Blackpool isn’t just a seaside town. It’s a full-blown entertainment destination that’s been keeping families, couples, and groups entertained for generations. If you’re planning a trip to this Lancashire coast favourite, you’ll find everything from iconic towers and pleasure beaches to world-class cabaret shows and thrilling nightlife.
This Blackpool holidays guide breaks down the best attractions, must-see shows, and night-time entertainment that make this town special. Whether you’re after family fun or an adults-only evening, Blackpool delivers.
What Makes Blackpool Special for Holidaymakers?
Blackpool has earned its reputation as Britain’s favourite seaside resort for good reason. The town combines traditional British seaside charm with modern attractions and world-class entertainment venues. From the moment you arrive, you’ll notice the energy that makes this place different from any other UK coastal destination.
The Golden Mile stretches along the seafront, packed with attractions that cater to all ages. You’ll find amusement arcades, traditional donkey rides on the beach (a practice dating back to the 1880s), and enough fish and chips shops to keep you fed throughout your stay.
What sets Blackpool apart is its commitment to entertainment. The town hosts major events throughout the year, from the famous Illuminations light festival (running 66 days from early September to November) to Blackpool Pride celebrations and the Lightpool Festival.
Top Daytime Attractions in Blackpool
Blackpool Tower: The Town’s Iconic Landmark
Standing at 518 feet tall, Blackpool Tower opened in 1894 and remains the town’s most recognisable attraction. This Victorian-era structure houses multiple attractions within its walls.
The Blackpool Tower Eye takes you 380 feet up for panoramic views across the North West of England. The glass SkyWalk floor tests your nerves while you look straight down to the promenade below. Before heading up, stop by the 4D cinema experience that brings the tower’s history to life.
Inside the tower, you’ll also find the Blackpool Tower Circus, Britain’s oldest permanent circus. The shows feature acrobats, clowns (including the legendary Mooky and Mr Boo), and death-defying stunts that keep audiences gasping.
The Blackpool Tower Ballroom deserves special mention. This elegant Victorian dance hall features ornate chandeliers, elaborate balconies, and a sprung dance floor. The famous Wurlitzer organ provides live music, and you can either dance or watch from the sidelines with afternoon tea. The BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing regularly films here, and it’s easy to see why.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach: Thrills for All Ages
Located on the South Promenade, Blackpool Pleasure Beach ranks among the most visited amusement parks in the UK. With over 125 rides, including more than 12 roller coasters, there’s something for every thrill level.
The Big One stands as the UK’s tallest roller coaster at 235 feet. For traditional coaster fans, the park preserves classic “woodies” (wooden roller coasters) including the Big Dipper from 1923 and the Grand National from 1935. These vintage rides still deliver serious thrills.
Nickelodeon Land brings cartoon favourites to life for younger visitors, while the Valhalla water ride guarantees you’ll get soaked. Entrance to the park itself is relatively cheap, though you’ll need to purchase ride passes for the major attractions.
The Three Piers: Victorian Entertainment
Blackpool is the only British resort with three piers, and each offers its own character.
North Pier maintains its Victorian elegance with a traditional theatre and café. Central Pier packs in modern fairground rides, live music in summer, and DJ sets. South Pier (also called South Jetty) extends 109 metres into the Irish Sea and offers classic seaside entertainment.
Walking along these piers gives you brilliant views of Blackpool’s coastline while enjoying traditional seaside attractions.
Sandcastle Waterpark: Year-Round Aquatic Fun
Britain’s largest indoor waterpark opened in 1986 on the site of the former South Shore Open Air Baths. With 18 waterslides and attractions, it’s a top choice for families regardless of weather.
The tropical setting provides a warm escape even on cold Lancashire days. From gentle slides for young children to adrenaline-pumping drops for thrill-seekers, Sandcastle caters to all swimming abilities. The park has won accessibility awards for its inclusive facilities.
Blackpool Zoo and SEA LIFE Centre
Just two miles inland from the promenade, Blackpool Zoo houses over 1,000 animals. Easily accessible from the M55 motorway, the zoo provides education and fun for all ages.
The SEA LIFE Centre, located near the tower, showcases Britain’s largest collection of sharks along with diverse marine life. Interactive displays help visitors learn about ocean conservation while getting up close to fascinating sea creatures.
Other Notable Daytime Attractions
Madame Tussauds Blackpool lets you pose with wax figures of celebrities, from Marvel action heroes to British TV legends. Located on the iconic promenade, it’s perfectly positioned for exploring other attractions.
The Winter Gardens complex houses the UK’s largest opera house along with the Empress Ballroom, Spanish Hall, and other grand Victorian spaces. Events range from boxing matches to magic shows and live concerts.
