Nestled along the windswept shores of Lancashire’s Fylde Coast, Blackpool sparkles like a jewel in the crown of British seaside resorts. With its golden sandy beaches stretching for six miles, iconic Blackpool Tower piercing the sky, and the dazzling spectacle of the Blackpool Illuminations, this vibrant town has been captivating visitors since the 19th century. Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of roller coasters at Blackpool Pleasure Beach, the nostalgic charm of donkey rides on the pier, or the serene beauty of Stanley Park’s Italian gardens, Blackpool, Lancashire, offers a kaleidoscope of experiences for families, solo travellers, and adventure seekers alike. Known as the UK’s favourite holiday destination, Blackpool’s bold, unapologetic energy and rich heritage make it a must-visit for anyone craving a quintessential British getaway. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best things to do in Blackpool, where to eat, where to stay, how to get there, and insider tips to make your trip unforgettable.
Why Visit Blackpool?
Blackpool is more than just a seaside town, it’s a cultural phenomenon. From its Victorian roots as a health-focused retreat to its modern-day status as Lancashire’s entertainment capital, Blackpool has something for everyone. Families will love the kid-friendly attractions like SEA LIFE Blackpool and the Gruffalo & Friends Clubhouse, while thrill-seekers can conquer record-breaking roller coasters at Pleasure Beach. Solo travellers can immerse themselves in the town’s rich history at Showtown or catch a world-class performance at the Winter Gardens. And who can resist the allure of fish and chips on the promenade or the magic of the Illuminations lighting up the autumn nights? Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a week-long adventure, Blackpool’s blend of nostalgia, excitement, and affordability makes it an ideal destination for UK travellers.
Things to Do in Blackpool
Blackpool’s attractions are as diverse as its visitors, offering everything from heart-pounding adventures to tranquil strolls. Below, we’ve organised the top things to do in Blackpool by interest, ensuring there’s something for families, solo travellers, and adrenaline junkies.
Outdoor Activities and Family Fun
Blackpool’s outdoor offerings are perfect for soaking up the fresh sea air and creating lasting memories. Here are some highlights:
- Blackpool Pleasure Beach: A world-famous amusement park with over 125 rides, including the UK’s tallest roller coaster, The Big One, and the thrilling Valhalla. Families will enjoy Nickelodeon Land with kid-friendly rides featuring SpongeBob and PAW Patrol, while the Ghost Train offers spooky fun for all ages. Book tickets online for discounts. Open March to November, with extended hours during peak season.
- Sandcastle Waterpark: Featuring 18 slides, a wave pool, and a spa area for adults, this accessibility award-winning waterpark is a hit with families. The Hyperzone slides are perfect for thrill-seekers, while younger kids love the Treetops Water Chutes. Open year-round, with heated pools for winter visits.
- Blackpool Beach: Six miles of golden sand make Blackpool’s beaches ideal for bucket-and-spade fun. Build sandcastles, paddle in the shallows, or take a donkey ride on the North or South Piers (seasonal, typically May to September). Check tide times to avoid strong currents, especially further north.
- Heritage Tram Tours & Open-Top Trams: Hop aboard a vintage tram for a nostalgic ride along the promenade, from Starr Gate to Fleetwood. The open-top trams are a hit during the Illuminations (September to November), offering stunning views of the light displays. Tickets start at £3, with 3- or 7-day passes available.
- Stanley Park: This award-winning park, voted the UK’s best in 2024, boasts Italian gardens, a boating lake, and a model village. Families can rent paddleboats or play at the adventure playground, while solo travellers can enjoy peaceful walks. Open daily, free entry.
- Dino Mini Golf: A prehistoric-themed mini-golf course near the South Pier, perfect for families and groups. Expect roaring dinosaurs and tricky holes. Open daily in summer, weekends in winter.
- Gruffalo & Friends Clubhouse: A magical indoor play area for young children, featuring interactive zones inspired by Julia Donaldson’s stories. Ideal for rainy days. Open year-round, tickets from £7.
- Peter Rabbit™: Explore and Play: Located near the promenade, this immersive play zone brings Beatrix Potter’s characters to life with sensory activities for kids under 10. Open daily, tickets from £8.
Local Tip: Visit Blackpool Pleasure Beach midweek to avoid long queues, and book a Speedy Pass for faster ride access during peak season (July–August).
Cultural and Historical Attractions
Blackpool’s rich heritage shines through its cultural landmarks, offering a blend of history and entertainment:
- Blackpool Tower: A 518-foot icon since 1894, the Tower is a must-visit. The Blackpool Tower Eye offers panoramic views and a glass SkyWalk for brave souls, while the 4D Cinema immerses you in Blackpool’s history. The Blackpool Tower Ballroom is a stunning venue for afternoon tea or dancing, famous as the filming location for Strictly Come Dancing finals. The Blackpool Tower Circus, running since 1894, features family-friendly shows with acrobats and clowns (April to November). Combo tickets start at £20.
