Blackpool Pleasure Beach located on the South Promenade in Blackpool, Lancashire, is one of the well-known amusement parks in the UK. It started back in 1896 and spreads over about 42 acres. The park has more than 10 roller coasters, many thrill rides, and attractions for families, attracting over five million people every year. It is famous for mixing old wooden coasters with new, high-tech rides, including the tallest roller coaster in the UK, giving a mix of seaside fun and modern excitement. Run by Pleasure Beach Resort, which focuses on safety and easy access, and the park has won awards like Best Theme Park in the UK.
Fun Fact About Blackpool Pleasure Beach
One of the park’s most famous rides is The Big One, the tallest roller coaster in the UK. It climbs up to 213 feet and can reach speeds of 74 mph along its 4,640-foot track, giving riders sweeping views of the Irish Sea and the Blackpool coast.
History of Blackpool Pleasure Beach
Blackpool Pleasure Beach began in 1896, when Alderman William George Bean, after some failed attempts in advertising and a small amusement park in Great Yarmouth, opened a modest entertainment area opposite Blackpool’s tram terminus. Inspired by New York’s Coney Island, Bean wanted a place where “adults feel like children again.” In 1903, he teamed up with local businessman John Outhwaite to buy 30 acres of sand dunes on the Watson Estate along the promenade, adding roundabouts, a Bicycle Railway, and small stalls.
By 1923, land reclamation moved the park to its current location, incorporating the old Casino Building, now used for tickets and events. The 1920s and 1930s saw growth with rides like the Big Dipper wooden coaster (1923) and the River Caves boat ride (1905), which is still running. The Thompson family took over in the mid-20th century, and under Geoffrey Thompson from 1955, the park introduced innovations such as the Revolution in 1979, the UK’s first coaster with a full loop.
Later decades brought awards like the Golden Ticket for top theme parks. In 2011, ICON opened as the UK’s first double-launch coaster, reaching 80 mph. After Geoffrey Thompson passed away, Amanda Thompson took over in 2004 and kept the park run by the family. Over the years, new additions like Nickelodeon Land in 2015 were added.
Things to Do at Blackpool Pleasure Beach
Blackpool Pleasure Beach has something for everyone, from big thrills to gentler fun, so visitors of all ages can find activities they enjoy. Here are the main things you can do:
Roller Coasters: There are 10 coasters, including ICON which launches at 80 mph, The Big One, the tallest in the UK, and the wooden Grand National (from 1935) that has two tracks and simulates a horse race.
Thrill Rides: Revolution spins riders in full 360-degree loops, while Valhalla, a dark water ride, mixes water, fire effects, and pyrotechnics for a dramatic experience.
Family Rides: Nickelodeon Land has themed rides like Dora’s Dreamboat and PAW Patrol attractions, along with chances to meet characters. The Adventure Golf course on the promenade offers a 12-hole mini-golf game.
Water-Based Fun: The River Caves, open since 1905, takes visitors through underground tunnels, and the nearby Sandcastle Waterpark (entry separate) has slides and wave pools for extra wet fun.
Shows and Entertainment: The Globe Theatre puts on live acts like musicals and comedy. During special times of the year, there’s the Spooktacular in October and the Christmas Grotto with extra attractions.
Food and Drinks: Over 20 places to eat are around the park, from simple fish and chips to dishes from other countries. The White Tower Restaurant has fancier meals and a good view over the park. All-you-can-eat passes are available for full-day visitors.
Other Fun: The Star Flyer swings riders high over the coast for great views, and Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium shows unusual items from around the world. Many rides have height limits, and wristbands can give unlimited access to eligible rides.
Best Time to Visit Blackpool Pleasure Beach
March to May
Early spring has milder weather, usually 8°C to 14°C, and fewer visitors. The park opens weekends from March 1, 2025. Easter weekends bring extra events, though some rides may have limited hours.
June to August
Summer is the busiest time, with temperatures around 15°C to 20°C. Most rides are fully operational from 10 am–6 pm or later. Expect quite big crowds, especially on weekends, so buying tickets in advance helps avoid long queues. Evening Illuminations start in early September, adding extra viewing hours.
September to October
Autumn has got cooler temperatures (10°C to 16°C) and smaller midweek crowds. The Spooktacular event runs from October 23 to November 1, 2025. After summer, operating hours are shorter, with the park closing for the season by November 29.
November to February
Winter is off-season, with most rides closed from late November 2025 to February 2025. Special events like the February half-term (15–23 February 2025) give discounted access to Nickelodeon Land.
Travel Tips
Get Tickets Early: You need a ticket or wristband to get in (online starts around £29). Buying on the day can cost more. If you want to go on more than one ride or attraction, getting a multi-attraction pass like the Blackpool Resort Pass can help save money.
Ride Rules: Lots of rides have minimum heights, for example, ICON needs you to be 1.2 m tall. People with medical exemptions can easily skip queues if they show the right documents.
Weather Prep: The coast can be windy, so bring some layers and a raincoat. In summer, sunscreen (SPF 30+) is needed.
Parking & Crowds: Better to get there early, before 10 am for parking, or you can use just trams from town to avoid traffic. Picnics are ok, but glass and alcohol are not allowed.