Stanley Park, a Grade II* listed facility on the National Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, offers green space within the town. Perfect for a quieter moment during your Blackpool holidays.
The Blackpool Illuminations: A Light Spectacular
The Blackpool Illuminations deserve a section of their own in any Blackpool holidays guide. Known simply as “The Lights,” this annual festival transforms six miles of the promenade into a glowing wonderland.
Over half a million light bulbs create displays that have attracted visitors for more than a century. The switch-on weekend in late August or early September features free events and live music, making it one of the busiest times to visit Blackpool.
Special heritage trams decorated with lights carry passengers through the illuminated displays. Running until early November, the Illuminations give you 66 days to experience this free attraction.
Blackpool’s Show Scene: World-Class Entertainment
Blackpool’s entertainment scene rivals much larger cities. The town’s investment in theatre and cabaret has created a nightlife destination that keeps people coming back year after year.
Funny Girls: Blackpool’s Premier Drag & Cabaret Show
When discussing shows in Blackpool, Funny Girls stands at the top of the list. This cabaret venue has been entertaining audiences since 1994 from its stunning Art Deco theatre at 5 Dickson Road.
The show combines professional drag performances, live comedy, and theatrical productions that engage audiences from start to finish. The talented cast delivers high-energy routines with multiple costume changes, choreographed dance numbers, and interactive moments that make every night unique.
Funny Girls offers several show options throughout the year. Current performances include “Slay Another Day” running on Friday and Saturday nights, and the “Blooming Queens Spring Show” running Thursday through Sunday. The venue also hosts special events like adult pantomimes and seasonal spectaculars.
The dinner and show experience adds another layer to your visit. Garbo’s, the venue’s art deco restaurant, serves a three-course meal for £29.85 per person before the curtain rises. Table service during the show means you won’t miss a moment while getting drinks.
What makes Funny Girls special is its inclusive atmosphere. The shows appeal to all audiences, from couples on romantic evenings out to groups celebrating special occasions. The professional standard of performance, combined with the stunning historic venue, creates an experience that regularly earns five-star reviews.
The venue features both seated and standing options, with VIP packages available for those wanting the full treatment. Shows typically run from 8pm to 11:30pm, giving you a full evening of entertainment.
Other Major Show Venues
The Grand Theatre hosts touring West End productions, musicals, and theatrical performances. Recent shows have included RSC productions of Hamlet and critically acclaimed plays. As a Grade II* listed building, the theatre itself is worth visiting for its architecture alone.
Viva Blackpool offers another dinner-show experience with live entertainment, tribute acts, and party nights. The venue combines food, drinks, and performances in a similar format to Funny Girls.
The Showboat Blackpool presents tribute acts and variety shows with a party atmosphere. Their “Blackpool’s Big Night Out” features 20 costume changes, live vocals, and fast-paced choreography.
Night-Time Entertainment Beyond the Shows
Blackpool’s nightlife extends well beyond its theatre venues. The town offers diverse options for evening entertainment.
Bars and Pubs
The Promenade around North Pier buzzes with activity after dark. You’ll find everything from traditional British pubs to themed cocktail bars and late-night clubs. Ma Kelly’s Foxhall and The Mitre attract crowds with live music and DJ sets.
The Little Black Pug represents Blackpool’s trendy new bar scene, offering craft cocktails in a stylish setting. For a more traditional atmosphere, numerous pubs serve local ales with live entertainment.
Live Music Venues
Music lovers can catch tribute bands at the Central Pier Showbar, which features acts covering Elvis Presley, Tina Turner, Freddie Mercury, and more. Shows run Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday evenings.
Various pubs throughout town host live bands on Friday and Saturday nights, covering everything from Northern Soul to chart hits.
Comedy and Cabaret
Comedy Station, located opposite Blackpool Tower, has been making audiences laugh since 2002. Stand-up comedians perform regularly in this seafront venue.
Beyond Funny Girls, other cabaret venues offer drag shows and variety performances. Many venues extend their hours during peak tourist seasons, the Illuminations period, and special events.
Late-Night Options
Most pubs close around 11pm on weeknights, but clubs and entertainment venues stay open until 2am or later on weekends. During major events like New Year’s Eve and the Illuminations, many venues offer extended hours and special programming.
Blackpool’s compact town centre makes walking between venues easy. Local taxi services and ride-sharing apps provide safe transport back to your accommodation. Late-night buses serve major hotel areas until approximately 2am.
Planning Your Blackpool Holiday: Practical Tips
Best Times to Visit
Blackpool attracts visitors year-round, but different seasons offer different experiences. Summer brings warm weather, outdoor events, and extended opening hours at attractions. The Illuminations period (September to November) creates a unique atmosphere but also brings larger crowds.
