Blackpool is changing. While a breathtaking new seafront, world-class entertainment and spectacular lighting shows are updating its reputation, the town is still home to some of the UK's best-loved attractions – the Pleasure Beach, Blackpool Tower, Sandcastle Waterpark and the world-famous Illuminations.
Situated along the coast of the Irish Sea, it has been a favourite holiday spot for decades, especially during this month's Glasgow Fair, and continues to draw tourists from all over the country for family fun and wild illuminated nights.
BEFORE Y
OU GO The city's official tourist website (
www.visitblackpool.com) lists all the must-see attractions. Alternatively, pick up a copy of Blackpool: Then and Now, by Craig Fleming and Steve Singleton (£11.99, Blackpool Gazette), for an inside look at the town's changing history.
PLANES, TRAINS AND AUTOMOBILES Blackpool is easily accessible from all parts of the country. The M55 links the town with the M6, while there are four trains an hour connecting at Preston.
GETTING AROUND The town has the oldest working tram service in the UK, which runs regularly through the resort and seafront area. Buses are also frequent and link most hotels to the main attractions. Blackpool is also flat, which makes it ideal for either walking or cycling.
TOURIST TRAIL A visit to the seaside town wouldn't be complete without a trip to the legendary Pleasure Beach. The park now has an impressive 125 rides and attractions, plus spectacular shows – including the new Dancing Water Show. Those who would rather steer clear of rollercoasters can head to Blackpool Tower for an all-inclusive day of family fun, where you'll find circus shows, an aquarium, a cinema, a restaurant and a children's adventure park. Garden lovers will enjoy the horticultural gem of Stanley Park, while you can revisit bygone days at Blackpool Model Village and Gardens.
NIGHTLIFE Blackpool has long claimed a reputation as being one of the best places to party in the UK. There is something to suits all tastes in the town's large selection of pubs, bars and clubs. From the latest sounds to the most golden of oldies, you'll find them all here. Head to the King Edward VII pub for a quiet drink during the day, or in the evening to enjoy its status as the top live music venue in town. The Saddle has a friendly atmosphere, brilliant beer garden and special events such as poker nights.
For those desperate to get their dancing shoes on and head for the bright lights, the choice of clubs is endless. One of the main hotspots is Syndicate, a former ABC cinema that has been transformed into the country's biggest superclub, with a capacity of 5,000 clubbers. Flares nightclub (as you can probably guess) has a 1970s theme, and is rumoured to be the best place for disco.
WHERE TO STAY From family-run B&Bs to luxury self-catering apartments and top-end hotels, there is an extensive range of accommodation available. The Chelston B&B (
www.the-blackpool-hotel.co.uk), just outside of the town centre, offers no-fuss rooms at great prices. For something more luxurious, the Barceló Imperial Hotel (www.barcelo-hotels.co.uk) is not only a beautiful building but has excellent facilities, including a stunning swimming pool.
WHEN TO GO Blackpool is a great place to visit at any time of year, but the size of the hordes of other visitors varies. This month traditionally sees the most tourists flocking to the town, including those from Glasgow. August is generally a little quieter.
WHERE TO EAT Diversity of culture seems to be a main theme in Blackpool, and eating out is no different. La Fontana Italian restaurant, previously awarded Restaurant of the Year at the tourism awards, serves great food in a delightful courtyard setting. For a casual bite in modern surroundings, head to Toast, where the food is sourced locally and there is a great selection of beers and ales. For a more sophisticated dining experience, the cuisine at Septembers Champagne Bar and Restaurant (01253 299200) draws its inspiration from around the globe. Some of the appetising starters are chicken liver and rabbit terrine with melba toast and Thai fishcakes blended with lemon grass, served in a light chilli jam.
WHAT TO BUY Visit the Magic Wand Factory (www.themagicwandfactory.com), on Dickson Road. This unusual shop offers an array of weird and wonderful gifts – not just magic wands, which are all created by owner Carol Gray. There's also Brooks Collectibles, on Waterloo Road, which has a vast range of vintage memorabilia and quirky souvenirs, with everything from Betty Boop dolls to model trains and trams.
The full article contains 781 words and appears in Scotland On Sunday newspaper.
