Ilfracombe Aquarium
The Old Lifeboat House, Ilfracombe Harbour
View on Google MapsPhoto: David Jackson
About Ilfracombe Aquarium
Nestled in a historic lifeboat station on Ilfracombe's picturesque harbour, this charming aquarium offers hands-on marine encounters and entertaining quizzes led by enthusiastic staff.
What's nearby
- Ilfracombe Harbour next door
- The Pier Tavern next door
- Lundy Booking Office next door
- The Dolphin Restaurant & Takeaway Ilfracombe next door
- Public Art: Verity next door
Distances as the crow flies, via Google
Good to know
Parking
- ✓Free car park
- ✓Paid car park
Accessibility
- ✓Accessible parking
- ✓Accessible entrance
- ✓Accessible toilet
- ✓Accessible seating
Payment
- ✓Credit cards
- ✓Debit cards
- ✓Contactless
Details via Google — worth confirming with the attraction before you travel, especially for access needs.
Photos
Photos via Google
Opening hours
- Monday
- 10:00 AM – 4:45 PM
- Tuesday
- 10:00 AM – 4:45 PM
- Wednesday
- 10:00 AM – 4:45 PM
- Thursday
- 10:00 AM – 4:45 PM
- Friday
- 10:00 AM – 4:15 PM
- Saturday
- 10:00 AM – 4:45 PM
- Sunday
- 10:00 AM – 4:15 PM
Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.
What visitors say
Had a great visit, yes its small but what is lacks in size it makes up for in personality and charm. Its a showcase of the local marine life from the rivers and estuary to the rock pools and deep seas! Its therfore very unique. The staff were very friendly and informative. I was suprised to learn just how much local marine life we had!
· via Google
We really enjoyed our visit here. We went on a Saturday afternoon and had the place almost to ourselves. It was nice to see the aquatic species local to the area and the man working there (I think his name was Steve) was incredibly knowledgeable and gave us lots of insights and information - he even showed us how the Starfish and Crabs feed! Definitely worth a littl visit!
· via Google
The Ilfracombe Aquarium Tues 23 Sept 2025 Gem of a local aquarium. Parking was directly outside (reasonable price for the day). Great location - right by the harbour. Has a café and shop near the entrance. Staff were really helpful and informative - thanks Dan! As it was a weekday afternoon, no need to queue. Yes, it's a small aquarium compared to other businesses but this one is local, has the full story of each environment. We were in there for over two hours mesmerised. We could have easily sat and watched the fish, rays, octopus etc for longer but it was coming close to closing time. There is an overhead tank too which was cool. Dan was on hand to answer any questions and we were able to observe the feeding frenzy. Thank you for looking after us. Thoroughly enjoyable.
· via Google
Charming, interesting, and well designed! I loved how the layout went from the river mouth to deep sea with every species being native to the UK. Even though it’s on the smaller side, there really was so much to see. The staff were super friendly and well informed which made the whole experience even more enjoyable. Definitely recommend as a relaxing & educational activity.
· via Google
Visitors say this aquarium offers a fascinating journey through local marine life, from freshwater to deep sea, with diverse species and engaging exhibits. They also highlight the knowledgeable and friendly staff, reasonable prices, and family-friendly activities like quizzes.
Some reviews mention the aquarium can be small.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- The Quay, Ilfracombe, EX34 9EQ Get directions
- Category
- Aquariums & Sea Life Centres
- Guest rating
- 4.2 / 5 (713 reviews)
- Suitable for
- All Ages
- Setting
- Indoor
- Good for children
- Yes
- Destination
- Ilfracombe