Life as a SEN mum

You know if there’s an aquarium then we’re probably going to end up visiting it. There’s something so calming about them. Whatever else is going on, it’s like all your worries just fade away.

Price

Ticket prices are £15.15 for adults and £11.65 for kids. There are concessions for over 65s, those who require carers, and discounts when booking a family ticket. You can even book a “friends” ticket, essentially like a 4 person family ticket, but for any 4 people over the age of 13. You can also purchase annual tickets, these work out at about the equivalent of 3 visits, this is definitely something I’d be looking into come our next holiday as we had discussed visiting several times as it was.

Accessibility

Unfortunately this is one area that some visitors might struggle with. Most of the aquarium is accessible to all, however, there are some areas which are quite narrow and might make things difficult during busier times. Due to the location there isn’t disabled parking right next to the aquarium itself. You can drive down to the aquarium if needs be but parking is within Newquay town itself. As with most places now, essential carers are free when you can provide proof of requirement. Blue Reef do accept Access Passes with +1 on as proof, but still also accept DLA/PIP notices as proof of requirement. As always though for full access information check out their website as it provides more detailed information dependent exactly on your needs.

Things to do

It may not be the biggest aquarium we’ve ever visited, but they certainly have a wide range of sea life, including two caimans, and be sure to say hello to the very chatty crab. There are also interactive kids trails, these are free and can be picked up from admissions. As much as these are for the kids, I’m pretty sure as parents we get more involved and enjoy them more so than the kids.

Food and Drink

There is a cafe in the aquarium where you can grab a drink or a bite to eat. Why not pack a picnic and enjoy it on the beach before or after your visit? There are also lots of places within a short walk where you can either have a sit down meal or grab a pasty on the go. So there are plenty of options dependent on your requirements and budget.

Gift Shop

There is a small, but very well stocked gift shop. Whether, like me, you just want to pick up a fridge magnet as a small souvenir, or the kids have their sights set on a new toy, there is something for everyone. Be warned though, you have to go through the shop to exit the aquarium, so if you’re someone who usually avoids gift shops, you’ll need to be focused and prepared to head straight through.

Overview

If you’re looking for places to visit in Cornwall then definitely add it to your list, it certainly is somewhere that will be on our list every time we’re in the area.