Car Hire Blackpool - Mini guide to Blackpool

The coastal city of Blackpool, famed for its long, beachfront promenade and Pleasure Beach funfair, has been a much-visited British holiday resort for over a century. While the Victorian Blackpool Tower dominates the skyline and reminds visitors of the city’s history, the modern and diverse entertainment options are what keep Blackpool so popular today.

Possibly the most famous attraction in Blackpool is the spectacular 5-mile long light show, known as the Illuminations, which lights up the city each year. Another major attraction is the Pleasure Beach theme park with hundreds of rides, including one the world’s largest roller coasters. Further along the promenade is the Golden Mile, the slot machine capital of Britain, which also hosts the Sea Life Centre where you can see sharks, octopus and many other marine animals.

Exploring the attractions along the promenade is most easily done on foot, by tram or even by horse-drawn carriage. Away from the hustle and bustle of the major attractions, the peaceful Stanley Park, with its picturesque lake and putting greens, is a great place to relax. In the city centre, The Winter Gardens (on Church Street) is one of Britain’s most amazing buildings, partly Tudor, partly Strauss’ Vienna and even partly Roman.

Located a little away from the beach, the city centre offers an excellent selection of shops boasting most major retail names. There is also a wide range of cuisine on offer, with many Indian, Italian and French restaurants. For nightlife, you can choose from theatre, classical concerts, gigs and an enormous number of pubs and clubs.

If you want a break from the city, a short drive away is the world famous Lake District, a region of breath-taking natural beauty. With hundreds of lakes and stunning mountains and fells, this area is ideal for boating, picnicking and hiking.

Blackpool Airport is just over two miles from the city centre, and offers flights to many major British cities. Blackpool is also well connected by road and rail, particularly with Manchester and its international airport.