Spring and early autumn offer milder weather with fewer tourists. Winter visits can be quieter, though some attractions reduce their hours.
Booking Shows in Advance
Popular shows at venues like Funny Girls often sell out, particularly during peak tourist seasons, weekends, and special events. Booking through venue websites guarantees your preferred dates and seating options.
Many venues offer package deals combining shows with meals or drinks. These packages often provide better value than booking separately.
Getting Around
Blackpool’s heritage tram system runs along the promenade, providing both transport and an attraction in itself. The £100 million tramway connects major areas of the resort.
Most central attractions sit within walking distance of each other. The town’s flat geography makes it accessible for those with mobility concerns.
Accommodation Options
Blackpool offers accommodation for every budget, from luxury hotels to family-run guesthouses and budget-friendly B&Bs. Staying near the promenade puts you within walking distance of most attractions.
During peak periods, especially Illuminations and bank holiday weekends, book accommodation well in advance. Many venues and hotels offer package deals combining rooms with show tickets.
Dining Options
Beyond traditional fish and chips, Blackpool offers diverse dining options. Pre-theatre dining has become popular, with many restaurants near venues like Funny Girls offering early bird specials for show-goers.
The Winter Gardens hosts various food events throughout the year. Stanley Park area features quieter dining options away from the seafront hustle.
Family Considerations
Blackpool caters brilliantly to families. Attractions like the Pleasure Beach, SEA LIFE Centre, and Sandcastle Waterpark keep children entertained for hours. The beach itself offers traditional seaside fun with donkey rides and sandcastle building.
For evening entertainment, check age restrictions at venues. While some cabaret shows welcome all ages, others cater specifically to adult audiences.
Accessibility
Many Blackpool attractions have won awards for accessibility. Sandcastle Waterpark, in particular, has been recognised for inclusive facilities. The tramway provides step-free access at designated stops.
When booking shows or attractions, contact venues directly about specific accessibility needs. Most major venues offer wheelchair access and assistance for visitors with disabilities.
Making the Most of Your Blackpool Holidays
Blackpool rewards those who come with an open mind and readiness to embrace its unique character. This isn’t a destination trying to be sophisticated or refined. It’s unashamedly fun, loud, and proud of its working-class roots.
Mix traditional attractions like the Tower and piers with modern entertainment at venues like Funny Girls. Balance thrill rides at Pleasure Beach with quieter moments in Stanley Park. Try both fish and chips on the promenade and pre-show dining at theatre restaurants.
The town’s entertainment calendar ensures something is always happening. Check local listings for special events, festivals, and seasonal shows that might coincide with your visit.
Don’t overlook free attractions. The Illuminations, beach, and North Pier offer entertainment without admission charges. The Great Promenade Show features outdoor sculptures and the High Tide Organ, which creates music from wave movements.
Blackpool’s character comes from its variety. You can experience Victorian elegance at the Tower Ballroom in the afternoon, thrill rides at Pleasure Beach in the evening, and cutting-edge drag performances at Funny Girls at night. Few destinations pack such diverse entertainment into such a compact area.
FAQs About Blackpool Holidays
When is the best time to visit Blackpool for families?
Summer months (June to August) offer the warmest weather and longest opening hours at attractions. School holidays bring more crowds but also more activities. The Illuminations period provides a unique experience, though accommodation prices rise. For fewer crowds with reasonable weather, consider May or September.
How many days do you need for a Blackpool holiday?
A long weekend (three days) gives you time to see major attractions like the Tower, Pleasure Beach, and catch a show. A full week allows for a more relaxed pace, visiting all three piers, spending time at Sandcastle Waterpark, and enjoying multiple evening shows. Many visitors return regularly rather than trying to see everything in one trip.
Are Blackpool shows suitable for children?
It depends on the venue and show. Family-friendly options include the Blackpool Tower Circus and various theatrical productions at the Grand Theatre. Cabaret venues like Funny Girls cater primarily to adult audiences with shows running until 11:30pm. Always check age restrictions and show content before booking. Some venues offer specific family performances during school holidays.
What should I book in advance for a Blackpool trip?
Book accommodation early, especially during Illuminations, bank holidays, and summer weekends. Popular shows at venues like Funny Girls sell out quickly, so secure tickets online before your visit. Major attractions like Pleasure Beach offer online discounts for pre-booked tickets. Pre-show dining at theatre restaurants also benefits from advance booking.
Is Blackpool expensive to visit?
Blackpool caters to various budgets. Free attractions include the Illuminations, beach, and some piers. Accommodation ranges from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. The Pleasure Beach entrance is relatively cheap, though ride passes add up. Show tickets at venues like Funny Girls start around £10-12 for standing areas, with seated options and VIP packages available at higher prices. Food options span from affordable takeaway to sit-down restaurants.
