Local Coasts

Zone
A new indoor exhibit which opened in July 2009, Local Coasts is an indoor area which gives you an insight into the wildlife and habitats found along the coast. Themed like the underside of a classic British pier the exhibit is home to a fascinating array of little creatures including spiny starfish, cuttlefish, mullet, pipe fish and seahorses.
If you like to look at life from a different perspective, you'll love our new crawl-through tank. This amazing new feature allows you to crawl under the starfish tank and marvel at the amazing creatures within, while waves crash through the tank above you.
The British coastline is ever changing and at the mercy of the sea. The fascinating array of plant and animals found on our shores is as good as anywhere in the world. There are many and varied coastal habitats in the South West, from kelp forests to colourful reefs; tranquil estuaries to wave-pounded rocky shores.
Featured Areas
Penguin Theatre

In the Penguin Theatre, we hold regular talks, shows, and special events. The wall features life size paintings of all 17 species of penguin.
Children's play zone

Our play zone for under-fives and older children will be transformed into a pirate play area during 2008. Enjoy the soft toys, books, colouring activities, and games.
Limpet Wall

Come and have a go on our special climbing wall and see if you can cling on like a limpet and climb from one side all the way across to the other without falling off.
Limpets will move up to about 50cm before returning to their ‘home scar’, where the limpet has ground down the rock with its shell over several years.



