Blackpool remains one of Britain’s most beloved coastal destinations, drawing millions of visitors each year with its golden beaches, entertainment venues, and attractions. Whether you’re planning a weekend break or an extended holiday, this seaside town offers something for every traveller. Let’s explore the best activities and experiences waiting for you.
Explore Iconic Attractions and Landmarks
When considering what to do in Blackpool, start with the town’s most recognisable sight. The century-old Blackpool Tower, inspired by the Eiffel Tower, houses various entertainment venues, including the Blackpool Tower Dungeon, which takes visitors through a thousand years of Lancashire’s history. The Tower Eye offers spectacular views from the top, while the solid-glass SKYWALK provides an exhilarating experience for those who aren’t afraid of heights.
The Grade II listed Tower Ballroom deserves special attention. This ornately decorated dance hall features the Mighty Wurlitzer organ, which entertains guests during dancing events, concerts, and special occasions throughout the year. The ballroom’s stunning architecture and rich history make it a must-visit location.
For free attractions, visit the Grundy Art Gallery, walk along the Promenade, explore the award-winning Stanley Park, or see the Comedy Carpet, a celebration of fun and laughter. Stanley Park stands as a Grade II* listed facility on the National Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, offering green spaces perfect for relaxation.
Experience Thrilling Rides at Pleasure Beach
Blackpool Pleasure Beach, a 42-acre amusement park, has been drawing visitors for over 120 years with its roller coasters, family-friendly rides, and shows. Highlights include the record-breaking Big One, the iconic Big Dipper, and Icon, the UK’s first multi-launch coaster. The park typically operates from April to October during its main season, though some rides may remain closed during winter months.
The Pleasure Beach caters to all ages and adrenaline levels. Families with young children will appreciate Nickelodeon Land, whilst thrill-seekers can test their nerves on intense rides. Plan to spend a full day here, as the sheer variety of attractions means you’ll want time to experience everything.
Discover Marine Life and Wildlife
SEA LIFE Blackpool, located on the promenade, houses more than 2,000 sea creatures. Visitors can see marine life from the UK’s shoreline and the world’s deepest oceans, including sharks, rays, seahorses, reef fish, and turtles. The aquarium provides an educational experience that children and adults alike will find fascinating.
Blackpool Zoo offers another family-friendly option. Situated just two miles from the Promenade and easily accessible from the M55 motorway, the zoo houses over 1,000 animals. The facility combines education with entertainment, making it perfect for families seeking a different type of day out.
Enjoy World-Class Entertainment and Shows
Blackpool’s entertainment scene rivals any major city. Funny Girls, Blackpool’s iconic drag show, has been loved by generations of partygoers and ranks in the top 10% of attractions worldwide with 35,000+ reviews. The venue has been voted number one for five consecutive years, offering spectacular performances that blend comedy, music, and dazzling costumes.
Shows at Funny Girls feature around seven performances throughout the night with intervals in between. The venue offers a three-course pre-show dinner for £29.85 per person, served in Garbo’s, their art deco restaurant. Doors open at 6.30pm for diners, with entertainment starting from 8pm and cabaret beginning at 8.30pm. The shows run until approximately 11.30pm, providing a full evening of entertainment.
What makes Funny Girls special is its inclusive atmosphere and professional production values. Performers deliver high-energy routines featuring fabulous costumes, choreography, and audience interaction. The venue welcomes everyone, creating an environment where guests feel comfortable whilst enjoying top-tier entertainment.
The Winter Gardens hosts shows including Dear Evan Hansen, The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe, Chicago, Calamity Jane, Riverdance, Only Fools & Horses, and Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, along with performances from Harry Hill, Jack Dee, and Jason Manford. This historic venue presents everything from West End musicals to comedy acts and concerts.
