---

 

Blackpool, the iconic seaside resort on the northwest coast of England, has long been a beloved destination for family holidays. With its unique blend of traditional charm and modern attractions, Blackpool offers a plethora of activities to keep everyone entertained during the school summer holidays. From thrill-seeking rides to relaxing beach days, here's your comprehensive guide to making the most of your time in Blackpool this summer.

 

Blackpool Pleasure Beach

 

No trip to Blackpool is complete without a visit to Blackpool Pleasure Beach. This historic amusement park is home to an array of exhilarating rides and attractions suitable for all ages.

 

Must-Ride Attractions:

• The Big One: As one of the tallest and fastest roller coasters in the UK, The Big One offers breathtaking views over the beach and the Irish Sea and an adrenaline rush like no other.
• Icon: The UK's first double-launch roller coaster promises a smooth and thrilling ride.
• Nickelodeon Land: Perfect for younger visitors, this themed area features rides and attractions based on popular Nickelodeon characters like SpongeBob SquarePants and PAW Patrol.

 

Tips:

• Purchase wristbands online to save money and skip the queues.
• Arrive early to make the most of your day and avoid long wait times for popular rides.
• Plan your route through the park to maximise your time and ensure you hit all the top attractions.

 

Blackpool Tower

 

Standing tall since 1894, Blackpool Tower is an iconic landmark offering a variety of attractions under one roof.

 

Highlights:

The Blackpool Tower Eye: Take the lift to the top for panoramic views of the coast and beyond. Don’t miss the thrilling SkyWalk, a glass floor 380 feet above the ground!

The Blackpool Tower Circus: Enjoy a spectacular circus show featuring world-class performers and hilarious clowns.

The Blackpool Tower Ballroom: Dance enthusiasts will adore this stunning ballroom, famous for its ornate architecture and grand organ. It's a must-visit for fans of Strictly Come Dancing.

 

Tips:

Book tickets in advance to avoid disappointment, especially for the circus shows.

Combine tickets for multiple attractions within the tower to save money.

 

Coral Island

 

Coral Island is a massive, pirate-themed amusement arcade and family entertainment centre located right on the seafront. It's an indoor paradise of fun, perfect for all weather conditions, making it an ideal spot during the sometimes unpredictable British summer.

 

Top Attractions:

Amusement Arcade: With a vast array of games from classic penny slots to modern video games, there's something to entertain everyone.

Pirate Flyer: A unique ride that lets you fly over the arcade, giving you a bird’s-eye view of all the fun below.

Ghost Train: A spooky ride perfect for those who enjoy a bit of fright.

 

Dining Options:

Coral Island has a variety of dining options, from pub grub to street food and, of course, fish and chips. What’s even better is that Kids Eat FREE at Coral Island’s participating restaurants all day, every day. (Excludes Captain Jack’s Bar & Grill)

Captain Jack’s Bar & Grill: A pirate-themed restaurant offering a family-friendly menu with burgers, steaks, and seafood.

The Buccaneer Family Bar & Restaurant: Decked out not look like the captain’s library onboard his pirate galleon, you’ll find great pub food with options for everyone.

Coral Harbour Kitchen & Bar: A pirate-themed street food market with dishes from all around the world, including family favourites such as hot dogs and burgers, oriental-inspired dishes, Italian cuisine, and much more including of course – Fish and Chips!

 

Tips:

Set a budget for arcade games to keep spending in check, and download the Coral Island loyalty app to take advantage of any offers.

Visit early in the day to avoid peak crowds, especially on weekends.

 

Blackpool Zoo

 

A trip to Blackpool Zoo is a perfect family day out, offering an educational and entertaining experience for all ages. The zoo is home to over 1,500 animals, including big cats, primates, reptiles, and more.

 

Must-See Exhibits:

Project Elephant: Watch the majestic elephants in their spacious new habitat.

Gorilla Mountain: Observe these fascinating primates in a lush, naturalistic environment.

Dinosaur Safari: Travel back in time and explore life-sized dinosaur models set within a prehistoric-themed area.

 

Tips:

Check the feeding times and talks schedule to enhance your visit with educational insights and fun interactions.

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the zoo’s scenic picnic areas, or visit one of the on-site cafes.

 

Sandcastle Waterpark

 

Escape the heat (or the rain!) and dive into fun at Sandcastle Waterpark, the UK's largest indoor waterpark. With over 18 slides and attractions, it's the perfect place to cool off and have a splashing good time.

 

Top Attractions:

Master Blaster: A thrilling water coaster that twists and turns through the park.

