Exploris Aquarium and Seal Sanctuary
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Exploris-the Northern Ireland Aquarium is located in the conservation village of Portaferry on the shores of a marine nature reserve and site of specific scientific interest-Strangford Lough. At Exploris Aquarium you can see how animals and plants live in communities in the wild, with a themed journey through Strangford Lough and into the Irish Sea. Children love to see the spiny starfish and prickly sea urchins in the discovery pools. A feature for visitors is the Seal Sanctuary, in which sick or orphaned seal pups are rehabilitated and then released back into the wild. Two unique viewing areas for visitors have been built into the sanctuary. Once they are moved into the swimming pools, the seals are visible through an underwater viewing area, as well as from higher vantage points in the café and in the new exhibition area. Exploris have a regular programme of events which can be seen on our website www.exploris.org.uk

ADDRESS: The Ropewalk, Castle Street, Portaferry,
Co. Down, BT22 1NZ
TEL: 028-4272 8062
FAX: 028-4272 8396
EMAIL: info@exploris.org.uk
WEBSITE: www.exploris.org.uk

LOCATION: On the shores of the marine nature reserve &
site of scientific interest - Strangford Lough

SEASON: All Year

OPENING TIMES:
Oct-Mar: Mon-Fri: 10.00-17.00 Sat: 11.00-17.00 / Sun: 13.00-17.00
Apr-Sept: Mon-Fri: 10.00-18.00 Sat: 11.00-18.00 / Sun: 12.00-18.00

GROUP BOOKINGS NECESSARY: Yes

BOOKING CONTACT: www.exploris.org.uk/book-a-tour/

MANAGER: Helena Challinor

EDUCATION OFFICER: Andy O’Neill

AVERAGE VISIT LENGTH: 2+ hours

ENTRANCE FEES: Adult: Stg£6.90 / OAP/Student: Stg£4.00 / Child: Stg£4.00 (U4 Free)
Family: Stg£20.00 (2A + 4C) (Prices subject to change)

GUIDED TOURS: Max No: 70, Duration: Approx. 2 hours Languages: English

AUDIO VISUAL: Yes, throughout. Languages: English

EXHIBITION: Summer: Endangered Seas. Languages: English

RESTAURANT: Tides café, serving a range of snacks, tray bakes, meals and soft drinks.

PICNIC AREA: Yes

SHOP: Yes

INFORMATION GUIDE: English

COACH PARKING: Yes, 6 coaches

CAR PARKING: Yes, 100 cars

DISABLED ACCESS/TOILET: Yes