Blackpool Day Trip Including Blackpool Pleasure Beach
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Plan the perfect Blackpool day trip! Explore the thrills of Blackpool Pleasure Beach, iconic landmarks, and seaside attractions for an unforgettable adventure.
Blackpool Travel Guide: (Jump To)
Blackpool Overview
Blackpool is an iconic seaside resort town on the northwest coast of England. Known for its vibrant entertainment scene, beaches, and historical attractions, Blackpool has been a favorite holiday destination for decades. If you’re planning a seaside vacation and are wondering: “Is Blackpool worth visiting?” We say yes!
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How To Get To Blackpool
Taking a Day Trip to Blackpool from nearby Manchester or Liverpool is very easy with frequent trains. Visiting Blackpool from London would make a great weekend getaway. If you’re a local, it’s very easy to visit by car. Driving travel times are typically under an hour from Liverpool, Manchester, and even Birmingham. Just plug the address into your favorite mapping app and you’ll be there in no time.
How To Get To Blackpool By Train
Blackpool North Station is the main railway hub, with direct trains from London Euston (around 2.5-3 hours), Manchester (around 1 hour), and Liverpool (around 1.5 hours).
Blackpool South Station serves the southern parts of the town, including the Pleasure Beach area. The Blackpool Tram easily connects visitors arriving at Blackpool North Station to Pleasure Beach and other attractions. More on the tram below.
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Parking For Blackpool Pleasure Beach
Blackpool has numerous car parks, but the most convenient ones for visiting the central attractions are located along the Promenade. Lots are managed by the city of Blackpool. More info on prices and Blackpool parking lot locations can be found on their website.
Generally, 12-hour parking costs £14 and 24-hours costs £19. Parking fees can be paid by card or cash. Some popular Blackpool car parks include:
Central Car Park: (Google Maps) This is a great option if you plan to visit the central pier, SeaLife Aquarium, or Madame Tussauds.
South Beach Car Park: (Google Maps) This is the closest to the Pleasure Beach entrance and Sandcastle Waterpark.
Talbot Road Car Park: (Google Maps) This is a parking garage with easy access to the North Pier and Blackpool Tower.
Wherever you park, you can hop onto the tram and land in the park in minutes.
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Luggage Storage in Blackpool
If you're planning a day trip to Blackpool, you might need a place to store your bags. While the train station lacks luggage lockers, The Station Café (Google Maps) nearby offers daily storage for £5 per bag, though it closes early. Pleasure Beach has lockers at the park entrance suitable for carry-on-sized suitcases and smaller items.
Frustrated over the lack of options for larger bags, we booked the cheapest hotel we could find (£21) and left our luggage there while we explored the town for the day.
Hotels in Blackpool
Blackpool caters to all budgets and preferences with its diverse accommodation options:
Numerous budget-friendly B&Bs and guesthouses can be found along streets like Hornby Road and Palatine Road. These options can be booked for as little as 20 pounds per night. However, as with any accommodation you get what you pay for.
Comfortable mid-range hotels such as The Imperial Hotel and The Big Blue Hotel offer excellent amenities and convenient locations. These options are great for a Blackpool weekend break.
Blackpool lacks any true luxury hotels, but for a more luxurious stay, consider the Blackpool FC Hotel or Number One South Beach. Luxury comes at a price, but in Blackpool, you’ll find high-end accommodations at more affordable prices than elsewhere in England.
Consider booking with our partner booking.com for competitive rates.
Blackpool Tram (Getting Around Blackpool)
The Blackpool Tram is a convenient necessity for navigating the sights of Blackpool. The tram system runs along the Promenade and is a convenient way to travel between attractions. Day passes are available for unlimited travel. (Additionally, they just opened a new tram extension connecting the line to the Blackpool North Station!)
Blackpool Tram Price
Download their transport app (BPL Transport) to pay with your phone. Alternatively, you can pay when you enter the train. A ticket worker onboard will accept payment by card. Single journey tickets cost £2 per ride. We recommend an all-day pass (just £6.60) for unlimited rides.
