Top 10 Favourite Things to Do in Blackpool

by Ren Nair
Last Update: 17 July 2023

Are you someone seeking thrills and excitement?

Then Blackpool must be at the top of your list!

The seaside resort is famous for high-speed rollercoasters, flashing lights, and fish & chips. It’s so famous that in 2019, around 18 million people came to visit the city. People have been coming here on holiday since the 18th century.

Since there are so many things to do in Blackpool, it can be hard deciding what you should do. But we’re here to help!

Down below, you can find the top 10 things to do while you’re in town!

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1. Brighton Palace Pier

Brighton Palace Pier is arguably the most iconic pier in the world.
It first opened its doors way back in 1899 but has been redeveloped many times since. The pier got damaged during a storm in 1973. Along with the popular theatre here, that wasn’t used since.
Today, the pier always has a carnival atmosphere because of its flashing lights and vibrant colours.

There are plenty of bars and restaurants lining the length of the pier. In the summer months, locals and tourists come here to relax and admire the view of the sea.
But the Palace Pier is most famous for its fairground rides. Adrenaline junkies can enjoy the speed of The Turbo Coaster or get spun around on The Booster. While younger kids will have a blast on the slides or the Cups & Saucers.

2. The Lanes

If you have plans to visit Brighton, you must get lost in the magical lanes! The area is known for its narrow lanes, small stores, and quirky colours.

This charming neighbourhood is in the city’s old fishing town, which dates to the eighteenth century. It is a perfect blend of modern and traditional England. So, although the streets and buildings are old, the stores and atmosphere are anything but.

Along the winding streets, you can sit back and relax in a cosy bar. Before returning to the bustling streets to shop until you drop at any of the top class stores here.
Make sure your camera is fully charged before you get here. You’ll be taking plenty of pictures throughout the day!

1. Blackpool Pleasure Beach

Everyone knows that a trip to Blackpool is not complete without a visit to Pleasure Beach. The theme park is one of the oldest in Britain and has been welcoming visitors through its gates since 1896.

Some amusement rides give the impression that the park is still in the 19th or 20th century with their vintage and retro looks. While others like the Icon, confirm we are still in the present.

There is also something special about this theme park. It is home to the UK’s highest rollercoaster at almost 65 meters tall. Making it the 6th largest in Europe, as of 2022.

2. Madame Tussauds Blackpool

Madame Tussauds is a museum housing impressive wax statues of celebrities. There are 26 museums across the globe, with six in Europe and two in the UK. But Blackpool’s is arguably the best!

So, what makes it one of the best?

Well, every museum has fascinating sculptures. And each one allows you to snap a photo with a celebrity. But this one stands out because of its fun explore zones.

People can get lost in the ‘I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!’ jungle. Or fight alongside your favourite marvel hero! Along with many more exciting zones for all the family.

Instead of queuing in the busy summer months, you can book your tickets in advance to save time and money.

3. Marton Mere Local Nature Reserve

To get the most out of your visit, you must get out of the city and into the outdoors.

Northern England is blessed with amazing landscapes and breath-taking nature. So, it’s a good thing that the nature park is only a 10-minute drive from the city centre.

As you make your way through the park, you’ll come across lakes, wildlife, and greenery as far the eye can see. So put on comfortable walking shoes and leave your wallet at home, as there is no entry fee!

4. SEA LIFE Blackpool

SEA LIFE is one of the most popular Blackpool attractions. And after visiting, we can see why.

The aquarium is a mix of two opposites, calm, and adrenaline. The large glass windows allow you to come face to face with all sorts of sea creatures. So as you stroll along, your peace and serenity are shattered by a shark swimming just meters from you.

But if you don’t like sharks, don’t worry. There are plenty of other attractions to keep you entertained. Like the Rainforest Adventure Zone or other creatures such as turtles and clownfish.

5. Central Pier

If you look up Blackpool on the internet or a book, Central Pier will more than likely be the first thing you find.

Located along the most famous Blackpool beach, the pier stretches 1118FT into the sea. It first opened to the public back in May 1868.

Before World War II, the pier was pretty much an open-air, dance floor for locals. Today, it is home to funfair games and the famous 108-foot-tall Ferris Wheel. But when the weather is good, locals and tourists bring back the dancefloor spirit and vibes.

6. Grundy Art Museum

The Grundy Art Museum opened in 1911. It’s housed in a historic Grade II listed Edwardian building. The building itself is worth seeing, but since it’s free to enter, why should you not!

The museum is mainly home to 20th and 21st-century art from people from all over the UK.

It does have a fascinating permanent collection. But every time you visit you will find something new to enjoy. That’s because the museum loans artwork from other galleries and holds many exhibitions.

7. South Pier

The South Pier feels like it’s stuck in the past. And everything about it sums up everything great about Blackpool!

From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted with vibrant colours and a carnival atmosphere.

Inside you’ll find funfair rides for all the family, games, and an old-fashioned arcade. So grab your jar of pennies and have fun at one of the best days out in Blackpool!

You’re also much more likely to bump into the welcoming Blackpool locals here.

8. Blackpool Zoo

The Blackpool Zoo is an award-winning family-friendly attraction. So, where better to have a family day out in the city!

The zoo spans over 37 acres of land and has over 1500 animals from all over the world. While you’re here, you can take a walk through nature, then recharge at a cosy cafe.

But the main reason you come here is to see the animals. Come face to face with elephants, the world’s largest land mammal. Along with various birds and a collection of reptiles.

9. Blackpool Tower Eye

If you have a fear of heights, you can be excused. If not, you must experience the dizzying heights if you’re visiting Blackpool!

Luckily, there’s a lift to the SkyWalk, as it’s 158 meters into the sky. It might take some time to get used to, especially walking out onto the glass platform, but it’s all worth it!

The views are stunning. You can admire the length of Blackpool’s beach, and on a clear day, all the way over to the Isle of Man.

If you’re feeling nervous, relax at the Sky High Cocktail Bar before looking across the Irish Sea.

10. Blackpool Tower Dungeon

If you have plans to visit Blackpool, you must already know about the iconic dungeons. It’s not hard to find, as it’s sat beneath the dominating Tower Eye.

Inside are actors dressed in scary costumes. Telling terrifying stories of the nation’s past. Although the experience is very fun and exciting, keep in mind it might be scary for younger children.

Children are welcome from the age of three. But you can always get more information on the Tower Dungeon before you arrive.

Our Favourite Things To Do In Blackpool

For such a small city, it has such a big personality. Whether you come for a UK family holiday or a weekend away with friends, Blackpool has something for you.
Now that you know our favourite things to do in Blackpool, we know that you will have a wonderful time here!

For more tips and information on visiting Blackpool, download our app for free!

Welcome to our Blog!

Hi, I’m Ren, a travel lover a mum of 2 and founder of Keetoo, a  leading website and app for tickets for days out.
On this blog, I share our family travel experiences with practical information, pictures and useful tips!

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