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Visit Museums and Cultural Venues
Madame Tussauds Blackpool, the only UK branch outside London, features wax figures of Britain’s best-known celebrities, from singer Olly Murs to athlete Mo Farah and the late Queen Elizabeth II. The interactive exhibits allow visitors to get up close with their favourite stars, making it perfect for photo opportunities.
New to Blackpool’s cultural scene is Showtown, a museum celebrating popular entertainment. The museum offers insights into Blackpool’s rich theatrical history and its role in British entertainment culture. Backlot, the new multiplex cinema featuring a giant IMAX screen, provides the latest film releases in spectacular viewing conditions.
Experience the Famous Illuminations
The Blackpool Illuminations, known as the greatest free light show on Earth, features six miles of traditional festoons, tableaux, and interactive features along the Promenade. The lights typically switch on during September or October in a star-studded ceremony and remain lit through the autumn months, creating a magical atmosphere along the seafront.
The illuminated trams add extra charm to the display. These decorated vehicles travel along the Promenade, becoming moving works of art within the larger light display. Viewing the Illuminations has become a beloved tradition for many families, with generations returning year after year.
Splash Around at Indoor Waterparks
Sandcastle Waterpark, the UK’s largest indoor waterpark, features 18 slides and attractions open year-round. The facility provides fun for all ages, making it perfect for rainy days or when you fancy a break from outdoor activities. From gentle slides for younger children to adrenaline-pumping rides for thrill-seekers, the waterpark caters to every preference.
The indoor setting means you can enjoy water-based fun regardless of weather conditions. This makes Sandcastle Waterpark particularly popular during the cooler months when traditional beach activities might be less appealing.
Stroll Along the Promenade and Piers
Blackpool’s three piers each offer unique experiences. The North Pier, the oldest and most elegant, provides a peaceful walk with traditional seaside charm. The Central Pier buzzes with activity, featuring a Ferris wheel and various amusements. The South Pier delivers thrills with rides and attractions extending over the Irish Sea.
Walking along the Promenade itself provides free entertainment. Street performers, Victorian horse-drawn carriages, and the ever-present sound of seagulls create an authentic seaside atmosphere. The seafront stretches for miles, perfect for morning jogs, evening strolls, or cycling expeditions.
Enjoy the Beach and Coastal Activities
Blackpool’s golden sands remain the town’s biggest draw. The beaches provide space for sunbathing, sandcastle building, and traditional seaside games. During summer months, the beach becomes a hive of activity with families enjoying picnics and children paddling in the sea.
Donkey rides, a quintessential British seaside tradition, continue to operate along the beach. These gentle rides delight children whilst providing parents with nostalgic memories of their own childhood holidays. Beach vendors sell traditional treats like fish and chips, ice cream, and sticks of Blackpool rock.
Sample Local Cuisine and Dining
Blackpool’s food scene has grown considerably in recent years. Options range from award-winning restaurants and lavish tasting menus to afternoon high tea, traditional ice cream, and fish and chips eaten outdoors. New additions include Marco’s New York Italian in the Holiday Inn, Beach House Bar & Bistro, Abingdon St Market, Backlot Diner, and the internationally-renowned Mandarin.
Fish and chips remain the town’s signature dish. Numerous establishments along the seafront serve this British classic, often with views of the Irish Sea. For those seeking more upscale dining, Blackpool now offers restaurants serving international cuisine, from Italian to Asian fusion.
Attend Festivals and Special Events
Annual events include the World Fireworks Championships, Air Show, Ride The Lights, Capital of Dance, and the Illuminations Switch-On night. These free events draw thousands of visitors and showcase Blackpool’s commitment to providing world-class entertainment.
The World Fireworks Championships sees international teams competing to create the most spectacular pyrotechnic displays. The Air Show brings military and civilian aircraft to the skies above Blackpool, performing aerobatic displays that thrill spectators gathered on the beach and Promenade.
Plan Your Visit: Practical Tips
Spring and summer offer the best weather for visiting Blackpool. Some attractions only open during certain seasons, and Pleasure Beach operates its main season from April to October. Early September or late May provide good compromise periods with pleasant weather and smaller crowds than peak summer.
