The Lakes Aquarium is a large and scenic complex containing more than 30 themed habitats and tanks on the side of Lake Windermere. It is known for its marvelous underwater tunnel that takes you into the realm of the fish in the lake. Enjoy a fun day out with all the family as you meander through the fascinating exhibits.
Among the highlights are the cute otters and the fearsome piranhas. See the creepy Goliath spiders and the exotic red-eyed tree frogs. Delve into the underwater tunnel in Lake Windermere, where a range of native British fish swim around your head.
Another intriguing feature is the Virtual Dive Bell, whose innovative graphics put you face-to-face with a charging hippo and a formidable bull shark. See the tanks in the exhibits of Asia, the Americas, Africa and the Rainforest.
Have a meal at the pier-side 1872 Café or Oscar’s Café, which offers excellent vistas of the lake from the upper floor. Purchase souvenirs, jewelry and toys from the Rockpool Gift Shop.
Check the times for exciting activities, such as the otter talks that tend to take place twice per day. Try a Rockpool Discovery session in the morning or afternoon. Other intriguing talks and events are Rainforest Meet the Creatures and the Lake Tunnel Talks.
Pay a fee to enter the site and get cheaper tickets for kids. Toddlers enter free. Save money by booking in advance. The aquarium opens 7 days a week from morning until late afternoon.
Purchase a ticket to combine your trip with a cruise on the lake. Ride on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway steam-powered train for an old-fashioned mode of transportation.
The Lakes Aquarium is on the western flank of the southern point of Lake Windermere. Drive northeast from Ulverston for 9 miles (14 kilometers) to arrive in about 15 minutes. See other sights in the area, such as the South Windermere Sailing Club and the National Trust’s Fell Foot park.
