Top 5 things to do on your family holidays in Blackpool
There’s no shortage of family fun to be found in Blackpool. The town’s atmosphere is buzzing with exciting events and attractions all year round. Family holidays in Blackpool can always rely on the fun and energy of sandy beaches and arcades but that’s not all the local area has to offer.
Go for a walk
There’s no better way to explore Blackpool than on foot. By slowing things down, you can really take in all the bright lights and sparkling sights of our wonderful local area. Here are three great options:
Blackpool Promenade Walk
If you’re looking for an easy urban stroll, the six miles of golden sand and sea views are on the doorstep. Take it easy on the promenade or get the sand between your toes on the beach. On the way, you’ll pass Blackpool Tower, the Central Pier and a variety of cafes and restaurants for ice creams and refreshments.
Rossall Point
For a slightly wilder coastal walk during your family holidays in Blackpool, a 30-minute drive from Blackpool will get you to the perfect spot: Rossall Point. Located on a peninsula of land between the Irish Sea and River Wyre, the sand dunes and waves are a great place for energetic kids to explore. Rossall Point Tower has two observation decks and a wealth of information about the local flora and fauna.
Marton Mere Local Nature Reserve
Once the town rubbish dump, now a wildlife haven and Site of Special Scientific Interest. Hundreds of wildlife species call Marton Mere Nature Reserve home and a network of maintained footpaths will help you find them. An ideal spot for animal-loving families, keep your eyes peeled for highlight species such as bitterns, kingfishers, ospreys and long-eared owls.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach
The ultimate destination for thrill-seekers. Family holidays in Blackpool won’t be complete without a visit to Pleasure Beach. Reach new heights on the tallest rollercoaster, The Big One. Brave Valhalla, a dark ride with amazing special effects. Take on the adventure with Infusion, a five-looping coaster suspended over water. ICON, Grand National and much much more are waiting.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach isn’t only about the rides. The UK’s only Nickelodeon Land in Blackpool is home to the PAW Patrol pups, Spongebob Squarepants, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and other TV favourites. There’s also a whole host of shows and events to enjoy – truly something for all the family.
Blackpool Zoo
Did you know that over 1000 animals live at Blackpool Zoo? Spanning the whole alphabet, from aardvarks to zebra, all within 37 acres of beautiful British parkland. Get to know Ramon, Cherie, Summer and Jingga, the Borneo Orangutans and visit Kate, Minbu, Noorjahan, Tara and Esha at Elephant Base Camp. Other firm favourite include Bukavu and his Western Lowland Gorilla family, the rowdy sea lions and the calm giraffes.
There are also opportunities to get up close with hands-on experiences, muck in and feed the camels or giraffes, say hi and meet the penguins or lemurs – or fully commit and become a zoo keeper for a day. A range of daily talks about various animals and a three-level play zone to go wild in are available daily.
Blackpool Tower
An iconic British landmark! The Blackpool Tower is a must-visit attraction for all family holidays in Blackpool, offering a whole host of entertainment. Head to the top of the tower for a spectacular 360 panoramic view of Blackpool and the beautiful Irish Sea. On a clear day, you can see all the way out to the Lake District and the Isle of Man. If you’re feeling brave, step onto the glass floor to look down at the promenade below.
Other Blackpool Tower attractions include The Fifth Floor – a family-focused space with circus-themed arcade, 8K VR Rollercoaster and live entertainment. There’s also the Blackpool Tower Dungeon, a 60 minute show taking you back in time to explore the spookier moments in Blackpool’s history. Or how about Blackpool Tower Circus for jaw-dropping stunts and belly laughs from top class acts from all over the world.
Family shows
No family holiday in Blackpool would be complete without a trip to the theatre. The range of dazzling entertainment in some of the UK’s most famous venues is impressive – and family shows are no exception. In 2025, there’s a packed calendar of fun, funny and heart-warming family entertainment that kids and parent alike will enjoy.
There are various venues across Blackpool but if you don’t know where to start, try The Grand Theatre’s great line-up. For youngsters, there are likes of Tom Fletcher and Dougie Poynter’s The Dinosaur That Pooped Rock Musical or The Koala That Could live on stage. For slightly older children, try Pig Heart Boy or Grease The Musical.
Family holidays in Blackpool start here
Comfortable beds, ensuite bathrooms and rooms with a sea view, Forshaws Hotel is the perfect base for your Blackpool family adventure. Explore the best our town has to offer, knowing you have a cosy, modern and affordable room waiting at the end of the day.
Book your perfect trip to Blackpool today.
