Blackpool is a lively seaside town on England’s northwest coast, famous for its golden beaches and traditional British seaside charm. It is home to iconic landmarks like the Blackpool Tower, the thrilling Pleasure Beach amusement park, and the dazzling annual Illuminations, attracting millions of visitors yearly.
Some visitors to the convention either arrive early, or stay on afterwards, and sample some of the town’s attractions. Here are a few you might want to seek out.
The Illuminations
The world famous Illuminations, or ‘Blackpool lights’ as they are also known, need little introduction. The length of the prom – six miles – is adorned with traditional festoons, illuminated tableaux and interractive features. Shining nightly until 4th January, the Illuminations are completely free to view – simply walk, drive, or – better still – take a tram!
Cinemas
Blackpool has two cinemas worthy of a visit. The multiscreen Backlot Cinema was opened in 2024 and includes a 264-seat IMAX screen. Visit www.thebacklotcinema.co.uk
By contrast, The Regent Cinema is a single-screen venue which originally opened in 1921. It became an independent cinema in 2016, showing classic films across all ages. Visit www.theregentblackpool.co.uk/cinema
The building housing The Regent Cinema is also an antiques, vintage, craft and retro emporium spanning three floors – and well worth a visit.
Trams
The Blackpool Tramway, opened in 1885 is one of the world’s oldest electric tramways. It runs along the Fylde Coast to Fleetwood, and a new extension links Blackpool North railway station to the main route. The line features modern state-of-the-art Bombardier Flexity 2 trams for daily service, complemented by a heritage fleet of traditional trams, including iconic double-deckers, which run on select days.
Seeing the Illuminations by tram is a must!
The Comedy Carpet
This enormous artwork right by Blackpool Tower is a tribute to British comedy. It’s basically a giant stone ‘carpet’ covered with over 160,000 granite letters, all spelling out famous catchphrases and jokes from more than a thousand comedians and writers.
The Tower
The 518-feet tall Blackpool Tower is an iconic British landmark opened in 1894. Its base houses a famous entertainment complex, including the stunning Tower Ballroom (which is where the Blackpool episode of the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing is held), and the Tower Circus. Get the lift to the top of the tower and you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views of the Fylde Coast and the Irish Sea.
Blackpool Film Collectors' Convention 