In lieu of a birthday party, our kids usually opt to have a family outing. Caleb chose an outing to the London Aquarium so we headed downtown the day after his birthday. We hit many ‘hot spots’ on the way, like . . .
. . . a walk through Harrod’s,
. . . scoping out the London Eye,
. . . and gazing up at Big Ben.
The London Aquarium is actually situtated right below the London Eye so while we were in the queue to get in, we had a great close-up view. MAYBE someday you’ll get us up in that big rotating observation deck . . . MAYBE.
The kids were so excited to go to the aquarium and see “350 different species from the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans” (as they had read on their website). As soon as we entered the dim-lit aquarium, it was a different story. They gripped our arms and wanted to find the fastest way possible through the displays.
They must have felt a little claustrophobic or something being there. Once you enter the “Thames Walk” you have to follow the crowd back and forth through aisles and past tanks – you can’t choose your own path. I think that was a little unnerving for them. But, after awhile they seemed to loosen up and enjoy themselves.
We walked through the tunnel and saw the sharks up close and personal.
Divers usually hand feed the sharks, but we missed their feeding time, which was sad because I think that is what the kids were looking forward to the most.
This ‘little’ turtle was probably my favorite of the day. He looked so peaceful swimming around and in no hurry to get anywhere.
In an hour and a half we had worked our way to the exit of the aquarium. Of course, on our way out, we had to stock up on a few treats for the ride home . . . and a few souvenir items for the kids (postcards, pens, notebooks).
We enjoyed the treats as we rode the overground train home. The kids were excited to try a different mode of transportation. We’ve done the taxis, tube, and bus, and now the overground. The next popular mode of transportation in London is the motorbike. I think it will be awhile before we attempt that one . . .
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