Blackpool: Britain’s seaside original

From the Victorian age of steam to world‑famous light shows and heritage trams — discover everything about Blackpool in one place.

Explore the Tower See the Illuminations

Founded 18th–19th c. resort boom

Seafront ~7 miles of promenade

Illuminations ~6 miles of lights

Tramway Since 1885 (electric)

Why Blackpool became the big attraction

Blackpool’s growth was powered by the railways in the mid‑19th century, affordable excursion fares from industrial Lancashire, and a town council eager to innovate — from early electric street lighting to all‑weather entertainment venues.

Three Victorian piers for every taste
Indoor attractions: Winter Gardens, Circus, Ballroom
Modern showmanship: Pleasure Beach, arcades, shows

Highlights

Blackpool Tower

Victorian engineering icon: 1891–1894, 518 ft of riveted steel with a circus and ballroom beneath.

Go to Tower

Three Piers

North (1863), Central (1868), South (1893) — a complete set of Victorian seaside piers.

Go to Piers

Illuminations

From 1912’s decorative lamps to today’s LED‑driven spectacle — six miles of lights.

Go to Illuminations

Tramway

One of the world’s oldest electric tramways — heritage fleet and modern light rail together.

Go to Tramway

History in brief

1750s–1830s Sea‑bathing begins; modest facilities.
1846 Rail link brings mass visitors.
1863–1893 Piers built; promenade expands.
1879 Early electric lighting trial.
1894 Tower opens; Blackpool’s icon arrives.