Blackpool - Do & See

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Blackpool

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Overview

Do & See The guide was updated: 2022-12-12

Known as the unofficial entertainment capital of the North, Blackpool certainly delivers on its promises. The town is essentially a collection of theme parks, show venues, shopping spots and active pursuits. From the iconic Blackpool Tower entertainment complex to the funfair piers (with rides and roller-coasters) and cabaret shows to opera at the Winter Gardens, the city will keep visitors of all ages and interests happily occupied for days on end.

Blackpool Tower

Blackpool Tower

Blackpool’s answer to the Parisian Eiffel Tower, Blackpool Tower is an entertainment complex all in itself. Visit the ballroom and waltz to the sounds of Wurlitzer organ, enjoy an afternoon tea, explore the eerie dungeon and walk on air at the amazing SkyWalk at the tower's very top.

The Piers

The Piers

The Piers are a testament to Blackpool’s Victorian heritage. All three piers (Central, North and South) are pleasure palaces with different things happening - the Central Pier is the liveliest one teeming with attractions and eateries, while the Southern is closest to amusement rides.

Winter Gardens

Winter Gardens

The Winter Gardens is an exquisite example of Victorian architecture which holds twelve different venues where events, shows and performances are frequently hosted. Check the schedule and find out if there is any event going on while you are visiting.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach

Blackpool Pleasure Beach

Heralded as one of UK's finest theme parks, Pleasure Beach is a family-friendly entertainment venue where exhilarating thrill rides that take one's breath away mingle with attractions for the younger guests (children will surely enjoy the Nickelodeon Land). Iconic shows are hosted here, too.

Sandcastle Waterworld

Sandcastle Waterworld

Have a playful day in this indoor water park where the weather is always sunny. Sandcastle Waterworld is UK's largest indoor water park, and a true favourite among children with its over 18 rides, wave machines and different fun pools. Opening hours vary by date (consult the website for details).

Blackpool Sealife Centre

Blackpool Sealife Centre

Visit the Sealife Centre and find out about the fascinating world of fish. This is a thrill for both adults and children. See everything from small seahorses and starfish to sharks and stingrays. Do not miss the shark tunnel and a pool where visitors are allowed to physically touch marine creatures.

Blackpool Zoo

Blackpool Zoo

Blackpool Zoo holds some 1500 animals, ranging from elephants to tigers and lions, to humble pygmy goats and even tarantulas. Here, visitors get the chance to come in close contact with animals. Various animal talks and displays are put on throughout the year.

The Great Promenade Show

The Great Promenade Show

The Great Promenade Show offers an outdoor exhibition of amazing interactive sculptures. It features some of UK's best designers and artists and is a creative attraction that you should not miss. Artwork and installations are set up along the south shore of Blackpool.

Stanley Park

Stanley Park

Escape the hustle of the Golden Mile and take a stroll through this tranquil park. Motor and bumper boats are available for hire. This is the largest park in town, and when heading here do not forget to bring some nuts to feed the omnipresent squirrels.

Blackpool Tramway

Blackpool Tramway

Along with performing its primary function as a means of transportation, the historic Blackpool tramway is the last one of the first-generation tramways in the UK, making it a rather unique local attraction. The line runs along the scenic coast from Blackpool to Fleetwood.

Comedy Carpet

Comedy Carpet

A fun way to spend a spare hour is walking over the beach side Comedy Carpet - a platform inscribed with various jokes and one-liners, some well-known classics, while others still perhaps able to draw a chuckle. The carpet is best viewed at a distance, from atop the Blackpool Tower.

The Grand Theatre Blackpool

The Grand Theatre Blackpool

The Grand Theatre's repertoire is rather broad, ranging from drama performances (staged after works of classics such as Shakespeare or Steinbeck along with more contemporary authors) to opera and ballet, and even pantomime. One of the theatre's latest hits is the "Peppa Pig" show.

Genting Casino

Genting Casino

The Blackpool Casino is an entertainment venue for guests above 21 (please remember to bring your ID). Choose from card games like blackjack and 3 card poker, or try your luck at the roulette. The Fahrenheit restaurant inside enjoys a spotless reputation.

Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds

The Blackpool installment of the world-renowned wax figure museum holds replicas of iconic figures ranging from the British Royal Family to pop stars like Justin Bieber. Other "residents" include a whole array of actors, TV personalities, musicians and even E.T., the extra-terrestrial.