- Winter Gardens: This historic venue hosts theatre shows, opera, and comedy performances. Catch a musical like Mamma Mia! or a ballet in the opulent Opera House. Check the schedule online for 2025 events.
- Showtown: Blackpool’s newest museum celebrates its entertainment history, with exhibits on circus, dance, and the Illuminations. Interactive displays make it great for solo travellers and families. Open daily, tickets from £12.
- North Pier: The oldest and longest of Blackpool’s three piers, it’s steeped in Victorian charm. Enjoy a traditional tearoom, Venetian carousel, or live entertainment. Free entry, with paid rides.
- Central Pier: Known for its Ferris wheel and arcade games, this pier is perfect for casual fun. Try the penny sliders for a nostalgic experience. Free entry, rides from £1.
- South Pier: Home to adrenaline-pumping rides and family-friendly arcades, it’s ideal for mixed groups. Open daily in summer, weekends in winter.
- Blackpool Zoo: Just 2 miles from the promenade, this family-friendly zoo houses over 1,000 animals, including elephants and tigers. The Dino Roar! exhibit is a hit with kids. Open daily, tickets from £15.
- Madame Tussauds Blackpool: Get up close with wax figures of celebrities, from the Royal Family to Marvel superheroes. Interactive zones make it fun for all ages. Open daily, tickets from £15.
- SEA LIFE Blackpool: Explore underwater worlds with sharks, rays, and turtles. The Ocean Tunnel is a highlight for kids. Open daily, tickets from £12.
- Coral Island: A massive indoor arcade with a donkey derby, casino, and kids’ rides. Free entry, with pay-per-play games. Open late, perfect for evening fun.
Local Tip: Combine a visit to Blackpool Tower with Showtown for a full day of cultural exploration. Book online to save up to 20% on combo tickets.
Seasonal Events
Blackpool’s events calendar is packed with unique experiences, especially during the summer and autumn:
- Blackpool Illuminations: From September to early November, 10km of the promenade lights up with dazzling displays, attracting millions. Take an Illuminated Tram Tour for the best views (book early for weekends). Free to view, tram tours from £8.
- Lightpool Show: Coinciding with the Illuminations, this festival features light installations and projections. Free, held in October.
- Rebellion Punk Festival: A summer highlight (August), drawing punk fans worldwide for music and workshops. Tickets from £50.
- Fleetwood Transport Festival (Tram Sunday): A free event in nearby Fleetwood (July), showcasing vintage vehicles and fairground rides. Accessible by tram.
- Blackpool Air Show: Held in August, this free event features aerobatic displays over the beach. Arrive early for the best spots.
Local Tip: Visit the Illuminations on a weeknight to avoid traffic jams. Drive from north to south for a smoother journey.
Recommendations by Traveller Type
- Families: Blackpool Pleasure Beach (Nickelodeon Land), Sandcastle Waterpark, SEA LIFE, and Gruffalo & Friends Clubhouse are kid-friendly hits. Stanley Park’s playground and boating lake are free and fun.
- Solo Travellers: Explore Showtown, catch a show at Winter Gardens, or take a Heritage Tram Tour for a relaxed day. The North Pier’s tearoom is perfect for quiet reflection.
- Adventure Seekers: Tackle The Big One and Valhalla at Pleasure Beach, brave the SkyWalk at Blackpool Tower, or try the Hyperzone slides at Sandcastle Waterpark.
Places to Eat in Blackpool
Blackpool’s dining scene is as vibrant as its attractions, offering everything from classic fish and chips to international cuisine. Here’s a curated list of dining options, with a focus on local specialities and dietary accommodations.
Classic Seaside Fare
- Harry Ramsden’s (Promenade): World-famous for fish and chips, served crispy and golden with mushy peas. Vegetarian options include veggie burgers. Takeaway or dine-in, mains from £8. Open daily.
- The Beach House (North Pier): A lively bistro with sea views, serving fish and chips, seafood platters, and vegan fish alternatives. Mains from £10. Open lunch and dinner.
- West Coast Rock Cafe (South Shore): A family-friendly spot for fish and chips, burgers, and Blackpool rock-themed desserts. Vegan and gluten-free options available. Mains from £9. Open daily.
Cosy Pubs and Gastropubs
- The Bank Bar & Grill (Town Centre): A stylish gastropub offering hearty dishes like Lancashire hotpot and vegan shepherd’s pie. Great for solo travellers with a relaxed vibe. Mains from £12. Open daily.
