Blue Reef Aquarium Newquay

Blue Reef Aquarium Newquay is an immersive, family friendly aquarium located on the seafront in Newquay, Cornwall. Inside, visitors can explore more than 40 naturally themed habitats featuring sharks, rays, seahorses, jellyfish, sea turtles and colourful tropical fish, alongside native British species such as lobsters, crabs and octopus. The walk through underwater tunnel is a highlight, offering close up views of larger marine life as they swim overhead, while daily talks and feeding demonstrations provide an educational element to the visit.

From an accessibility perspective, the aquarium is spread across multiple levels with ramps throughout and lift access to the first floor, gift shop and café. Multi level viewing areas allow most exhibits to be seen from different heights. The only area currently not accessible is the Nursery tanks. Lighting is low in certain sections to support animal welfare, which may be important to consider for visitors with visual sensitivities.

There is one accessible toilet located on the first floor, featuring a lowered wash basin, grab rails, wide doorway, disposal facilities and an emergency pull cord.

The aquarium does not have its own public car park, but accessible parking spaces can be reserved directly with the venue if arranged prior to arrival. The closest public car parks are Fore Street Short Stay (approx. 300m), Manor Car Park (approx. 400m) and St Georges Road Car Park (approx. 450m). Each provides dedicated disabled bays, though charges apply unless the vehicle is registered in the disabled tax class. Routes to the aquarium are step free but include a steep hill, so assistance may be required for wheelchair users or visitors with limited mobility. Blue Badge holders using Pay and Display car parks receive one additional hour of free parking when paying for time and correctly displaying their badge.

Assistance dogs are permitted within the aquarium. The venue also offers free carer entry on a 1:1 basis for disabled visitors, subject to proof of disability such as a DLA or PIP letter. Additional carers can purchase a concession ticket.

Blue Reef Aquarium Newquay offers a central, indoor attraction in Cornwall with lift access, ramped routes and supportive entry policies, helping families plan a more informed and mobility friendly day out.