12 Best Things to Do in Blackpool, UK (+Map & Tips)

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Looking for the best things to do in Blackpool, UK, and wondering which attractions are actually worth your time? In this guide, we cover all the must-see places in Blackpool, plus a few lesser-known spots, a map, and local tips to help you plan your visit.

The Victorian seaside town of Blackpool in northwest England is one of the UK’s most popular seaside destinations. But there’s much more to do here than spend a day on the beach!

From Blackpool Tower and the famous Pleasure Beach to the Illuminations, piers, museums, and family attractions, there are plenty of things to see and do in Blackpool, whether you’re visiting for a day, a weekend, or a longer holiday.

Good to know: This guide is written by our UK writer Christine, who lives in Blackpool and knows the town and surrounding area extremely well. In addition to the top Blackpool attractions and places to visit, she shares local insights and practical tips for your visit.

We start with the must-see attractions that you shouldn’t miss on a first visit, followed by some additional places worth checking out if you have more time.

Map of The Best Places to Visit in Blackpool

To help you plan your visit, we created a map indicating all the best places to visit in Blackpool mentioned in this guide.

Looking for a place to stay? See our guide to the best hotels and accommodations in Blackpool.

Here are the best things to do in Blackpool:

1. Blackpool Tower

Check out Blackpool’s most iconic landmark!

Located on the main promenade, Blackpool Tower is one of Britain’s most recognizable landmarks. At 518 feet (158 m) tall, it was Britain’s tallest manmade structure when it opened in 1894, and its design was inspired by the Eiffel Tower.

The Tower is home to several popular attractions, including Tower Top, the famous Blackpool Tower Ballroom, Blackpool Tower Circus, and Blackpool Tower Dungeon.

For the best views, head to Tower Top, where you can see Blackpool and the coastline from above and step onto the glass floor if you dare.

TIP: If you want to visit the Tower, it’s best to book your tickets in advance, especially during weekends and school holidays.

Here are the main attractions inside Blackpool Tower:

Tower Top

Formerly known as the Blackpool Tower Eye, Tower Top takes you 380 feet above Blackpool for impressive views over the town, coastline, and Irish Sea. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Lake District and the Isle of Man.

If you’re brave enough, step onto the SkyWalk, a glass viewing platform where you can look straight down to the promenade below.

Blackpool Tower Dungeon

The Blackpool Tower Dungeon is an interactive walk-through attraction featuring live actors, special effects, and plenty of dark humor inspired by some of the more gruesome chapters of local history.

It’s particularly fun with teenagers, although younger children may find some parts scary.

Blackpool Tower Ballroom

The historic Blackpool Tower Ballroom is worth seeing even if you have no interest in dancing. Dating from the 19th century, it’s famous for its ornate interior, sprung dance floor, Wurlitzer organ, and connection with Strictly Come Dancing. More info and tickets.

Blackpool Tower Circus

Blackpool Tower Circus has been entertaining visitors since the Tower opened in 1894 and is one of Blackpool’s classic family attractions. Performances feature a variety of circus acts and are suitable for all ages.

TIP: Blackpool Tower attractions can be busy, particularly during weekends and school holidays, so it’s a good idea to book tickets in advance. For Tower Top, try to choose a clear day for the best views.

2. Blackpool’s Piers

Take a walk on Blackpool’s Victorian Piers!

Blackpool has three Victorian piers along its coastline – North Pier, Central Pier, and South Pier – with the length of promenade between the North and South Piers known as the Golden Mile.

Each pier is different from the others, so if you have time, it’s fun to visit them all! It takes 35 minutes to walk the Golden Mile (plus the time you’ll spend on the piers) so you can fit all three into one afternoon!

The North Pier is the oldest of the three. First opened in 1893, it has Grade II listed status. The most popular pier with young families, it features a Helter-Skelter and a Venetian Carousel, along with family-friendly bars.

Central Pier is home to the Big Wheel, which has become one of Blackpool’s iconic landmarks and provides awesome views of the Fylde Coast at the top. There are also lots of fairground rides and games to enjoy, food outlets selling funfair favorites like candy floss, and the highest number of arcades of all 3 piers.

Whilst South Pier has a fun family bar called the Laughing Donkey that provides free, live entertainment, its chief attraction is the Adrenalin Zone. Designed for extreme thrillseekers, it includes rides such as the SkyCoaster, Skyscreamer, and Reverse Bungee… all of which are just as scary as they sound!