- The Pump and Truncheon (North Shore): A traditional pub with real ales and pub classics like steak pie. Vegetarian and gluten-free menus available. Mains from £10. Open daily until late.
- Churchill’s Bar & Restaurant (South Shore): Known for its Sunday roasts and extensive vegetarian/vegan menu, including plant-based roasts. Mains from £11. Family-friendly with sea views.
Cafes and Casual Dining
- Mandarin Cantonese Restaurant (Clifton Street): A local favourite for Chinese cuisine, offering dim sum, crispy duck, and vegan tofu dishes. Mains from £10. Open lunch and dinner.
- Notarianni Ice Cream (South Shore): A Blackpool institution since 1928, serving creamy gelato and sundaes. Vegan sorbets available. Cones from £3. Open daily in summer, weekends in winter.
- C Fresh Fish and Chips (Promenade): A budget-friendly takeaway with gluten-free batter options. Perfect for a quick beachside meal. Meals from £6. Open daily.
Fine Dining and Special Occasions
- The White Tower Restaurant (Blackpool Tower): Enjoy afternoon tea or gourmet dishes with panoramic views. Vegetarian and vegan menus available. Afternoon tea from £25, mains from £20. Book in advance.
- Number One South Beach (South Shore): A boutique hotel restaurant with seafood-focused fine dining. Try the pan-seared scallops or vegan risotto. Mains from £18. Open dinner only, reservations recommended.
Dining at Attractions
- Pleasure Beach Dining: Options include Burger King, Coasters Restaurant (family-friendly with kids’ meals), and picnic areas for packed lunches. The ‘All You Can Eat’ ticket (£30) covers select eateries but excludes some chains.
- Sandcastle Waterpark Cafe: Offers sandwiches, wraps, and kids’ lunchboxes, with vegetarian and vegan options. Meals from £5. Lockers available for picnic storage.
Local Tip: For the best fish and chips, visit C Fresh on a weekday to avoid crowds. Pair with a stick of Blackpool rock from a promenade stall for a true seaside treat.
Accommodation in Blackpool
Blackpool offers a range of accommodation to suit every budget, from budget campsites to luxury hotels. Most are conveniently located near the promenade or town centre, ensuring easy access to attractions.
Budget-Friendly Options
- Blackpool FC Hotel and Campsite (South Shore): Affordable rooms and pitches near Pleasure Beach. Tent pitches from £20/night, rooms from £50. Family-friendly with parking. Book early for summer.
- Travelodge Blackpool South Shore (South Shore): Basic but clean rooms near the promenade. Rooms from £40/night. Ideal for solo travellers or short stays. Book online for deals.
- Lyndene Hotel (Promenade): A budget hotel with nightly entertainment and sea views. Rooms from £45/night. Great for families and couples.
Mid-Range Hotels and B&Bs
- The Claremont Hotel (North Shore): Family-friendly with a pool and evening shows. Rooms from £70/night, including breakfast. Popular with older guests.
- The Berkeley (South Shore): A highly rated B&B with a loyal following, offering comfortable rooms and warm hospitality. Rooms from £60/night. Book directly for discounts.
- The Viking Hotel (South Shore): Adults-only with a nightclub vibe and sea-view restaurant. Rooms from £80/night. Perfect for couples or solo travellers seeking entertainment.
Luxury and Boutique Stays
- Number One St Luke’s (South Shore): A 5-star boutique B&B with stylish rooms and gourmet breakfasts. Rooms from £120/night. Ideal for romantic getaways.
- The Cliffs Hotel (North Shore): Offers nightly entertainment, a pool, and sea views. Rooms from £100/night. Great for families and groups.
- Big Blue Hotel (South Shore): A modern, family-friendly hotel next to Pleasure Beach with spacious rooms and kids’ amenities. Rooms from £90/night. Book early for park discounts.
Unique Stays
- Glamping at Marton Mere Holiday Village (3 miles from centre): Luxury pods and caravans near a nature reserve. Pods from £50/night. Perfect for families and nature lovers.
- The Grand Hotel Blackpool (North Shore): A historic hotel with a spa and stunning views of the Illuminations. Rooms from £80/night. Book for special packages including Tower tickets.
Local Tip: Book accommodation 3–6 months in advance for July, August, or Illuminations season (September–November), as rooms fill up quickly. Check for package deals including attraction tickets.
How to Get to Blackpool
Blackpool is easily accessible from across the UK, with excellent transport links for drivers, train travellers, and those using public transport.
By Train
- Blackpool North Station: The main station, with direct trains from London Euston (3 hours, from £30), Manchester Piccadilly (1 hour, from £10), and Liverpool Lime Street (1.5 hours, from £12). Book via Trainline for cheaper fares.
