would be ok to approach the front of the queue and show the staff your access card (which is recognised by Merlin attractions) or even just explain that queing is difficult for your autistic child.
We attended the Sunday quiet hour on a rainy weekend in November, we arrived at 8:50am and pretty much had the place to ourselves.
Accessibility
The London Sea Life Aquarium is both buggy and wheelchair accessible.
We attended one of their special 'quiet' sessions created for neurodivergent / autistic guests who need to visit without the crowds.
They currently offer these quiet hours from 9am - 10am one Sunday a month - check their website for more information.
We were happy to pay extra for this time slot and it was absolutely brilliant having the space practically to ourselves - it really made the visit accessible for our autistic kids. It also meant we felt less self-conscious and more relaxed about some on their louder / more boistrous behaviours.
Are the facilities neurodivergent friendly?
The aquarium facilities were good. We didnt find a cafe but as it is directly on the Southbank you are spoiled for choices outside; for example after our visit we went to the Southbank Centre for coffee and cake.
There is a small shop at the end that you have to pass through, which while expected is a bit annoying. Seeing all those shiny toys ignites my AuDHD son's impulse centre in his brain right up - this time we manged to get out without buying anything!
Cost / Disabled Concession
The London Sea Life Aquarium is part of the Merlin Group of attractions, and is included in their annual pass. If you do not have a Merlin pass then there are a number of options availble. The cheapest adult ticket is available online and is currently £28 versus on the door price of £39.
Children under the age of 2 are free.
They do not offer a discount for disabled individuals, however it is possible to book a free carer ticket at the time of the full priced adult / child ticket. They ask that you bring documentation as proof with you on the day such as your blue badge, DLA Letter or note from a doctor or specialist.
For more information on tickets and pricing visit their website
FINAL THOUGHTS
The London Sea Life Aquarium is a great day trip for families with autistic kids and I cant recommend it highly enough.
It was extremely sensory. Our kids loved the dark lighting and the way the light shone and shimmered through the water. The exhibits are filled with brightly coloured fish and there is something captivating watching the sharks glide smoothly through the water.
Our youngest adored watching the penguins diving in and jumping up - I think he would have stayed for hours at the glass!
There were also interactive exhibits that allowed them to climb and jump - also meeting their sensory need for movement and falling.
I would say you only need to allow about 90 minutes, maybe a bit more if they want to read the information boards.
We will definitely be returning for another Sunday quiet session, but not in the school holidays!