The Big One
Britain's most iconic hypercoaster: 235 feet of pure adrenaline and unforgettable views.
The Big One is a legendary steel hypercoaster at Blackpool Pleasure Beach, standing 235 feet tall with a thrilling 62-meter drop at 65 degrees. Opened in 1994 as the world's tallest roller coaster, this iconic ride features a 5,497-foot track, speeds reaching 85 mph, and delivers an unforgettable 3-minute experience with up to 3.5 G-forces. A must-ride for coaster enthusiasts and thrill-seekers visiting England's most famous amusement park.
A brief summary to The Big One
- 525, Ocean Boulevard, Blackpool, FY4 1EZ, GB
- +443330032212
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-5 pm
- Thursday 11 am-5 pm
- Friday 11 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early in the day to experience shorter queues, particularly on weekdays during shoulder seasons (March to May, September to October). The ride often reaches peak wait times of 60+ minutes during summer holidays and weekends.
- Book your ticket online in advance to secure significantly discounted prices—online rates start from £35 compared to £50 on the day. Prices are demand-based and increase as your visit date approaches.
- Sit in the front row for the most intense experience with unobstructed views of the drop and surrounding landscape. Back-row seats provide a different sensation with more airtime over the hills.
- The park operates seasonally from March through November. Check opening times before visiting, as hours vary significantly—gates typically open at 10 or 11 am with closing times between 5 and 7 pm depending on the season.
- Consider purchasing a Speedy Pass (approximately £12 per person) during peak times to skip standard queues, though this adds to your overall visit cost. Alternatively, visit during quieter months like February, September, or November.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train from Blackpool North Station
From Blackpool North railway station, take the tram (Blackpool Tramway) heading south toward Pleasure Beach. The journey takes approximately 15–20 minutes depending on stops. The tram terminates near the park entrance. Alternatively, a taxi from the station takes 10–15 minutes. Train services operate regularly throughout the day with varying frequency depending on the season.
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Car with Parking
Drive to Pleasure Beach Resort at 525 Ocean Boulevard, Blackpool FY4 1EZ. The park has dedicated parking facilities on-site and nearby. Parking typically costs £6–£8 for the day depending on the season and advance booking. The site is accessible via the A5038 coastal road. Parking can fill quickly during peak summer weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
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Bus from Blackpool Town Centre
Multiple bus routes serve Blackpool Pleasure Beach from the town centre and surrounding areas. Journey times range from 15–25 minutes depending on your starting point and route. Local buses are frequent and affordable, typically costing £2–£4 per journey. Check local transport maps for the most direct route to the South Shore area where the park is located.
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Walking from Blackpool Seafront
If staying along Blackpool's seafront promenade, the park is accessible via a scenic 20–40 minute walk along the coast depending on your starting point. The route is flat and well-signposted, following the beachfront south toward the Pleasure Beach. This is a pleasant option in good weather and allows you to enjoy views of the Irish Sea and Blackpool's iconic landmarks.
