SEA LIFE® Manchester

The Basics

On a visit to the aquarium, you can see creatures ranging from turtles and clown fish to sharks and spider crabs. On select evenings, you can even see the aquarium’s resident mermaids swimming with sea turtles. For a look at the inner workings of an aquarium, opt for a behind-the-scenes tour. To guarantee entry and save time and money, book your admission ticket in advance. Alternatively, buy a combo ticket for access to the neighboring LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre.

Things to Know Before You Go

• All exhibitions are indoors, making SEA LIFE Manchester an ideal rainy-day destination for visitors of all ages.

• Most of the aquarium is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

• Pre-booking admission tickets is essential, and the aquarium doesn’t accept cash.

How to Get There

Situated in the Trafford Centre, about 5 miles (8 kilometers) west of central Manchester, SEA LIFE is easy to get to by public transit. From the city center, take bus X50. If you’re driving, exit the M60 highway at Junction 9 or 10, then follow the signs to Trafford Centre.

When to Get There

SEA LIFE Manchester is open daily from morning until early evening, except on Christmas Day; last admission is one hour before closing time.. A popular place for families, the aquarium is typically busiest on weekends and during school holidays. For fewer crowds, go midweek, avoiding the peak time from late morning to early afternoon. Wednesday mornings at the aquarium are autism-friendly. Book in advance, and check the SEA LIFE website for excluded dates.

Explore Manchester

A vibrant city in northwest England, Manchester is known for its soccer teams (two of the country’s best), numerous live music venues, and architecture from the Industrial Revolution. Drop by the National Football Museum, take the family to LEGOLAND Discovery Centre, or, if pressed for time, enjoy an overview of the city on a convenient hop-on hop-off bus tour.