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Zoos #4 in St Andrews

St Andrews Aquarium

4.3 · 1,815 reviews
Compact, educational, and lively
St Andrews Aquarium, The Scores, St Andrews KY16 9AS, United Kingdom
Interesting facts
1

The aquarium is uniquely positioned on the side of a cliff, providing direct views of the North Sea from its exterior grounds.

2

The facility manages a breeding program for Humboldt penguins, a species currently classified as vulnerable in the wild.

3

It hosts a dedicated spider crab exhibit, featuring some of the largest crustacean species found in the surrounding Scottish coastal waters.

4

The shark exhibit utilizes a pressurized tank system to mimic the conditions of the deep sea for its resident shark populations.

5

The aquarium provides a home for rescued seals that have been deemed unsuitable for release back into the wild due to health or behavioral reasons.

Overview

St Andrews Aquarium is situated on a cliff-edge overlooking the North Sea, housing a diverse range of marine and terrestrial species. The facility features a walk-through tunnel system showcasing various shark species and tropical fish. Its outdoor enclosures are home to a colony of Humboldt penguins and common seals. The collection includes reptilian displays, such as monitor lizards and snakes, alongside amphibian enclosures. It serves as an educational hub with regular feeding demonstrations and animal encounters throughout the day. The site is built into the coastal landscape, utilizing the natural terrain of The Scores. It operates as a family-focused attraction emphasizing marine conservation and species protection.

Photo spot

The outdoor penguin enclosure area provides a clear backdrop of the North Sea cliffs.

Insider tips

Check the daily feeding schedule upon entry to align your tour with the keeper talks.

Plan your visit to coincide with the outdoor penguin feeding to see the birds at their most active.

Wear comfortable, non-slip footwear as the coastal location can result in damp floor surfaces.

What to avoid

Do not rush through the indoor tunnel exhibits; the best viewing experience requires standing still to allow the marine life to circle back to you.

Etiquette

Avoid tapping on glass enclosures to prevent stressing the animals.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings, as the compact nature of the facility can lead to crowding during weekend afternoons.
Address
St Andrews Aquarium, The Scores, St Andrews KY16 9AS, United Kingdom
56.344, -2.800
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsHumboldt penguins, common seals, shark tunnel, and reptile house

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings, as the compact nature of the facility can lead to crowding during weekend afternoons..

The outdoor penguin enclosure area provides a clear backdrop of the North Sea cliffs.

Close by you'll find St Andrews Castle, St Andrews Cathedral, The R&A World Golf Museum.