What to do in Blackpool while house and pet sitting

Looking for some good old fashioned, seaside fun? Look no further than Blackpool. The entertainment capital of Lancashire is famous for its three piers, old-time amusements and iconic illuminations. It’s also the unofficial home of great sunsets! Ready to discover the best things to do in Blackpool? Our handy guide has you sorted...

Blackpool attractions

From the historic theatre to the iconic promenade, these are our top things to do in Blackpool in terms of attractions. 

1. Blackpool Tower: If there’s one thing you associate with the famous seaside resort, it’s the Blackpool Tower. The Eiffel Tower-inspired tower stands 158-metres high and still holds the record for being the highest man-made observation point in the North West. Catch the lift to the top to get a stunning view along the promenade and Irish Sea. If you catch it on a clear day you can even see glimpses of the Lake District. 

2. Blackpool Tramway: A mainstay of the promenade, the Blackpool tramway is the last of the UK’s first generation of tramways. Hop aboard one of the many elegant old trams on weekends, bank holidays as well as during the famous illuminations (more on that later) in the autumn. 

3. Grand Theatre: Take in a show at the historic Grand Theatre. One of two iconic entertainment venues, the Grand was designed to be “the prettiest theatre in the land”. And pretty it is with its mesmerising Baroque ceiling, cherubs and intricate gilded plasterwork. 

Free things to do in Blackpool 

Looking for free things to do in Blackpool? Here are our top three favourites: 

1. Blackpool Beach: One of the top beach resorts in all of the UK, Blackpool’s seven miles of clean, flat sand won’t disappoint. On the central beach is where you’ll find the hustle and bustle, while on the quieter North side near the North Pier is a great place for gentle strolls. Whether you’re after a soothing paddle in the sea or just want to enjoy the seaside views, you’ll love this well-kept beach.  

2. Stanley Park: Grade II listed Stanley Park covers a massive 390 acres with picturesque gardens, a boating lake and ornamental bridges. Enjoy a woodland walk around the lake or take in some of the stunning architecture. One of the favourites is the Cocker Clock Tower – complete with two bronze lion head drinking fountains. 

3. The Piers: Blackpool has three Victorian piers along its coastline – North Pier, Central Pier and South Pier. Each pier is different so if you have time during your stay, it’s great to see them all. The North is the oldest of the three and features a Venetian Carousel and Helter-Skelter. Central Pier is home to one of Blackpool's most iconic landmarks, The Big Wheel, offering views of Fylde Coast at the top. Whilst the South Pier’s main attraction is the Adrenalin Zone, designed for thrill seekers with the Skyscreamer rollercoaster and reverse Bungee. 

Fun things to do in Blackpool

Even if you’re only there for a flying visit, these Blackpool attractions are worth a visit during your stay. 

1. Blackpool Pleasure Beach: Scream if you want to go faster! Old-school amusement park Pleasure Beach is home to the tallest and steepest rollercoaster in the UK, appropriately named The Big One. The park is extremely densely populated when it comes to rides so it’s easy to get through them all, and there’s a great mixture of white-knuckle and traditional rides to enjoy. 

2. Blackpool Promenade: Blackpool’s Victorian Promenade is divided into three main areas: North Shore, Central and South Shore. The North Shore is the quieter, more historic section with picturesque green Victorian shelters, while the Central area boasts the town's main attractions extending into the South. A few of the highlights of the Promenade include The Comedy Carpet, a tribute to the town’s comedic past and the Promenade Show, an outdoor art gallery with ten unique installations including the striking dance hall mirror ball covered in 47,000 sparkling mirrors.  

3. Winter Gardens: The Winter Gardens is Blackpool’s second iconic entertainment venue with both a theatre and ballroom. Throughout the year there’s a great variety of exhibitions, festivals and shows to enjoy. Don’t forget to pay a visit to the Mazzei Cafe for a spot of tea and appreciate the beautiful architecture. 

What to do in Blackpool with pets

Here at TrustedHousesitters we obviously love a pet-friendly activity and you’re in luck with Blackpool! Here are three of the best dog friendly things to do in Blackpool that you can’t afford to miss:

1. Fleetwood: A short trip away via ferry or tram, Fleetwood, is one of the most dog-friendly towns in Lancashire. The Victorian seaside resort boasts a beautiful promenade, Art Deco Theatre and marina as well as lots of pup-friendly shops and a market. Many of Fleetwood’s cafes and eateries also happily welcome dogs. 

2. Blackpool Illuminations: If you’re visiting Blackpool between September and January you must experience the world-famous light displays. The 6-mile seafront walk is a great opportunity to take your latest pup out for a stroll to remember. 

3. Witch Wood: Looking for a great walking trail? Hidden gem Witch Wood is one of the most popular dog walks in Blackpool. The picturesque woodland trail is on the Fylde coast in Lytham St Annes and is the ideal spot to get away from the noise of Blackpool’s lively centre.  

Best restaurants in Blackpool: Food and drink

On the hunt for the best restaurants in Blackpool? From artisan coffee shops and traditional seaside fare to international cuisine in a spectacular beachside setting, there’s so much to devour. 

1. Hive: Independent coffee shop and bistro Hive is just a stone's throw away from the iconic Winter Gardens and Grand Theatre. Get your caffeine fix with a range of artisan coffees or pop over when you’re peckish for a filled croissant, burrito or hot gourmet sandwich. 

2. Blackpool Fish Factory: We couldn't write about eats in Blackpool without mentioning a good old fashioned chippy. The Fish Factory uses fresh, not frozen, fish daily and freshly chipped potatoes to create their traditional chips. Don’t fancy fish and chips? Try one of their famous steak sandwiches. 

3. Michael Wan’s Wok Inn: Located in a stunning seafront building opposite the popular North Pier, Michael Wan’s Wok Inn specialises in street food-inspired Asian fare including delicious Ramen, donburi and mouth watering small plates. Grab yourself a bowl of tasty noodles, a cold one and watch the sunset by the sea. 

What to do in Blackpool while house and pet sitting

So, that concludes our ‘what to do in Blackpool’ guide. Of course, there is so much more to do and see in Lancashire’s bustling entertainment town, but we’re confident you have enough inspiration for top sights and Blackpool attractions to tide you over during your visit. Ready to start exploring? Head over here to find your next pet sit.