Did you know Blackpool’s famous Illuminations use over one million bulbs that would stretch from London to Paris if placed end-to-end? This vibrant seaside resort attracts nearly 6 million visitors annually, making it one of the UK’s most beloved holiday destinations. From its iconic 158.5m (520ft) tower to thrilling amusement parks and golden beaches, Blackpool offers a quintessentially British seaside experience with an electric atmosphere that’s impossible to resist.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Blackpool is well-connected to major UK cities, making it easily accessible for domestic and international travelers alike. The resort town is located in Lancashire, Northwest England, approximately 64km (40 miles) from Manchester and 240km (150 miles) from London.
By Air
The closest major international airport is Manchester Airport, about 97km (60 miles) away. From there, you can take a direct train to Blackpool North station. Blackpool also has its own small airport (Blackpool Airport) with limited services.
Ready to book your flight to Blackpool? Find the best deals here:
By Train
Blackpool has three railway stations: Blackpool North (the main station), Blackpool South, and Blackpool Pleasure Beach. Direct services run from Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, York, and London. The journey from London Euston to Blackpool North takes approximately 2.5-3 hours.
By Car
If you’re driving, Blackpool is accessible via the M55 motorway, which connects to the M6. The town has several car parks, though they can fill quickly during peak season.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Blackpool experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild temperatures year-round, though it can be quite rainy and windy at times. Your experience will vary significantly depending on when you visit.
Recommended Seasons
- Late Spring (May-June): Pleasant temperatures of 12-18°C (54-64°F) with fewer crowds than summer.
- Summer (July-August): Peak season with temperatures around 15-21°C (59-70°F). Busiest and most expensive time, but all attractions are open.
- Early Autumn (September-October): Mild weather with the bonus of the spectacular Blackpool Illuminations light show.
Seasons to Avoid
- Winter (November-February): Cold temperatures of 3-8°C (37-46°F), strong winds, and many seasonal attractions closed.
- Early Spring (March-April): Unpredictable weather with frequent rain showers, though fewer crowds.
Tip: Pack layers and rainwear regardless of when you visit, as Blackpool’s coastal location means weather can change quickly!
Getting Around Locally
Blackpool is a compact city with excellent public transportation options, making it easy to explore without a car.
Heritage Trams
Blackpool’s historic tram system is the oldest electric tramway in the UK, operating since 1885. These beautifully restored vintage trams run along the promenade and are an attraction in themselves.
Modern Trams
For everyday travel, modern trams run frequently between Starr Gate and Fleetwood, covering the entire 11km (7-mile) promenade. Single journeys start from £1.60, with day tickets available for £5.50.
Buses
Blackpool Transport operates an extensive bus network covering the town and surrounding areas. The £5.50 day ticket is valid on both buses and trams, offering excellent value.
Want the freedom to explore Blackpool and the beautiful Lancashire countryside at your own pace?
Where to Stay
Blackpool offers accommodation options for every budget, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly B&Bs. The town is divided into several areas, each with its own character and advantages.
North Shore
The quieter end of town, ideal for families and those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere. Still within walking distance of major attractions but with less noise and crowds.
- Luxury: Imperial Hotel Blackpool
- Mid-range: The Cliffs Hotel
- Budget: The Colwyn Hotel
Central Blackpool
The heart of the action, perfect for those who want to be steps away from the Tower, Winter Gardens, and main shopping areas. Busiest and noisiest area, especially during summer.
- Luxury: The Big Blue Hotel
- Mid-range: The Imperial Hotel
- Budget: The Lawton Hotel
South Shore
Close to Pleasure Beach and Sandcastle Waterpark, making it ideal for families with children who want easy access to these attractions.
- Luxury: Boulevard Hotel
- Mid-range: Village Hotel
- Budget: Travelodge Blackpool South Shore
Find and book your perfect Blackpool accommodation:
Dining & Local Cuisine
No trip to a British seaside town would be complete without sampling the local culinary delights. Blackpool offers everything from traditional fish and chips to fine dining experiences.
Must-Try Local Specialties
- Fish and Chips: The quintessential British seaside meal. Try Yorkshire Fisheries on Topping Street, one of the oldest chip shops in town.
- Blackpool Rock: A hard stick-shaped boiled sugar candy that’s been a souvenir favorite since the 1800s.
- Lancashire Hotpot: A hearty stew of lamb and vegetables topped with sliced potatoes.
- Freshly Made Doughnuts: Available along the promenade, these warm treats are perfect for a stroll along the beach.
Where to Eat
- Budget: Harry Ramsden’s on the Promenade for classic fish and chips.
- Mid-range: Michael Wan’s Mandarin for excellent Chinese cuisine, a Blackpool institution since 1961.
- Fine Dining: Beach House Bar & Grill at the Pleasure Beach offers sophisticated dishes with sea views.
- Family-Friendly: Notarianni Ice Cream, serving Italian gelato since 1928.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Blackpool is packed with attractions for visitors of all ages. From iconic landmarks to thrilling rides, here are the must-visit spots in this famous seaside resort.
