Zoos, Aquariums, Wildlife and Farm Parks

Macduff Marine Aquarium is set to undergo a significant renovation and extension, following a successful bid last year to the UK Government’s Levelling Up fund by owners Aberdeenshire Council. The project for Macduff Marine Aquarium aims to build on its success so far as a popular and award-winning attraction that offers a one-of-a-kind visitor experience in the UK, showcasing local Moray Firth marine life and environment.

The upgrade will include a second storey café with magnificent coastal views and internal view into the central aquarium display. A multifunctional learning space will be added, allowing more opportunity for exploring marine and environmental themes. There will be a new lobster hatchery and exciting interactive and vibrant exhibits. The area surrounding the aquarium will be landscaped and planted with natural coastal grasses and wildflowers, increasing the natural biodiversity and providing space for picnicking, playing and watching the marine wildlife in the Moray Firth.

With works starting in late Autumn 2024, the aquarium will be closed to the public for about one year. The fish and other marine animals will remain onsite, with the aquarium team looking after their wellbeing meantime and offering outreach programming for schools and pop-up activity.