Blackpool is the second most visited city in Britain outside of the UK for a reason - it's brilliant! There are SO many things to see and do with the family, from rides to wildlife, waxworks and beaches, so why not join the many families who have enjoyed some incredible family days out at this iconic destination?
It's because of this we're excited to share with you our Blackpool City Guide featuring our "Top 9 Family Attractions", which really are just some of the great family attractions that you can find in UK's most ILLUMINATING city!
So make sure check out the entire Blackpool City Guide which we have put together especially for you, so you know can plan your perfect family day out in Blackpool! Let's go!
Main Photo by Mark mc neill on Unsplash
Photo by Stephen Kidd on Unsplash
In this Blackpool City Guide, we are so excited to share with you our top 9 things to do with kids in this popular UK destination, as well as some super fun experiences that will bring out the kids in all!
Here at Family Days Out we know that budgets are a factor when travelling - especially with kids - so also in this Blackpool City Guide we share some attractions that won't cost you a penny!
Getting around Blackpool without a car is SO easy, so if you need any tips on getting around on public transport without any issues, you're in the right place! You'll also discover some fun facts about Blackpool that might just surprise you!
If you want to explore a bit further afield for a day, our Blackpool City Guide lists one of our favourite day trips from the city, AND you'll discover some famous faces born right in the city! Can you guess who they might be?
So whether this is your first trip saying "Yes, take me to Blackpool" or maybe you've lived in the city for years yet never took the time to explore and you wonder "What is there is to do near me in Blackpool?", keep reading because we have the top 9 things to do in Blackpool with kids...and so much more!
Photo by Meelan Bawjee on Unsplash
The history of Blackpool goes back a long way - even longer than you might think! Have you ever heard of the Carleton Elk? Back in the 1970s, an elk skeleton was discovered in the city. What was really special about the skeleton was that arrowheads were found within it, telling archaeologists that it was hunted by humans.
Still not convinced it's special? What if we told you that it was dated to 11,000 years ago - making it the earliest evidence of human habitation in the north of the UK.
Pretty incredible, right?
With such a long history, that means Blackpool has an incredibly rich history, although the name "Blackpool" didn't arrive on the scene until Medieval times in honour of the discoloured water in the area.
By the late 1800s, the area was known for it's health-improving sea air, so hotels began to appear on the shore front. In the following years, those who owned the land did little to improve it so a man named Henry Banks dediced to do something about it and was really instrumental in buying and selling land and developing the area.
The 19th century saw railways introduced, then entertainment arrived, as did the piers, all building up to the Blackpool you know and love today - and we are all thankful for it!
Blackpool truly is an exciting place that looks to the future but embraces the past, and you can really feel that when you visit!
Photo by Stephen Kidd on Unsplash
There is such a variety of things to do in Blackpool with the family, you really are going to be spoilt for choice!
Love the beach? Lukcy you! The amazing Blackpool Beach stretches on and on just waiting for those shovel and spades!
Love wildlife? What if we told you Blackpool Zoo is home to some of the world's most amazing creatures just waiting to say hi?
Love waterparks? Great! Sandcastle Waterpark is indoor fun for the whole family, whether you love great thrills or gentle spills!
Love rollercoasters? No problem! Blackpool Pleasure Beach is ready and waiting for theme park fun, and there are some pretty amazing views too!
Don't miss the host of iconic attractions that call Blackpool home either, from Blackpool Tower, SEA LIFE Blackpool, Blackpool Tower Dungeon, and Blackpool Tower Circus!
With so many fun things to do, you might find yourselves staying for longer than just the one family day out - don't say we didn't warn you!
Photo by Mark mc neill on Unsplash
Getting around Blackpool without a car couldn't be easier, and lucky for you we are here to help you with that!
First, one of the best ways to get around is their great bus service. This service connects most hotels and various accommodations to all the famous Blackpool attractions. If you want the timetables and more information, you can head to the VisitBlackpool Tourist Information Centre which has everything you’ll need to navigate.
You can even purchase your 3 or 7-day travel tickets there too!
