Welcome to Blackpool

07/02/2025

Here’s how you can spend Valentine’s Day at Pleasure Beach Resort

Pleasure Beach Resort has announced all the ways you can celebrate Valentine’s Day this year ahead of its 2025 opening – and it’s not a daunting drop on the Big One.

From a romantic five course meal, to a champagne stay or an ice skating session to your favourite songs, here’s what the special day could look like for you…

⭐️Valentine’s White Tower dinner⭐️

For a set price of £44.95, diners can enjoy a five course dinner complete with a glass of prosecco and a champagne sorbet palate cleanser.

Located in the casino building at the entrance to Pleasure Beach, the White Tower is a traditional restaurant with a live pianist and views of the coast.

Diners wanting to experience the Valentine’s menu can book a table between 5pm and 9pm through the website

https://whitetowerrestaurant.com/events/

⭐️Ice skating at Beat Nights⭐️

Back for 2025, Beat Nights has made a return to Pleasure Beach Resort Arena.

In a Valentine’s special on Saturday February 15, couples and friends can skate to music and disco lights, as well as enjoy chocolate dipped strawberries and marshmallows – all included in their ticket.

The session is from 8pm to 10pm and guests can book for £16.00 per person through the website

https://www.pleasurebeacharena.co.uk/beat-night/

⭐️Champagne stay at Boulevard⭐️

Named Europe’s Best Luxury Hotel for two years running, Boulevard is offering guests a suitably luxurious Valentine’s Day package.

With prices starting from £225.00 per couple, the package includes a bottle of prosecco and chocolate dipped strawberries in the room on arrival, a three course dinner in the hotel’s Beachside restaurant, an overnight stay and a full breakfast the next morning.

Guests can book through Boulevard’s website for any date between Monday 10 and Sunday 16 February

https://www.boulevardhotel.co.uk/offers/

CEO of Pleasure Beach Resort, Amanda Thompson OBE said: “Affection comes in all forms, and whether that’s a romantic meal for two or a dance around the ice with your best friends, however you choose to celebrate, we’re here to make it magical.”

The park opens Nickelodeon Land for half term, from 15 to 23 February and families can meet their favourite characters, enjoy themed entertainment and rides as well as enjoy Wallace & Gromit’s Thrill-O-Matic.

The rest of the park opens March 1 for the 2025 season, and guests can book tickets here

https://www.blackpoolpleasurebeach.com/

07/02/2025

FRIDAY FLASHBACK 🎢🎢

We are looking back to 2023 when The Big One at Pleasure Beach Resort had some re-tracking work done.

Have you been on the big one at Blackpool Pleasure Beach?

07/02/2025

An interview with Michael Betteridge - composer of ‘Riders to the Sea’ which comes to Blackpool Grand Theatre this March

The Grand spoke to Michael about his beautiful compositions Riders to the Sea and The Last Bit of the Moon and asked him how he first became involved in music:

‘Neither of my parents were particularly engaged with music when I was growing up, but my Mum did buy a really cheap out of tune (but beautiful!) piano to ‘have around the house’. I was enamoured with it from a young age and my parents were kind enough to support piano lessons. I never intended to go into music professionally, especially as it never felt like a secure career choice, but around the age of 16 when doing work experience, I realised it was something I just had to do. I studied at the University of Manchester and really fell in love with music.’


How did you get involved in this project?

‘I was involved as one of the community choral leaders for one of OperaUpClose’s previous projects, The Flying Dutchman, and around the same time, Flora (the show Director), came to see a semi-staged song cycle of mine called Voices of the Sands. The themes in that work, as well as mine and Flora’s shared passion for opening up creative processes in opera to all, led to Flora inviting me onto this project, which I leapt on of course!’

How daunting and fun was it to work with Ralph Vaughan Williams’ score?

Very daunting! It’s a particularly challenging score to rework, especially as it’s a very harmonically rich piece and to reduce that to only a few instruments means tough choices sometimes have to be made. It was Flora’s idea to use an accordion, and I’m so glad she did, otherwise I think it would have lost a lot the flavour of the original. I’ve been very faithful with the arrangement, it’s definitely a reduction, as opposed to a total re-working. However, the original orchestration is huge and even with my faithfulness to it, the new arrangement, I hope, feels very fresh to the ears. ‘

What do you hope audiences will take from the production?

‘Riders to the Sea is such an unusual piece because it is much more a ‘sung play’ as opposed to a grand opera. Our version has really leant into this concept and the reduced orchestration allows for the intimate moments to be even more intense. But, for me, it's the universal themes of family, home and grief that come to the fore in this work. We all have such different relationships with these three ideas and every member of the audience will experience and interpret the piece in vastly different ways. That’s the beauty of this work and I hope it gives audiences that opportunity to reflect.’

