Blue Planet Aquarium
The Blue Planet Aquarium, located in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, England, is a significant marine and freshwater aquarium that was the largest in the United Kingdom upon its opening in 1998. Designed to resemble a crashing wave, it features extensive underwater tunnels and themed areas to educate visitors about marine environments.
Key Facts
- ›Opened by Queen Elizabeth II in July 1998.
- ›Was the largest aquarium in the United Kingdom at its opening.
- ›Still the largest aquarium in North West England.
- ›Building designed by Buttress Fuller Alsop architects to resemble a crashing wave.
- ›Main aquarium tank holds 4,000,000 litres (1,100,000 us gal).
- ›Features a 71-metre (233 ft) underwater tunnel.
Main Aquarium Tank, 71-Metre Underwater Tunnel, Tropical Rivers, Lakes and Ponds, Where Land Meets the Sea, Seas and Oceans
Sharks
About Blue Planet Aquarium
The Blue Planet Aquarium, situated by the Cheshire Oaks retail and leisure complex in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, England, is a prominent marine and freshwater aquarium. Upon its inauguration in July 1998, it held the distinction of being the largest aquarium in the United Kingdom, a title it has since relinquished, though it remains the most extensive aquarium in North West England.
Design and Construction
The facility's striking architecture was conceived by Manchester-based Buttress Fuller Alsop architects, with the building's design deliberately evoking the form of a crashing wave. The development was undertaken by Deep Sea Leisure, a Cheshire-based developer now under the ownership of Aspro Parks, which also was involved in the creation of Deep Sea World in Scotland. The stated mission of the Blue Planet Aquarium is to "enlighten, increase knowledge and raise interest in the marine environment using an interactive, entertaining and sustainable approach."
Exhibits and Collections
Internally, the aquarium is structured with a series of tanks, pools, and submerged tunnels intended to guide visitors through diverse marine and freshwater habitats. The central aquarium tank is a substantial feature, holding 4,000,000 litres (1,100,000 US gal) of water and incorporating a 71-metre (233 ft) underwater tunnel that offers an immersive viewing experience. Thematic zones within the aquarium include "Tropical Rivers," "Lakes and Ponds," "Where Land Meets the Sea," and "Seas and Oceans." The collection encompasses a wide variety of marine and freshwater fish, notably featuring more types of shark than any other facility in Britain. In addition to its ichthyological displays, the aquarium also houses a range of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
Recognition
The Blue Planet Aquarium has received accolades for its visitor attractions. Its shark dive experience was honored at the Visit Chester and Cheshire Awards in 2010, winning the category for Best Tourism Experience of the Year.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Blue Planet Aquarium located?
The Blue Planet Aquarium is situated by the Cheshire Oaks retail and leisure complex in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, England. This location places it within a popular area for both shopping and entertainment.
When did the Blue Planet Aquarium open?
The Blue Planet Aquarium was officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II in July 1998. Its inauguration marked a significant addition to the UK's zoological and educational facilities.
What makes the Blue Planet Aquarium notable?
Upon its opening, it was the largest aquarium in the United Kingdom and remains the largest in North West England. Its distinctive wave-shaped building and extensive underwater tunnel are also key features.
What kind of exhibits does the Blue Planet Aquarium have?
The aquarium features tanks, pools, and submerged tunnels designed to showcase various marine and freshwater habitats. Themed areas include Tropical Rivers, Lakes and Ponds, Where Land Meets the Sea, and Seas and Oceans.
What animals can be seen at the Blue Planet Aquarium?
Visitors can see many varieties of marine and freshwater fish, including a wide array of sharks, more types than found elsewhere in Britain. The aquarium also houses a variety of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
Has the Blue Planet Aquarium received any awards?
Yes, the aquarium's shark dive experience was recognized with the Visit Chester and Cheshire Awards 2010 in the category for Best Tourism Experience of the Year.
Related Zoos
Lakes Aquarium
The Lakes Aquarium is a significant tourist attraction located in Lakeside, Cumbria, England, on the southern shore of Windermere. Originally themed around the Lake District's waterways, it was re-branded in 2008 to focus on the world's lakes and is now owned by Spanish leisure company Parques Reunidos. It is recognized as the third most visited paying tourist attraction in Cumbria.
Berlin Aquarium
The Aquarium Berlin, located within the Berlin Zoological Garden complex, is one of Germany's largest aquariums. Opened in 1913, it is recognized for its extensive biodiversity, housing over 9,000 animals across three levels.
Deep Sea World
Deep Sea World is a prominent aquarium situated in North Queensferry, Fife, Scotland, renowned for its extensive collection of sand tiger sharks and an impressive underwater viewing tunnel. Opened in 1993, it serves as a significant attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into marine life, including species adapted to the cooler waters of the River Forth.