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Blackpool on a Budget
At first glance Blackpool can look like an expensive resort, but it does not have to be that way. There are plenty of free things to do throughout the resort and you may be surprised about some of them.
On the Prom
The prom is a great place at any time of the year. Even when its cold, wet and windy there are lots to do.
On a nice warm day why not take a stroll down on of the three piers. They are all free today, however in the passed you had to pay to walk down the North Pier.
You could spend the day on the beach building sandcastles and paddling in the sea. If you need a bucket and spade there are plenty of cheap options.
Fancy a laugh? Then why not visit the Comedy Carpet. Situated on the Prom opposite the tower this art installation is full of great comedy quotes that will have you rolling around in stitches for hours.
If the weather is a little cold,wet or windy then head into the arcades. Just give the kids a pound of 2p's each and they will have a few minutes if fun.
Take a look around the Tower. It is free to go in and stroll about, but if you want to experience any of the attractions you will have to pay. This is a great way to do it as you can decide what you want to do while you are there, but this can cost you more in the long run if you decide to pay for everything. My advice is to take a look at the website before you go and if you want to do anything in the Tower pre-book your tickets as you will save money.
Situated just off the South Prom on Waterloo Road you will find a lovely shop that sells collectables. Brooks Collectables also houses a Museum that has free entry. Just be sure to check opening times as the Museum is not open everyday.
September and October
One of the best free attractions in Blackpool is the Illuminations.This light display is turned in in September and usually lasts 6 weeks although they had them on for about 8 week in 2013. They light up 6 miles of the sea front and if its not to bad a night a stroll is a great way to get to enjoy them. Be aware that it can be busy and traffic will be built up most of the way along the route.
Town Center Area
The Town center is abuzz with lots of great shops and a few attractions to boot.
The seaward side of the town center is full of the cheap shops that sell the top brands at reasonable prices so there is no need to splash the cash when you need something to drink. There are also a great many eating places and you are sure to find one that suits the budget.
The Grundy Art Gallery is a great place for art lovers and is free to enter making it a great choice for families on a budget.
Inland
Stanley Park
Moving inland there is a great park just over a mile from the sea front. It is easy to get to on foot and there are lots of fun to be had once you are there.
Attractions that will not break the Bank
Attraction
| Price
| Value For Money
|
|---|---|---|
South Pier
| Free
| Yes
|
Central Pier
| Free
| Yes
|
North Pier
| Free
| Yes
|
The Beach
| Free
| Yes
|
Stanley Park
| Free
| Yes
|
Tower (No attractions)
| Free
| Yes
|
Tower Top (On Day)
| £12.95 Adult
| No
|
Tower Circus (On Day)
| £12.95 Cheapest Adult
| No
|
Tower (All Attractions) (On Day)
| £51.80 Adult
| Better than individual prices
|
Tower (All Attractions) (Online)
| £30 Adult
| Yes
|
Illuminations
| Free
| Yes
|
Brookes Collectables and Museum
| Free
| Yes
|
It is better to buy your Attraction tickets before you go as it will save you allot of money in the long run.
More Information on Blackpool's Attractions
- Visiting The Fylde Coast
Fylde in Lancaster is home to Blackpool, one of the biggest resorts in Europe. But there is More to the area than the hustle and bustle of the areas biggest attraction. - Things to do in Blackpool, England
Blackpool has been a holiday destination of choice since the mid 18th century. It has grown from a small hamlet by the sea into a bustling seaside town. - Blackpool Tower
A history of one of the UK's most iconic landmarks. - St Annes-on-Sea,England
Looking for a holiday destination on the West Coast of England, but don't like the idea of the hustle and bustle that is Blackpool? Well just a few miles south lies St Annes a quieter alternative. - The UK's Top Theme Parks
What are the best Theme Parks in the UK
How to Save Money on Attractions
The best way to save money on the attractions is to book and pay for your tickets before you go. There are a few different options depending on what you wish do do during your stay. I have provided links to the Booking sites below for you.
- Blackpool Resort Pass, Visit Blackpool
The Blackpool Resort Pass is a new ticket designed to bring you the best of Blackpool in one easy ticket at great value for money. It can save you from £35 to more than £50 per person. - Ticket Prices at the Blackpool Tower | Best Price Guarantee
Find the cheapest ticket options to the Merlin attractions when you book online, the more you see the more you save - Prices | Blackpool Pleasure Beach
Blackpool Pleasure Beach Price Guide.
My Advice
Plan your holiday
- Choose your attractions in advance
- Get advance tickets if you can. (Most Blackpool attractions offer this)
- Get to know where the attractions are in relation to your accomodation. (This will help you plan your day.)
Search around Online for the best deals on accommodation and attraction prices. You will be amazed at the amount of money you could save just by booking Online in advance.
And don't forget to take advantage of the free attractions, especially the free access to the tower as the views from the terraces are pretty good.
