Whilst in Whitby, we popped into the Whitby Lobster Hatchery Marine Discovery Centre, and we were fascinated by the experience.
The Marine Discovery Centre has over 30 species of native marine life spread over three tanks. It is located on Pier Road, just across from the Magpie Cafe.
Here, you can interact with exhibits, learn about sea creatures and witness the incredible work they do. Here’s more information and what we thought of our visit to the Whitby Lobster Hatchery Marine Discovery Centre.
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What is the Marine Discovery Centre?
The unused fish auction shed on Whitby’s Pier Road has been transformed into a Marine Discovery Centre and Lobster Hatchery. Their main objectives are to preserve the fishing industry and to advance education and research on the local marine life.
They aim to release 100k juvenile lobsters back into the sea each year. This offsets the number caught by the fishermen in Whitby. The hatchery is critical to the lobsters’ survival at the most delicate stage of their lives. Where only 1% typically survive in the wild.
Using modern technology, the hatchery simulates the natural environment of the juvenile lobsters until they are fully matured. Increasing their chances of survival to 40% once they are released back into the sea.
Our visit to the Marine Discovery Centre
The Marine Discovery Centre was open throughout half term. So we popped in with our little one to support the charity, learn more about sea life and escape very busy Whitby for a little while!
Our little boy loves learning about sea life. This was the perfect way for him to spend time in Whitby. We were greeted by one of the friendly volunteers who gave our little boy a children’s worksheet to complete.
An educational experience for both children and adults
The space features superb displays, which are informative and well thought out and the Lobster Hatchery. The focus at the Whitby Lobster Hatchery is to preserve the fishing heritage of Whitby by safeguarding the local lobster populations. They bring wild-caught, egg-bearing lobsters to the hatchery, protecting the juveniles during the most vulnerable part of their life cycle. Then, release them back into the wild. This way, They can ensure that the lobster populations continue to thrive and contribute to Whitby’s rich maritime history for generations.
Our little boy loved filling out his quiz sheet and searching the tanks for the answers. The space is incredibly child-friendly. There are even small movable steps beside the tanks to get a close view of the sea life.
Knowledgeable and friendly volunteers
The volunteers were lovely; one asked if we wanted to watch her feed the fish. She was incredibly knowledgeable and told us many interesting facts about the lobsters and fish within this particular tank. She also showed us juvenile lobsters, which were incredible, to see how tiny and fragile they are!
The centre is small, but don’t let that put you off visiting. The amount you can learn from the centre is unbelievable. The experience was eye-opening for all of us. The admission price is fair, especially as you are supporting the charity and the incredible work they do.
Learn more about the Marine Discovery Centre and Whitby Lobster Hatchery here.
Opening times
Opening hours: Thursday – Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Admission prices are as follows: £5 for adults, £4 for children and concessions, and £15 for families.
By visiting, you are supporting the Whitby Lobster Hatchery Charity (1193944)
Become a volunteer
This project greatly benefits from the involvement of volunteers. They believe the more people they have on board, the stronger this project will become. They encourage individuals to reach out and explore how they can contribute their unique skills and knowledge to the friendly and dedicated team. If you’re interested in volunteering, please fill out the brief form indicating your areas of expertise and interests on their website.
Education is vital in creating a more sustainable and connected world. So, if you can, visit the Marine Discovery Centre. Let us know in the comments if you have already visited and your thoughts.
Travelling north we visited the Marine discovery Centre at Whitby, and were enchanted by the enthusiastic, passionate talk Joe gave our group on the work being carried out at the centre.
This group of farmers were very impressed by our visit.