- Blackpool South and Pleasure Beach Stations: Serve the southern attractions, with connections from Preston (25 minutes, from £5).
- Tip: Northern Rail can be unreliable, so check schedules via the National Rail app. Buy a 3-day Blackpool Transport pass (£12) for seamless tram and bus travel upon arrival.
By Car
- From Major Cities: Blackpool is 27 miles from Liverpool (1-hour drive via M6 and M55), 40 miles from Manchester (1-hour drive via M61 and M55), and 200 miles from London (3.5-hour drive via M6). The M55 leads directly to Blackpool.
- Parking: Promenade car parks (from £5/day) are convenient but fill up during Illuminations. Use Park & Ride facilities near the M55 for cheaper rates (£3/day).
- Eco-Friendly Tip: Carpool to reduce emissions, or rent an e-bike from Blackpool’s bike hire scheme (£2/hour) for local exploration.
By Bus
- National Express: Coaches from London Victoria (5 hours, from £20), Manchester (1.5 hours, from £8), and Liverpool (1.5 hours, from £7). Arrives at Blackpool Central Coach Station.
- Local Buses: Blackpool Transport operates routes like the No. 1 (to Fleetwood) and No. 14 (near Blackpool North). Tickets from £2, or get a 24-hour pass (£6).
By Air
- Nearest Airports: Liverpool John Lennon (LPL, 1-hour drive) and Manchester International (MAN, 1-hour drive). From either, take a train or coach to Blackpool.
- Tip: Pre-book airport transfers via shuttle services like Airport Xpress (£15–£25) for convenience.
Getting Around Blackpool
- Trams: Run every 10 minutes along the promenade, from Starr Gate to Fleetwood. Single tickets from £2, 3-day passes from £12. Ideal for Illuminations tours.
- Buses: Cover the town and nearby areas like Lytham and Fleetwood. Use the Blackpool Transport app for real-time schedules.
- Cycling: Blackpool’s flat terrain and National Cycle Network make it bike-friendly. Rent e-bikes from Blackpool Bike Hire (£10/day).
- Walking: The promenade and town centre are pedestrian-friendly, with most attractions within a 2-mile radius.
Local Tip: Download the Blackpool Transport app for real-time tram and bus updates, especially during peak season when schedules may vary.
Local Tips for Visiting Blackpool
To make the most of your Blackpool adventure, keep these insider tips in mind:
- Weather Considerations: Blackpool’s coastal climate is changeable. Pack waterproofs and layers, especially for November visits. Summer (June–August) is the warmest, ideal for beach activities, but expect crowds. Spring (March–May) offers milder weather and fewer visitors.
- Peak Season Crowds: July, August, and the Illuminations season (September–November) are busiest. Book attractions and accommodation early, and visit major sites like Pleasure Beach midweek to avoid queues.
Lesser-Known Spots:
- Marton Mere Nature Reserve: A tranquil oasis 20 minutes from the town centre, perfect for birdwatching and free family walks. Best accessed by car or taxi.
- Knott End: A charming village accessible by tram or ferry from Fleetwood, known for its salt marshes and L.S. Lowry statue. Great for solo travellers seeking quiet.
- Stanley Park Model Village: A hidden gem within the park, showcasing miniature buildings. Entry £3, ideal for a relaxing afternoon.
- Budget Tips: Look for combo tickets for attractions like Blackpool Tower and Madame Tussauds. Bring a picnic to Pleasure Beach to save on food costs.
- Local Lingo: Learn phrases like “Blackpool rock” (candy stick) or “Kiss Me Quick” (slogan on novelty hats) to blend in with the seaside vibe.
- Safety: Check tide times before walking far onto the beach, as tides can be dangerous. Keep valuables secure in crowded areas like the promenade.
Local Tip: Visit the Blackpool Tourist Information Centre on the promenade for free maps, tram schedules, and attraction discounts. Staff are locals with expert knowledge.
Conclusion: Why Blackpool is a Must-Visit
Blackpool, Lancashire, is a destination that captures the heart with its blend of nostalgia, excitement, and natural beauty. From the dizzying heights of The Big One to the serene paths of Marton Mere, the town offers endless ways to create memories. Whether you’re dancing in the Blackpool Tower Ballroom, savouring fish and chips on the beach, or marvelling at the Illuminations, Blackpool delivers a uniquely British experience that appeals to all ages and interests. With affordable accommodation, excellent transport links, and a packed events calendar, it’s the perfect getaway for UK travellers seeking fun, culture, and seaside charm.
Final Tip: Visit https://www.visitblackpool.com for the latest event schedules and deals. For transport info, check https://www.blackpooltransport.com. Enjoy your Blackpool adventure
