National Sea Life Centre, Public aquarium in Brindleyplace, Birmingham, England
The National Sea Life Centre is a public aquarium housing thousands of marine animals in more than 60 display areas and tanks. The facility showcases everything from sharks and rays to turtles and colorful reef fish.
The aquarium opened in 1996 following designs by renowned architect Norman Foster. The building sits on the site of two Victorian-era canal wharves.
The center's name reflects the marine animals on display, which live in recreated ecosystems throughout the building. Visitors observe these creatures in habitats designed to mirror their natural environments and gain awareness of ocean protection.
The entrance is easy to find in Brindleyplace, a busy cultural area. It is best to explore the square on foot and allow time for your visit.
The facility has a fully transparent 360-degree underwater tunnel where visitors find themselves surrounded by fish and other aquatic animals from all sides. The center is also home to Ozzy and Ola, two sea otters who were among the first of their kind in the country.
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