Where We Went Today

Tynemouth Aquarium had had a number of names over the years. It’s certainly one of the smaller aquariums in the UK but small can sometimes be a good thing and I think it’s position next to the beach and Tynemouth Park makes it great for a short visit. One of the best things is that once you have paid you can come in and out as many times as you want that day.

I visited today with my 2 year old. He’s a high-speed kinda guy and likes to move through things quickly so being able to go back round again and again we perfect for us. It’s also great because it means you can go elsewhere and return for the daily feeding times. He loved the seals so we left and had food then went back for the seal feeding. Perfect for short attention spans.

I would say it’s a visit ideally suited to toddlers and young children but there are signs and information sections with enough to keep older children occupied. Our favourite sections were the tunnel where you walk under the tank and the river giants. These fish are huge!

Most areas are one level so should mostly be accessible to buggies and wheelchairs although we were on foot today. 

Daily feeding times are displayed on a screen as you enter – I recommend you take a photo as you go by so you can return for scheduled events later if you want.

There are activity stations throughout although some of these are looking a little tired they were fun for my little one today. It is dark in most of the aquarium so this might be scary for some little ones but wasn’t a problem for us.

Aside from aquatic life there are also other creatures – marmosets and tortoises were highlights for us today. There is a small playground outside – again ideal for a toddler or preschool child (although it was a bit chilly today in November my little boy doesn’t seem to feel the cold and was quite cross he had to keep his shoes on in the sandpit!)

Ticket prices are £14.50 for over 13s £10.25 for 3-13 year olds. Students and OAPs can access the site for £12.95. Children under 3 get free entry. Family saver tickets are available. Annual passes are available and if you plan to visit more than three times in a year it works out as a saving. 

Attached to the aquarium is a small restaurant which can also be accessed separately. Worth bearing in mind if you have a child who can’t wait for chips!

Getting there – Tynemouth Aquarium is open from 10am -5pm. Last entry is at 4pm. The address is Grand Parade Tynemouth, NE30 4JF. There is a small car park next door and parking can be paid for with the council car parking app (RingGo). 

The website is https://www.tynemouthaquarium.co.uk