It's also worth noting that Blackpool Transport buses now accept contactless payment, so as you board it's super easy to tap your card for the journey you want to make.
Another fun way to get around the city is the tram! You're in Blackpool, so really a tour on the Blackpool Tramway becomes an essential part of any visit. The tram was originally advertised as ‘the only way to travel’, so why not give it a go! The whole line stretches 12 miles from Starr Gate all the way to Fleetwood Ferry and with it stopping close to all the major attractions along the way, you'll be able easily achieve your whol itinerary.
Of course, another great way to see Blackpool is on foot, or by bicylce! These options are easy thanks to the many smooth pathways around town, and with the town centre pedestrianised your shopping becomes a fun, traffic free experience. There are plenty of bicycle parking areas within the town centre too.
If you haven't seen this spectacle in person, you should! Blackpool Illuminations is the city's world-famous annual light event which has been running since 1879, and began life as eight carbon arc lamps!
The Lights, or the "Illuminations", now runs for for over 100 days from late August/early September to just past Christmas and into January (until 2020 it used to run for 66 days, ending in November!). The lights run for 6.2 miles (amazing!), and use a HUGE 1 million bulbs!
Today, the celebrations are kicked off on opening night with the Big Switch On where a celebrity pulls the switch followed by a number of musical and comedic performances. Definitely one for the bucket list if the family hasn't experienced it in person!
Photo by Mark mc neill on Unsplash
Madame Tussauds Blackpool offers that iconic day of waxwork fun fun where kids and parents alike can come face to face with their favourite starts of movies, TV, sport, music, and even history!
Madame Tussauds Blackpool is impressively home to over 100 wax figures, which are so lifelike it's like you are really meeting these people! Get ready to take your photo with some of the biggest names in entertainment, sport and politics, and there really is something for everyone in the family to enjoy!
Buy tickets HERE!
Image Credit: Merlin Entertainment
The Blackpool Tower really is one of the UK's most-loved and most visited landmarks, plus one of Blackpool's most popular attractions! Giving families an amazing experience since 1894, today Blackpool Tower also offers kids and parents alike various attractions WITHIN the tower itself!
Not only can you enjoy views of the beach and city from the Blackpool Tower Eye, but you can also enjoy shows at the impressive Blackpool Circus AND enjoy some time in the Blackpool Tower Ballroom - don't miss those famous afternoon teas!
Buy tickets HERE!
Image Credit: Merlin Entertainment
It's the ultimate underwater adventure and you don't even have to get wet! At SEA LIFE Blackpool aquarium, the whole family can journey to a magical underwater world, and discover the amazing creatures that might call the waters home!
Kids can learn about incredible underwater creatures, as well as come face to face with them, so don't forget those cameras! From beautiful turtles swimming gravefully through the water, to the adorable faces on the rays, and even learning about the 500 million year history of jellyfish, kids (and parents!) can take on this educational experience like no other!
Buy tickets HERE!
Image Credit: Merlin Entertainment
Blackpool's Sandcastle Waterpark is an award-winning waterpark offering families an unforgettable indoor tropical adventure, so get ready for some fun! From gentle spills to epic thrills, there is something for everyone!
One of the favourites is the Master Blaster which happens to be the longest indoor roller coaster waterslide in the WORLD! How cool is that? You can take a breather and float the Ushi-Gushi River Creek, or little ones might love the Shimmering Shallows with fun pools and tranquil lagoons! Keep an eye out for slides and water cannons of the HMS Thundersplash, plus the wet-deck, slides, and cannons of Fort Riptide! Time to make a SPLASH at Sandcastle Waterpark!
Image Credit: Sandcastle Waterpark
History comes to life at the Blackpool Tower Dungeon, and in a VERY unique way! This fun walkthrough experience (suitable for kids over 8 years) seses you entertained, informed and maybe a little spooked by an amazing cast of actors, mixed in with very cool special effects, incredibly real stages and even a ride! The family really can see, hear, touch, smell and feel history. It’s hilariously fun (and scary!)
Located right at the base of the iconic Blackpool Tower, your family's journey will begin as you descend deep into the heart of Blackpool Tower Dungeon in a medieval lift - from there, well, good luck!