TIP: The ends of the piers are the ideal spots to take a look back and take great photos of the town. Wait for the golden hour – just before sunset – for the best shots.

Good to know: If you plan to visit Blackpool in late autumn or early winter, keep an eye out for the starlings that roost under North Pier. Thousands of these birds regularly provide stunning displays called murmurations, where they swoop, dive and circle through the air around the pier. It’s a breathtaking sight!

3. Blackpool Promenade

Stroll along the Victorian Promenade & enjoy unique Blackpool attractions!

Almost all of Blackpool’s attractions and events centre around its Victorian promenade which is packed with visitors and locals day and night. It is divided into 3 main areas – North Shore, Central, and South Shore.

North Shore – running from the North Pier to Bispham – is the quieter and more historic section, which has changed very little since Victorian times. The bulk of the town’s attractions are located in the Central area, extending into South Shore.

One of the highlights of the Promenade is the Comedy Carpet, a tribute to Blackpool’s strong history of performance and entertainment. You can find it on the headland in front of Blackpool Tower. This 2200m² artwork is made up of thousands of granite letters embedded in concrete, featuring the jokes, songs, and catchphrases of thousands of comedians and entertainers past and present.

As you walk south from South Pier, look out for the Promenade Show. Described as an ‘outdoor art gallery’, the Show is made up of 10 unique art installations. These include the world’s largest dance hall mirror ball which slowly rotates and is covered in 47,000 mirrors. It makes a striking sight on a sunny day!

Another highlight is the High Tide Organ – a series of organ pipes attached to the sea wall that is ‘played’ by the swell of water that forces air up them during high tide.

If you don’t feel like joining the crowds, you can enjoy the views along the Promenade by taking a horse and carriage ride instead. In fact, if you have a budding princess in the family, there are even some pink fairytale horse-drawn carriages available to hire!

Alternatively, book a ticket for the Heritage Trams and ride aboard a beautiful, historic tram that could be anywhere from 50 to 100 years old.

Good to know: If you are planning to visit in the summer, check the dates for the annual Blackpool Air Show, which usually takes place at the beginning of August. This free event runs over several consecutive days and you can watch everything from jets to bi-planes flying overhead. On one of the days, you will even be treated to a show by the world-famous Red Arrows!

If you’re visiting in autumn, don’t miss the World Fireworks Championships, when teams from all over the world put on amazing displays of pyrotechnics and music. This free event usually takes place every Friday evening throughout September.

TIP: Watch out for seagulls when walking along the Promenade. They are very bold and will think nothing of swooping down to grab your lunch straight from your hands!

4. Madame Tussauds, SEA LIFE, Ripley’s…

Check out some of the most popular family attractions along Blackpool Promenade!

In addition to the uniquely Blackpool attractions mentioned above, you’ll find plenty of other fun things to see and do along the Promenade.

Popular indoor attractions include Madame Tussauds Blackpool and SEA LIFE Blackpool. Further along the Promenade, near Blackpool Pleasure Beach, you’ll also find Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, a museum filled with unusual exhibits and curiosities.

These are all good options when it rains or if you’re visiting Blackpool during the colder months.

Other activities along the Promenade include go-karting, amusement arcades, and all kinds of traditional seaside entertainment. So no matter the weather, you’ll find plenty to do in this part of Blackpool.

5. Blackpool Pleasure Beach

Enjoy family fun at Blackpool’s record-breaking amusement park!

Enjoy a fun-filled day at Blackpool’s famous amusement park!

Founded in 1896, Blackpool Pleasure Beach is one of the UK’s best-known amusement parks. Located on the South Promenade, it combines historic rides and wooden rollercoasters with modern thrill rides and family attractions.

One of its most famous rides is The Big One, which was the tallest and steepest rollercoaster in the world when it opened in 1994. There are plenty of other thrill rides, plus gentler attractions and Nickelodeon Land for younger children, so there’s something for the whole family.

If you’re planning to visit, it’s best to book your Blackpool Pleasure Beach tickets in advance, especially during weekends and school holidays.

Good to know: Admission includes unlimited rides for the day. On busy days, you can also purchase a Speedy Pass, which can help reduce the amount of time you spend waiting in lines.

One of the things that makes Pleasure Beach unique is how closely its rides are packed together, with rollercoasters twisting above and around other attractions. You’ll also find some remarkably old rides here, including Sir Hiram Maxim’s Captive Flying Machine, which dates from 1904.

