Nestled in Scotland’s Lowlands is a city with impeccable architecture and a robust shipbuilding industry. Laying by the banks of River Clyde, Glasgow is a bustling cultural hub. The town is filled with art and academics, making this a perfect place for anyone looking for cultural stimulation and much-needed vacation time. But did you know that visiting an aquarium in Glasgow can also be an option?
Not only that but Glasgow is a contemporary city where one can experience both history and modernity. In addition, it is also known for industries and manufacturing. It is the best of all worlds.
Touching both the Atlantic coast and River Clyde, Glasgow has diverse aquatic flora and fauna.
Though the river and the coast might not give you a glimpse of these beautiful creatures, there are ample aquariums in and around the city where one can explore the underwater biodiversity.
1. Amazing Underwater World and Aquarium in Glasgow
The UK offers aquatic life: fish, an interactive rockpool, a tropical ocean tunnel, different shark species, water tanks, starfish, water dives, beautiful shores, and other critters.
These places often also have coffee shops, gift shops selling animal feed and cute merchandise, exhibitions, and events.
Here is a list of the seven best aquariums to experience the incredible underwater world.
1.1 Deep Sea World
1.1.1 Distance from Glasgow
Deep Sea World is Scotland’s national aquarium, about an hour from Glasgow. Therefore, a reputed aquarium will engage you in one way or another.
1.1.2 Attractions
The aquarium even lets you have a shark experience. Yes, you read it right; it was a shark experience.
Are you not much of a fan of thrilling adventures? Then perhaps a session with cute seals would be appropriate. If you’re still not impressed, then everyone’s favourite—a clownfish that reminds me of Nemo? Deep Sea World has a plethora of fantastic sea life.
1.1.3 What makes it unique?
Moreover, they always have some event or exhibition that attracts even more visitors.
Deep Sea is also the aquarium with the UK’s longest underwater walkway. Visit the aquarium in Glasgow, and you are sure to see unrivalled views of the underwater world.
There is also an interactive virtual aquarium that can be enjoyed.
1.2 Sea Life Loch Lomond Aquarium
1.2.1 Distance from Glasgow
Sea Life Loch Lomond Aquarium is quite near to Glasgow.
1.2.2 Attractions
From gigantic sharks to tiny seahorses, Sea Life boasts more than 1,500 different kinds of organisms and is one of Scotland’s most extensive collections.
A thirty-minute ride from Glasgow, the small but diverse aquarium has seven different zones for visitors to explore.
The main attraction of this aquarium is the family of friendly and adorable otters, whom visitors can also feed if they are there at the right time.
One can feed the sharks if one wants to step up the adventure.
1.2.3 What makes it unique?
However, the viewing spot takes the cake among all the activities that Sea Life has to offer. It gives a perfect view of the stunning Loch Lomond shores and is an ideal picnic spot.
While enjoying this aquarium in Glasgow, you might as well enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Also, the aquarium hosts regular events and quizzes for everyone to participate in.
If you plan to visit the aquarium and witness the creatures living under the depths, you can easily find discount coupons, which are the cherry on top.
1.2.4 Stunning Loch Lomond Shores
Loch Lomond is a beautiful freshwater lake in Scotland. It is a popular tourist destination for its wildlife and natural beauty.
In addition, one can take an evening cruise ride, see the luscious Scottish highlands, and appreciate several old castles.
1.3. Sea Life Mull
1.3.1 Distance from Glasgow
Sea Life on the Isle of Mull lies far from Glasgow. It is a 4-5 hour drive from Glasgow, or one can quickly get a train there.
1.3.2 Attractions
Unlike the other aquariums mentioned in this list, Sea Life At Mull is not an aquarium in Glasgow, but it is one of the best ways to view and appreciate sea life.
It is more of a wildlife adventure, and if you are lucky enough, you might even spot the holy trinity, various shark species, whales, and dolphins, which is why this is a popular tourist activity.
The cruise occurs between Mull, Ardnamurchan, and the Isle of Coll. During the cruise, seals, eagles, and various other birds that live near water bodies and water birds can also be spotted, and the tour will give you a fair view of Scotland’s most extensive collection.
1.3.3 What Makes it Unique?
Above all, the four-hour fascinating journey will be fulfilling for any wildlife lover. The friendly and experienced crew will help you spot many animals and birds in their natural habitat for the best experience.
1.4. Mull Aquarium
1.4.1 Distance from Glasgow
If you are on the Isle Of Mull and are planning to visit Sea Life Mull, don’t skip Mull Aquarium.
1.4.2 Attractions
Moreover, this aquarium also lets you touch the animals and experience how these underwater creatures feel.
1.4.3. What Makes it Unique?
Most importantly, this aquarium is unique as it is a catch-and-release aquarium, meaning that the creatures are kept at the museum after being caught for a while and later sent back into the wild.
1.5 St Andrews Aquarium
1.5.1 Distance from Glasgow
Just a little over 100 km away from Glasgow, St Andrews Aquarium does not only feature aquatic life but also a plethora of reptiles, insects and various other animals.
It might be a little far, but it is a perfect aquarium for its various creatures in Glasgow.
1.5.2 Attractions
St Andrew’s Aquarium also has a delightful set of penguins. The aquarium’s habitat includes other creatures like the spunky monkey, Marmosets, starfish, turtles, seals, scorpions, snakes, tortoises, sharks, and even meerkats.
The curious alien-like Axolotl can also be seen in all its glory. And, of course, there are fishes. St Andrews Aquarium indeed should be visited because of the variety.
1.5.3 What Makes it Unique?
Additionally, they conduct various special events and exhibitions, such as the Dinosaur Exhibition, which features multiple fossils of dinosaurs and ancient sea creatures. You will indeed have a wonderful time with friends and family.
1.6 Robertson Museum and Aquarium
1.6.1 Distance from Glasgow
The Robertson Museum and Aquarium is located in Mill and can be reached by road, train, or ferry from Glasgow.
1.6.2 Attractions
A small aquarium, about an hour away, has an impressive display of sea life.
1.6.3. What Makes it Unique?
Furthermore, an exhibit displays the history of marine life, water pollution, and marine science. The museum and aquarium can also be explored.
1.7 Almondell and Calderwood Country Park
1.7.1 Distance from Glasgow
The park is located in West Lothian, 50km from Glasgow.
1.7.2 Attractions
Almondell and Calderwood Country Park has a visitor’s centre where the aquarium is. A quick tour of the aquarium is enough for a pleasant experience.
1.7.3 What Makes it Unique?
This popular park offers various experiences, from BBQ to walks along a beautiful stream. It is situated in Lothian and is a hidden gem. If you wish to enjoy some peace away from the hustle and bustle of people, visit this park.
The park is also a good choice if you wish to relax and have a nice barbeque picnic with your family along the banks of a charming stream.
Despite the aquarium being relatively more minor, this place is a must-visit.
2. Other things to do While at Glasgow
- Visit Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, The Burrell Collection, and Pollok Country Park.
- Catch live performances and music festivals at the UK’s first UNESCO City Of Music.
- Enjoy Glasgow’s architecture at City Chambers and Glasgow Cathedral.
- Be a part of city tours and bike tours.
- Relish the food the city has to offer and treat yourself to some shopping and whiskey.
Conclusion
Visiting an aquarium in Glasgow may not be the first thing that pops into your head when you visit the city, but the water world will give you the experience of a lifetime.
If you are in the city longer, spending some time at an aquarium in Glasgow might just be what you need.
Moreover, the best part is choosing the kind of interaction with these lovely animals you want: peaceful or adventurous.
Last Updated on July 11, 2024 by Sathi Chakraborty
