Deep Sea World, Scotland’s national aquarium, is located beneath the iconic Forth Rail Bridge in North Queensferry and is home to more than 2,000 marine creatures. Visitors can explore rivers, lakes and oceans from around the world, encounter seals in the outdoor Seal Harbour, and walk through the UK’s longest underwater tunnel as sharks, rays and large shoals of fish swim overhead in the 4.5 million litre Underwater Safari. Daily dive and feeding shows add an educational element, and shark diving experiences are available for those looking for something more adventurous.
The aquarium is designed to be mobility friendly, with ramps throughout and step free routes across the main visitor areas. There is a solid floor around the underwater tunnel, providing a safer surface for wheelchairs. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters are not permitted on the moving walkway to prevent damage, but alternative routes are available. Some ramps, particularly when exiting the aquarium, can be steep, and staff are available to assist if required.
Deep Sea World has its own dedicated car park with over 100 general spaces and four accessible bays. Accessible toilets are located opposite the Shark Classroom and include grab rails, a lowered sink with lever style tap, disposal facilities and space to manoeuvre a wheelchair, although larger mobility scooters may find space limited.
The aquarium offers free carer entry for registered carers accompanying a disabled visitor, with valid proof required on arrival such as a council carer badge, registered carer ID, Blue Badge or award or disability letter. Only registered service animals, including guide dogs and medical alert dogs, are permitted inside the aquarium.
With step free access, ramped routes and supportive staff assistance, Deep Sea World provides an accessible indoor day out in Scotland for visitors with mobility requirements and their families.
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