Aztec Falls: A swirling water slide that plunges riders into a giant bowl.

Caribbean Storm Treehouse: A multi-level play area with slides, water cannons, and a giant tipping bucket.

 

Tips:

Purchase tickets online to save money and guarantee entry.

Rent a family cabana for a comfortable base where you can relax and store your belongings.

Bring water shoes as the floors can get slippery.

 

Blackpool Beaches

 

Should the sun come out, and you want to paddle in the surf, Blackpool boasts three main beaches: North, Central, and South Beach. Each offers its own unique charm and a variety of activities.

 

Central Beach: Ideal for families, this beach is close to many amenities, including cafes, arcades, and the famous Central Pier.

North Beach: A quieter option, perfect for a peaceful day by the sea.

South Beach: Known for its vibrant atmosphere and proximity to Blackpool Pleasure Beach.

 

Tips:

Check the tide times to ensure you have plenty of beach space to enjoy.

Bring a kite or beach games to keep the kids entertained.

Stay sun-safe with plenty of sunscreen, hats, and hydration.

 

Blackpool Illuminations

 

Although traditionally associated with autumn, the Blackpool Illuminations often start early, allowing summer visitors to enjoy this dazzling light display. Stretching for six miles along the promenade, the Illuminations are a spectacular sight to behold.

 

Highlights:

-Themed Displays: From famous faces to fantastical creatures, each section of the Illuminations offers something unique.

Lightpool: A festival of light featuring stunning 3D projections and art installations.

 

Tips:

Take a tram tour to see the lights from the comfort of a heritage tram.

Walk the route for an up-close look at the intricate displays.

Visit mid-week to avoid the weekend crowds and have a more relaxed experience.

 

Indoor Attractions

 

Blackpool offers plenty of indoor attractions perfect for those inevitable rainy days.

 

Top Indoor Attractions:

SEA LIFE Blackpool: Explore the wonders of the ocean and come face-to-face with sharks, rays, and sea turtles.

Madame Tussauds: Meet lifelike wax figures of your favourite celebrities and characters.

Winter Gardens: A stunning historic venue offering a variety of shows and events throughout the summer.

The Hole In Wand Blackpool: Visit The Hole in Wand this summer and take on the Witches’ Hex challenge. Make your way around the nine-hole crazy golf course and receive a free potion drink at the end of the game.

The Backlot Cinema: Get the popcorn ready! The much-anticipated Backlot Cinema & Diner has now opened. Located in the new extension of the Houndshill Shopping Centre, the cinema features one of the largest IMAX screens in the North West, measuring a massive 10.85m high and 19.87m wide.

Showtown Museum: Blackpool’s new museum of fun and entertainment celebrates the seaside, circus, magic, dance shows and the world-famous Illuminations.

 

Tips:

Look for combination tickets that include multiple attractions to save money.

Plan for rainy days by checking weather forecasts and having a list of indoor activities ready.

 

Family-Friendly Dining

 

Blackpool offers a wide range of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets.

 

Top Picks:

Harry Ramsden’s: Enjoy classic fish and chips by the sea.

The Beach House: A stylish beachfront restaurant offering a diverse menu and stunning views.

Viva Vegas Diner: A 1950s American diner experience with burgers, shakes, and live entertainment.

 

Tips:

Make reservations for popular restaurants, especially during peak times.

Look for kids’ menus and family deals to keep dining affordable.

 

Accommodation

 

Blackpool has accommodation options to suit every budget, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly B&Bs.

 

Top Recommendations:

The Blackpool Tower Dungeon: For a unique and spooky stay, this themed hotel offers a memorable experience.

Big Blue Hotel: Located next to Blackpool Pleasure Beach, it’s perfect for thrill-seekers.

Family-Friendly B&Bs: There are numerous bed and breakfasts offering comfortable and affordable stays with a personal touch.

 

Tips:

Book early to secure the best rates and availability.

Look for package deals that include accommodation and attraction tickets.

 

Final Thoughts

 

Blackpool is a vibrant, family-friendly destination with something for everyone. Whether you're seeking thrills, relaxation, or a bit of both, this seaside gem promises an unforgettable summer holiday. Pack your bags, gather the family, and prepare for a fantastic Blackpool adventure!

 

Exploring these diverse activities and attractions will ensure a memorable and enjoyable summer holiday for the whole family in Blackpool. From the excitement of the Pleasure Beach to the tranquil shores of the beach, and the indoor fun at Coral Island, Blackpool truly has it all. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today and make this summer one to remember!