A great value holiday destination, Blackpool has been bringing light and laughter to families since the 1800s! Did you know it’s still the UK’s most popular choice for a British seaside break?
Blackpool has everything you need for a fun seaside holiday – miles of sandy beaches, not one but THREE piers, and dozens of family-friendly attractions. It’s hard to beat for retro charm, with staples like Blackpool Tower, the Pleasure Beach and the illuminations still going strong.
There’s something for everyone here, from a zoo to Madame Tussauds. Whether you’re after the thrills of the circus, or the culture of Grundy Art Gallery, it’s never too late to visit Blackpool.
Browse our latest Blackpool hotel and holiday deals, or read on for our extensive tips on the best things to do in Blackpool.
1. Brave the SKYWALK at Blackpool Tower
You can’t go to Blackpool without taking a trip up its famous tower. After seeing the history of the tower brought to life via the magic of 4D cinema, take the lift up for breathtaking views at the top. You can spend as long as you like up there, and staff are great at making you feel safe.
The SKYWALK is a glass floor at the top of Blackpool Tower. You’ll feel like you’re walking over thin air, while suspended hundreds of feet high. Look towards Bowland, the Lake District and across to the Isle of Man on a clear day. Feeling extra brave? Head to the very top via a spiral staircase.
2. See lions and tigers at Blackpool Zoo
Just two miles inland, Blackpool Zoo is a fantastic day out for all the family. Meet amazing big cats like lions and tigers, alongside apes, birds, reptiles and more. Whether you’re an animal-lover yourself or have little ones, you can easily spend hours watching over 1000 creatures.
Blackpool Zoo is accessible and well signposted, with plenty of places to sit down and relax. There are information boards to read, alongside many educational talks, feeds and displays. Look out for wonderful face-to-face encounters like the parrot feeding and the new giraffe barn.
3. Cosy up to celebs at Madame Tussauds
Get a selfie with Ed Sheeran, Jack and Vera from Coronation Street, or even The Queen! Madame Tussauds Blackpool houses a multitude of stars from music, sports and entertainment. As well as lifelike waxworks, there’s the Rovers Return Pub, a karaoke section and a fun laser maze.
It’s cheaper than the London incarnation, less of a crowd crush, and with many more familiar British faces. You’ll see quite a few musicians and entertainers of yesteryear, as well as big Hollywood stars. Spend as long as you like staging the perfect photo – even if it's a rainy day outside.
4. Explore the coastline on Blackpool Tramway
See the golden mile from the comfort of Blackpool’s fantastic tramway system. They’ve recently undergone a £100 million makeover, while still retaining their unique character. If you’ve never been on an open-top tram, it’s about time you gave it a go. Feel that sea breeze in your hair!
Blackpool Tramway is a great way to see the famous illuminations, or simply to get from A to B. It runs beside the sea, tracing 11 miles from Blackpool to Fleetwood. Running since 1885, you can still ride the beautiful ‘heritage’ trams on certain days, including an impressive double-decker.
5. Ride a carousel horse at the Pleasure Beach
Experience one of Britain’s most record-breaking theme parks. It has the biggest number of roller coasters of any park in the UK, including some of the tallest, fastest and steepest. Kids and thrill seekers will be more than satisfied, while there’s plenty of gentle stuff for the rest of us.
There are 10 huge roller coasters – you can’t miss the UK’s tallest, The Big One – alongside classics like dodgems, river rapids and Wallace & Gromit’s Thrill-O-Matic. Nickelodeon Land also gives little ones the chance to meet characters from SpongeBob, PAW Patrol and many more.
6. Be dazzled by Blackpool Illuminations
Founded in 1879, this world-famous free light show is almost as iconic as Blackpool Tower. From the end of August until the beginning of November, over one million bulbs light up 10km of seafront. It’s the ideal excuse for a late season seaside break, when the lights are visible for longer.
Stay during The Big Switch On, often attended by pop bands and celebrities, or just enjoy them by yourself. There’s something new every year, with ambitious multi-media art installations rubbing shoulders with traditional illuminated displays. A magical sight for any holidaymaker, and definitely one for the list of essential things to do in Blackpool.