Blackpool Tower
This 158.5m (520ft) tall structure has been Blackpool’s defining landmark since 1894. Inspired by the Eiffel Tower, it offers several attractions in one:
- The Tower Eye observation deck with glass floor
- The magnificent Victorian Tower Ballroom
- The Tower Circus with live performances
- The Tower Dungeon for a spooky historical experience
Blackpool Pleasure Beach
One of the UK’s most visited amusement parks featuring over 125 rides and attractions including:
- The Big One – once the world’s tallest and steepest roller coaster
- ICON – the UK’s first double-launch roller coaster
- Nickelodeon Land for younger visitors
- Hot Ice Show – spectacular ice skating performances
The Three Piers
Blackpool is unique in having three Victorian piers, each with its own character:
- North Pier (1863) – the oldest and most traditional
- Central Pier – home to the Big Wheel and family rides
- South Pier – packed with thrill rides and amusements
Skip the lines and book your Blackpool attraction tickets in advance:
Blackpool Illuminations
Known as the “greatest free light show on earth,” the Blackpool Illuminations is a spectacular 10km (6-mile) light festival that has been dazzling visitors since 1879. The show typically runs from early September to early November, extending the summer season into autumn.
What to Expect
Over one million bulbs illuminate the promenade with animated displays, feature installations, and synchronized light shows. The lights stretch from Starr Gate to Bispham, with the most elaborate displays concentrated around the Tower and North Pier areas.
For the best experience, take a tram ride along the entire route or drive slowly along the promenade. The illuminations are switched on daily from dusk until around midnight.
Illuminations Highlights
- Tableau displays – large animated scenes along the cliffs at North Shore
- Lightpool Festival – projection shows on the Tower and buildings
- Celebrity switch-on ceremony – a major event marking the start of the season
- Illuminated tram tours – heritage vehicles decorated with thousands of lights
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
Beyond the thrill rides and beach activities, Blackpool offers rich cultural experiences that showcase the town’s heritage and artistic side.
Showtown Museum
Blackpool’s newest attraction celebrates the town’s entertainment heritage. Interactive exhibits showcase circus, magic, variety performance, dance, and comedy that made Blackpool famous.
Winter Gardens
This magnificent Victorian entertainment complex houses the Opera House Theatre (one of the UK’s largest), the spectacular Empress Ballroom, and hosts events ranging from dance competitions to political conferences.
Blackpool Grand Theatre
Known as “The Grand Old Lady,” this beautiful Victorian theater designed by Frank Matcham hosts drama, ballet, opera, and comedy performances throughout the year.
Annual Events & Festivals
- Blackpool Air Show (August) – Free aviation displays over the Promenade
- Blackpool Dance Festival (May/June) – World-famous ballroom dancing competition
- Rebellion Punk Festival (August) – The world’s largest independent punk festival
- Lightpool Festival (October) – Light-based art installations and projections
- Blackpool Pride (June) – Celebration of the LGBTQ+ community
- World Fireworks Championship (September/October) – International pyrotechnic competition
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
While Blackpool is famous for its man-made attractions, the area also offers beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
Beaches
Blackpool boasts 11km (7 miles) of sandy beaches divided into several sections:
- Central Beach – Busiest section near Blackpool Tower
- South Beach – Family-friendly with donkey rides
- North Beach – Quieter area, popular with locals
All beaches have received significant investment in recent years to improve water quality. Several sections have earned the coveted Blue Flag status for cleanliness.
Parks and Nature
- Stanley Park – A beautiful 104-hectare (256-acre) park with Italian gardens, boating lake, and woodland areas
- Marton Mere Local Nature Reserve – Important wildlife habitat with bird hides and walking trails
- Blackpool Zoo – Home to over 1,500 animals in a natural park setting
- Wyre Estuary Country Park – Coastal walks and bird watching opportunities
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Blackpool is generally a safe destination for tourists, but as with any popular resort town, it’s good to be aware of local customs and safety considerations.
Safety Tips
- Be aware of tide times when visiting the beach – the tide comes in quickly
- Use licensed taxis, especially at night
- The town center can get rowdy on weekend nights due to hen/stag parties
- Keep valuables secure in crowded areas like the Promenade
- In emergencies, dial 999 for police, fire, or ambulance
Local Etiquette
- Tipping is customary but not mandatory (10-15% in restaurants)
- Queue (line up) for services – the British take this seriously!
- Blackpool has a relaxed dress code, but some upscale restaurants may require smart casual attire
- Smoking is prohibited in all indoor public spaces
- Be mindful of noise levels in accommodation areas, especially late at night
Visitor Comments About Blackpool
Practical Travel Tips
Money Matters
- Currency: British Pound (£)
- ATMs widely available throughout town
- Major credit cards accepted in most establishments
- Many attractions offer online discounts
- Resort Pass available for multiple attraction access
Connectivity
- Free WiFi available in many cafes and hotels
- UK power sockets are 230V, three-pin plugs
- Mobile coverage is excellent throughout town
- Tourist Information Centre located at Festival House on the Promenade
Useful Information
- Emergency number: 999
- Non-emergency police: 101
- NHS non-emergency: 111
- Blackpool Victoria Hospital: 01253 300000
- Tourist Information: 01253 478222
Ready to experience Blackpool’s coastal charm? Start planning your trip today!
Ready for Your Blackpool Adventure?
From the dizzying heights of Blackpool Tower to the adrenaline rush of Pleasure Beach, from the golden sands to the dazzling Illuminations, Blackpool offers a quintessentially British seaside experience that continues to captivate visitors from around the world. Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or creating new ones, this vibrant resort town delivers fun, excitement, and a warm Lancashire welcome. Pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare for a truly memorable British holiday experience!
The above is subject to change.
Check back often to TRAVEL.COM for the latest travel tips and deals.
