Make a splash at the National Sea Life Centre in Birmingham

It’s easy to see why it’s one of the West Midlands most loved days out, celebrating its 20th anniversary this year.

I’d wanted to visited the centre with my daughter, Jasmine, 8, for some years.

Not a fan of driving in Birmingham, we opted for the train which is a convenient way to get to the attraction, which is just a short walk from New Street, situated in Brindley Place.

The National Sea Life Centre transports visitors into the amazing underwater world showcasing the best of everything from the coast of Britain, to the Antarctic and the Caribbean.

Prepare for astonishingly close views of everything from humble starfish to graceful rays and tropical sharks in the UK’s only underwater 360° ocean tunnel.

You have the chance to get hands on at the interactive rock pool and come face to face with a colony of cheeky Gentoo Penguins.

What’s great here is that you can see the penguins close-up in and out of the water, something we found really entertaining.

I love penguins and Jasmine and I particularly enjoyed watching them swim, slide and socialise in their 70,000 litre home.

We were dazzled by starfish and came face to face with a various species of rays.

As with the penguins, the fact you can get so close to the creatures holds the attention of children and really brings the visit to life.

We found Nemo! Clownfish, instantly recognisable from the film, coral reefs and sea horses can also be enjoyed.

To add another dimension to your day there is a 4D cinema which is an super attraction for all ages.

In my opinion the best experience has been saved until last with the ocean tunnel, where you can walk under the water as sharks and a giant sea turtle swim over your head.

There are talks and feeds going on throughout the day which all the family can enjoy.

With an amazing underwater 360° ocean tunnel, over 60 display tanks and more than 2,000 sea creatures, the aquarium is the perfect day out for kids...and not so little kids.

Open every day from 10am (excluding Christmas Day). Last admission: (Monday-Friday) 4pm (weekends and holidays) 5pm

Please note that closing times may vary over holiday times.

For more information 0871 423 2110 or visit www.visitsealife.com/birmingham/