The bright lights and golden sands of Blackpool have drawn travelers to its fun-filled seashore for more than 150 years. Originally a seaside resort for mill workers from the busy cities of northern England, Blackpool has become a center of entertainment and things to do—from ballroom dancing to stage shows, roller coasters to music festivals. The World Fireworks Championships are held here every year, and the world famous Blackpool Illuminations light up the promenade and Victorian piers in the run-up to Christmas.
There really is something to do year-round in Blackpool, but when it comes to weather, spring and summer are the best times to visit. Some attractions are only open at certain times of the year, such as the Illuminations, which are usually switched on in a star-studded ceremony in September or October. Pleasure Beach amusement park has a main opening season of April to October, and some of the rides may not be open during the off season.
Blackpool has a compact, pedestrianized town center that is easy to walk around. Trams are available to take you up and down the promenade. There are tour buses offering hop-on hop-off tickets, and the standard local bus service is a reliable way to travel further afield. Trains run from Blackpool South and Blackpool North directly to Preston, Liverpool, and Manchester Airport. There are also non-traditional ways to travel—Victorian horse-drawn carriages operate on the promenade.
Blackpool has a great local food scene, and there are a number of top restaurants in town. If you fancy getting away from the usual fish and chips, it’s easy to find somewhere to dine on high-quality global cuisine. It’s worth booking tickets to enjoy a show or musical act in the Winter Gardens or Grand Theatre while in Blackpool—the interior and exterior Victorian architecture of both ornate buildings is a must-see.
