Blackpool has plenty of historic sites and luscious interiors, from international recognised sights such as the famous Tower and ballroom, to well-known gems including the Grand Theatre and piers, and those more off the beaten track, such as the historic and beautiful Stanley Park.
Blackpool Tower
Standing at almost 520ft tall Blackpool Tower has been the town’s pride and joy since 1894. The fame of the breathtaking Victorian Ballroom has spread across the world but the first time visitor cannot help being impressed by the size and atmosphere of this internationally known paradise of dancers. For more details visit www.theblackpooltower.co.uk
Grand Theatre
The Grand Theatre is an 1100-seat theatre designed by Frank Matcham in 1894. This amazing space is a wonder of restoration and revival, presenting a full range of every performing art form, as Blackpool's community theatre, Lancashire's preferred opera house and Britain's National Theatre of Variety. For more details visit www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk
Trams
Blackpool is home to the only surviving first generation tramway in the UK dating back to 1885. Our visitors love to take a trip back in time and to travel on a vehicle steeped in traditional character. The town Heritage trams and new more streamlined models still carry millions of passengers every year.
Illuminations
The national institution, which began with eight arc lamps back in 1879, was so innovative back then it even preceded Thomas Edison’s patent of the humble electric light bulb, which didn’t arrive until the following year. Now this stunning free light show stretches six miles along the Promenade and attracts over 3.5 million visitors every year.
North Pier
Designed by Eugenius Birch and commissioned by the Blackpool Pier Company, work commenced on the first of Blackpool's piers in 1862 and today this Grade II listed building retains a romance and splendour from a bygone age. The traditional pier, with its old-fashioned carousel and traditional Pier End Theatre offers a short stroll into a quiet retreat from the excitement of Blackpool’s busy Promenade.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach
An institution with millions of pleasure seekers and holidaymakers, the Pleasure Beach boasts some of the most stunning examples of modern rollercoaster technology, alongside many of the world’s oldest and best-loved rides and coasters. Alderman William George Bean founded Pleasure Beach, Blackpool in 1896 and the oldest ride still on the park is the ever-popular Sir Hiram Maxim Flying Machines. In the 1930’s the Thompson family, who still own the park today, took over – installing rides including the wonderful dual rollercoaster the Grand National, which again can still be enjoyed at the park today. For more details visit www.blackpoolpleasurebeach.com
Stanley Park
Often referred to as the jewel in Blackpool’s Council. The 256-acre Victorian park, designed by the renowned Thomas Mawson is currently undergoing £5 Million of investment to restore it to its former glory. The much -loved park has boating lake, extensive sporting facilities as well as beautiful gardens and a stunning art deco café.
Winter Gardens
Built in 1878, the Winter Gardens is now a conference and events venue which the public can still enjoy. Catch a show in Europe’s second largest theatre, experience a concert by one of today’s top bands in the beautiful Empress Ballroom or enjoy events in one of the other ten unique venues, each with their own character and old world charm. For more details visit www.wintergardensblackpool.co.uk
The Blackpool Civic Trust celebrates all Blackpool’s built heritage, whether historical or more recent. More details of the heritage sites of the town can be found on their website at www.blackpoolcivictrust.org.uk |