The Lake District Coast Aquarium
Introduction to Aquarium (page 1 of 3)
Text and photographs by Paul Barrow

The Lake District of England boasts two aquaria dedicated to its aquatic wildlife. The Lakes Aquarium, dealing with freshwater and marine environments, is at Lakeside, a complex at the southern tip of Lake Windermere. Read David Marshall's article. The other, The lake District Coastal Aquarium, one of the best of its type, is mostly dedicated to native marines with a few tanks holding a range of local freshwater fish. This aquarium is situated in the port area of Maryport, just off the main road (A596) which goes through the town. Travelling from the north, follow the brown signs stating 'Attractions'; from the south the signs are more forthcoming, indicating where the aquarium is situated by name. A large car park is next to the attractions, and is reasonably cheap at £1.50 for 5 hours. Despite remaining a working fishing port, the whole port area has been redeveloped with a cinema complex, new flats, youth amenities, aquarium and a big yachting marina.
Entering the aquarium building, which was set up with help from European and Local development funds, there are full facilities which include disabled access & toilets, parent and baby room, café and gift shop. The main display area is imaginatively set out with no wasted space and an excellent array of unusual marine life. Outside the building are picnic tables, a 12-hole crazy golf course, and adventure playground, a pirate blaster, (water squirting game) and radio controlled boats. Finally, worth mentioning is the excellent guide book 'Display Guide' which has one of the most comprehensive guides to an aquarium I've ever seen. It not only has the usual ground plan but each section is colour coded to match the different displays and the comprehensive list of species found throughout the aquarium.

It is worth exploring the surrounding port area with its fishing cottages, fishing boats, yachts, shops, café, lighthouse and numerous breakwaters. 
 








The view across to the Solway Firth to the Scottish hills is magnificent. If you're there at low tide you'll find wading birds hunting worms in the mud of the harbour bottom, or may be lucky enough to see Herons catching Dabs in the remaining water.

Address: The Lake District Coat Aquarium,
South Quay, Maryport, Cumbria, CA15 8AB.
Telephone: 01900 817760
Email: info@ld-coastaquarium.co.uk
Website: www.lakedistrict-coastaqurium.co.uk