Hotels near Blue Planet Aquarium, United Kingdom

Fancy swimming with Europe’s largest collection of sharks? No? Well, even if you don’t dare get in the tank, you can still enjoy the amazing sea life on show at Ellesmere Port’s Blue Planet Aquarium, only a short drive from Chester. It’s the ideal short family break.

As the largest aquarium in Great Britain, Blue Planet is home to over 100 living exhibits of marine creatures from around the world, ranging from beautiful octopuses and playful guppies, to snipping crabs and snapping crocs.

The centrepiece of your tour is a walk through the 70-metre long aquatunnel where you’ll be nose-to-nose with sharks, rays and turtles among others. It almost feels like you’re standing at the bottom of the ocean.

The family can go through the tunnel as many times as you like, and each time you will spot you’ll see something new and be amazed at the wonderful world of the Caribbean Reef. Don’t forget to smile back at the cheeky stingrays.

You’ll also stumble through the indoor rainforest where you’ll meet reptiles, insects and rare breeds of fish. Gone are the days where you’ll be told off for getting too close to the tank – in fact, Blue Planet encourages interaction. You’ll find rock pools and tanks where you can reach out and touch the fish and pods that let you get up close and personal with creepy-crawlies.

For even more adventure head to the mysterious Coral Cave where you can see a beautiful range of Tropical Reef fish, Rays and Puffer Fish.This stunning, naturally-themed coral reef display is used for some of the world’s most exotic creatures and can easily be enjoyed at the central viewing area.

Make your UK mini-break extra memorable and be a hero to your kids by booking a session to swim with the sharks. With the security of a fully qualified diver by your side you’ll be given a little training before plunging head first into an encounter with 10-feet Sand Tiger Sharks. The rest of the family can watch as you swim around these magnificent creatures before spending the rest of your family break proudly carrying your ‘I Dived with the Sharks at Blue Planet Aquarium’ certificate.

If the kids get too excited by your exploits, tire them out at the Pirate Playground, while you nip into the restaurant for something to eat. Still got time left on your weekend? Chester is just a short drive away so why not head to this beautifulcity for some urban thrills after your underwater adventure? If you’ve survived the sharks then you’re ready for anything.