While London is the hotspot for visitors to the United Kingdom, there are many other amazing places to visit. Some venture to the serene Lake District, while others flock to the seaside towns, like Blackpool, for plenty of fun.
We all know that the UK isn’t blessed with beach weather all year round, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t things to do. Even the coastal regions are packed with history and flourishing food scenes that many don’t know about. These locations can best be enjoyed through road trips and it’s best to drive certain cars whilst on your road trip.
It’s true that seaside towns in the UK are most popular with British people. However, at least 10% of all international travellers head for the coast when they land in the UK.
Sunny St. Ives is a big draw, as is Brighton, with its brightly lit pier. Head further north, and you will find Blackpool, which welcomed over 18 million visitors per year.
If you’re planning to visit this seaside destination, you’ll be please to hear that there are many things to do in Blackpool.
Top things to do in Blackpool
Visiting the beach isn’t the only thing to do in Blackpool, here are a few more places to visit and experiences to try out.
Blackpool Tower
It may seem obvious, but this historical landmark is among Britain’s most loved, for many reasons. The tower dominates the skyline of the town, and its remarkable design is legendary.
It opened to the public in 1894, so has a long-standing history among residents and visitors. Blackpool Tower houses five different attractions too, as well as many different functions on a daily basis, including:
- The Beautiful Victorian Ballroom
Many dance competitions have taken place here over the years and you can book your own ballroom dancing sessions with friends too. Or book a traditional afternoon tea and simply gaze at the ornate design as the Wurlitzer plays.
- The Blackpool Tower Eye
Catch the stunning views from the top of the tower. Gaze in every direction from as high as 380ft to see the Northwest of England in all its glory. Also, brave the Skywalk, a 5-centimeter thick glass viewing platform that gives you a thrill!
- The Tower Dungeon
Take a scary adventure through Lancashire’s past in the dungeon. With actors, special effects and different scenes, this is a fun family experience.
Hit the town of Blackpool
Blackpool has some of the liveliest nightlife in the country, there is literally a party all year round. If you’ve been playing poker while you travel, there’s an opportunity to visit many casino chains with dining and bars. Or go watch a spectacular show – you can find something suitable for all interests.
- Funny Girls Show Bar
Many visitors consider this spot to be the best place for a night out in Blackpool. A professionally staged cabaret show is sure to provide plenty of laughs, and you can book dinner beforehand.
- The Pump and Truncheon
If you want a traditional bar and a selection of real ales, then this place will meet your expectations. Here you can enjoy playing darts, enjoy pool or have some pizza.
- Laughing Donkey Family Bar
Easy to find on the Promenade, this is a venue suitable for all ages. There are plenty of in-house activities and even screened animation for some quiet time.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach
Blackpool Pleasure Beach is one of the UK’s oldest amusement parks. There’s so much to do here that you could come back every day.
There are too many rides to name them all, but check out the following for some shrieks:
- Icon: Strap into the UK’s first double launch roller coaster, which takes riders on terrifying twists and turns at high speed.
- Big One: The tallest roller coaster in the UK has been standing since 1994. It hurtles riders down from 235ft high!
- Grand National: The only twin track racing coaster in Europe, for those who like a bit of competition with fellow riders.
- Revolution: The train is launched out of the station into a gigantic loop for a minute and a half of sheer fun.
- Ice Blast: The suspense builds as you are thrust vertically up a 210-ft tower at 80mph. Then you are plunged into freefall at 4.5g force.
Pleasure Beach is also home to Nickelodeon Land and many family-friendly rides.
You can also catch different shows throughout the year, including an annual pantomime, the Evolution of Magic and spectacular ice shows with Olympic skaters.
Blackpool Tramway
One of the oldest tramways in the world, dating back to 1885, the tram runs right along Blackpool Promenade. It runs 11 miles in total.
Catch a ride on one of the heritage trams that run on weekends, bank holidays and special occasions. This is a simply unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else.
Blackpool Beach
It seems obvious but, if you want the quintessential English escapade, you need to enjoy staying in a beach house whilst you sightsee and enjoy the many things to do in Blackpool. Striped deck chairs, ice-cream sellers and the pretty, but freezing, sea for those who are brave enough.
So, if you’re looking for a great British seaside holiday, make sure to put Blackpool on your list.
- North Pier
Blackpool has three piers but this is the only one to be listed for English Heritage status. It is half a kilometer long, stretching out into the ocean, and dates back to 1863.
The wrought-iron Canopy bar sits on the pier head, a great place to grab a beer and a bite. A 1960s arcade is another place to stop by on the pier, as well as the Art Deco theater.
- Get Some Fresh Sea Air
Blackpool has so much to keep visitors entertained, no matter whether young or not so young. This dancing town by the sea has played host to huge acts such as Frank Sinatra, Jimi Hendrix and Britney Spears.