Check out our other posts about things to see and do in England or the United Kingdom!
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What To Do in Blackpool
There are plenty of fun things to do in Blackpool during your visit. Depending on your party you’ll find things to do in Blackpool for families, couples, adults, and kids.
Blackpool Tower
Opened in 1894, Blackpool Tower is inspired by the Eiffel Tower and has become one of the UK's most recognizable landmarks. It’s one of the best things to do in Blackpool for couples. The Tower Eye offers panoramic views of Blackpool and the surrounding coastline. On clear days, you can see as far as the Lake District and North Wales.
Down below, the Tower Ballroom is famous for its ornate architecture and Wurlitzer organ, the ballroom is a mecca for dance enthusiasts and hosts regular tea dances and events. The Tower Circus has been hosting shows since 1894, the circus features a blend of acrobatics, comedy, and animal acts (now focusing on human performances).
Also at ground level, the Tower Dungeon is an interactive and theatrical experience that delves into Blackpool’s dark history with live actors and special effects. It’s one of the best things to do in Blackpool for adults (and brave children).
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Blackpool Illuminations
Running from late August to early November, Blackpool Illuminations transforms the seafront with miles of decorative lights and themed displays. The Lightpool Festival includes 3D projections on Blackpool Tower, illuminated trams, and themed tableaux.
The illuminations are best experienced on foot or via an illuminated tram ride. There are also guided tours available.
Blackpool Beach and Promenade
Central Beach is the main beach area. During the warm summer months, it’s great for sunbathing and swimming. During the cooler months fishing, strolling the promenade, and visiting the pier amusements are popular seaside activities.
Blackpool Piers
There are three main piers with similar but varying attractions. Visiting one of the piers makes for a great day out in Blackpool. Generally, pier carnival rides and games can be enjoyed by purchasing tickets. Each ride requires a certain about of tickets, with individual rides topping out at about £5. You can also buy an all-day wristband if you want to max out your fun time on the pier.
The South Pier features thrilling rides, including the Adrenaline Zone, as well as arcades and food stalls. It’s also home to the year-round indoor waterpark, Sandcastle.
Central Pier is known for its large Ferris wheel, family-friendly rides, and amusements. The Central Pier is typically the most popular and is often the most busy of the three piers. The large indoor arcade is great for a rainy day.
Finally, the North Pier offers a more relaxed atmosphere with a theatre, bars, and a Victorian arcade. This is a great place to find adult things to do in Blackpool.
Visiting Blackpool Pleasure Beach
Blackpool Pleasure Beach is a renowned amusement park offering a mix of high-thrill rides and family attractions. Opened in 1896, the park has evolved over the decades to include modern roller coasters and themed areas.
Opening Times For Blackpool Pleasure Beach
Blackpool Pleasure Beach’s opening hours vary depending on the season and day. Generally, the park is open from late March to early November. Check the official website for precise timings.
Official Website Link: Pleasure Beach Resort
Blackpool Pleasure Beach Tickets
Purchasing tickets online in advance is the most economical option. Prices can vary based on the season and special events. Online advance tickets start at £33 for adults and £28 for kids aged 11 and under. Buying tickets at the gate will cost a bit more, starting at £50 for adults and £33 for kids.
Visit the park’s official website to buy tickets.
Rides at Blackpool Pleasure Beach
Blackpool has long been on the cutting edge of rollercoaster design with numerous great attractions, one-of-a-kind rides, and amusements for all ages.
Rollercoasters at Blackpool Pleasure Beach
The Big One
The Big One was once the tallest and steepest roller coaster in the world. Opened in 1994 the coaster stands at 213 feet with a 205-foot drop. Reaching speeds of up to 74 mph, the ride offers a heart-pounding experience from the initial steep ascent to the dramatic first drop and subsequent high-speed turns. Despite its age, the coaster remains relatively smooth. A symbol of Blackpool Pleasure Beach, The Big One continues to be the park’s most popular and acclaimed attraction, drawing coaster enthusiasts from around the globe.
