English Tourism Week: See Sides You Haven’t
Blackpool is renowned for our iconic Tower, dazzling Illuminations, and thrilling Pleasure Beach. But beyond the famous attractions lies a treasure trove of lesser-known attractions that offer unique experiences without straining your wallet. This English Tourism Week, venture beyond our famed attractions and discover the hidden gems that showcase the town's rich history, culture and natural beauty.
Tramtown
Step behind the scenes at Blackpool’s heritage tram workshop experience and explore this rich corner of our heritage. You’ll take a guided tour through the Heritage Fitting Shop, where you'll see vintage equipment like a wheel lathe and welding bay. New for 2025, an exhibition hall will showcase Heritage Trams, engineering machinery, and the fascinating history of Blackpool's iconic tram system. All proceeds support tram restoration efforts.
Address: Rigby Road Depot, FY1 5DD. Cost: Adults £5, Children £2.50.. More info: blackpoolheritage.com
Model Village and Gardens
On the edge of another Blackpool gem, Stanley Park, the Model Village is an enchanting 2.5-acre garden showcasing a miniature Lancashire village. Hundreds of handcrafted models depict scenes of rural life, from a castle guarded by soldiers to a serene fishing village. Visitors can follow a quiz trail and watch the working trains – great fun for big and small kids alike!
Address: East Park Drive, FY3 9RB. Cost: From £8.50. More info: blackpoolmodelvillage.com
Grundy Art Gallery
Located in the heart of Blackpool, the Grundy Art Gallery is a cultural gem showcasing an ever-changing programme of contemporary and historic art. Housed in a beautiful Edwardian building, the gallery features exhibitions spanning painting, sculpture, photography, and new media, often highlighting both local talent and internationally renowned artists.
Address: Queen Street, FY1 1PU. Cost: Free. More info: thegrundy.org
The Hole in Wand
This wizard-themed crazy golf course has brought a touch of magic to Blackpool’s high street. Enter a magical world of wizards, unicorns and amazing potions. You’ll discover nine magical mini golf holes – ideal for families and those who want to embrace their inner wizard or witch.
Address: 50A Promenade, FY1 4QU. Cost: From £7.50. More info: theholeinwand.com
Blackpool RNLI Lifeboat Centre
Open daily from 10am-4pm, the Blackpool RNLI Shop and Visitor Centre on the Promenade offers an educational experience for families. Visitors can learn about life-saving at sea, try on rescue gear, view the lifeboats and browse the gift shop. Purchases and donations support the vital work of Blackpool's RNLI volunteers.
Address: Central Promenade, FY1 5JA. Cost: Free. More info: rnli.org
Marton Mere Local Nature Reserve
Marton Mere is Blackpool’s haven for wildlife and has earned recognition as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Visitors can explore designated footpaths and bird hides, with the chance to spot dragonflies, orchids and even breeding otters in spring. The visitor centre provides educational information and friendly volunteers offer guided walks.
Address: Off Lawson Road and East Park Drive, FY4 4XN. Cost: Free. More info: visitblackpool.com
Spitfire Visitor Centre
Located in Hangar 42 at Blackpool Airport, constructed in 1939 for the RAF, this centre houses five Spitfire replicas and a Hawker Hurricane MKI. Aviation enthusiasts can sit in the cockpit or operate a flight simulator, immersing themselves in the rich history of these iconic aircraft.
Address: Blackpool Airport, Squires Gate Lane. Cost: Free for under 5s, child £6, adult £10. More info: spitfirevisitorcentre.co.uk
Showtown
Opened in 2024, Showtown is Blackpool's museum of entertainment, celebrating the town's vibrant heritage in circus, shows, magic, Illuminations, and dance. Located on Central Promenade, the museum's collection includes Stan Laurel's famous bowler hat, a prop used by comedic magician Tommy Cooper, and various mementos from the Tower Circus.
Address: Corner of Adelaide Street West and Bank Hey Street FY1 4TQ. Cost: Free for Blackpool residents. More info: showtownblackpool.co.uk
Russ Brown's House of Secrets
Situated within the historic Winter Gardens complex, the House of Secrets is Blackpool's first dedicated family magic bar. Owned by local magician Russ Brown, who previously held residencies at Blackpool Tower and Blackpool Pleasure Beach, the venue offers entertainment for all ages, adding a touch of magic to any Blackpool visit.
Address: 105 Church St, FY1 1HU. Cost: £12. More info: houseofsecretsmagicbar.com
Little Marton Windmill
Built in 1838, Little Marton Windmill is the last remaining of its kind in Blackpool. Designated a Grade II listed building, Little Marton Mill is open some Sundays for public visits, where dedicated volunteers guide visitors through its history and the milling process, offering a glimpse into Blackpool's agricultural past.
Address: Preston New Road, FY4 4XQ. Cost: Free for children, £2 for adults. More info: littlemartonwindmill.org.uk