The Big One location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Big One
A Record-Breaking Icon Takes Flight
The Big One transformed Blackpool's skyline when it opened on 28 May 1994, claiming the title of world's tallest roller coaster at 235 feet. Designed by legendary engineer Ron Toomer and manufactured by Arrow Dynamics, this steel hypercoaster cost £12 million to construct—a monumental investment that saw its tubular track and supports airlifted from Bolton and temporarily stored at Blackpool Airport before assembly. The ride held its height record until 1996 when Fujiyama opened in Japan, yet The Big One remains an engineering marvel and one of the most impressive coasters in the United Kingdom.Spine-Tingling Specifications and Thrills
Riders experience an extraordinary combination of scale and intensity. The coaster reaches a maximum speed of 85 mph while subjecting passengers to positive G-forces of up to 3.5 Gs and negative G-forces of 0.5 Gs. The track stretches over a mile in length at 5,497 feet, making it one of the longest coaster experiences you'll find anywhere. The signature first drop plunges 62 meters at a stomach-churning 65-degree angle, creating an immediate rush of adrenaline as the train enters a quarter-right turn. The entire ride lasts approximately 3 minutes, with three trains carrying five cars each, accommodating up to 1,650 riders per hour.The Ascent and the View
As your train climbs the lift hill, height markers appear every 50 feet, visually reinforcing your rising elevation and building anticipation with each metre gained. From the summit, the panoramic vistas across the Fylde Coast stretch before you—on clear days, you can see the Irish Sea glinting in the distance, the iconic Blackpool Tower standing sentinel to your left, and the world's largest mirrorball catching the light. This moment of suspended calm before the plunge makes the subsequent drop all the more dramatic.Engineering Excellence and Ongoing Preservation
Since the 2019–2020 off-season, Blackpool Pleasure Beach has undertaken a comprehensive retracking programme, with sections of the original 1994 track replaced each year by British company Taziker. This meticulous maintenance ensures the ride remains safe, smooth, and thrilling for new generations of riders. The coaster's tubular steel design and innovative support structure have proven their durability across three decades, allowing The Big One to hold its own against modern competition while retaining its distinctive character and charm.Cultural Legacy and Cinematic Moments
The Big One has transcended its role as a theme park attraction to become a cultural landmark. The ride featured prominently in the film A Monster Calls, cementing its place in British cinema. For locals and regular visitors, The Big One represents a rite of passage—many Blackpool residents watched it being constructed as children and have returned countless times throughout their lives, creating lasting memories on its distinctive trains.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Blackpool Town Hall
3.3 km
Historic Jacobean-style Blackpool Town Hall, a civic landmark with grand clock tower and rich heritage in the heart of Talbot Square.
Blackpool War Memorial
3.4 km
A towering seafront cenotaph where Blackpool honours its fallen, blending solemn remembrance with the rhythm of the Irish Sea.
Stanley Park
3.8 km
Discover the tranquility of Stanley Park in Blackpool, an exquisite park and garden offering lush landscapes, recreational activities, and family-friendly fun.
Everything Blackpool
4.2 km
Blackpool's vibrant main artery connecting seaside charm with urban energy and LGBTQ+ pride.
Lytham Windmill
8.9 km
Explore Lytham Windmill, a historic attraction that embodies the maritime heritage and scenic beauty of Lytham's coastline.
Marsh Mill
9.9 km
Experience the rich history and stunning architecture of Marsh Mill, a captivating historical landmark in Thornton-Cleveleys, perfect for all tourists.
Rossall Point Watch Tower
14.9 km
Discover stunning coastal views and rich maritime history at Rossall Point Watch Tower in Fleetwood, a must-visit destination for tourists.
National Trust - Rufford Old Hall
23.2 km
Explore the historical beauty of Rufford Old Hall, a stunning Tudor manor offering rich heritage, beautiful gardens, and a glimpse into England's past.
Avenham and Miller Park
23.5 km
Experience the lush landscapes and serene beauty of Avenham and Miller Park, a tranquil retreat in Preston perfect for nature lovers and leisurely strolls.
Preston Cenotaph
23.6 km
A dignified and beautifully restored memorial in Preston’s Central Park, honoring the city’s fallen soldiers with solemnity and grace.
Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library
23.7 km
Explore the rich history and vibrant artistry at the Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library in Preston, a must-visit cultural hub for every traveler.
Lostock Hall Henge
24.8 km
Discover the ancient mysteries of Lostock Hall Henge, a serene archaeological gem in Preston, perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Brock Valley Picnic Site
26.2 km
Experience the tranquility of nature at Brock Valley Picnic Site – the perfect picnic spot in Claughton for families and nature lovers alike.
Cuerden Valley Park
27.7 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and serene trails of Cuerden Valley Park, a cherished natural retreat in Lancashire.
Heskin Hall Shopping Village
28.1 km
Explore Heskin Hall Shopping Village: A delightful blend of boutiques, cafes, and local artistry in a serene countryside setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Steeplechase
0.1 km
Experience the thrilling horse-racing coaster that blends vintage charm with adrenaline at Blackpool Pleasure Beach’s iconic Steeplechase.
