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15 Best Free Things To Do In Blackpool

blackpool at night
Family Days Out For Less - VIP PassFamily Days Out For Less - VIP Pass

If you’re on the lookout for some unforgettable family fun without breaking the bank, you’ve hit the jackpot! Blackpool, that dazzling gem of the English coast, is bursting with exciting free activities that will keep smiles on everyone’s faces. From sandy shores to iconic sights, let’s dive into best 15 free things to do in Blackpool that are perfect for families.

Blackpool is THE seaside resort that’s the perfect destination for school holidays. Full of Blackpool attractions that are super FUN and exciting, you’re guaranteed to have an amazing time.

Let’s dive in!

blackpool beach

Sandy Toes Galore at Blackpool Beach

Grab your buckets and spades, because a day at the beach is an absolute must!

The iconic Blackpool Beach offers golden sands, rolling waves, and endless sandcastle possibilities. Dip your toes in the sea, have a paddle and soak in the sunshine (if we have any!).

Or stroll along the beach with an ice cream in hand and maybe stop off for some fresh fish and chips!

blackpool beach

Explore The Golden Mile

Blackpool’s Golden Mile is a plethora of family fun and holiday-making memories.

From an array of tasty restaurants and fast-food stalls to bingo halls, amusement arcades and your traditional seaside entertainment!

Choose a spot to stop and take in the views of Blackpool Tower and the beautiful views. Or watch the sand surfers and the rush of the waves.

It’s the ideal destination for school holidays and weekend getaways!

blackpool promenade at night

Stroll Along the Promenade

The Promenade isn’t just a walkway – it’s a gateway to adventure!

Take a leisurely stroll and soak up the stunning views of the sea, as well as the iconic Blackpool Tower.

From the Spanish steps, sandy beaches and beautiful views across the Irish Sea, it’s the ideal beach holiday and getaway.

Not forgetting the amazing amusement park – Coral Island! It’s the largest free admission attraction around! Full of hidden treasures, arcade fun, family rides and eats kids FREE all day, every day!

Find out more

Search for Elmer on the Elmer Trail

Elmer and 30 of his uniquely decorated friends will form the biggest-ever public art trail Blackpool has seen!
The sculptures, which will be sponsored by businesses and organisations, will be placed around key landmarks, streets, and open spaces across Blackpool to form a free walking trail.
Elmer’s Big Parade Blackpool is open to everyone and they hope that as many people as possible will explore all or parts of the fully-accessible trail over the spring!

Vibrant Playground at Stanley Park

Want to find somewhere built with a mixture of what makes Blackpool, Blackpool?

Come along to Stanley Park! A haven of family fun. From skate parks, boat rides, Italian Gardens, playgrounds, picnic spots, and crazy golf it’s the perfect place for a sunny day out.

Explore for free and even pop along for special events – like the classic car shows!

Did you know there’s over 390 acres to explore at Stanley Park?

comedy carpet lights

Blackpool's Comedy Carpet

Prepare for giggles galore at the Comedy Carpet, a gigantic homage to British comedy located right in front of the Blackpool Tower.

It features creative pieces of art that’s as amusing as it is impressive. And it’s one of the largest public art pieces in the UK. From jokes, songs and catchphrases to some of Britain’s best comedians – it’s an absolute hoot to witness and experience.

woman sitting down at a gallery looking at paintings
Delve into Blackpool’s rich cultural heritage at the Grundy Art Gallery. First established due to John and Cuthbert Grundy giving 33 pieces of artwork to Blackpool. A fantastic 2,000 pieces have now been further added!

You and the family can marvel at contemporary art and explore the town’s artistic side – it’s bound to spark some creativity in the little ones.

From artwork created by watercolours or Victorian oils, it’s a spectacle in itself. Especially for any budding artists out there.

Shape Location Get directions

Queen St, Blackpool FY1 1PU

Opening Times

Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 16:45
Sunday Closed

Find out more
blackpool pier at sunset

Family Adventures at Blackpool's Piers

Take a breezy stroll along the iconic Blackpool piers – did you know there’s 3 piers?! North Pier, Central Pier and South Pier.

Full of family entertainment, arcade games, dazzling lights, golden sandy beaches and that classic seaside charm.

It’s an absolute treasure to explore and you’re always guaranteed a lovely time together here.

market stalls

Fleetwood Market Fun

Just a short trip from Blackpool, the Fleetwood Market offers a vibrant and bustling atmosphere. This busy seaside market holds over 150 stalls with heated halls – so you can come rain or shine.