Buy tickets HERE!
Image Credit: Merlin Entertainment
Blackpool Zoo is where you can see some of the most beautiful, weird, wonderful and magical creatures from all over the world! In fact, you can meet over 1000 animals from Zebras to Aardvarks, as you learn all about conservation and why it's important we need to care for these beautiful species.
Spanning 37 acres of parklands and lakes, Blackpool Zoo is also home to the ONLY family of gorillas in the North of England! There is even the grand silverback waiting for you! Don't miss heading to the Orangutan Outlook next door either. An amazingly WILD day out in Blackpool for all!
Image Credit: Blackpool Zoo
You can't get more iconic family fun than Blackpool Pleasure Beach, with everything you could want in a fun family day out! Spend the day exploring the kiddie sized rides for those little ones in the family, or taking on those thrill rides for the not-so-faint-of-heart! Love those classic family rides? Blackpool Pleasure Beach has you covered there, so why not enjoy the Thrill-o-Matic of the Wallace and Gromit ride, or maybe even see what the fun Alice in Wonderland themed experience is all about?
You'll be surrounded by amazing rollercoasters, amazing food from all around the world, unforgettable shows, and yes, even ice skating!
Image Caredit: Mark mc neill on Unsplash
We are excited about this BRAND NEW attraction from Merlin in Blackpool - the Gruffalo and Friends Clubhouse, which is the perfect playful day out for those curious and imaginative minds under 10 years of age!
The Gruffalo and Friends Clubhouse is where kids can burst through the pages of their favourite stories, all the while being transported into a magical place of discovery, play, imagination, creativity. Adapted from some of the most beloved children’s stories written by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler and with 6 interactive play zones, it's a wonderful play-tastic day out for curious and creative minds!
Image Credit: Merlin Entertainment
Set across 2 1/2 acres of beautifully tended gardens, the Blackpool Model Village and Gardens offers a fascinating and fun day out for the whole family! Kids can see carefully crafted miniature scenes of present day and days gone by, so they can learn as those creative juices flow!
See a Tudor village, be amazed at the detail on a beautiful thatched cottage, and even see the goings on in a Scottish castle! The Blackpool Model Village and Gardens also host events throughout the season, including Easter Hunts so make sure you keep checking what's happening so you don't miss out!
Image Credit: Blackpool Model Village
Famous Blackpudlians!
Zoe Ball
Zoe Ball is a British presenter of radio and TV, and was the first female breakfast show host on BBC 1 and 2.
She also co-hosted the 90s children's show Live & Kicking.
Image Credit: Bryan Ledgard
Graham Nash
Graham Nash is an English-American singer songwriter, most known as a member of The Hollies and Crosby, Stills & Nash.
In 2010 he received an OBE for his contribution to music.
Image Credit: Public Domain
5 Fun Blackpool Facts
Impress your friends with your amazing Blackpool knowledge!
- The city is famous for those Blackpool Illuminations, but did you know that in 1977, a winning race horse actually switched them on? His name was Red Rum, and he just won his third Grand National!
- Speaking of the Blackpool Illuminations, did you know that it actually takes 14 weeks to take the lights down after?
- Blackpool is known as the "home of ballroom dancing!"
- Blackpool was the first in the world to install a permanent electric street tramway - this was back in 1885!
- Blackpool is the second most visited destination in Britain after London!
Free Things To do Blackpool
Stanley Park
Stanley Park is the most significant park in Blackpool, so it's well worth a visit! This amazing park opened back in 1926 and was actually twice voted the best park in the UK! Set in 390 acres of breathtaking scenery and surroundings, you can spend the day exploring the boating lake, or the Italian gardens, or just simply enjoying the stunning architecture!
Open daily, Stanley Park is split into four zones (including children's pkay areas!) so it's the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of Blackpool seafront.
Image Credit: Visit Blackpool
Bask in Blackpool Beach!
Blackpool Beach is one of THE most popular beaches in the UK, so it makes sense for you to spend some time here on your family day out to Blackpool! Grab that bucket and spade, save some room for those fish & chips, because it's BEACH time!
