There is a long history of aquatic clubs in the area but the present Society can be traced to the foundation of the Reigate and Redhill Tropical Fish Association in 1964.  The name was subsequently changed to the Reigate and Redhill Aquarist Society to reflect the recruitment of members with wider interests; particularly those primarily interested in coldwater fish.

Whilst current members continue to be largely freshwater fish enthusiasts, both tropical and coldwater, the club promotes interest in all aspects of aquatic life, including native and tropical marines, amphibians, aquatic plants and conservation/environmental issues.

The society has developed a strong association with East Surrey Hospital, where it maintains a number of aquariums in wards and other patient areas and makes an annual visit to maintain the wildlife pond in the hospital grounds.

The Riegate and Redhill Aquarist Society is affiliated with the Federation of British Aquarist Societies (FBAS).