7. Enjoy fantastic feats at Blackpool Tower Circus
Roll up, roll up – this circus is always in town! Blackpool Tower Circus is the oldest permanent circus arena in the world, so they really know their stuff. Join third-generation clowns Mooky and Mr Boo for jaw-dropping stunts, stunning acrobatics and hilarious slapstick comedy.
Dating back to 1894, this circus has never missed a season, including during two World Wars. They present daredevil acts from around the globe and haven’t used animals since 1990. From trapeze artists to a spectacular watershow finale, this is one attraction you won’t want to miss. Check their website for detailed information about what's on.
8. Relax by the boating lake at Stanley Park
If you need a break from Blackpool’s bright lights, Stanley Park offers an oasis of calm. Read a book in one of its many ornamental gardens, or get closer to nature on one of the woodland paths. The Art Deco Cafe serves a wide range of hot drinks, tasty food and Carte D’Or ice cream.
Stanley Park is a hidden gem of Blackpool, containing numerous facilities and things to do. There’s a large boating lake, golf courses and tennis courts if you’re feeling sporty. Or why not head over to the bandstand for some open air music? Hurry, there’s 256 acres of green space to explore.
9. Meet Phoenix the turtle at SEA LIFE
Over 2,000 sea creatures swim, scurry and glide around SEA LIFE Blackpool. Half aquarium, half rescue and conservation project, this watery attraction is a delight for all ages. Whether you love turtles, sharks or jellyfish the most, you’ll have a chance to see them all up close here.
Spend time walking around different zones or meet one of the keepers at an educational talk. There’s plenty for children to do, with a LEGO section and hands-on displays. SEA LIFE Blackpool is a great place to learn about sea life and you won’t forget the amazing underwater tunnel.
10. Build a sandcastle on Blackpool Beach
Blackpool has around 7 miles of sandy beach, which was recently awarded its first ever Blue Flag award! Take a dip in the sea under the careful watch of lifeguards, or buy a bucket and spade for some family-friendly fun. There are also plenty of benches if you don’t fancy the sand.
Along the beach you’ll find nostalgic classics like donkey rides, and there are ramps for easy access. Bring a deckchair for a sunbathe, or enjoy your lunch on a picnic blanket. There are dozens of things to do along the promenade, including the piers, arcades and seaside food stalls.
11. Swim at the UK’s largest indoor waterpark
With 18 adrenaline-pumping slides and attractions, Sandcastle Waterpark is more than just a swimming pool. Spend the day gliding down water chutes, riding the river rapids, or battling on the pirate ship. The facilities are immaculately kept, and staff are friendly and helpful.
Sandcastle is home to rides like the Master Blaster and Aztec Falls, alongside a luxurious spa section for adults. There’s a tropical theme throughout and plenty of places to eat, if you’re tired of swimming. Look out for discounted offers and a wristband to access every section.
12. Explore the North, South and Central Piers
Play hook a duck, eat candy floss, and enjoy all the fun of the fair. Blackpool has a whopping three piers to explore, each with their own unique charm. Central Pier and South Pier are packed with arcade games and fairground rides, while the North Pier is quieter and more traditional.
Central Pier is the largest and busiest pier, home to the Big Wheel and ‘Legends’ live music show. South Pier is smaller, but still has a huge emphasis on family-friendly fun. North Pier is the lofty elegant one, boasting Listed Building status – look out for its Victorian architecture.
13. Catch a tribute act at The Grand Theatre
The Grand Theatre is a show-stopping building with an impressive green dome and carved stonework. Known as the National Theatre of Variety, the Grand keeps alive Blackpool’s reputation for live entertainment and comedy. Luckily, it was saved from demolition in 1973!
Every theatrical taste is catered for, with a busy programme of dazzling musicals, hilarious pantomimes and classic plays. You’ll find quality tribute acts, such as The Upbeat Beatles, Little Mix Experience and The Buddy Holly Story. It’s impossible to stop yourself from singing along. Check their website to find out what's on during your stay.