TIP: Don’t miss Valhalla, an impressive indoor water ride and one of the park’s most popular attractions. You are very likely to get wet, so a lightweight waterproof jacket or poncho is a good idea.

If you want to stay right next to the park, the Big Blue Hotel and Boulevard Hotel are both convenient options.

6. Blackpool Beach

Spend a day at the beach (just watch the tide!)

One of the UK’s best beach resorts, Blackpool boasts an amazing 7 miles of clean, flat sand. When the sun is shining, the beach is perfect for everything from building sandcastles or paddling, to sunbathing and family games.

On Central Beach you will see Blackpool’s iconic donkeys, patiently waiting to give rides to children. This is a tradition dating back to Victorian times, and the donkeys today still have Victorian names, which are displayed on their bridles. They are well cared for, with strict rules about the weight they are allowed to carry.

As you walk north, the area of the beach beyond the North Pier becomes much quieter. It’s a popular place for dog walkers (dogs are banned from the main beach between May and September).

Good to know: There are no sunbeds or chairs to rent on the beach, so you will either need to bring your own or take a towel to sit on.

TIP: Be sure to check the times of the tides before visiting to avoid any disappointment. At high tide, the water comes all the way up to the promenade and the beach virtually disappears!

7. Blackpool Illuminations

Enjoy Blackpool’s famous annual light show!

The Blackpool Illuminations have been a local tradition since 1879 and have grown into a spectacular display stretching for around 6 miles along the Promenade, from Starr Gate in the south to Bispham in the north.

Known locally simply as “The Lights,” the Illuminations take place every year from late summer into winter, with the displays switched on every evening after dark. Dates vary, so be sure to check the schedule when planning your visit.

One of the most fun ways to see the Illuminations is aboard one of Blackpool’s heritage illuminated trams. These specially decorated trams operate during the Illuminations season and are an attraction in their own right.

Another easy option is this open-top Illuminations bus tour, which takes you along the full 6-mile display. It’s a good choice if you want to see all the lights without walking the entire route or dealing with traffic yourself.

You can also walk along the Promenade, which gives you more time to enjoy the displays at your own pace.

Driving through the Illuminations is possible too, but traffic can be extremely busy, particularly on weekends. Unless you specifically want the traditional drive-through experience, walking or taking a tram is usually more enjoyable.

Good to know: The Lightpool Festival usually takes place during the Illuminations season, with light installations, performances, and projections at various locations around Blackpool. Check the current program and dates before your visit.

TIP: If you visit on a busy weekend, allow plenty of extra time to get around Blackpool, especially in the evening.

Fun fact: In Britain, you might hear someone say “It’s like the Blackpool Illuminations in here!” when lots of lights have been left switched on.

8. Sandcastle Waterpark

Splash, swim, and slide at Blackpool’s indoor waterpark!

Located on the seafront at South Beach, Sandcastle Waterpark is a great family attraction and an especially good option for a rainy day in Blackpool.

The waterpark is heated to a tropical 84°F (29°C) and has 18 slides and attractions, ranging from play areas and smaller slides for young children to thrilling rides for older kids and adults. You’ll also find a wave pool and quieter areas if you prefer to take things easy.

One of the highlights is the Master Blaster, an uphill water rollercoaster, while the Hyperzone has some of the park’s most adventurous slides.

Good to know: Sandcastle Waterpark can be very popular during weekends and school holidays, and admission is based on timed sessions. It’s a good idea to book your Sandcastle Waterpark tickets in advance to secure your preferred time.

There are changing facilities and places to buy food and drinks inside the waterpark.

TIP: Opening days and session times vary throughout the year, so check the current schedule when planning your visit.

9. Stanley Park

Take a break from Blackpool’s busy seafront at beautiful Stanley Park!

Covering around 390 acres, Stanley Park is a Grade II-listed historic park with landscaped gardens, a boating lake, woodland walks, and plenty of recreational facilities. It’s a great place to visit if you want to escape the crowds of the Promenade for a few hours.

Highlights include the colorful Italian Garden, with its flowerbeds and fountain, and the large boating lake, where you can hire a boat or pedalo in the warmer months.

Families will find plenty to do here too, with a large playground and various sports and recreational facilities. You can also stroll around the lake and gardens or simply find a quiet spot to relax.

Look out for some of the park’s historic architecture, including the Cocker Clock Tower and the Art Deco café overlooking the Italian Garden.

Good to know: Stanley Park is free to visit, although some activities have an additional charge.