Blackpool Beach

Blackpool Beach

If the weather allows, make some time for the beach - Blackpool's impressive stretch of sand that runs along the coast invites holidaymakers for a picnic, amusing donkey rides, sunbathing and swimming (during the summer). The beach is very clean and well-kept.

Coral Island Blackpool

Coral Island Blackpool

Competition is tough in England's "entertainment capital of the North", but Coral Island makes the cut as one of the city's best amusement parks. There are plenty of pursuits, including a casino, slot machines, haunted house and children's favorite monorail. Most attractions operate in bad weather.

Blackpool Illuminations

Blackpool Illuminations

The famous Blackpool Illuminations are what keeps visitors coming to the city long after the bathing season is over. Every year, from late August to early November, Blackpool lights up with over one million bulbs along the Promenade all the way to Bispham in the north - a sight not to be missed.

Sands Venue

Sands Venue

Lesser know for lack of aggressive advertising yet very high quality, the Sands Venue hosts a plethora of music shows, with impersonators of legendary musicians such as David Bowie, Freddie Mercury, Robbie Williams, Neil Diamond, Elton John, Tina Turner and Lady Gaga.

Penny Farm

Penny Farm

This horse rescue farm, located only a short drive away from Blackpool city, is a great choice for a family day out. At the farm, visitors will get the chance to stroke and interact with the adorable residents - there are about 65 of them at any given time. The stables stay open even in bad weather.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

Prepare to be blown away by some of the mind-boggling and simply unbelievable facts and exhibits contained inside Ripley’s Believe It or Not! museum. From the two-headed calf born on a Texas farm to New Guinea sacrificial figure, the 2 floors of this museum of oddities will entertain young and old.

Coronation Rock Limited

Coronation Rock Limited

Gain fascinating insight into the production process of Blackpool rock - the hard and soft stick candy sold at every corner of the city. Visitors will get the chance to observe the factory line from above, sample fresh candy and purchase some to bring home at the very place of its origins.

Blackpool Model Village & Gardens

Blackpool Model Village & Gardens

The Blackpool Model Village & Gardens is a representation of Scottish life through the ages - in miniature. See town streets inhabited by tiny people, an ancient Scottish fortress, farms, a Cornish fishing village, and even a wedding celebration by a small church.

Lytham St Annes Spitfire Visitor Centre

Lytham St Annes Spitfire Visitor Centre

For military history enthusiasts, the Lytham St Annes Spitfire Visitor Centre is a real find. The Hangar 42 contains authetic air crafts used during WWII. Visitors will get the chance to learn about WWII history from the dedicated volunteers and even sit in the pilot's seat if they so wish.

Marton Mere Local Nature Reserve

Marton Mere Local Nature Reserve

This reserve in close proximity to Blackpool is a perfect nature getaway from the noise and excitement of the town. The wetlands are easy to navigate, and there are walkable trails all around. The reserve is known for being a heaven for birdwatchers.

Little Marton Windmill

Little Marton Windmill

Perhaps, the first landmark greeting visitors to Blackpool on the way to the city is the beautiful old Little Marton Windmill. Few know that a volunteer group has made it possible for visitors to come inside and explore the windmill's history, as well as go up to its very top.

North Blackpool Pond Trail

North Blackpool Pond Trail

In Bispham, take a walk along the North Blackpool Pond Trail rich in bird life. One is guaranteed to see at least some of the bird residents of the area - these include ducks, geese, herons, and even elegant white swans. The pond trail is maintained by the effort of a dedicated volunteer group.

Blackpool Ghost Walk

Blackpool Ghost Walk

Join the Ghost Walk guided by the very author of the book "Haunted Blackpool" and learn all about the mysterious side of the quaint town - eerie narratives of the locals, blood-chilling stories of haunted houses, and various events in the city's history that yet remain to be explained.

The Lancashire Wine School - Day Classes

The Lancashire Wine School - Day Classes

At Lancashire Wine School, visitors will get the chance to learn all about the local wines, ales, and other drinks. Tasting is a major element of the course - compare local flavors to the drinks' overseas counterparts and find out what makes each one special in its own way.

The Big One

The Big One

A must for anyone willing to experience the North's entertainment capital to the full, the Big One is a thrilling roller-coaster ride that is simply not to be missed. The ride is rather popular, so prepare for a possible wait in line, but the breathtaking adventure afterwards is definitely worth it.

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