OK so I know it is the obvious choice being the most popular destination for travelling hens but there is a reason Blackpool is the top pick. It may be the king of kitsch and classy it certainly is not but this place is great fun and with plenty do it is a brilliant destination for a short break. There is also the fact that with so many hen parties and stags about, it is almost impossible to embarrass yourself no matter what you do!

The Pleasure Beach

No trip to Blackpool would be complete without a jaunt around the Pleasure Beach, an amusement park with plenty of rides and attractions to fill a day. The brave can experience the Big One, a giant steel coaster which was once the tallest coaster in the world. Infusion is a fun inverted coaster and there are the historic woodies, the Grand National and Big Dipper to enjoy. If you don’t mind getting a bit wet try Valhalla, a rather excellent water ride with several drops, fire, ice and the certainty of getting soaked! Being catapulted up Ice Blast is particularly amusing in a veil and L plates and then there is the craziness that is the Wild Mouse. For those looking for something a little less thrilling the new family ride, Thrill-o-Matic featuring Wallace and Gromit should suit and most people can cope with the hilarity of Steeplechase, a ridiculous ride where you sit precariously on a model horse and take a spin around an undulating track.

Sandcastle

If the thrills and spills of the Pleasure Beach are not enough excitement for one trip then try out Sandcastle, the adjacent water park. This is the UK’s largest aqua park and is packed with rides and attractions to suit all levels of bravery! Masterblaster is the nation’s longest roller coaster water slide and propels you on a thrilling journey with powerful water jets. Enjoy the thrills of Sidewinder, Montazooma and Thunder Falls and then perhaps relax for some much needed refreshment. There is also a wave pool and lazy river for extra fun without the adrenaline rush.

Blackpool Tower

This iconic structure has towered over the town since 1894. The tower is well worth a visit to take in the views of the surrounding area and coastline and the famous Tower Ballroom is a great place to unwind with afternoon tea. If you feel like a dance, take to the floor to the sound of the organ in what must be the world’s best known dance venue.

Other Attractions

You will also find Madame Tussauds, the Sealife Centre and the Blackpool Dungeons great entertainment and it is possible to purchase multi attraction tickets giving you access to all three plus the tower and ballroom. Retail therapy is always on the cards in Blackpool with a large central shopping district and all the fun of the traditional seafront with its seaside gifts and curiosity shops. Don’t get too drunk and end up in a tattoo parlour though! For some peace and a taste of tradition take a ride down the seafront in a horse and carriage or simply enjoy some time on the beach if the weather allows.

Night Life

Blackpool is a lively and often raucous place at night with dozens of pubs and restaurants to take in. After a meal and a few drinks you can hit one of the clubs to dance the night away. Choose from Flares, Club Sanuk, Rumours & Hush or Synicatesuperclub.

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Article by Sally Stacey