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 city 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 a visit to 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 really is the best of all worlds.
In fact 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 has a variety of aquatic life to offer. Fish, interactive rockpool, tropical ocean tunnel, various shark species, water tanks, starfish, water dive, beautiful shores and various other critters.
Not only that, but these places will most often also have a coffee shop, gift shops that sell animal feeds and cute merchandise, exhibitions and events.
Here is a list of the 7 best aquariums where you can come in contact with the incredible underwater world.
1.1 Deep Sea World
1.1.1 Distance from Glasgow
Situated about an hour away from Glasgow, Deep Sea World is the national aquarium of Scotland. Therefore it is a reputed aquarium that will surely 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, a shark experience.
Not much of a fan of thrilling adventures? Then a session with cute seals perhaps? Still not impressed, then everyone’s favourite, a clownfish that reminds me of Nemo? Deep Sea World has a plethora of amazing sea life.
1.1.3 What makes it unique?
Moreover, they always have some event or exhibition going on that attracts even more visitors.
Deep Sea is also the aquarium that features the UK’s longest underwater walkway which makes this a must-visit aquarium in Glasgow. You are sure to see unrivalled views of underwater.
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 50 km from Glasgow.
1.2.2 Attractions
From gigantic sharks to tiny seahorses, Sea Life boasts more than 1,500 different kinds of organisms which is one of Scotland’s largest collections.
A thirty-minute ride away from Glasgow the small but diverse aquarium has 7 different zones for visitors to take their time and explore.
Along with that the main attraction of this aquarium is the family of friendly and adorable otters whom people can also feed if they happen to come at the right time.
If one wants to step up the adventure, one can also feed the sharks.
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 a perfect picnic spot.
While you are enjoying this aquarium in Glasgow, might as well enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Not only that, the aquarium hosts regular events and quizzes for everyone to take part in.
If you are planning 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.
Apart from this one can also 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
A little further away from Glasgow lies Sea Life on the Isle of Mull. It is a 4-5 hour drive from Glasgow or one can easily get a train till here.
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 because of which this is a popular tourist activity.
The cruise takes a trip 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 largest 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 so that you can get 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 get a feel of how these underwater creatures feel.
1.4.3. What Makes it Unique?
Most importantly, this aquarium is really special as it is a catch-and-release aquarium, meaning that the creatures are kept at the museum after being caught for a short 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 is a perfect aquarium in Glasgow for its variety of creatures.
1.5.2 Attractions
Especially, a delightful set of penguins can also be spotted at St Andrew’s Aquarium. To add to that, other creatures like the spunky monkey, Marmosets, starfish, turtles, seals, scorpions, snakes, tortoises, sharks and even meerkats make up the habitat of this aquarium.
The curious alien-like Axolotl can also be seen in all its glory. And of course, there are fishes. St Andrews Aquarium certainly should be visited because of the variety.
1.5.3 What Makes it Unique?
Additionally, they conduct various special events and exhibitions like the Dinosaur exhibition which features various 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 situated in Mill and can reached via road, train and even a ferry from Glasgow.
1.6.2 Attractions
A small aquarium which is about an hour away has an impressive display of sea life.
1.6.3. What Makes it Unique?
Furthermore, there is also an exhibit which displays the history of marine life, water pollution and marine science. The museum can also be explored along with the aquarium.
1.7 Almondell and Calderwood Country Park
1.7.1 Distance from Glasgow
The park is situated in West Lothian which is 50km from Glasgow.
1.7.2 Attractions
Almondell and Calderwood Country Park has a visitor’s centre where the aquarium can be found. A quick tour of the aquarium is enough for a pleasant experience.
1.7.3 What Makes it Unique?
Particularly, 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.
Also, the park is 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 smaller 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 definitely give you the experience of a lifetime.
If you are in the city for a longer time spending some time at an aquarium in Glasgow might just be what you need.
Moreover, the best part is that you get to choose the kind of interaction with these lovely animals you want; peaceful or adventurous.
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