ICON
ICON, debuting in 2018, stands out as the UK's first double-launch coaster, propelling riders to speeds of up to 53 mph. The ride features twists, turns, and inversions with a series of acceleration points. As a flagship attraction of Blackpool Pleasure Beach, ICON has quickly become a favorite among visitors.
Grand National
The Grand National is a classic wooden roller coaster known for its unique racing design. Since its debut in 1935, this iconic ride has delighted visitors with its twin-track layout, where two trains race side by side. With a height of 62 feet and a top speed of 40 mph, the Grand National offers a nostalgic experience. A beloved fixture of Blackpool Pleasure Beach, the Grand National celebrates the golden age of wooden coasters.
The Big Dipper
The Big Dipper is another historic wooden roller coaster. Debuting in 1923, it is the oldest coaster still operating in the park. Standing at 60 feet tall, the Big Dipper reaches speeds of up to 40 mph, providing a delightful mix of thrills and nostalgia. As one of the park's most treasured attractions, the Big Dipper is a must-ride for any roller coaster enthusiast.
The Avalanche
The Avalanche is a distinctive bobsled roller coaster that simulates the sensation of a real bobsled run, with trains that navigate a twisting, turning track without fixed rails. Reaching speeds of up to 50 mph, the Avalanche combines the thrill of high-speed curves with the novelty of its free-wheeling motion. Its innovative design and alpine theming set it apart from traditional coasters.
Revolution
Climbing the flights of stairs up to the loading dock for Revolution is an experience on its own. Since its first launch in 1979, this ride has thrilled visitors with its forward and backward loops. The coaster’s standout feature is its twin-track layout, where trains race through a full loop before reversing direction. As a trailblazer in the world of roller coasters, the Revolution remains a beloved attraction at Pleasure Beach.
Steeplechase
While maybe not the most thrilling of coasters in the park, Steeplechase stands out for its horse-racing theme, where riders sit astride individual horse-shaped cars that race along parallel tracks. The ride's unique layout and nostalgic appeal make it a great attraction for younger riders.
Nickelodeon Streak
The bright orange Nickelodeon Streak debuted in 1933. (Although, it was known as simply “Roller Coaster” until 2010). The coaster combines classic charm with gentle drops and twists, perfect for riders of all ages. It’s a great wooden coaster that would be a perfect first ride for a young and aspiring coaster enthusiast.
Other Blackpool Pleasure Beach Rides
In addition to traditional coasters, Blackpool has some great rides to enjoy.
Valhalla
Valhalla is an elaborate indoor water ride with fire, ice, and water effects. This is one of the most interesting and fun water attractions we’ve ever been on. Themed around Norse mythology and launched in 2000, this colossal attraction spans over 35,000 feet. As one of the park's signature rides, Valhalla continues to soak riders with water-based thrills. (Tip: pack a poncho to stay dry on colder English days).
Wallace and Gromit: Thrill-O-Matic
Fans of the claymation Wallace and Gromit franchise will delight in this dark ride. From chasing the wrong trousers to battling evil penguins, the ride captures the humor and charm of the original animations with scenes from the films and all your favorite characters, plus cheese!
Ghost Train
The Ghost Train was the first to use this now iconic Ghost Train name. Dating back to 1930, this classic dark ride has been thrilling visitors with its ghostly encounters and haunted scenes. As riders board their carriages, they are transported through a labyrinth of mysterious passages and chilling surprises.
Welcome to Alice’s Wonderland
A family ride in the world of Alice in Wonderland, this classic ride either inspired the Disney attraction or stole from it… It’s hard to tell. Along the ride, you’ll encounter iconic characters like the Cheshire Cat and the Mad Hatter. Beloved by many, the ride is on the skip list unless you’re visiting with kids.
Derby Racer
One of only three remaining rides of this style, the classic horse race ride is one not to be missed. The ride is similar to a carousel with its Belgian Organ and painted horses. However, once the ride gets spinning the speed and thrills make it a whole new experience.