Blackpool Beach is also the site of the famous Blackpool illuminations in summer, plus they also host other events across the warmer months so keep an eye out on the schedule. Make sure you take that sun protection though, and most of all, have a GREAT time!
Image Credit: Luke Ellis-Craven on Unsplash
Stroll along the Promenade!
Strolling the Promenade is a rite of passage for anyone who visits Blackpool, and that includes you! Whether it's to listen to the waves, people watch, enjoy the sun or just relax, there is always something going on along the city's famous Golden Mile.
This six-mile stroll really could fill a whole day. You'll find yourselves passing some of the city's iconic landmarks including The Blackpool Tower. Stop at the magnificent sweeping Spanish steps, play on the award-winning beaches, or maybe stop along the way at one of the many picnic spots, you really will be spoilt for choice as you take in this beautifully restored and regenerated seafront!
Image Credit: Stephen Kidd on Unsplash
Grundy Art Gallery
Grundy Art Gallery first opened to the public in 1911, and today remains a wonderful place that can inspire the creative side of all who visit. Here you can find a host of exhibitions, as well as events, all free admission (although they do welcome donations), celebrating all forms of art, from all artists and it's inspiring!
Kids can see and learn all about Victorian oils and watercolours, as well as modern British paintings, and even oriental ivories, ceramics, and photographs. You can even see souvenirs of Blackpool, alongside contemporary prints, jewellery, and sculpture.
Image Credit: Grundy Art Gallery
Enjoy the Blackpool Air Show!
Whilst only one weekend a year, the Blackpool Air Show is well worth a visit! Not only is the show free admission, but you can see some of the world’s finest military & civilian aircraft performing over the iconic seafront!
The weekend programme showcases the absolute very best in British aviation, with amazing flying machines, and some truly talented pilots! Whilst there is always so much happening in the air, there is a host of things happening on the ground too. The Air Show Village, located on the Tower Festival Headland, is where you can find plenty of stalls, attractions and food concessions!
Image Credit: Dan Turner on Unsplash
The BEST Fish & Chips in Blackpool!
If you are looking for a fun, vibrant, sporty and dare we say it musical day trip from Blackpool, head only 55 miles south and you will find yourselves in the heart of Beatles country - yes, we are talking about Liverpool! Liverpool is one of the most exciting cities in the UK, and it makes a really fun destination for a family day out.
Are you ready to explore?
Photo by Neil Martin on Unsplash
Did you know that the city of Liverpool started life when the borough was founded in 1207 by King John, and at the time the area was made up of just seven streets, all in the shape of the letter 'H'.
Jump to the 17th century and population growth and trade was slow. This wasn't helped by the English Civil War, which saw a siege in Liverpool in 1644. In 1699 the city was made a parish, and as the nearby River Dee began to silt up, trade shifted from Chester (an important part of the trade route since Roman times) to Liverpool, causing an increase in the city's growth.
In 1715, the city embraced it's first wet dock, and into the 19th century the city's wealth grew, with construction reflecting this. At one point, the wealth of Liverpool was greater than London.
In 1830, the Liverpool and Manchester Railway rapidly expanded the city, as did the Great Famine which saw a vast influx of Irish immigrants.
Today, as well as famously being the birthplace of The Beatles and home to Liverpool FC, the city has the second highest number of art galleries, listed buildings, national museums, and listed parks in the whole of the UK, second only to London. Pretty impressive!
So, are you ready to discover this incredible city?
Here’s our top 4 Liverpool things to do:
- The Beatles Story
- World Museum Liverpool
- Merseyside Maritime Museum
- Liverpool Football Club Museum & Tour
We hope you found this content useful! Please share with your friends, and if you have any comments, or want to let us know what we can do to further help you find fun days out with the family, then just email our team at [email protected]!
Let's get the family adventure started!
Lisa
Lisa has been a content writer for Family Days Out for nearly 10 years, and a keen travel writer for nearly 20. She loves experiencing the best of a city, discovering the many things to do and immersing herself in the culture, and sharing these experiences with others through her writing.
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