Blackpool has a compact, pedestrianised town centre that’s easy to walk around. Trams run up and down the Promenade, whilst tour buses offer hop-on hop-off tickets. The local bus service provides reliable transport to areas further from the centre. Trains connect Blackpool South and Blackpool North directly to Preston, Liverpool, and Manchester Airport.
For those seeking evening entertainment beyond traditional attractions, Funny Girls stands out as a must-visit venue. The professional production values, talented performers, and inclusive atmosphere make it perfect for celebrations, date nights, or simply experiencing Blackpool’s famous entertainment culture. The combination of dinner and show packages provides excellent value whilst ensuring a memorable night out.
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What to Do in Blackpool: Making the Most of Your Trip
Blackpool caters to diverse interests and age groups. Families appreciate the theme parks, zoos, and beaches. Couples enjoy romantic strolls along the Illuminations or dinner at upscale restaurants. Groups of friends find entertainment at venues like Funny Girls, whilst solo travellers can explore museums, galleries, and cultural attractions at their own pace.
The town’s compact layout means you can easily visit multiple attractions in a single day. Start with breakfast near your accommodation, spend the morning at Pleasure Beach or SEA LIFE, enjoy lunch overlooking the sea, explore the Tower or museums in the afternoon, and finish with dinner and a show in the evening.
Don’t overlook Blackpool’s free attractions. The beaches, Stanley Park, Comedy Carpet, and seasonal events like the Illuminations provide excellent entertainment without entry fees. These attractions often create the most lasting memories whilst keeping your budget under control.
Shopping opportunities abound both along the Promenade and in the town centre. From traditional seaside souvenirs to high-street fashion stores, you’ll find plenty to browse. Abingdon Street Market offers an indoor shopping experience with independent retailers selling everything from vintage clothing to local crafts.
FAQs About What to Do in Blackpool
Q.What are the must-see attractions when visiting Blackpool?
The Blackpool Tower, Pleasure Beach, and the famous Illuminations top most visitors’ lists. SEA LIFE Blackpool and the three Victorian piers provide additional entertainment. For evening activities, Funny Girls offers spectacular cabaret shows that have earned international recognition. The Comedy Carpet and Stanley Park provide free attractions suitable for all ages throughout the day.
Q.When is the best time to visit Blackpool for activities?
Spring through autumn offers the most activities and best weather conditions. The main season runs from April to October when all attractions operate fully. Visit during May or early September to avoid peak summer crowds whilst still enjoying pleasant weather. The Illuminations period from September through early January provides magical evening experiences despite cooler temperatures.
Q.Is Blackpool suitable for families with young children?
Blackpool excels as a family destination with attractions for all ages. Nickelodeon Land at Pleasure Beach caters specifically to younger children. SEA LIFE, the zoo, and Sandcastle Waterpark provide educational entertainment. The beaches offer traditional seaside fun, whilst many shows and venues welcome families. Most restaurants accommodate children, making dining out stress-free for parents.
Q.How much does it cost to enjoy Blackpool attractions?
Costs vary widely depending on your interests. Many attractions including beaches, Stanley Park, and the Illuminations are completely free. Individual attraction tickets typically range from £10 to £30 per person. Pleasure Beach offers wristband deals for unlimited rides. Dinner and show packages at venues like Funny Girls provide good value. Budget-conscious visitors can enjoy fulfilling days whilst keeping expenses minimal.
Q.Can you visit Blackpool for just a day trip?
A day trip allows you to experience Blackpool’s highlights, though an overnight stay enables fuller exploration. Focus on one or two main attractions rather than rushing between multiple venues. The Promenade, beaches, and one major attraction make for a satisfying day visit. Evening entertainment at establishments like Funny Girls provides excellent reasons to extend your stay into the night before heading home.