Browse through a treasure trove of stalls offering everything from crafts to local produce! It’s a shopper’s paradise and you’ll also find puppet shows for the kids.

They also hold special events throughout the year too! So, keep an eye out.

Shape Location Get directions

Adelaide Street, Fleetwood, Lancashire, FY7 6AB

Opening Times

Tuesday and Thursday - Saturday 09:00 - 16:30

beautiful gardens

Hike up to Jubilee Gardens

Ready for a little adventure? Hike up to Jubilee Gardens for a spectacular view of the coastline. Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing family lunch with a view that’s second to none.

It’s also been revamped recently and now features a skate park, a hard court for ball games and a children’s play area!

Shape Location Get directions

32 North Promenade, Cleveleys, Thornton-Cleveleys FY5 1DW

Opening Times

Monday to Sunday 09:00 - 17:00

blackpool tower

Marvel At Colourful Fireworks

Have you ever heard of the World’s Fireworks Championship? Now you have!

This fantastic event brings together the very best of firework geniuses who will showcase jaw-dropping entertainment for 3 nights only!

These outrageous and beautiful fireworks displays sounded to the beat of the music and will take over the beach in front of The Blackpool Tower. And best of all…it’s FREE to enjoy.

Don’t miss out!

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alice in wonderland

Blackpool Illuminations

During the autumn months, Blackpool comes alive with the famous Illuminations.

A drive along the Promenade at night becomes a dazzling spectacle of Blackpool lights, colours, and creativity. It’s bold, brash and catches your eye, it’s the world’s biggest free light show around.

This fantastic festival attracts over 4 million visitors every year and has become a part of Blackpool’s iconic culture and spans a whopping 6 miles!

It’s the best free thing to do in Blackpool!

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nature reserve in blackpool

Spot Wildlife at Marton Mere Local Nature Reserve

Nature enthusiasts, rejoice! Marton Mere is a haven for wildlife lovers.

Explore walking trails, discover bird hides, and keep your eyes peeled for local critters. From ethereal dragonflies and butterflies to elusive bats and elegant growing orchids.

Wander through pockets of woodlands and stop for a moment as you gaze over the open water and reed beds. Ahh…peaceful. 

Shape Location Get directions

Off Lawson Road and East Park Drive, Blackpool FY4 4XN

Opening Times

Open 24 hours

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a pony

Visit Penny Farm

Round off your Blackpool adventure with a light-hearted animal adventure! Say hello to over 60 horses at Penny Farm in the undercover barn and pop by the ponies too!

If you fancy a bit of a walk, you can enjoy one of two farm strolls! An activity trail where you can see the adorable animals, and farm environment and you can learn all about the wild birds and animals that live here too.

Then when you’re feeling peckish, head over to the cafe for some fresh cakes and bakes!

Shape Location Get directions

World Horse Welfare Penny Farm, Preston New Rd, Blackpool FY4 5JS

Opening Times

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday Closed
Wednesday and Weekends 11:00 - 16:00

Find out more
kids at the museum

Fascinating Fleetwood Museum

If your family loves history, a visit to Fleetwood Museum is a must. Learn about the town’s maritime history, view captivating exhibits, and even enjoy interactive displays.

You can even deep dive into the story of Fisherman’s Friend!

They also hold free craft activities for your buddy artists!

Shape Location Get directions

6-7 Queen’s Terrace, Fleetwood, Lancashire FY7 6BT

Opening Times

Tuesday - Saturday 10:30am - 4pm
4th April - 2nd December

Pricing

Free for children. Adults £3.00

Find out more
model village in blackpool

Blackpool Model Village & Gardens

Explore The Model Village, an award-winning attraction that opened in 1972! Observe over 100 creative village scenes that are as imaginative as the last. Wander around beautiful gardens and along walkways, as you take it all in.

From handcrafted models and figurines to tapestries and thatched cottages!

It’s unique as it is cool!

Shape Location Get directions

East Park Drive, Blackpool, Lancashire, FY3 9RB

Opening Times

Monday to Sunday 09:30 - 16:30

Pricing

Free for children under 2
Adult £9.95
Child £7.25

Find out more

So, there you have it – 15 best free things to do in Blackpool, to dive into while exploring the vibrant and dynamic seaside town. Whether you’re building sandcastles, exploring art galleries, or soaking up the sea breeze and wonderful views. There’s no shortage of fun to be had.

Looking for more Blackpool attractions? You can explore your wild side at Blackpool Zoo, adrenaline seekers can let loose at Blackpool Pleasure Beach, or head up to new heights at Blackpool Tower Eye!