10. Blackpool Model Village & Gardens

Feel like a giant at the miniature Blackpool Model Village!

Blackpool Model Village and Gardens is another one of the more unique things to do in Blackpool for those who have more time or are looking to escape from the hustle and bustle of the seaside promenade.

Located adjacent to Stanley Park, this is a charming family attraction that is especially suitable for families with younger children. Although adults will enjoy it just as much!

Here you can see models of hundreds of village scenes and their residents, including a Cornish fishing village, a Tudor settlement, and even a Scottish castle! Railway enthusiasts will love the model railway as well. In addition, there is even a working railway that runs through the main village – and everyone can take a ride. The entire attraction is nestled within 2 1/2 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and you are provided with a map and quiz to ensure you don’t miss a thing!

Good to know: Blackpool Model Village & Gardens are open daily in all seasons except winter. For more practical information and up-to-date opening hours, please see their website.

11. Blackpool Zoo

Meet animals from around the world at Blackpool Zoo!

Set in 37 acres of parkland, Blackpool Zoo is home to more than 1,000 animals, including elephants, giraffes, big cats, gorillas, orangutans, and many other species. It’s a great family attraction and a nice change from the busy seafront.

The zoo is relatively compact and easy to explore, so allow at least half a day for your visit. If you’re visiting during weekends or school holidays, it’s a good idea to book your Blackpool Zoo tickets in advance.

There are indoor and outdoor animal enclosures, play areas for children, and several places to eat. You can also bring your own picnic.

Good to know: Blackpool Zoo is located next to Stanley Park, about 2 miles from the Promenade, so you could easily combine the two on the same day.

12. Concerts & Shows

Catch a show or live performance during your visit to Blackpool!

Blackpool has a long entertainment tradition, and you’ll find a varied program of concerts, musicals, comedy, and family shows throughout the year. If you’re staying for a few days, it’s worth checking which shows are on during your visit.

Two of Blackpool’s best-known historic venues are the Grand Theatre and Winter Gardens, both located in the town center just a short walk from the Promenade.

Dating from 1894, the beautiful Grand Theatre hosts plays, musicals, comedy, and other performances throughout the year.

The Grade II-listed Winter Gardens is a much larger entertainment complex that includes the Opera House and famous Empress Ballroom. It hosts everything from concerts and shows to festivals, exhibitions, and major events.

Even if you don’t have time for a performance, these historic venues are worth keeping an eye out for as you explore central Blackpool.

More Things to Do in Blackpool

If you have more time in Blackpool, there are plenty of lesser-known places worth checking out as well:

• Comedy Station Comedy Club: A popular evening option for adults, with a mix of established comedians and newer acts from the British comedy circuit. Check the current schedule and book ahead if you want to see a show.

• Marton Mere Nature Reserve: A peaceful wetland reserve just outside the town center, with walking trails and plenty of opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. Admission is free.

• Grundy Art Gallery: A small gallery just steps from the Promenade, with changing exhibitions of contemporary and historic art. It’s free to visit and a good option for a rainy day.

So, this is our guide to the very best things to do in Blackpool. As you can see, there is plenty to see and do in any season and whatever the weather.

If you have more time in the area, take a look at our guide to the best places to visit near Blackpool as well. But if you’re visiting Blackpool for the first time and want to see the musts, the attractions in this guide are a great place to start.

TIP: If you are planning a trip to Blackpool and are looking for somewhere to stay, be sure to also read our guide to the best Blackpool hotels, B&Bs, and self-catering accommodations. It includes recommendations for different locations and budgets.

Have a great time in Blackpool!

READ ALSO: Visiting Blackpool: Tips & Useful Info

More travel inspiration and information for all over the UK:

• Manchester: Things to Do in Manchester & 1-Day Manchester Itinerary
• Liverpool: Best Things to Do in Liverpool & Day Trip to Liverpool from London
• London: Best Things to Do in London & Hidden Gems of London & Best Views in London & Best of London in 2 Days & London with Kids
• Nearby: Best Day Trips from London & Best Things to Do in Greenwich
• Cities: Best Cities to Visit in the UK
• Cornwall: Best Places to Visit in Cornwall & Where to Stay in Cornwall
• Yorkshire: Yorkshire Day Trips
• Scotland: Isle of Skye Itinerary & Scotland Whisky Tour
• Edinburgh: Top Places to See in Edinburgh & One Day in Edinburgh & Tips for Visiting Edinburgh
• Glasgow: One Day in Glasgow

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