Blackpool Pleasure Beach began in 1896 when William George Bean and John Outhwaite set out to create “an American-style amusement park” at South Shore. From the start, the park blended showmanship with engineering — a formula that produced both endurance (Flying Machines, 1904; River Caves, 1905) and headline firsts (The Big One, 1994; ICON, 2018).
Blackpool Pleasure Beach
One of Britain’s most storied amusement parks, founded in 1896 by W. G. Bean and John Outhwaite. From Edwardian flying machines to modern launch coasters, explore the rides that defined generations — and those that live on today.
Founded
1896
Signature
The Big One (1994)
Oldest ride
Flying Machines (1904)
Modern icon
ICON (2018)
Opening & origins
Current rides (with opening dates)
Opening years and manufacturers are shown at a high level; some rides have undergone rebuilds/rethemes.
Former rides (with dates)
This list highlights widely documented rides. The full appendix below lists many more, grouped by class, with source notes.
Appendix — all rides by class (with source notes)
Tip: Click a class header to expand/collapse. Use the filter to search across all classes.
Timeline & milestones
- 1896 Park founded by W. G. Bean and John Outhwaite at South Shore.
- 1904 Sir Hiram Maxim’s Flying Machines open (still operating).
Visiting today
Tickets & hours
- Advance online booking recommended
- Seasonal opening calendar; check daily hours
- Height restrictions apply on many major rides
What to prioritise
- Modern: ICON, The Big One, Valhalla
- Woodies: Grand National, Big Dipper, Nickelodeon Streak
- Classics: Flying Machines, River Caves, Ghost Train