London Aquarium

The London Aquarium was first opened in 1997 and provides visitors with an opportunity to view the 3000 various types of marine life on view. The massive tanks are home to huge Sharks, Rays and all manner of other fish. Visitors are only separated from the thousands of tons of water by 9mm thick acrylic windows.

The ‘sea-water’ is actually London tap water that is treated and mixed with salts to make it habitable for the fish. The water is mixed 8 tons at a time. The London Aquarium has more than fifty separate displays- the largest of which hold one million liters of water! The Aquarium is situated on the bank of the Thames, next to Westminster Bridge. The nearest underground station is Waterloo.

The London Aquarium is set across three floors and attempts to recreate many water environments. Alongside the vast Pacific Ocean display is a smaller Tropical Rainforest environment, Coral reefs, Indian Ocean and a freshwater stream have all been simulated. The Aquarium hosts daily talks about the exhibits and feeding times are a highlight of the day. An adopt a fish scheme is also available and proceeds help to support the upkeep of the animals. The facilities are laid out in a very impressive arrangement and the feeling of being so close to the Sharks and Piranhas is fascinating- if a little frightening.