Blackpool holds a place in the heart of many northerners as the site of their first seaside visit – whether that’s after seeing the illuminations or on a day trip to enjoy the thrills and pure energy of Pleasure Beach Blackpool. With the train to Blackpool taking just 1 hour 40 minutes from Manchester and 3 hours 10 minutes from Glasgow, this is the perfect destination for travelers looking for a jolly holiday or a fun-packed break with a host of activities at the quintessential Great British seaside resort.
Blackpool North station is a 10-minute walk from the North Pier and buses are available from the station. For information on services visit Traveline or call 0871 200 2233. In addition, Plusbus is available for an add-on fare of £3.60. Outside the station you’ll also find a taxi rank and there is limited short stay car parking at Blackpool North station plus a multi-storey car park available nearby. For more information visit www.ncp.co.uk. Charges apply.
Blackpool has an enviable list of attractions (alongside the piers and the promenade) and a roster of events and activities to suit every taste. There’s the iconic Blackpool Tower and Blackpool Pleasure Beach, the Winter Gardens for live entertainment and animal lovers will have a ball at the Sea Life Centre and Blackpool Zoo. If you’re looking for something to do, Blackpool has the answer.
If you fancy battered haggis or black pudding alongside your gluten free fish and chips then Bentley’s Fish and Chip Shop is the place to head. If you want to sit down in style then The Stone Grill offers tasty steak or fish presented sizzling at your table, while Kwizeen boasts a local and seasonal market menu that changes every 5 weeks or so.
A 10-minute taxi ride from the train station will find you at Number One South Beach – a stylish 5-star hotel that’s collected a string of awards. Boasting a gym, spa, swimming pool and even a kids’ club, The Cliffs Hotel is a modern hotel in a gorgeous period building right on the promenade. Those looking for cool self-catering will find it at The Beach House, which has a range of suites and is rated 5 stars by VisitBritain.
Of all the things to do in Blackpool, the most important and surely the most iconic is simply strolling along the Promenade (ideally with some salty chips). If wandering in a straight line is too restricting for you, then why not try Stanley Park where you can roam free in 250 acres of beautiful greenery. Finally, if you’re in Blackpool for art then you’re in tons of luck. The Grundy Art Gallery has hosted the likes of Hiroshige and Matisse.
When you’ve consumed your bodyweight in Blackpool rock and candy floss and had your senses assaulted by the rides at the Pleasure Beach, it’s time for a touch of retail therapy. The Hounds Hill Shopping Centre has all your high street favourites a short stroll from Blackpool Tower. Just 100 yards from the promenade is Bonny Street Market where you can enjoy the bustle of a northern open-air market, with over 75 stalls. If you’re serious about a bargain, a 50-minute tram ride will take you to Freeport Fleetwood – a vast outlet park.
For more ideas on what to do in Blackpool, check out Visit Blackpool.
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