Avalanche
0.1 km
Experience the thrilling twists and turns of Avalanche, Blackpool Pleasure Beach’s unique bobsled roller coaster that delivers fast-paced fun for all ages.
Revolution
0.1 km
Experience Europe's first looping launched coaster with thrilling forward and backward loops at Blackpool Pleasure Beach.
Nickelodeon Land
0.1 km
A vibrant Nickelodeon-themed family playground within Blackpool's iconic seaside amusement park, bursting with colorful rides and character fun.
Big Dipper
0.2 km
Experience a century of thrills on Big Dipper, Blackpool’s iconic wooden roller coaster with vintage charm and exhilarating drops.
Nickelodeon Streak
0.2 km
A charming wooden coaster in Nickelodeon Land offering family-friendly thrills and classic amusement park fun at Blackpool Pleasure Beach.
The Horror Crypt
0.2 km
Explore Blackpool’s immersive horror museum blending authentic film props with thrilling interactive scares for a uniquely chilling experience.
The Ghost Train
0.2 km
Step into the world’s first ghost train, a classic two‑level dark ride at Blackpool Pleasure Beach, where glowing skeletons and spooky scenes have thrilled families since 1930.
Ripley's Believe It Or Not, Blackpool
0.3 km
Where the weird is wonderful—explore eight galleries of global oddities and interactive curiosities.
Grand National
0.3 km
Experience the thrill of Europe’s only twin-track racing wooden coaster at Blackpool Pleasure Beach, a historic ride since 1935.
Flying Machines
0.3 km
Take flight on one of Europe’s oldest amusement rides, where vintage charm meets timeless seaside thrills above Blackpool Pleasure Beach.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach
0.3 km
Experience thrilling rides, family fun, and seaside charm at Blackpool Pleasure Beach, the UK’s iconic amusement park on the Lancashire coast.
Heritage Tram Tours
0.4 km
Step aboard vintage trams to experience Blackpool’s historic seaside charm and dazzling Illuminations in a nostalgic coastal journey.
Sandcastle Waterpark
0.6 km
Dive into the UK’s largest indoor waterpark with 18 thrilling slides and tropical fun for all ages on Blackpool’s iconic promenade.
Mirror Ball
0.7 km
A giant rotating mirror ball on Blackpool’s South Promenade, dazzling by day and glowing with a vibrant light show by night.
Essential places to dine
White Tower Restaurant
0.4 km
Elegant British dining with stunning sea views on Blackpool’s iconic promenade, perfect for all tastes and occasions.
Ambrosini's
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at Ambrosini's, Blackpool’s cherished Sicilian restaurant with generous portions and cozy charm.
Italio
0.7 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors in Blackpool with warm hospitality and expertly crafted pizzas at Italio.
TOPO
0.8 km
Cozy tapas and European kitchen in Blackpool delivering flavorful dishes with friendly service and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Eating Inn
1.0 km
Family-run steakhouse on Blackpool’s South Shore serving prime aged British beef in a cozy, historic setting with warm hospitality.
Casa Franco
1.0 km
Authentic Italian dining with seaside charm on Blackpool’s Promenade, perfect for families and food lovers seeking fresh pasta and wood-fired pizzas.
LITES DINER On The Prom
1.3 km
Classic comfort food and warm hospitality await at Lites Diner, a cozy seaside spot on Blackpool’s vibrant promenade.
Le Sorelle Italian Restaurant and Takeaway
1.3 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality combine at Le Sorelle, Blackpool’s cozy spot for handcrafted pasta, pizza, and family-friendly dining.
Eat Italian
1.8 km
Cozy Italian eatery in Blackpool serving authentic, flavorful dishes with warm hospitality and excellent value.
The Buccaneer
2.8 km
Lively British pub dining with family-friendly classics and a playful pirate theme inside Blackpool’s Coral Island arcade.
Beach House Bistro & Bar
3.1 km
Stylish seaside bistro and bar in Blackpool offering fresh seafood, stunning Irish Sea views, and a vibrant Mediterranean-inspired atmosphere.
