Review: Visiting London’s SEA LIFE London Aquarium with kids

‘He’s smiling at me! Take a picture!’

On Sunday the children insisted they met a smiling sting ray at SEA LIFE London Aquarium, which we had been invited to review. Every time we spotted one in the tank, we had to get our phones out to take more pictures of what they insisted was the same ray. I wasn’t quite convinced by the fish’s facial expressions, but seeing the children’s faces filled with joy still made my day.

We had been invited to this South Bank family attraction to try the half-term experience, which involved searching for shark teeth, and we spent a morning exploring this impressive and ever-expanding aquarium.

SEA Life London Aquarium is located in County Hall, near London Eye, and the aquarium-known for being home to a vast number of species of sea creatures–features separate areas for rays, creatures of the rainforest, jellyfish, penguins and more.

The children were mesmerised by the aquarium’s large tanks, which are ideal for little ones as the fishes, including sharks, can easily be seen from their eye-level. At the start of the experience, there were a number of large tanks and we took numerous pictures of sharks, sting rays and giant tortoises, and we also took our time walking through the ocean tunnel-a trip highlight.

Brave visitors could then try touching a star fish in an area that reminded me a bit of a section for animal encounters at an adventure farm. We swiftly moved on, and in the rainforest section, there was a fun boat to try steering for young children, and the crocodile lying on the side of the water made us stop and stare.

By noon, we had made it to the ice adventure to catch the feeding session. The children kept asking me to take videos, and I was torn between trying to be in the moment myself when the group of keen penguins were diving and swimming in groups at top speed or staring at my phone screen.

Before leaving, we walked through the ocean invaders section where I made sure to study the colour-coded giant map of the world with information on where to find dangerous jellyfish.

Next time we go, I might consider using my phone during the visit to access the SEA LIFE website-or prepare before going-as I’ve now noticed there’s a lot of interesting facts about many of the species to read on there too and it could help make the experience extra special. In addition, I would consider buying the Ranger Pack for children (£4 each), which includes quizzes and games and more.

We spent around an hour and a half at this attraction and could easily have stayed longer. I keep repeating myself, but visiting served as yet another reminder of how lucky London families are to be surrounded by top child-friendly attractions like the aquarium that can be entertaining to visit for young and old.

After what I’ve read online, I would suggest buying tickets online in advance to avoid standing in the ticket desk queue.

Tags: Attractions, Half term, London with kids, Review, SEA LIFE London Aquarium