Blackpool | A Visitor's Introduction to Blackpool

Why is Blackpool Worth a Visit?

Blackpool is worth visiting for its unique blend of traditional British seaside attractions and modern entertainment. The town’s rich history as a Victorian holiday destination has given it a charmingly retro feel, from the vintage trams that run along the seafront to the old-fashioned piers. Highlights like the famous Blackpool Illuminations, the adrenaline-pumping rides of Blackpool Pleasure Beach, and the stunning views from Blackpool Tower provide a variety of experiences, while the lively atmosphere, fun-filled events, and accessible beaches make it a perfect escape by the sea.

Blackpool Highlights: Things to See and Do in Blackpool

1. Blackpool Tower

The Blackpool Tower is perhaps the town’s most iconic landmark, standing at 518 feet tall. Inspired by the Eiffel Tower, this landmark offers spectacular panoramic views of Blackpool and beyond. Inside, you’ll find several attractions, including the Tower Eye, a glass-floored observation deck, the famous Tower Ballroom, known for its stunning decor and organ music, and the Tower Circus, which hosts amazing performances from talented acrobats and clowns. The tower is a must-visit for incredible views and entertainment.

2. Blackpool Pleasure Beach

One of the UK’s most famous amusement parks, Blackpool Pleasure Beach is packed with roller coasters, thrilling rides, and family attractions. It’s home to the Big One, a steel roller coaster that was once the tallest in the world and remains a major thrill ride today. Nickelodeon Land, within the park, is perfect for families with young children, featuring rides and characters from popular kids’ shows. With over 40 rides and attractions, the park offers endless excitement and a full day of fun.

3. Blackpool Illuminations

Blackpool Illuminations is a dazzling light festival that takes place every autumn, usually from late August to early November. Over six miles of the seafront is lit up with millions of coloured lights, illuminations, and themed displays, making it one of the largest free light festivals in the world. Walking or driving through the Illuminations is a magical experience, and the event has been drawing crowds since 1879. Be sure to plan your visit around this event if you’re in Blackpool in the autumn.

4. North, Central, and South Piers

Blackpool’s three piers – North, Central, and South – each offer a unique experience. Central Pier is known for its huge Ferris wheel and lively arcade games, while North Pier retains a traditional feel, with a historic theatre, vintage rides, and charming seaside views. South Pier is the go-to spot for thrill-seekers, featuring exciting rides like the Skycoaster and go-kart tracks. A stroll along any of these piers is a quintessential Blackpool experience, with the sound of the sea and the funfair atmosphere in the air.

5. Sandcastle Waterpark

The largest indoor waterpark in the UK, Sandcastle Waterpark offers a tropical escape, no matter the weather outside. With over 18 water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool, it’s a perfect spot for families or anyone looking to relax and enjoy some water-based fun. The Aztec Falls and Master Blaster, a water slide roller coaster, are popular attractions, and the park also offers family-friendly amenities, including a spa and café.

6. Blackpool Zoo

Located a little away from the main town centre, Blackpool Zoo is home to over 1,500 animals, including elephants, gorillas, tigers, and sea lions. It’s a well-maintained zoo with a focus on conservation and education, providing fascinating displays and interactive experiences. The Dinosaur Safari, where life-sized animatronic dinosaurs ‘roam’ the grounds, is a big hit with kids. With spacious enclosures and a friendly layout, the zoo makes for a delightful day out.

7. Madame Tussauds Blackpool

Madame Tussauds Blackpool offers the chance to get up close and personal with life-like wax figures of celebrities, historical icons, and popular TV characters. The Blackpool version of this famous wax museum includes figures of British stars, sporting legends, and reality TV personalities, along with beloved characters from shows like “Coronation Street.” It’s a fun place to take photos and see the work that goes into crafting these incredibly detailed figures.

8. Stanley Park

Stanley Park is Blackpool’s largest and most beautiful public park, covering 390 acres and featuring stunning landscapes, boating lakes, gardens, and wildlife. It’s a lovely escape from the busier parts of town, perfect for a peaceful walk or picnic. There’s also a golf course, tennis courts, and a model village within the park, and the Art Deco café is a great spot to relax with a coffee while admiring the views.

9. Blackpool Promenade and Beach

Blackpool’s sandy beach and the three-mile-long promenade are perfect for a classic seaside experience. The beach offers wide stretches of golden sand, making it ideal for sunbathing, sandcastle-building, or a refreshing paddle in the sea. The promenade itself is lined with shops, arcades, and fish and chip stalls. On a sunny day, you can soak up the lively atmosphere, enjoy the sea air, and explore the many attractions along the seafront.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There
Blackpool is well-connected by road and rail. If travelling by car, it’s accessible via the M55, which connects to the M6. By train, direct services run from Manchester, Liverpool, and other major cities, with Blackpool North being the main station in the town centre. For those flying in, Manchester Airport is about an hour’s drive away, and there are shuttle options available.

Parking
Blackpool has multiple car parks, including the Central Car Park near Coral Island and the Tower, which is a convenient choice for those exploring the town centre. South Shore, close to Pleasure Beach, has ample parking options as well. Parking can fill up quickly in peak season, so arriving early or using the Park and Ride services is a good option.

Dining
Blackpool offers a wide range of dining options. For a traditional British seaside meal, fish and chips are a must-try; Harry Ramsden’s and The Cottage are popular choices. For a unique experience, try The Beach House, a stylish bistro on the Promenade with views over the sea, or McHalls Bistro for its cosy atmosphere and delicious homemade meals. Blackpool also has a growing number of international eateries, from Italian restaurants to Chinese takeaways.

Shopping
Blackpool’s shopping scene includes a mix of independent shops, high-street brands, and souvenir stalls along the Promenade. Houndshill Shopping Centre in the town centre has a variety of retail options, from fashion and footwear to accessories and gifts. You’ll also find unique shops selling Blackpool Rock and other traditional seaside treats, ideal for taking home a bit of Blackpool’s charm.

When to Visit
Summer (June-August) is the busiest season, with long, sunny days and plenty of outdoor activities and events. However, autumn is also a fantastic time to visit, especially during the Illuminations, which typically run from late August to early November. Winter can be cold and quieter, but the festive atmosphere and indoor attractions make it an enjoyable experience, especially if you’re interested in Christmas events.

Local Events
Blackpool’s annual events add extra sparkle to any visit. Blackpool Illuminations is the most famous, lighting up the Promenade for ten weeks every autumn. In summer, the Blackpool Air Show dazzles crowds with aerobatic displays over the seafront, while the Blackpool Dance Festival in May attracts dancers from all over the world. Throughout the year, the Winter Gardens also hosts various concerts, comedy shows, and festivals.

Exploring Beyond Blackpool
If you have extra time, consider exploring the nearby countryside of Lancashire. The charming town of Lytham St Annes is only a short drive away and offers a more relaxed, quieter beach atmosphere. To the east, the Forest of Bowland provides beautiful landscapes for hiking and exploring. A bit farther, the Lake District is about an hour’s drive away, offering stunning scenery, lakes, and historic villages.