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.
Key Facts
- ›Opened in 1997 as the Aquarium of the Lakes.
- ›Re-branded as Lakes Aquarium in 2008 with a new theme.
- ›Located in Lakeside, Cumbria, England.
- ›It is the third most visited paying tourist attraction in Cumbria.
- ›Owned by Spanish leisure company Parques Reunidos.
- ›Features exhibits on freshwater and salt water aquatic animals.
Lake District, Asia, Africa, Americas, Lakes, Weirs, Marine, Morecambe Bay, Virtual Diving Bell
White Clawed Crayfish, Terrapins, Oriental Small-Clawed Otters, Lake Malawi Cichlids, Bell Hingeback Tortoises, Elephantnose, Upside-Down Catfish, Axolotls, Arctic Char, European Sea Sturgeons
- Captive breeding and research of endangered White Clawed Crayfish
About Lakes Aquarium
The Lakes Aquarium is a prominent aquatic attraction situated in the village of Lakeside, on the southern edge of Windermere in Cumbria, England. It serves as a key point for Windermere Lake Cruises and is also connected to the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, making it an accessible destination for tourists. The aquarium holds the distinction of being the third most visited paying tourist attraction within Cumbria.
History and Development
Established in 1997, the institution initially opened as The Aquarium of the Lakes. Its early displays were curated around the theme of a Lake District stream, tracing its journey from the headwaters down to the lake and ultimately to Morecambe Bay. In 2008, a significant rebranding occurred, and the aquarium was renamed the Lakes Aquarium. This rebranding also introduced a new thematic focus, shifting to encompass the diverse lakes found across the world. The attraction is now under the ownership of Parques Reunidos, a Spanish leisure company that manages a global portfolio of 67 parks.
Exhibits and Collections
The Lakes Aquarium showcases a wide array of both freshwater and saltwater aquatic life. The exhibits are thoughtfully organized by geographical regions and specific aquatic environments:
Lake District
This section highlights native and non-native species found within the Lake District National Park. A key conservation initiative here involves the captive breeding and research of the endangered White Clawed Crayfish. The exhibit also educates visitors about the ecological impact of releasing pet trade animals, such as terrapins, into the wild, noting that all terrapins on display were rehomed from the public.
Thematic Zones
Further exhibits delve into the aquatic life of Asia, featuring Oriental small-clawed otters, and Africa, with displays of Lake Malawi cichlids, bell hingeback tortoises, and various catfish species. The Americas are represented by angelfish, blind cave fish, piranhas, and axolotls. A dedicated 'Lakes' section presents a diverse collection including Arctic char, various trout and carp species, and marine invertebrates. Additional areas focus on 'Weirs', 'Marine' life, and the distinct ecosystem of 'Morecambe Bay', showcasing species like seabass, rays, and flatfish.
Virtual Diving Bell
An innovative feature of the aquarium is the 'Virtual Diving Bell' exhibit. This interactive experience utilizes three large, semi-spherical screens to project immersive underwater scenes, offering visitors a simulated deep-sea exploration.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Lakes Aquarium open?
The Lakes Aquarium first opened its doors in 1997. It was initially known as The Aquarium of the Lakes and followed a theme of a Lake District stream flowing into the lake and out to Morecambe Bay.
What is the current theme of the Lakes Aquarium?
Since 2008, the Lakes Aquarium has been re-branded with a theme focusing on the lakes of the world. This shift in theme broadened its scope beyond the local Lake District environment.
Who owns the Lakes Aquarium?
The Lakes Aquarium is currently owned by the Spanish leisure company Parques Reunidos. This company is known for operating a large number of parks globally.
What kind of animals can be found at the Lakes Aquarium?
The aquarium houses both freshwater and salt water aquatic animals. Exhibits are organized by geographical regions such as the Lake District, Asia, Africa, the Americas, and specific lake environments, as well as marine and Morecambe Bay sections.
Does the Lakes Aquarium participate in conservation efforts?
Yes, the aquarium is involved in conservation projects, notably through the captive breeding and research of the endangered White Clawed Crayfish in its Lake District exhibit. It also highlights the issue of releasing pet trade animals into the wild.
What is the 'Virtual Diving Bell' exhibit?
The Virtual Diving Bell is an interactive exhibit that uses three large, semi-spherical screens to display underwater scenes. This immersive experience provides visitors with a simulated journey beneath the water's surface.
Related Zoos
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.
National Marine Aquarium
The National Marine Aquarium, located in Plymouth, England, is the United Kingdom's largest aquarium. Opened in 1998, it serves as an educational institution dedicated to teaching visitors about the marine environment and is run by the Ocean Conservation Trust, a charity focused on ocean protection and restoration.
National Sea Life Centre
The National Sea Life Centre in Birmingham, England, is a prominent aquarium showcasing diverse freshwater and marine life across more than 60 displays. It is notable for its large ocean tank featuring a fully transparent underwater tunnel, the only one of its kind in the United Kingdom, and for its significant conservation efforts, including a successful seahorse breeding program.