Blackpool is one of the UK’s most famous seaside resorts, known for its golden beaches, thrilling attractions, and vibrant nightlife. From the iconic Tower to adrenaline-pumping rides at Pleasure Beach, and the dazzling Blackpool Illuminations, this guide covers the best things to do in Blackpool to make your trip unforgettable.
Things to Do in Blackpool
1. Visit the Iconic Blackpool Tower
Standing tall at 518 feet, the Blackpool Tower is one of the town’s most famous landmarks and offers multiple attractions inside:
Top Things to Do at Blackpool Tower:
- Blackpool Tower Eye – Take a lift to the top and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the glass SkyWalk.
- The Tower Circus – Enjoy a world-class circus performance that has been entertaining visitors since 1894.
- The Tower Ballroom – Dance in the stunning ballroom, famously featured on Strictly Come Dancing.
- The Blackpool Tower Dungeon – A thrilling and spooky interactive experience showcasing the town’s dark history.
Tip: Book a multi-attraction pass to save money if you plan to visit several Blackpool Tower experiences.
2. Experience Thrills at Blackpool Pleasure Beach
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If you love roller coasters and adrenaline-pumping rides, Blackpool Pleasure Beach is a must-visit. It’s home to some of the UK’s most famous rides, including:
Top Rides at Blackpool Pleasure Beach:
- The Big One – The tallest roller coaster in the UK, offering breathtaking views and heart-pounding drops.
- ICON – The UK’s first double-launch roller coaster, reaching speeds of 85 km/h.
- Valhalla – A Viking-themed water ride with dramatic effects and surprises.
- Nickelodeon Land – A fantastic area for younger visitors with rides based on popular TV characters.
Tip: Book tickets online in advance to get discounted prices.
3. Walk Along Blackpool Beach & Promenade
The City boasts a seven-mile stretch of golden sandy beaches, perfect for a relaxing stroll or some fun by the sea. The Blackpool Promenade is also home to various attractions, including:
- The Three Piers – North, Central, and South Piers offer arcades, rides, and traditional seaside entertainment.
- Comedy Carpet – A unique art installation featuring famous British comedy quotes, located near Blackpool Tower.
- Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides – Take a romantic ride along the promenade.
- Donkey Rides – A fun family tradition on Blackpool Beach.
4. See the Dazzling Illuminations
Every autumn, Blackpool Illuminations transform the town into a magical light display, stretching for six miles along the seafront.
How to Experience the Illuminations:
- Walk or Drive – Explore the lights at your own pace.
- Hop on a Heritage Tram Tour – Ride a traditional illuminated tram for a unique experience.
- Visit the Lightpool Festival – A spectacular display of 3D light projections on Blackpool Tower.
Dates: Usually run from early September to early January.
5. Visit Sandcastle Waterpark – The UK’s Largest Indoor Waterpark
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For a fun indoor activity, head to Sandcastle Waterpark, home to thrilling slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers.
Top Attractions Inside Sandcastle Waterpark:
- Master Blaster – The world’s longest indoor roller coaster waterslide.
- Typhoon Lagoon Wave Pool – Ride the waves every 30 minutes.
- Seabreeze Spa – Relax in a luxurious adult-only area with a sauna and steam room.
Tip: Book online to secure your spot, as tickets sell out quickly during peak times.
6. Meet Wildlife at The Zoo
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Located just a short drive from the seafront, Blackpool Zoo is home to over 1,500 animals, including lions, tigers, elephants, and orangutans.
Top Experiences at Blackpool Zoo:
- The Big Cat Habitat – See majestic lions and tigers up close.
- Dinosaur Safari – A prehistoric adventure featuring life-sized dinosaur models.
- Daily Animal Talks & Feeding Sessions – Learn about the animals from expert zookeepers.
A perfect family-friendly attraction away from the hustle and bustle of the town center.
7. Explore the SEA LIFE Blackpool Aquarium
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Discover the wonders of the ocean at SEA LIFE Blackpool, home to thousands of marine creatures.
