Visit The Cornish Seal Sanctuary

Here at Wild & Free Cornwall, we believe the best things in life are wild and free . . . However, there is one place that is well worth the entrance fee and that is The Cornish Seal Sanctuary! Why? Because the Cornish Seal Sanctuary rescue and provide expert care for sick, injured, or distressed seals and other marine animals in need of help who are found around Cornwall’s shores.

Once recovered, the charity then releases the seals back into their natural environment, or provides a permanent home and ongoing care for seals and other marine animals who cannot be released back to the wild.

Not only do we support their fantastic work, but it is a really fun day out for all, with loads to see and do. The Cornish Seal Sanctuary is also amazing value for money, as your tickets are valid for 12 months of free entry! So please make sure to keep your receipt as proof of entry for future visits.

The Sanctuary

Harbour Views Pool is where you can meet the Cornish Seal Sanctuary resident grey seals and grey seal pups. Each one carries their own unique story for living at the Sanctuary, so make sure you attend the Seal talk to find out about them all.

During pup season, the rescued grey seal pups will also live in this Pool as part of their final stage of rehabilitation. This is where they learn how to fight for their fish and how to interact with adult grey seals to help them when they are released back into the wild.

Underwater viewing areas allow you to get up close to the fantastic creatures! With three incredible underwater viewing sections located in the Southern Sea Lion Pool, Seal Rescue Centre and Penguin Beach.

At Penguin Beach you will find Humboldt penguins, who blush to keep cool! Named after the Humboldt current they are native to, located in Peru, many people find it hard to believe that these penguins love sunshine and warm weather.

At Otter Creek, you can get up close and personal with the resident Asian Short Clawed Otters. Otters in the wild have a life expectancy of 8 years, with Asian Short Clawed Otters being the smallest of all species of Otter.

Meet Southern Sea Lion ‘Diego’ up close at Southern Sea Lion Pool. You can learn more about him during the daily tours.

How long do you spend at the Seal Sanctuary?

We would recommend giving yourself a minimum of 2-3 hours to visit the Cornish Seal Sanctuary, however if the sun is shining you can easily spend the day there. With all the beautiful seals and pups to see as well as a children’s play area, cafe and shop, there is plenty to keep you occupied.

What animals are at Cornish Seal Sanctuary?

As well as the sanctuary’s resident seals, sea lions and penguins at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary, they also care for paddock animals who are looking for a forever home. Resident animals such as Pygmy goats, and Valais blacknose and Dartmoor sheep. The paddock animals are a firm favourite with visitors.

Is the seal sanctuary indoors?

The Cornish Seal Sanctuary has a mix of indoor and outdoor areas to explore and discover. Make sure to bring a rain coat for those unpredictable days!

Is the Seal Sanctuary open all year round?

Open every day of the year apart from Christmas Day. Please check with the centre for spring, summer, autumn and winter closing times, as these will vary.

Is there parking at the Seal Sanctuary?

Yes! There is onsite parking. Although please note that the car park can become very busy at peak times of year.

Seal Rescue & Rehabilitation

The Cornish Seal Sanctuary rescues numerous pups every year. You’ll be able to follow the journey of injured seal pups through their rescue from local coastal waters, through rehabilitation and eventually release back into the wild!

Each year, The Cornish Seal Sanctuary rehabilitate over 70 grey seal pups from local coastal waters and bring them into the specialist Seal Hospital.

The Seal Hospital has the facilities to look after 6 poorly Seal pups at one time. Each Seal costs over £2,000 to rehabilitate.

What to do if you find a seal pup?

The Cornish Seal Sanctuary has some helpful tips on what to do if you come across a seal pup on the beach:

1. Keep your distance

If a seal pup has a fluffy white coat, it still needs its mother. She will have spotted you long before you saw her and she will hopefully be watching from a safe distance out at sea. A mum will only return to feed her pup if she thinks it is safe to do so.

2. Don’t touch the seal pup

It is a wild animal with sharp teeth. A mother may reject her pup if it smells of people, so keep downwind and out of sight.

3. Don’t put any seal back in the sea

A white-coated pup spends most time out of water. All seals haul out onto land to rest, digest and socialise all year round.

4. Do take a good look from distance

If the seal pup is alone, thin, injured or seems unwell (noisy breathing, coughing, runny nose) it may need help.

5. Do something about it

Telephone Cornish Seal Sanctuary for expert advice from their marine animal experts on 01326221 361 or British Divers Marine Life Rescue on 01825 765 546 giving an accurate location.’

The Cornish Seal Sanctuary is part of the SEALIFE Trust charity and couldn’t do its vital work without the support of the public. If you are visiting this part of Cornwall, The Cornish Seal Sanctuary is well worth a visit. Enjoy!

Address: The Cornish Seal Sanctuary, Gweek, Cornwall, TR12 6UG

Parking: Onsite car park.

Facilities: Toilets, gift shop & cafe available.

Contact Details: https://sealsanctuary.sealifetrust.org/en/