Bristol Aquarium

Yes. Bristol Aquarium is a popular family attraction, particularly for younger children and anyone interested in marine life. With more than 40 themed displays, daily talks and feeding sessions, it offers an enjoyable way to spend around 1 to 1.5 hours exploring everything from native British waters to tropical oceans.

Bristol Aquarium is licensed and regulated under UK zoo legislation, with a focus on conservation, education and animal welfare. The aquarium also supports breeding programmes, conservation projects and educational activities designed to inspire visitors to protect marine environments. Whether someone considers aquariums ethical is ultimately a personal opinion, but Bristol Aquarium states that conservation and education are central to its mission.

The building originally housed the Bristol IMAX cinema. Today, the former cinema space is home to Bristol Megascreen, which operates as part of Bristol Aquarium.

While Bristol Aquarium doesn't specifically advertise full air conditioning, the attraction is kept at comfortable temperatures suitable for both visitors and the animals. Some areas, such as the tropical glasshouse, are intentionally warm and humid to recreate rainforest conditions.

No. Bristol Aquarium is a ticketed attraction, although children under the qualifying age enter free, and registered carers accompanying eligible disabled visitors receive free admission. Admission tickets and annual memberships can be purchased online or at the entrance.

Bristol Aquarium is the largest aquarium in Bristol, with over 40 displays featuring thousands of aquatic animals. Most visitors spend between one and one-and-a-half hours exploring the exhibits, making it an ideal half-day attraction.

Yes. Bristol Aquarium is open every Sunday, as well as every other day of the week, except Christmas Day. Opening hours vary throughout the year, so it's worth checking before you visit.

Only assistance dogs are permitted inside Bristol Aquarium. Unfortunately, pets are not allowed for the safety and wellbeing of the animals.

Not usually. Standard online tickets are generally the same price as buying on the day, although the aquarium occasionally offers online promotions and seasonal discounts, so it's worth checking before your visit.

Yes. Bristol Aquarium is located within Bristol's Clean Air Zone. If you're driving, check whether your vehicle is subject to the daily charge before travelling. If you'd rather avoid driving into the city centre, consider staying at Future Inn Bristol, where you can leave your car and walk or use public transport to reach many of Bristol's attractions.

Yes. Visitors can see several species of tropical sharks, including those swimming in the impressive open-top Coral Seas exhibit.

No. Bristol Aquarium does not have penguins.

No. There are no seals at Bristol Aquarium.

No. Bristol Aquarium does not currently have an octopus on display.

No. Jellyfish are not currently part of the aquarium's permanent collection.

No. Bristol Aquarium does not currently have turtles.

There isn't an on-site car park, but several city centre car parks are nearby, including Millennium Square Car Park. Alternatively, guests staying at Future Inn Bristol can use the hotel's free parking before making the short journey to the aquarium.

Yes. Bristol Aquarium has an on-site café where visitors can enjoy hot and cold drinks, snacks and light meals during their visit.

If you're visiting Bristol with children, enjoy marine life or are looking for an indoor attraction on a rainy day, Bristol Aquarium is well worth visiting. Its central Harbourside location also makes it easy to combine with attractions such as We The Curious, Millennium Square and Bristol Cathedral.

Bristol Aquarium offers an immersive journey through a variety of aquatic habitats, from British rivers and coastlines to colourful coral reefs and tropical rainforests. Highlights include a walk-through seahorse display, giant open-top shark tank, tropical glasshouse and daily talks and feeding sessions.

Closing times vary throughout the year. During the summer holidays, Bristol Aquarium is open until 6pm, while at other times of year it typically closes between 4pm and 5pm. Last admission is always one hour before closing, so it's best to check the latest opening times before your visit.