The SEA LIFE London Aquarium has a relatively recent history compared to some of London's other institutions. Here's a summary of its key milestones:

• 1997: The aquarium first opened its doors in March 1997 as the London Aquarium. It was built on the ground floor of County Hall, a historic building on the South Bank of the River Thames.
  County Hall, London

• 2005: The aquarium gained attention for showcasing three robotic fish, created by the University of Essex. These autonomous robots were designed to mimic the movements and navigation of real fish.

• 2008: Merlin Entertainments, a global entertainment company that owns other attractions like Madame Tussauds and the London Eye, acquired the aquarium.

• 2009: The aquarium underwent a significant £5 million refurbishment. It reopened in April 2009 as the SEA LIFE London Aquarium, with new exhibits like the Shark Walk and a revamped Pacific Ocean tank.

• 2011: The aquarium welcomed a colony of Gentoo penguins from Edinburgh Zoo, adding another popular attraction for visitors.

Today, the SEA LIFE London Aquarium is a popular destination for families and tourists, offering an immersive underwater experience with a focus on conservation and education.

Exhibits: The aquarium is home to over 500 species of sea creatures, including sharks, rays, turtles, penguins, and jellyfish. Some of the most popular exhibits include the Shark Walk, the Ocean Tunnel, and the Penguin Point.  

Interactive experiences: The aquarium offers a variety of interactive experiences, such as touch pools where visitors can gently handle starfish and crabs. There are also opportunities to watch live feedings and talks by aquarium experts.  

Conservation: SEA LIFE London Aquarium is committed to conservation and works to protect marine life through a variety of initiatives. The aquarium is also home to a number of rescued animals that cannot be released back into the wild.  

Amenities: The aquarium offers a variety of amenities, including a cafe, a gift shop, and restrooms. The aquarium is also wheelchair accessible.