With its labyrinth of roller coasters overlooking the Irish Sea, Blackpool Pleasure Beach is one of the most talked-about attractions on the British Isles. The amusement park dates back to the late 19th century and has 10 major roller coasters, of which four are wooden. Enjoy the views of the Fylde Coast and the city of Blackpool as you rush up and down the ramps at top speeds.
Build up the nerve to ride the major coasters in the amusement park. Try the Big One, which was the tallest and steepest roller coaster in the world when it opened in 1994. For a more traditional trip, try the Big Dipper, a wooden structure that has been entertaining its riders since the 1920s.
Race on the Bobsled on the Avalanche ride and ride the classic wooden Nickelodeon Streak from the 1930s. Nickelodeon Land has 12 rides based on your kids’ favorite cartoon characters.
Conquer your fear of heights on the Tango Ice Blast, which lifts you 210 feet (64 meters) into the air. It offers extensive views of the coast, before suddenly dropping to its base. Prepare to get wet on some of the water rides and bring your kids on the family-friendly machines.Hear how ghosts are alleged to haunt the park, particularly around the Ghost Train.
Pay a fee for all-day entrance to the park, which is open daily from late morning until late afternoon in summer. It closes for a couple months in winter and opens only on weekends for a month on either side of the summer season.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach is a little south of the main hub of attractions around the South Pier. Ride the tramway system to the Pleasure Beach station or take a bus to the Sandcastle and Pleasure Beach stop. If you wish to drive, leave your car in the Bond Street Car Park or Parking Pleasure Beach. Explore the surrounding area to find such sights as the Sandcastle Waterpark, the Grosvenor Casino Blackpool and Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! Blackpool.