South West
The UK's largest aquarium in Plymouth, dedicated to ocean conservation and marine research.
The Ocean Conservation Trust, based at the National Marine Aquarium, is recruiting a new Chair of Trustees following Mark Lomas's nine-year tenure. The role offers an opportunity to lead the charity's work in ocean conservation, science, education, and advocacy.
FeaturedThe National Marine Aquarium has received two Epaulette Sharks—one male and one female—rehomed from another facility to its 650,000-litre Great Barrier Reef habitat in Plymouth. The carpet sharks, known for their ability to walk using their muscular pectoral fins, have completed quarantine and settled well in their new home surrounded by coral, rays, and tropical fish.
Following STEMFest 2025, the National Marine Aquarium is inviting local manufacturers and businesses to partner on an innovation challenge where students will design Ocean Friendly solutions addressing waste, carbon emissions, and material use. Selected designs will be pitched to business partners in early 2026, with winning concepts manufactured and distributed to over 1,600 STEMFest participants by July 2026.
The National Marine Aquarium delivered its most inclusive STEMFest yet, with around 1,000 students attending free thanks to funding from Plymouth engineering consultants Services Design Solutions, plus 2,200 children joining a virtual session. The event, themed 'Ocean Friendly Homes,' engaged students in hands-on learning about sustainable living, with each participant building a solar-powered fan and taking home a home audit survey to inspire ocean-conscious decisions.
The National Marine Aquarium is running a special October Half Term campaign called 'Spiny Vs Slimy' featuring activity trails, crafts, and a dedicated show about spiny and slimy animals. Visitors can explore the new spiny lobster arrivals while participating in interactive experiences with Ocean Discovery Rangers.
Two spiny lobsters named Knuckles and Tails (Palinurus elephas) have arrived at the National Marine Aquarium and are now on display in the Plymouth Sound Exhibit. These crustaceans are native to UK and European waters and are distinguished by their lack of large claws and distinctive spiky carapace armour.
The National Marine Aquarium is offering free bags of used coffee grounds from Waves Cafe to visitors for garden use. The initiative supports waste reduction while providing gardeners with natural fertiliser and pest deterrent benefits.
The Blue Mind Garden, a gold medal winner at RHS Chelsea Flower Show, will be permanently installed at the National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth on 26 May. Designed by Ashleigh Aylett and developed with the Ocean Conservation Trust, the garden uses sustainable materials and water features to promote mental wellbeing through connection with the ocean.