This year, you have the chance to dive into a whole new world with Animal Crossing: New Horizons, now featured at SEA LIFE centers throughout the UK. Nintendo’s popular life simulation game invites you to create your personal paradise on a deserted island, where you can engage with a cast of charming characters.
A First for the UK
In an exciting first for the UK, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, which has sold over 46 million copies worldwide since its March 2020 debut, is teaming up with SEA LIFE UK for a live, interactive experience. This collaboration lets visitors explore fascinating marine life while mingling with beloved characters from the game.
Starting in SEA LIFE Manchester on February 8, 2025, this unique tour will make its way across the UK, stopping at SEA LIFE Birmingham, SEA LIFE Brighton, SEA LIFE London, and SEA LIFE Chessington World of Adventures Resort. Fans of both SEA LIFE and the Animal Crossing series are in for a treat.
An Immersive and Fun Experience
SEA LIFE UK, under Merlin Entertainments, the world’s second-largest leisure group, and the leading aquarium network, is a perfect host for such an adventure. Each location features captivating themed zones, from the Atlantic and Arctic regions to lush rainforests and tropical areas, offering a glimpse into a vibrant marine world with an array of sea life.
Catherine Pritchard, General Manager at SEA LIFE London Aquarium, expressed her enthusiasm for this exciting collaboration: "We are thrilled to offer this unique experience at several SEA LIFE locations. Our visitors will join Animal Crossing: New Horizons characters on a journey, surrounded by the thousands of amazing creatures we house—from Green Sea Turtles to Zebra Sharks. It promises to be an engaging and fun-filled adventure, perfect for family and friends."
Activities and Character Experiences
Guided by a knowledgeable tour guide, attendees will navigate the ‘Sea Life Islands,’ encountering residents such as Aurora and Octavian, and learning about the diverse marine ecosystem that thrives within SEA LIFE. A fossil dig activity will uncover the ancient ancestors of today’s beloved sea creatures, while explorers will embark on a quest to find Gulliver, who has washed ashore.
As they explore, guests can collect character stamps, discover fascinating tidbits about SEA LIFE inhabitants, and meet fan-favorites like Tom Nook and Isabelle. Before leaving, fans can indulge in some retail therapy with Animal Crossing: New Horizons merchandise available at the aquarium store.
Event Dates
- SEA LIFE Manchester: February 8 – March 9, 2025
- SEA LIFE Birmingham: April 12 – May 11, 2025
- SEA LIFE Brighton: May 24 – June 15, 2025
- SEA LIFE London: June 30 – July 27, 2025
- SEA LIFE Chessington World of Adventures: August 1 – August 31, 2025
About SEA LIFE
With over 40 centers around the globe, including locations in Birmingham, Sydney, Paris, Oberhausen, Bangkok, and Orlando, SEA LIFE cares for more than 180,000 marine creatures in stunning themed habitats. Each year, over 20 million guests visit their 50 aquariums and six sanctuaries, immersing themselves in the wonders of the underwater world.