14. Get some culture at Grundy Art Gallery
Think Blackpool is all about Kiss-Me-Quick hats and donkey rides? Grundy Art Gallery hosts an eclectic programme of contemporary art in an elegant setting. Recent shows have included artists Grayson Perry and Roy Lichtenstein, alongside an art exhibition about the circus.
You can spend a good couple of hours here and it’s free to get in. Grundy do a lot of work with local Blackpool artists, and staff are always happy to chat with you. Have a look online to see if there’s an exhibition on that you like the look of. The library is next door if you fancy a coffee.
15. Revisit your childhood at Brooks Toy Museum
See the collectables of yesteryear at this tiny family-run museum, which sits upstairs from their well-stocked gift shop. Brooks’ is free to enter and run by volunteers – feel free to leave a donation to help keep it going! Look forward to lots of “I used to have one of those” moments.
From working train sets to Dinky cars and Airfix, Brooks Collectables and Toy Museum is a treat for kids and adults. See collectables from Star Wars and Doctor Who, alongside miniature versions of famous Blackpool icons. Perfect for nostalgia lovers and a great place to buy souvenirs.
16. Play bingo and arcade games at Coral Island
Blackpool’s largest indoor family-friendly attraction, Coral Island has everything you need to stay entertained. With a shipshape pirate theme and a huge range of ways to lose your money, you may find it hard to leave! Have a go on the slots or join in on the popular prize bingo.
Coral Island has plenty of places to eat and many let kids eat for free. There’s a ghost train and pirate ship ride if you’re feeling adventurous, and it’s handy to have everything under one roof. Ideal for rainy days and keeping the whole family occupied, Coral Island is a fun way to kill a few hours.
17. Waltz around the Blackpool Tower Ballroom
Put on your dancing shoes and take a turn around the famous Blackpool Tower Ballroom. With its mighty Wurlitzer organ and spectacular architecture, it’s like being inside a fairytale. Book an Afternoon Tea for your own tower of sandwiches, cakes, scones and a pot of tea or coffee.
The Blackpool Tower Ballroom features an elegant dance floor and two floors of gilded balconies. Have a go at ballroom dancing lessons, or simply spectate and enjoy the grand surroundings. For a price, you can even take to the stage and have a go on the Wurlitzer organ yourself.
18. Visit Blackpool Model Village & Gardens
See all your favourite Blackpool icons in miniature. The ‘Biggest Little Village in Lancashire’ has been delighting families since 1972, and is a fine way to spend a lazy afternoon. Based in the sprawling Stanley Park, this much-loved model village features hundreds of creative scenes.
Who says you have to travel far to see all Great Britain has to offer? Marvel at a mini Scottish castle, a tranquil Cornish fishing village, and even Thomas the Tank Engine. The attraction is fully accessible for wheelchair users and there’s a lovely (full sized) ice cream parlour to visit.
19. Gaze in awe at Ripley’s Odditorium
Are you a fan of the weird and wonderful? Ripley’s will leave you flabbergasted with its collection of artefacts. From shrunken heads to strange creatures, the line between fact and fiction has never looked so blurry. Don’t miss a portrait of Princess Diana, made from 2,500 pennies.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is set out over two floors and sits right next to Blackpool Pleasure Beach. As well as strange objects – who’s to say whether or not they’re genuine – you’ll see unique exhibits and models. A crazy combination of science, history and mystery for the whole family, and definitely one of the most unique and unusual things to do in Blackpool.
20. Step back in time at the Winter Gardens
One of the most memorable places in Blackpool, the Winter Gardens are a complex of historic buildings. Explore the splendid Floral Hall, see a show at the Blackpool Opera House Theatre, or drink coffee in one of its grand spaces. There’s a jam-packed programme of live events too.
The Winter Gardens opened in 1878 and they still retain the grandeur of their heyday. Step inside to experience opulent carved ceilings, chandeliers and tropical plants. Look out for bronzed statue of Morecambe and Wise, or catch a cheeky musical like Kinky Boots or Calendar Girls.
Now you’ve seen all there is to do, why not book your Blackpool break today?