11 free things to do in Blackpool

Holidays can be pricey. Even if you get a fantastic deal on your campsite and travel, keeping yourselves, or even worse, the kids, entertained for a week can cost a lot more than you bargained for. However, the UK offers many free attractions you may not know about. If you are visiting Lancashire, we’ve listed some of the best free things to do in Blackpool.

1. Grundy Art Gallery

This free gallery was established after artists John and Cuthbert Grundy gave 33 works of art to the town of Blackpool in the early 1900s. Nowadays it is home to a variety of Victorian and modern paintings, photographs and pieces of art. It also hosts temporary exhibitions from other galleries and exciting contemporary artists. The Grundy Art Gallery is open Monday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm. And if you enjoy the art here, you may wish to check out Blott, a studio and gallery for local artists.

2. The Comedy Carpet

Blackpool’s world famous tower attracts thousands of tourists each year, and you’re sure to see people gazing up at the red structure. This may sound a little strange, but for a real laugh stand at the base of the tower and look down! Written in granite letters in the floor is the Comedy Carpet, a collection of the best jokes and catchphrases. It was created by artist Gordon Young in homage to entertainment.

3. Promenade

Perfect for an afternoon stroll, the promenade stretches for 2 miles along the coast. There are many things to see as you walk, including art sculptures and wonderful views of the sea!

4. The Beach

Many families choose to return to Blackpool year after year for one reason, the sandy beach! It’s a sunny, stress-free environment for you and your family. If you fancy spending a couple of pounds to keep the kids entertained, take them on a gentle donkey ride down the beach.

5. Penny Farm

If the kids enjoy the meeting the donkeys at the beach, then they will positively love Penny Farm. This World Horse Welfare charity site looks after around 60 horses and donkeys and it’s completely free to go and meet them! Located on the southern edge of Blackpool, the farm is open on Wednesdays, weekends and Bank Holidays.

6. Stanley Park

With over 250 acres of land to explore, Stanley Park is a great area for the kids to run around and play games. There are sports facilities and a boating lake with ducks and other water birds to feed. On Sunday afternoons, they also host free music in the bandstand, which provides a lovely atmosphere for a picnic.

7. Free Heritage Open Days

Take advantage of the special free events that take place in Blackpool. During the Heritage Open Days, some of the wonderful and historic buildings of Blackpool open their doors and welcome visitors, so make use of these days to explore the city! Check the Live Blackpool website for the most current list of events and dates. 

8. Piers

Blackpool has two free piers, the Central Pier and the South Pier. You can also visit the North Pier, but this has an admission charge of 50 pence. All three piers host fun traditional arcades and kids will be kept easily entertained by the penny machines!

9. Solaris Centre

For families in search of an educational day out, the Solaris Centre provides hands-on learning about climate change and the environment. It’s located on the South Promenade and is all on a single floor, so it has easy access.

10. Marton Mere Nature Reserve

On the outskirts of Blackpool is the Marton Mere Nature Reserve. A tranquil escape from the business of the city, it is a supportive home to many wild birds. Keep an eye out for dragonflies and butterflies as you take a gentle stroll through the orchids.

11. Illuminations

By far the most famous and popular attraction of Blackpool are the Illuminations. They light up the city from the end of August until November and attract more than three million people each year.

Holidays do not need to be expensive. Staying in a campsite will reduce the cost of accommodation considerably. If you are holidaying near Blackpool, there is a huge choice of free activities to keep you and your family entertained.