Published on May, 2025
I organised a sleepover at the SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium for the West of Scotland Writing Group (WOSWG); we have a program for sharing information and having research trips to build knowledge that could be useful for writing and worldbuilding.
We had an absolutely fantastic time sleeping over at the aquarium, and I would recommend it to any large group who is considering a fun activity to do together! The aquarium itself is delightful, and the sleepover snacks were filling, and it was useful that we were allowed to bring in additional snacks and drinks, too! The view from the view point above the aquarium is just stunning, getting to see wonderful textures of the Scottish landscape. Every group member agreed that the sleepover itself was great value for money, given the unique experience of sleeping in an aquarium all to ourselves, and having a completely private tour after hours.
But the best part of the whole experience were the wonderful staff who worked so hard to ensure that we all had the best experience possible.
Kirsty was a brilliant tour guide, and kept up the interest and energy throughout the tour. I could really feel her passion for the characters in the aquarium and for the work that they were doing, and she was so helpful and informative when the group members inevitably bombarded her with questions! I definitely felt that we were in capable hands, and she seamlessly navigated us through different parts of the aquarium with commentary that was both brilliantly funny and insightful.
Kieran was a wonderful host for the rest of the night, facilitating the movie and ensuring that all group members were appropriately looked after; whether that meant taking group photos, responding to coffee orders, or making a surprise appearance as a mascot (which was received with immediate joy). He was great at looking after us during the night and into the wee hours, and his presence in the morning as very reassuring to those of us that got very little sleep and needed some extra caffeine, or access to the deck for fresh air.
Both Kirsty and Kieran truly went above and beyond to ensure that we had a brilliant sleepover experience, and I can honestly say that we can't wait to go back - and perhaps cement the sleepover as an annual event!
Thank you all so much. We truly had the best time.
With love,
the West of Scotland Writing Group