Skegness Aquarium & Shark Experience

If you’re staying with us at Wren Farm Retreats and fancy a brilliant day out by the coast, the Skegness Aquarium is a top pick. Nestled on the east coast at Skegness, just under an hour’s drive from Wren Farm Retreats near Louth, it’s a fun blend of marine thrills and family-friendly adventure – complete with sharks, rays, jellyfish and plenty of interactive exhibits for both grown-ups and children. Whether you’re a couple looking for something a little different or a family wanting a memorable outing, this place fits the bill perfectly.

What to Expect

The aquarium is more than just fish in tanks – it’s an immersive sea-world experience. From the moment you step inside, you’re transported into a nautical adventure with themed zones such as the “Sunken Hold”, “Sea Caves”, and even “Long John Silver’s Storeroom”, filled with exotic creatures like snakes, lizards and tarantulas.

The highlight for many visitors is the impressive shark lagoon, home to Black Tip Reef Sharks, zebra sharks, and rays gliding gracefully through the water. There’s also the Aqua Theatre, which provides stunning underwater views, as well as “Doodle Cove” – an interactive projection sandpit that’s a hit with children.

Beyond the aquarium itself, admission also includes access to the outdoor “Jurassic Falls” dinosaur trail, which adds an extra layer of fun for families. You’ll find a café on site for drinks and light meals, plus a gift shop selling marine-themed souvenirs. Allow around 1.5–2 hours to explore, though families often stay longer.

The Shark Experience

For those feeling brave (and over 10 years old), the Shark Dive Experience is one of the most exciting things to do in Lincolnshire. It’s an unforgettable chance to come face-to-face with real sharks – safely, of course!

The experience takes place in the main shark lagoon with full supervision from qualified instructors. You’ll be given a pre-dive safety briefing and fitted with a dry suit, mask and air supply. The dive itself lasts around 20 minutes, during which you’ll be completely surrounded by sharks, rays, and hundreds of tropical fish in a clear underwater tunnel.

There’s no need to be a qualified diver; complete beginners are welcome. The team guides you through everything step-by-step, and you’ll even receive a certificate to take home afterwards.

Booking: Spaces are limited, so it’s best to book well in advance, especially during school holidays or weekends. Bookings can usually be made directly through the Skegness Aquarium’s website or by calling ahead. Participants must be aged 10 or older, and under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.

Top tip: Bring a towel and swimwear, and arrive 30 minutes before your dive time to get fitted with your gear and briefed. Friends and family can watch from the Aqua Theatre, which makes for great photos and videos.

Best Time to Visit / Insider Tips

• Timing: For a quieter experience, aim for opening time at 10 am, especially mid-week or outside the main summer holidays.
• Weather: It’s the perfect rainy-day attraction, so save it for when the weather turns.
• Dining tip: The upstairs bistro serves light lunches and Costa coffee, but it can get busy around midday, so consider visiting before noon or after 2 pm.
• Special experiences: Shark Dives and Snorkel Ranger Sessions for younger kids should be pre-booked online, as slots often sell out weeks ahead.
• Duration: Expect to spend around 2 hours for the main exhibits and another hour or two if doing the shark dive.

How Far Is It from Wren Farm Retreats

From Wren Farm Retreats, Skegness Aquarium is approximately 20 minutes away by car.

It’s an easy, direct drive and makes for a great half-day trip from your lodge.

Facilities & Accessibility

• Toilets and baby changing: Available on site.
• Café and bistro: Serves drinks, snacks and light meals, including children’s options.
• Gift shop: Offers reasonably priced keepsakes and educational toys.
• Accessibility: The aquarium is wheelchair-friendly throughout and staff are happy to assist if needed.
• Dog policy: Assistance dogs only are allowed inside. The surrounding seafront area, however, is very dog-friendly for a walk afterwards.
• Parking: Ample car parking and coach bays available nearby.
• Family-friendly extras: There’s a soft-play area and plenty of interactive elements to keep little ones entertained.

Combine Your Trip / Nearby Attractions

Skegness has a lot to offer beyond the aquarium. After your visit, you could:

• Take a stroll along Skegness Pier or enjoy some traditional seaside amusements.
• Visit Tower Gardens, a lovely green space perfect for a picnic.
• Or spend the morning at the coast, then enjoy a peaceful countryside evening back at Wren Farm Retreats – the best of both worlds.

Plan Your Visit (Quick Info Table)

📍 Address: Tower Esplanade, Skegness, Lincolnshire, PE25 3HH
⏰ Opening Times: Usually 10:00 am – 4:00 pm (daily, seasonal variations apply - check official website for up to date opening times)
💷 Entry Cost: Approx. £15–£20 per adult / £10–£15 per child / Under 3s free
🦈 Shark Dive Experience: From £90 per person (booking required)
🐶 Dog Friendly: Assistance dogs only
🚗 Parking: Nearby pay and display car parks on Tower Esplanade

Staying Nearby at Wren Farm Retreats

After a thrilling day by the sea, there’s nothing quite like heading back to the calm of the countryside. At Wren Farm Retreats, you can unwind in comfort, enjoy a glass of wine or hot chocolate on the veranda, and watch the sunset over the fields. With peaceful surroundings, friendly alpacas, and cosy lodges, it’s the perfect place to relax after a fun-filled coastal adventure.