The British coastal resort of Blackpool is one of Europe‘s hottest holiday destinations. Boasting excellent entertainment options, superb natural landscape, and an outstanding food scene, it’s not hard to see how this English seaside town has charmed millions of visitors over the years. Follow our guide to discover the best and brightest of Blackpool’s many attractions.
One ticket to this outstanding attraction grants visitors entry to a whole host of Blackpool’s best sights. The tower itself, opened in 1894, is an iconic British landmark which features on thousands of postcards and posters around the town. This Grade I listed building was inspired by Paris‘ Eiffel Tower and soars up to a breathtaking height of 158 meters. The Blackpool Tower Eye offers a panorama across the entire town and out over the Irish Sea – one of the best views in the whole of Blackpool. This glass floored observation tower also boasts of a 4D cinema which presents visitors with a fascinating film about the town of Blackpool. The tower also contains the famous Blackpool Circus, Dungeons, and Ballroom.
Britain’s most famous ballroom is an unmissable sight during a trip to Blackpool. Chandeliers, sweeping columns, ornate decoration, and striking crimson curtains charm and astound in equal measure. The exquisite interior and the most spectacular architecture in Blackpool are just some of the reasons why the Blackpool Ballroom has attracted so many visitors since its creation in 1894. Join in on one of the popular tea dances to glide across this historic dance floor, come for the quintessentially English experience of afternoon tea, or simply gaze in wonder at the ballroom which still retains all the glory of its past.
The picture perfect holiday destination: Blackpool’s stunning sandy beaches stretch out into the distance and offer miles of entertainment for families, couples, and travellers from all walks of life. A site for romantic late night strolls, family picnics, beach games with friends, or a tranquil spot to delve into a good book: Blackpool’s beaches cater to all. Three world-famous piers line the shore and, with stalls and ice cream vans along the whole stretch of promenade, there’ll be no end of entertainment options at this iconic British beach.
Blackpool’s piers
Three world-famous piers, North, South, and Central, offer endless entertainment along Blackpool’s world-famous shoreline. Visitors flock to these attractions each year to enjoy the carousels, rides, arcades, live music, and local street artists. Either spend a day relaxing on deck chairs while gazing out on the awe-inspiring sea views, or book tickets for one of the huge name comedians or outstanding theatre shows occurring at Blackpool’s piers. These historic sites have formed an integral part of the Blackpool skyline since the 19th century.
Just a few paces from Blackpool’s South Pier lies Blackpool Pleasure Beach, one of Britain’s most successful amusement parks. This theme park is perfect for all ages with its fabulous shows, Nickelodeon Land, and, of course, hair-rising adventure rides. The park is one of the best theme parks in the UK, and, considering the scale and range of the rides, it’s not hard to see why. Adrenaline junkies will love ‘The Big One’, famed as one of England’s scariest ride, and ‘Infusion’, the only roller-coaster in the UK to be completely suspended over water. The park complex also offers fantastic food, drink, and shopping options.
This yearly extravaganza has become one of the most popular events in the British calendar. Since its creation in 1879 this annual festival of light has grown into an immense celebration, occurring each autumn and attracting flocks of visitors. Known as the best free light show in existence, ten kilometres and over a million bulbs light up the streets of this beautiful town in spectacular style. The Illuminations last for 66 days and the ‘Big Switch On‘ is the most important event in Blackpool, hosted by a different celebrity each year, followed by concerts featuring famous musicians. The majority of visitors opt to drive through on a bus or in a car, but others choose the local open-top trams or horse-drawn carriages as the best way to appreciate this dazzling spectacle.
Lush green spaces and fascinating wildlife: Blackpool’s superb Zoological Gardens are sure to whisk you away to the African Savannah, deepest Amazon Jungle, and a whole host of other far-flung places. These charming Zoological Gardens are an ideal location to pass a summer’s day in the coastal town of Blackpool. Over 1,500 incredible creatures roam around the vast 32 acre zoo. The zoo is home to an amazing range of species, including tigers, elephants, and zebras to name but a few. Daily feeds and talks offer incredible opportunities to learn fun facts and intriguing details about these exotic animals. Gorilla Mountain and the penguin pool are some of the other must-visit exhibits.
For nature lovers left wanting more after the incredible displays of Blackpool’s zoo, Sea Life Blackpool offers an unparalleled opportunity to dive into the world of Blackpool’s underwater wildlife. With its incredible location, just a few steps from Blackpool’s central pier, this sea life centre is a great spot to spend the day in Blackpool. The centre is home to over 2,000 different sea creatures. Rare tropical fish, rays, octopi, and even sharks are sure to thrill all regardless of age. The centre also carries out vital conservation work to protect the outstanding local aquatic life of the Blackpool area.
A notorious party town, the nightlife in Blackpool is famed for being among the best in the UK. Outstanding bars, quaint pubs, and world-famous clubs have made Blackpool one of the hottest towns in England and the town’s young population is mainly a result of its brilliant atmosphere. Many holiday groups or stag and hen dos make a beeline for this buzzing centre of nightlife to get a slice of the famous Blackpool entertainment. Expect world-class drag shows, famous DJs, and a raucous atmosphere.
For those tired out by the endless entertainment Blackpool has to offer, Stanley Park, the town’s major park, is the perfect spot to spend a more sedate day. Relax in the sunshine under the lush green canopies while admiring the exceptional landscape design and rare wildlife of the park. The area is also home to sports centres, golf courses, a cricket ground, boat hire, an art-deco café, a skate-park, crazy golf, and even a model village. With around 400 acres of park land, there’ll be no end of exploration in a day spent in this charming green space. Heritage walks and musical performances also occur regularly in Blackpool’s Stanley Park.
Marianna is a languages student and travel blogger with an eye for the unusual, a heart for exploration, a stomach for food adventures, and a penchant for a pun. Visit her blog, A Hunt Around Russia, or follow her on instagram to discover more.