‘Riders To The Sea - intimate in style, mighty on impact’ - OperaUpClose

Vaughan Williams and J.M. Synge’s Riders To The Sea and The Last Bit fo The Moon from OperaUpClose, composed by Michael Bettridge and featuring The Sunday Boys live are at Blackpool Grand Theatre on Monday 3 March with performances at 6pm and 8.15pm.

• There will only be unreserved seating on the Grand Theatre stage for these performances which are also fully captioned throughout as part of the production design, including creative captioning to convey emotion.

Tickets from £15. Please note – this show contains references to trauma and grief.

Recommended age 12+

Please call the Grand Theatre Box Office on 01253 290190 or visit for full listings, bookings and further information.

06/02/2025

The budgerigar society celebrates 100 years!

The Budgerigar Society are celebrating with a budgerigar show at the Grand hotel on 6th-8th June 2025.

Judging of exhibits will take place on the Saturday then the bird show will be open to members and the general public from teatime on Saturday and all day Sunday.

There will be trade stands, raffles and a Grand Auction on the Sunday. The day will finish with a presentation of trophies to all winners.

A great weekend for anyone who is thinking of breeding budgerigars as an hobby.

You can pay on the day to enter and see the bird show and the budgerigar lectures.

For more information and how to become a member please visit their website:

https://www.budgerigarsociety.com/

05/02/2025

Come and join Ken Webster as he travels from the uk to Australia without flying, all in aid of Brian House Children's Hospice

Ken is on day 11 and let’s just say things haven’t gone to plan so far 🫣

Can we all go and subscribe to the YouTube channel below (it’s free). The more subscribers, likes and viewing hours the more money will be raised for Brian House.

Day 11 A wander round Tiblisi....scary chef!https://linktr.ee/kenwebsterhypnotist

05/02/2025

Be swept away by Riders To The Sea from OperaUpClose this March…

Take an excitingly immersive ONSTAGE musical journey with OperaUpClose at Blackpool Grand Theatre this March with the captivating sung play Riders To The Sea composed by Michael Betteridge

These powerful performances also include an exclusive prologue and feature Manchester’s acclaimed LGBTQ+ chorus The Sunday Boys live at The Grand

Get right to the heart of profound musical storytelling with Vaughan Williams and J.M. Synge’s RIDERS TO THE SEA from OperaUpClose at Blackpool Grand Theatre on Monday 3 March.

Lucky audience members really can’t get any closer to the action with all seating set right on The Grand stage for this thrilling production!

Vaughan Williams and John Millington Synge’s stunning sung play Riders to the Sea tells the compelling tale of a man haunted by the ghosts of his past. Bartley is reconstructing his memories of a great loss and finds himself drawn back to his family home and a seemingly inevitable chain of events. His sisters, Nora and Cathleen, have a parcel of clothes which may belong to their brother Michael who is presumed to have drowned, though his body has never been found…

This thrilling production is presented by OperaUpClose in association with MAST Mayflower Studios, and combines projection, recorded sound and live performance set to a new chamber orchestration for oboe, clarinet and accordion by renowned composer and choral conductor Michael Betteridge (Artistic Director of The Sunday Boys).

Vaughan Williams and J.M. Synge’s Riders To The Sea and The Last Bit fo The Moon from OperaUpClose, composed by Michael Bettridge and featuring The Sunday Boys live are at Blackpool Grand Theatre on Monday 3 March with performances at 6pm and 8.15pm.

• There will only be unreserved seating on the Grand Theatre stage for these performances which are also fully captioned throughout as part of the production design, including creative captioning to convey emotion.

Tickets from £15. Please note – this show contains references to trauma and grief. Recommended age 12+

Please call the Grand Theatre Box Office on 01253 290190 or visit for full listings, bookings and further information.

05/02/2025

A beautiful Blackpool sunset photo by Reyners photography

05/02/2025

From Brian & Maggie to Handbagged - The drama continues at The Grand…

Did you enjoy the acclaimed Channel Four TV drama Brian & Maggie?

Explore yet another fascinating side of Britain’s famous Iron Lady with the fiercely funny Handbagged at Blackpool Grand Theatre this April
It’s the untold story of the private meetings between Mrs Thatcher and Queen Elizabeth II…


Make an unmissable appointment with Moira Buffini’s clever comedy HANDBAGGED at Blackpool Grand Theatre from Tuesday 8 April to Saturday 12 April.
It’s time to unlock the palace door to imagine the private conversations between former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and Queen Elizabeth II.