Nickelodeon Land
Home to rides based on popular Nickelodeon characters this is an ideal spot to visit for younger visitors. From Spongebob to Dora the Explorer kids will delight in the small area’s theming. Costume characters sometimes visit the land making for a memorable experience for the park’s youngest guests.
Prices at Blackpool Pleasure Beach
Prices at the park are quite reasonable, a full lunch meal can be enjoyed for under £15 with various snacks for £3-£5. Beer, wine, and other cocktails are also available throughout the park.
Souvenir shops offer affordable keepsakes from your day at Blackpool. Every ride seems to have its own set of merch including shirts, mugs, and stickers. Candy is abundant and every shop. Nickelodeon and Wallace and Gromit merchandise is also available in dedicated shops.
Restaurants at Blackpool Pleasure Beach
The White Tower Restaurant offers fine dining with stunning views of the park and seafront. Coasters Diner is an American-themed diner serving classic burgers, shakes, and more. The Big Pizza Kitchen offers a variety of pizzas and is a favorite among families. Numerous other kiosks and snack bars around the park serve everything from traditional fish and chips to ice cream and sweets.
Tips for Visiting Blackpool
Blackpool's weather can be unpredictable. Summers are usually warm but always carry a jacket or umbrella. Check the forecast before your visit. If you’re visiting at the beginning or end of the season (early June or September and later), prepare for colder than expected days.
The best time to visit Blackpool is during the Summer months (June to August) for beach activities and September to November for the Blackpool Illuminations.
Booking tickets for attractions like the Pleasure Beach, Blackpool Tower, and shows in advance can save time and money. Check out our partners Klook, Viator, or Get Your Guide for ticket ideas and possible savings.
Other Things To Do in Blackpool
Sea Life Aquarium Blackpool
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Home to a variety of marine life including sharks, rays, and seahorses. Interactive rock pools and a walk-through ocean tunnel. It’s a fun thing to do in the rain in Blackpool. Tickets are available online. Combination tickets are available with other attractions like Madame Tussauds and Blackpool Tower. Holders of the Merlin Parks season pass may have free entrance.
Madame Tussauds Blackpool
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Wax figures of celebrities, sports stars, and historical figures. Interactive experiences include a walk down Coronation Street and a Marvel superheroes zone. Combination tickets are available with other attractions like Sea Life and Blackpool Tower. Holders of the Merlin Parks season pass may have free entrance.
Sandcastle Waterpark
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
The UK's largest indoor waterpark, Sandcastle has over 18 slides and attractions including wave pools and lazy rivers. This is a great thing to do with kids in Blackpool. Online ticket booking is recommended, especially during school holidays and weekends.
Blackpool Zoo
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Home to over 1,000 animals, including big cats, primates, kangaroos, and elephants. The Dinosaur Safari is a popular attraction with life-sized animatronic dinosaurs. Discounted rates are available for online bookings.
Things to Do at Night in Blackpool
Viva Blackpool
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
A vibrant entertainment venue offering live shows, cabaret performances, and dining experiences. Shows range from tribute acts to comedy nights. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for popular shows.
Winter Gardens
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
A historic entertainment complex hosting a variety of events, from theatre productions and concerts to conferences and exhibitions. The Opera House is one of the UK’s largest theaters. Check the schedule and book tickets online for major events.
Best Blackpool Bars and Clubs
Funny Girls is a unique cabaret bar with drag performances, located on Dickson Road. A popular bar on the Promenade, Revolution Blackpool offers cocktails, food, and themed nights.
Ma Kelly’s is known for its live entertainment and friendly atmosphere. It’s a regional chain with several locations around Blackpool.
Summary
Blackpool offers many experiences from its famous tower and illuminations to the thrilling rides at Blackpool Pleasure Beach. With its wide range of accommodations, nightlife, and numerous attractions, it caters to visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, have a theme park day, or enjoy world-class entertainment, Blackpool has something to offer.
