Aquariums in West Midlands

There is only one aquarium on this list for the West Midlands, and it sits in Birmingham city centre: National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham. With no second option to weigh it against, the useful question is not which to pick but whether it fits your children and how to get the most out of a visit.

Two sources put it at the top for families. Netmums lists it first among its best UK aquariums for kids, and KidsOuting's review calls it the best aquarium for kids in Birmingham. Both single out the 360-degree ocean tunnel, where fish glide overhead as you walk beneath, as the thing that sets it apart from other aquariums. KidsOuting notes that children head straight for the larger animals, the sharks, rays and penguins, while Netmums points to an interactive rockpool where little ones can get hands-on, plus talks and feeds through the day. Our own verdict rates the penguin exhibit and ocean tunnel as the standout moments and finds it works from babies upward, with good pram access throughout. KidsOuting pitches it mainly at ages 3 to 12, adding that toddlers enjoy the visual displays while older children get more from the learning elements. Reviewers repeatedly praise the creature variety, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and clean facilities.

On practicalities: allow two to three hours, and KidsOuting suggests treating it as a half-day outing that combines easily with other city-centre plans. It can feel busy at peak times, so earlier in the day is calmer. KidsOuting says there is no on-site parking, and recommends a buggy for toddlers because there is a fair bit of walking. Pre-booking is expected, and booking online is markedly cheaper than walking up.