What an ideal follow on from the recent smash-hit Channel 4 TV drama Brian & Maggie…
Moira Buffini’s brilliantly funny play Handbagged will pay an umissable call on Blackpool Grand this April to reveal just what might have happened over eleven years of weekly, behind-closed-doors meetings between The Queen and her most powerful subject, the then Prime Minister. The Crown meets the Iron Lady face to face as the destiny of the nation is shaped. And the laughs are royally good…

Moira Buffini’s Handbagged is at Blackpool Grand Theatre from Tuesday 8 April to Saturday 12 April with matinee and evening performances.

Audio Description available on all performances /BSL Interpreted Performance on Saturday 12 April at 2.30pm.

Tickets from £15 with concessions for 1894 Club members and Friends of The Grand. Group rates also available.

Please call the Grand Theatre Box Office on 01253 290190 or visit www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk for full listings, bookings and further information.

05/02/2025

Blackpool Central Pier re-opens this Friday with a full weekend of FREE family entertainment at the Pirates Bay Family Bar

04/02/2025

Nickelodeon Land's calling!
Pleasure Beach Resort

Why wait until March? From 15th - 23rd February, Nickelodeon Land will open exclusively, so you can get your early thrill-fix.
Enjoy all the fun before the park fully opens.

🎢Enjoy 12 amazing Nickelodeon themed rides
🎉Stay entertained with Team Nick
👋High five the PAW Patrol pups
🕺Dance with SpongeBob SquarePants and Patrick in Bikini Bottom.
🧀Have a crackin’ ride on Wallace & Gromit's Thrill-O-Matic

https://bookings.blackpoolpleasurebeach.com/wristband/select-date

04/02/2025

SHOWZAM 2025!

Love magic and mystery? From 14-22 February, Showzam! is bringing an exciting blend of live performances, incredible illusions, and show-stopping variety to Blackpool.

⭐️ Cillian O'Connor - Comedy Carpet - Friday 14th February from 5pm

Watch him attempt the impossible at the iconic Blackpool Comedy Carpet, a landmark dedicated to the funniest men and women in British entertainment.

⭐️ The Great Escape - Andrew Basso - Comedy Carpet
Monday 17 February, from 5pm

Are you ready for a death-defying outdoor spectacular?

In celebration of the legendary Harry Houdini’s visit to Blackpool 120 years ago, during which he escaped from a police cell*, the world-renowned Andrew Basso is set to perform a spectacular, death-defying, breath-holding escape: The Water Torture Cell.

⭐️ SPECTACULAR SPECTACULAR - Comedy Carpet - Friday 21st February from 5pm

Spectacular Spectacular will bring together amateur and professional performers for a live performance on-stage on the Comedy Carpet.

04/02/2025

NEW SHOW - ON SALE NOW!

Come and walk down the yellow brick road at The Joe Longthorne Theatre North Pier Blackpool this Easter.

This is an Easter Panto you don’t want to miss starring the one and only Steve Royle

https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/blackpoolpiers/the-wizard-of-oz-easter-panto/e-ykqkkm

04/02/2025

Brooks Collectables and toy museum

Has anyone ever been for a look round Brooks Collectables?

At Brooks Collectables you can find all different film and tv merchandise to purchase as well as have a walk round the toy museum upstairs.

Theres some amazing items to look at from over the years and Mark who owns the shop is a great guy who has a lot of knowledge about toys and other items from over the years.

You can find Brooks Collectables at 7 Waterloo Road and it can also be accessed by going through the gift shop next door to mcdonalds on South Promenade.

If you are in Blackpool and you have a bit of spare time have a wonder in and have a walk down memory lane

You can also find Brooks Collectables on the following socials:

Facebook: [https://www.facebook.com/brooksblackpool/](https://www.facebook.com/brooksblackpool/)

instagram:

Twitter: Brookscollector

Email: [email protected]

04/02/2025

A theatre tour followed by afternoon tea ON THE STAGE! at Blackpool Grand Theatre

Wednesday 12th February - Saturday 15th February

Indulge in Elegance: A Grand Theatre Stage Experience

Join us for an extraordinary experience. Immerse yourself in the rich history and timeless elegance of this iconic venue with our exclusive Theatre Tours followed by sumptuous Afternoon Tea on the Stage.

