Sweet Knowle Aquatics - Wimpstone, nr Stratford upon Avon
Variety: 10 (Not so many rare or unusual types, but a huge selection of all the regulars - they've also opened up a new cichlid section
)
Quality: 10 (All tanks in great condition, spotted a floater last time I went, was removed immediately when I pointed it out)
Staff: 9 (Not asked too many questions there, but the few questions I've had have been well answered)
Well worth a visit, and the fact that it's a family business is a bonus in my eyes. Overall:
Maidenhead Aquatics - Stratford upon Avon
Variety: 9 (Very good range, new ones in all the time, although slightly expensive for some types)
Quality: 10 (Very clean and in great condition (to be fair, they've only been open just over a year), and they have a fantastic looking display tank)
Staff: 10 (The two main guys in there are really friendly and seem to know their stuff)
Overall: As chain stores go, this has to be one of the best I've seen. Definately recommended.
Avon Aquatics - Shipston on Stour
It should be noted here that this store is apparently undergoing a renovation, and is subject to change. That said, nothing much seems to have changed since I was there six months ago!
Variety: 5 (A large selection of tanks, but the range stocked seems very basic and could do with a lot of improvement, with many tanks either empty or just containing a couple of fish)
Quality: 2 (Most of the tanks had varying amounts of algae growing on the substrate and the glass, no dead fish spotted but they all looked pretty lacklustre)
Staff: 6 (Seemed fairly keen and reasonably knowledgable, but I can't give them any more than this due to the state they keep the tanks)
Overall: This store seems to now be concentrating on the outdoor/pond side of the business (which has been refurbished). Due to this, the state of the tropical/marine section, and the high prices of acessories etc, I'll be staying away from here until I hear they've improved. Shame really, they used to be pretty good.
