The Blackpool Bonanza

Blackpool Tower
Blackpool Tower

The town of Blackpool derives its name from a drainage channel. Sources suggest that the channel ran over a peat bog, discharging discoloured water into the Irish Sea, which eventually formed a black pool, thereby naming the town Blackpool. Situated in the North West of England, Blackpool is a seaside resort town. Located between the Ribble and Wyre estuaries, with 12 million people visiting the town each year, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that Blackpool is Britain’s number one holiday resort. From the Middle Ages to the eighteenth century, Blackpool was a coastal hamlet in Lancashire’s Hundred of Amounderness. It was after the railway was built in the 1840s that Blackpool rose to prominence as a major centre of tourism in England.

How To Reach

Visitors should note that Blackpool has its own airport. So there’s the option of directly flying into the town. Long distance bus services and charters, run from literally everywhere in Great Britain. Blackpool North is the main station for these buses. For the adventurous ones, there is also the option of takingferries. However, the ferries only operate in summer. Thus, there is no dearth of options to access Blackpool.

Climate

Blackpool witnesses what is called a temperate maritime climate. The wind levels are high and there’s rainfall throughout the year in this region. December, January and February are Blackpool’s coldest months.The average daytime temperature during this time is usually around 3°C / 37°F. The wettest months in Blackpool arebetween September and November. March, April and May have limited rainfall and a pleasant climate, thereby making them the best months to visit Blackpool.

Places To See

  • Blackpool Tower: The most famous landmark in Blackpool is this tower, which is an astounding 518ft 9 inches tall. Modelled on the Eiffel Tower, the structure is so imposing that it can not only be seen from all over Blackpool, but also from a number of nearby towns.Once inside, you have to climb through seven levels of attractions, including a circus, bug zone to reach to the top.
  • Blackpool Illuminations: Popularly known as ‘The Lights’, Blackpool Illuminations are the UK’s most popular free tourist attraction. The Blackpool Illuminations basically refer to a display of over one million bulbs which stretch for 6 miles along the seafront. These illuminations take place every year between early September and early November.
  • Pleasure Beach: With over 125 rides and attractions, including 12 roller coasters, Pleasure Beach happens to be one of the most popular theme parks in the UK. From big drop rides to traditional wooden roller coasters such as teacups, monorail, this park has a lot of variety to offer.
  • Sandcastle Waterpark: Home toUK’s largest indoor water slide, Sandcastle Water Park is excellent for some family time. With 18 slides and attractions, Sandcastle Water Park is also UK’s largest indoor water park.

What To Eat

A trip to Blackpool would be incomplete without gorging on the famous fish and chips. Ensure that you have some here!

If you’re planning a trip to UK anytime soon, do include Blackpool in your itinerary!