When most people think of domestic beach vacations in the United Kingdom, the Victorian resort of Blackpool is the first place that springs to mind. Although the weather may be unpredictable and the Irish Sea can be chilly, Blackpool attracts millions of visitors each year looking for light entertainment, old-fashioned amusements, and the timeless joy of the seaside.

This has been the case since the nineteenth century when Blackpool transformed from a little seaside village into a thriving resort with three piers, theatres, a famous iron tower, and a promenade strung by one of the UK’s first electric tramways.

Since 1879, the Blackpool Illuminations have provided a magnificent finale to the resort’s tourist season.

Let’s look at some of the Things to Do in Blackpool

1. Comedy Club Comedy Station

Comedy Club Comedy Station

The Comedy Station, Blackpool’s first (and Lancashire’s only purpose-built) comedy club, is the only comedy club in Blackpool with a professional lineup. Laugh along with comedians from across the globe who have been featured on series like Mock the Week, 8 out of 10 Cats, Live at the Apollo, and more.

2. Pleasure Beach in Blackpool

Pleasure Beach in Blackpool

This 42-acre (17-hectare) amusement park has been attracting fun-loving tourists to England’s northwest coast for over 120 years with its roller coasters, family-friendly rides, and immersive performances and events. Today’s highlights are the record-breaking Big One, the famous Big Dipper, and Icon, the UK’s first multi-launch coaster.

3. Tower of Blackpool

Tower of Blackpool

This 158-meter-tall iron tower is the most prominent in terms of Blackpool landmarks. Built in 1894, the Blackpool Tower is the highest artificial structure in the northwestern United Kingdom. This enormous structure inspired by the Eiffel Tower comprises almost 2,500 tonnes of iron and five million Accrington bricks.

First, take the elevator to the top and look over Blackpool’s seafront and the Irish Sea. Come when the skies are clear, and you can see Wales to the south and Cumbria’s Lake District to the north.

Since the tower’s inception, the circus in the complex below has not missed a single season, which spans from late March to November.

4. The Blackpool Tower Eye

The Blackpool Tower Eye

The Blackpool Tower Eye, located 380 feet (116 metres) above the Blackpool Tower, includes interior and outdoor observation decks and commands superb views. Visitors may take in the views from the glass Skywalk above Blackpool Promenade and experience a 4D cinematic trip through Blackpool’s history as a prelude to their visit.

5. Historic Tram Tours

Historic Tram Tours

Trams have been a part of the promenade landscape since 1885, and although they aren’t as crucial for transportation as they once were, they’re ideal for excursions. Blackpool is small enough to stroll about, but why settle for that when you can view the whole city from a tram, a piece of local history in and of itself, with some trams going back to the 1930s? You may explore the promenade or the seaside, and unique routes, such as the Illuminations tour, are available at specific periods of the year.

6. Blackpool Model Hamlet

Blackpool Model Hamlet

Blackpool Model Village is known as the “largest small village in Lancashire,” The models depict a span of history, including castles, Tudor communities, cricket matches, and lighthouses. Located on the outskirts of Stanley Park, special events like Easter egg hunts make it a terrific spot to come with kids; there’s also a café and gift store on-site. New buildings added regularly, so there’s always something to look forward to.

7. Stanley Park

Stanley Park

For those who have had enough of Blackpool’s constant excitement, Stanley Park – the town’s central park – is the ideal place to spend a more peaceful day. Relax in the sun beneath the thick green canopies and artificial grass, observing the park’s remarkable planted design and unique fauna.

There are other sports centres, golf courses, a cricket field, boat rentals, an art deco café, a skate park, and crazy golf in the vicinity. This lovely green spot has over 104ha (260 acres) of parkland to explore, which is laid with turf.

Heritage hikes and musical events are regularly here, about a 20-minute walk from the beach.

8. Illuminations in Blackpool

Illuminations in Blackpool

This annual spectacular has grown in popularity on the British calendar. Since its inception in 1879, this fall festival of light has seen more than 10km (6mi) and 1m bulbs light up the streets in flair. The free Illuminations span 66 days, and the Big Switch On is presented by a new celebrity each year, with performances conducted after the lights turn on. You may see the light display from a bus or automobile or take a local open-top tram or horse-drawn carriage.

9. Tramway in Blackpool

Tramway in Blackpool

The Blackpool tramway, a fixture on the seafront since 1885, is one of the world’s oldest and the last of the UK’s original generation of tramways. The route is 11 miles long, commencing in the north at Fleetwood Ferry and finishing at Starr Gate on the border of the Ribble Estuary.

The rounded English Electric Balloon vehicle was the Blackpool Tramway’s signature. However, they have generally phased out in favour of the ultramodern Flexity 2 trams.

Historical services are offered for anyone interested in riding one of the city’s many gorgeous vintage trams on the weekends, holidays, and even on occasion during the workweek.

10. Grand Theatre

Grand Theatre

A renowned Victorian theatre designer, Frank Matcham designed the magnificent Grand Theatre in the mid-1890s. The four-story neo-Baroque theatre adorns with gilded stuccowork on the ceiling and cantilevered balconies. The Grand Theatre is such a superb setting for a performance that you don’t have to be fussy about what you see. Musicals, classical music groups, ballets, operas, pantomimes, and comedy acts are on the menu.

Conclusion

Blackpool, an English seaside resort, is one of Europe’s most popular vacation spots, and there are many things to do in the city. You can understand why with excellent entertainment – not least the Blackpool Tower and Illuminations – a stunning natural setting and a fantastic culinary scene. Follow Culture Trip’s recommendations to find the most incredible sights you won’t want to miss.

You may also like