The city of Blackpool has been attracting holiday visitors ever since 1735, when the first guest house opened. In the 19th century, it became a popular working-class destination among the British and, in 1896, Blackpool Pleasure Beach was opened. Today, this American-style amusement park with a distinctly British feel has a variety of rides to suit all tastes and ages. Rides suitable for children include the parks’ oldest attraction, a centrifugal rocket ride called Flying Machines. Valhalla, which opened in 2000, is the world’s biggest ride in the dark. There are also several shows to entertain visitors, such as Eclipse at the Globe, featuring acrobats, aerialists and dancers, and a separate Beaver Creak theme park with rides aimed specifically at children. Entrance to the park is free but rides are paid for.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach, 525 Ocean Boulevard, South Shore, Blackpool, Lancashire FY4 1EZ, UK
Tel: (0870) 444 5566
Website: www.blackpoolpleasurebeach.com

Air: Manchester Airport, Blackpool Airport (domestic flights). Rail: Train: Blackpool North Station or Blackpool Pleasure Beach Station. Road: Bus: Public services.

United Kingdom