Highlights of SEA LIFE Blackpool:
- Ocean Tunnel – Walk through an underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks and stingrays.
- Rockpool Experience – Get hands-on with starfish and crabs.
- Sea Turtle Rescue Center – Learn about conservation efforts to protect endangered species.
Tip: Combine your SEA LIFE ticket with other Merlin attractions (like the Blackpool Tower) for discounts.
8. Step into History at the Blackpool Grand Theatre
For a more cultural experience, visit the Blackpool Grand Theatre, a stunning Victorian-era venue that hosts West End shows, concerts, and comedy performances.
9. Ride the Blackpool Heritage Trams
Experience a piece of the City’s history by taking a ride on a Heritage Tram, featuring beautifully restored trams from the early 1900s.
Best Ways to Ride the Heritage Tram:
- Illuminations Tour – See the Blackpool Illuminations from a vintage tram.
- Promenade Tour – Ride from Starr Gate to Fleetwood for incredible seaside views.
10. Discover the Mysterious Blackpool Tower Dungeon
For a spooky and immersive experience, visit Tower Dungeon, where live actors, special effects, and interactive performances bring horrific historical tales to life.
It’s a mix of comedy, history, and horror—great for visitors who love thrilling experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Blackpool
1. What Are the Must-See Attractions in The City?
The City offers a wide range of attractions suitable for all ages. Some of the top must-see places include:
- Tower – Home to the Tower Eye, Tower Circus, and the famous Tower Ballroom.
- Pleasure Beach – A thrilling amusement park with roller coasters like The Big One and ICON.
- Illuminations – A dazzling annual light display that runs from September to January.
- SEA LIFE Blackpool – A fantastic aquarium featuring sharks, sea turtles, and interactive exhibits.
- Sandcastle Waterpark – The UK’s largest indoor waterpark, great for families.
- Blackpool Zoo – Home to over 1,500 animals, including elephants, lions, and gorillas.
2. What Is the Best Time to Visit Blackpool?
Blackpool is a great destination year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for:
- Spring (March – May) – Fewer crowds, milder weather, and lower accommodation prices.
- Summer (June – August) – Peak season with warm weather, beach activities, and a buzzing atmosphere.
- Autumn (September – November) – A great time to visit for the Blackpool Illuminations.
- Winter (December – February) – A quieter season, but festive events and indoor attractions remain open.
3. Can You Visit Blackpool on a Budget?
Yes! Blackpool offers plenty of free and budget-friendly activities, including:
- Walking along Promenade and the famous Golden Mile.
- Enjoying the beach and traditional donkey rides.
- Exploring Stanley Park, a beautiful green space with gardens and a boating lake.
- Watching the sunset from North Pier.
- Seeing the Comedy Carpet near Blackpool Tower, featuring famous British comedy quotes.
For attractions, booking tickets online in advance can save money. Many attractions also offer combo passes for discounts.
4. Is Blackpool Suitable for Families?
Absolutely! The City is a family-friendly destination with a variety of activities for children, including:
- Nickelodeon Land at Blackpool Pleasure Beach.
- Madame Tussauds Blackpool, featuring wax figures of celebrities and TV characters.
- The Gruffalo & Friends Clubhouse, an interactive play zone for young children.
- Model Village & Gardens, a miniature world filled with tiny buildings and scenes.
- Coral Island, a large amusement arcade with family-friendly games and rides.
5. What Are the Best Things to Do at Night in Blackpool?
Blackpool is just as lively at night, offering great entertainment, including:
- Illuminations (September – January).
- The Blackpool Tower Ballroom, where you can dance the night away.
- Live shows at venues like the Grand Theatre and Winter Gardens.
- Bars and nightclubs along the Promenade for a fun night out.
- Illuminated tram tours, a unique way to experience the lights and sights.
Final Thoughts
The City is packed with amazing attractions, from thrilling theme parks and stunning beaches to cultural experiences and dazzling illuminations.
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