More info and book here:
https://www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk/event/heritage-tour-afternoon-tea

03/02/2025

This weekend at McGraths Blackpool

03/02/2025

It’s time to recharge with a seaside escape…

Ten reasons to choose Partington’s Holiday Parks in Lancashire in 2025

Do you need to reconnect with the natural world and boost your wellbeing? Schedule in some much-needed downtime this year with friends and family, or just check in with yourself? You are not alone…

Partington's Holiday Parks is a family-owned business which owns and operates parks across Lancashire, the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales; all with a focus on family fun, making memorable experiences and embracing the natural environment.

Here’s ten reasons why a visit to a Partington’s Holiday Park in Lancashire is good for you in 2025:

1. Partington’s Holidays Parks across Lancashire are all located within a short distance of the county’s breathtaking countryside, rolling hills and lush green forests, as well as its stunning natural coastline and miles of golden sand – perfect for building up your Blue Health (spending quality time near water for health, healing and wellbeing purposes.)

2. Whether you fancy a stylish apartment, a luxury lodge with hot tub, or a cosy caravan - Partington’s Holiday Parks in Lancashire at Newton Hall, Windy Harbour and Broadwater have got you covered. All feature polished interiors and creature comforts for mindful relaxation. Just right for snuggling under warm blankets and losing yourself in a good book or yoga on the decking.

3. The parks themselves are also a nature lover’s paradise with plenty of local wildlife to enjoy and surrounded by beautiful greenery. Start your day with the gentle sound of birdsong, spot a curious squirrel or just breathe in all the fabulous fresh air - it’s Mother Nature at her finest!

4. It’s perfect for adventure junkies too. A healthy burst of adrenaline can pump up the immune system and increase blood flow to the muscles. Whether it’s braving the white knuckle rides of Pleasure Beach Resort, cycling the Leap of Faith at Gisburn Forest, running over the famous Fylde Coast Sand Dunes, or trying out the slopes at Ski Rossendale; Lancashire is your ultimate playground and Partington’s puts you right at the doorstep of the adventure.

5. We all know that owning pets has a positive effect on our mental health. Just petting our pooch lowers blood pressure and releases happy brain chemicals, so don’t leave them behind! Pets are just as welcome as you are at Partington’s. Explore miles of dog-friendly trails together and double the feelgood factor.

6. It’s heaven for foodie lovers. You can indulge yourself in some fabulous eating experiences right across the region. Lancashire is home to Michelin star restaurants, award-winning pubs and lots of local delights from Mrs Kirkham’s tasty Lancashire Cheese to must-try Morecambe Bay Shrimps, rich Bury Black Pudding and hearty Lancashire Hot Pot. Red cabbage optional…

7. You can relax your way in Lancashire. Want to sip wine as you gaze at the stars? Eat a lazy breakfast by the sea? Work out in the gym? Get the gang together for a fun night of bowling and much more at Newton Hall’s Walterz Entertainment Centre? Or just chill and watch a box set? Partington’s is all about letting you set the pace - whether that’s full throttle or total zen.

8. The charming seaside spot of Lytham St Annes – home to the popular Lytham Festival and Royal Lytham Golf Course, the bustling market town of Garstang and bewitching Pendle Hill are just a short drive away. Explore unique shops and fascinating heritage while you soak in the friendly Lancashire vibes. Positive social interaction increases health and happiness and provides an important sense of connection.

9. Partington’s is launching an exciting new Attractions Scheme and has teamed up with some Lancashire favourites to offer exclusive offers to lucky visitors and owners. Visit the Strictly Ballroom at Blackpool Tower, Pleasure Beach, Hole In The Wand, Showtown, Blackpool Zoo and Ascent Trampoline Park to name just a few and get everything from discounts on entry to deals on souvenirs and free VIP upgrades! Saving money makes everyone feel good…

10. All Lancashire parks offers the popular Partington’s Try Before You Buy initiative. Simply book a short break, along with a sales appointment and park tour, and if you decide to purchase following your visit, Partington’s will deduct the cost of your break from the price of your new holiday home! It’s the stress reducing gift to yourself that keeps on giving…

Partington's Holiday Parks in Lancashire offer more than just a getaway – it’s your ticket to tranquillity, adventure and a whole new sense of wellbeing by the seaside. What are you waiting for?

Partington’s Holiday Parks – a place to recharge, reconnect and rediscover yourself

For further information on Partington’s Holiday Park in Lancashire please visit www.partingtons.com and take a virtual tour of the park at www.partingtons.com/virtual-tours

03/02/2025

Giovanni – The Last Dance - Sunday 9th February at Blackpool Grand Theatre

Strictly Come Dancing professional Giovanni Pernice returns in 2025 with his tour ‘The Last Dance’.

Not many tickets left so book now!

BOOK HERE:
https://www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk/event/giovanni-the-last-dance