During the recession, many families have chosen to forgoe their regular summer break in an effort to save money. With the pound at it's weakest against the Euro of late, it has been more affordable for holiday-makers to stay at home and re-discover what Britain has to offer.
Seaside resorts in particular are proving more and more popular, as global-warming means that summertime temperatures in Britain can sometimes be as gloriously high as other traditionally summer sun destinations abroad.
Blackpool lucks out in this respect, as it's position on the west coast, tucked in slightly at the edge of the Irish Sea means that it sits in its own micro-climate. This of course means that although sometimes the rain lashes down like it's never going to end, Blackpool also enjoys some of the best long sunny periods in Britain.
Self-Catering Accommodation In BlackpoolAlthough tour operators offer some good deals at some nice upper-class hotel chains where you can stay in relative luxury, the best way to enjoy Blackpool is to stay in one of the many bed and breakfast or self-catering apartments. The promenade is home to many of thease establishments which are mainly family-run, affordable and offer a nice safe family atmosphere.
It is advisable to check out the self-catering association which lists a wide selection of pre-approved self-catering and bed and breakfast accommodation by price and quality. They will also list whether or not they accept large groups/stag and hen parties, pets and any disabled facilities if required.
You will never wholly avoid the dreaded stag and hen groups during your stay, as they are everywhere and Blackpool is well set up to cater for them. However it can be generally stated that the South end of the promenade tends to be more family-friendly, with the North end being more popular with large groups due to it's situation by the main clubs and pubs.
The Golden MileBlackpool has a wide range of entertainment for all ages and boasts a superb nightlife. Three Victorian piers filled with everything from cabaret bars, family pubs, amusement arcades and thrilling rides, including a large Ferris wheel on the Central Pier provide some quality family bonding opportunities. .
Walking along the promenade itself also provides some family fun with plenty of large amusement arcades, shopping centres, The Sealife Centre and Louis Tussaud's waxworks. Coral Island, Europe's largest amusement arcade is definitely worth a visit; it has two themed indoor monorail rides and houses some of the newest arcade entertainment available.
Blackpool Tower: An Escape From The U.K Weather
Blackpool Tower is situated at the north end of the promenade and is a landmark that can be seen for miles around. Take a day trip to the Tower and be entertained at the Tower Circus with some of the greatest circus acts from all over the world. It is worth booking tickets for the Tower online as queues can be long, especially in the summer months and online discounts can really keep costs down.
The Tower is also home to a 4-D cinema set around a dinosaur exhibition, Jungle Jim's play area and cafe, a ground-floor aquarium and a museum based on the history of the Tower Circus. A grand ballroom features on one of the floors with daily dances to the tune of the Wurlitzer organ. A Tower-top ride is also available, weather-permitting, where those who are brave enough can try 'The Walk of Faith'.
Other Activities In The Resort
The Sandcastle is an indoor water park which has a great variety of things to keep both adults and children entertained. The main pool is home to 18 different water slides, the highlight being 'Master Blaster', the longest indoor rollercoaster slide in the world.
Blackpool Zoo is another day out which the family are sure to enjoy. Set back away from the town centre there is a special bus which runs directly to and from the zoo. 10% can be saved on the admission price if tickets are bought online. Lions, Tigers, African Elephants and Penguins are among the star attractions and this large zoo is set within 32 acres of land.
Blackpool Pleasure BeachOf course, no trip is complete without a trip to The Pleasure Beach - home of the world-famous Pepsi Max Big One rollercoaster, the other most prominent feature of Blackpool's skyline. The resort is home to a stupendous amount of thrilling and traditional fairground rides, as well as some pretty fantastic wooden rollercoasters. Again, the best savings can be made online and prices can vary throughout the season.
There really is something for everyone here. Beaver Creek provides nice gentle rides for children, there are some real white-knuckle thrillers and a nice array of shops, boutiques and even a champagne and oyster bar for those ith something to celebrate. Included in the ticket price is entry to one of the shows available on the day; either theatre or ice-skating - both of a superb standard and make a relaxing interlude to a hectic day of thrill-seeking.
Genna Millar - Genna earned her MA English (hons) at the University of Dundee in 2008 after completing an NC and HNC in Theatre Arts and Acting and ...
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