Bolton Museum, Aquarium and Archive

Bolton Museum, Aquarium and Archive, Le Mans Crescent, Bolton, UK
1-90 Years

Description

Bolton Museum, Aquarium and Archive is Greater Manchester’s only public aquarium, located inside the Central Library and Museum building. Opened in 1941, it houses over 70 varieties of fish from across the world. It’s a unique place that combines history, education, and wildlife in one setting.

Visitors can see an extensive freshwater collection featuring fascinating species such as Red-bellied Piranhas, Pygmy Glass Danios, Henle’s River Rays, and the transparent Glass Catfish. Rare creatures like the wood-eating Royal Panaque and Nile Tilapia make the collection even more special. Families can enjoy exploring the mix of ancient and exotic fish species together.

Entry to the aquarium is completely free, making it accessible for everyone.

Overall, it’s a great spot for families, children, and anyone curious about aquatic life. The combination of unique species, free access, and its location within the museum makes it a must-visit when in Bolton. It’s both educational and fun, offering a memorable experience for all ages.

Features

  • Free
  • Host birthday parties: No

Features

The aquarium’s extensive freshwater collection features a variety of species from around the world—including the ancient Ornate Bichir, fierce Red-bellied Piranhas, tiny Pygmy Glass Danios, giant Mother-of-snails Catfish, and popular Henle’s River Rays. It also includes unique fish like the transparent Glass Catfish, wood-eating Royal Panaque, and the historically notable Nile Tilapia.

Facilities

  • Parking: The nearest long stay public car park is the Octagon NCP multi-storey car park
  • Toilets: There are accessible unisex public toilets on every floor.
  • Changing: There is a Changing Place on the ground floor at the rear of the library.

Price

Price: Free

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: No

  • Monday/Tuesday/Thursday/Friday/Saturday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • Wednesday: 9:30 am – 5:00 pm
  • Sunday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Address: Bolton Museum, Aquarium and Archive, Le Mans Crescent, Bolton, UK

Post Code: BL1 1SE

Council: Bolton

County: Greater Manchester

  • By Car: We are easily accessible by road - the M60, M61 and M6 are all on our doorstep. The nearest long stay public car park is the Octagon NCP multi-storey car park (postcode: BL1 1TN).
  • By Public transport: Bolton Interchange is 0.4 miles away (a 10 minute walk) and is the main transport hub, with multiple bus and rail connections.

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