Blackpool is the quintessential British seaside resort, with plenty to do and enjoy.

By Dan Parton

Blackpool has been renowned as a holiday destination ever since a railway was built to connect the town in the 1840s. Some 18 million people visited the Lancashire town in 2016 – an increase of one million on the previous year.

Visitors flock to the town to enjoy the multitude of attractions on offer. One of the most famous is, of course, the Blackpool Pleasure Beach. This huge amusement park offers the UK’s tallest rollercoaster, The Big One, among many others, as well as rides for all the family.

There is also Nickleodeon Land, featuring rides and a host of characters from Nickleodeon TV shows, including, SpongeBob SquarePants.

The Pleasure Beach is accessible, although some of the rides are physically demanding, so may not be suitable for all.

One of the newest attractions in Blackpool is Luce Majicus, which blends the latest technology with the Chinese tradition of lantern craft to create a walk-through attraction bringing together light, sound and nature. It is wheelchair-friendly and opens at Easter for the 2019 season.

High times

Of course, you can’t make a trip to the town and not go to the Blackpool Tower. You can go right to the top of the 380ft high landmark and take in stunning views of the area – from the Lake District to Liverpool, on a clear day. While there, the 4D cinema brings the history of the Tower to life. The tower has wheelchair accessible lifts as well as accessible toilets – including a changing places toilet – and assistance dogs are welcome.

But there is more to the Tower than, well, the Tower. There is also the Blackpool Tower Ballroom – as seen on television’s Strictly Come Dancing – and the Blackpool Tower Dungeon. Both are fully accessible.

The Blackpool Tower Circus is also accessible, but wheelchair places are limited, due to the age and design of the building. Contacting the Circus team prior to a visit is recommended, if you need assistance.

Getting around

Blackpool is famous for its tram network and while its new trams are fully accessible some of the older ones haven’t yet been upgraded. Contact Blackpool Transport to arrange suitable access. There is also a network of buses with low floors, although there is only one space available for a wheelchair or a pushchair – and no priority is given to either.

Where to stay

There are a range of accessible accommodation options in and around Blackpool, including traditional seafront hotels, bed and breakfasts and holiday cottages, along with the usual brand chain hotels.

One of our favourite hotels in Blackpool is the Bond Hotel.
Tel: 01253 341 218
bondhotel.co.uk