Vintro Lounge
3.2 km
Eclectic vintage charm meets inclusive dining with extensive vegan and gluten-free menus in the heart of Blackpool’s vibrant town centre.
Amaro
3.2 km
Authentic Italian flavors served generously in a stylish, welcoming setting near Blackpool’s Winter Gardens.
West Coast Rock Cafe
3.2 km
Lively American diner with hearty meals, live music, and a retro vibe in the heart of Blackpool’s entertainment district.
JK's CAFÉ & GRILL
3.2 km
A welcoming British café and grill in Blackpool known for hearty home-cooked meals, generous portions, and friendly service at great value.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
ICON Shop
0.0 km
Discover unique Blackpool souvenirs and ride-themed gifts at the vibrant ICON Shop within Blackpool Pleasure Beach.
Nick Shop
0.2 km
Explore unique souvenirs and local crafts at Nick Shop, your go-to souvenir store on Blackpool's Ocean Boulevard.
Kiss Me Quick
0.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts at Kiss Me Quick, the must-visit gift shop in Blackpool's vibrant Ocean Boulevard.
Fantastic Gifts
0.7 km
Discover an eclectic mix of gifts, collectibles, and airsoft supplies with friendly service on Blackpool’s lively Promenade.
Gold Boutique
0.9 km
Discover the latest womenswear trends and personalized style at Gold Boutique, Blackpool’s charming fashion destination.
I Collectables
1.0 km
Discover a vibrant collection of toys and geek culture memorabilia at Blackpool’s welcoming I Collectables shop on Bond Street.
The Range
1.2 km
Explore Blackpool’s expansive home and lifestyle store offering unbeatable variety, pet-friendly shopping, and great value all under one roof.
Blackpool Retail Park
1.9 km
A modern mixed-use retail and leisure park in Cork offering diverse shopping, dining, cinema, and free parking in a vibrant urban setting.
Golden Mile Gifts & Souvenirs
2.4 km
Affordable and friendly seaside souvenir shop offering classic Blackpool gifts along the vibrant Golden Mile Promenade.
Coronation Rock Co. Ltd.
2.9 km
Discover traditional British rock sweets and nostalgic flavors at Coronation Rock Co. Ltd., a charming sweetshop in the heart of Blackpool.
Menkind
3.0 km
A fun, gadget-filled gift shop in Blackpool’s Houndshill Centre, specialising in unique presents for men, dads, and friends.
i CANDi
3.0 km
Curated handbags and shoes with personalized service in Blackpool's town center.
Beau Belle Boutique
3.2 km
Discover vibrant vintage fashion and inclusive retro styles at Beau Belle Boutique, Blackpool’s charming destination for joyful and quality clothing.
Pink Poison
3.2 km
Discover unique women's fashion with friendly service at Pink Poison, a cozy boutique in Blackpool's vibrant Church Street.
Jawa Unique Toys
3.2 km
Discover Blackpool’s premier vintage and modern toy shop, where every collectible is a working piece of nostalgia and joy.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Velvet Coaster - JD Wetherspoon
0.6 km
Spacious three-floor seafront pub blending Blackpool heritage with modern comfort and panoramic Irish Sea views.
The Gin House
0.7 km
Lively seaside bar on Blackpool’s South Pier with soul music, sports screens, and stunning sea views for a vibrant coastal experience.
The Bridge
1.7 km
A lively Blackpool bar blending traditional pub charm with vibrant cabaret and karaoke nights for fun-filled evenings.
THE HAPPY SCOTS BAR
2.0 km
A lively Blackpool karaoke bar with cheap drinks, friendly faces, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Ma Kelly’s
2.2 km
Experience Blackpool’s vibrant live music and karaoke scene at Ma Kelly’s, where fun, friendly vibes and great entertainment come together.
Spyglass Bar
2.8 km
Experience Blackpool’s sleek James Bond-themed bar with crafted cocktails, sea views, and a relaxed, stylish atmosphere on the Promenade.
The Albert & The Lion - JD Wetherspoon
2.9 km
Historic seafront pub offering classic British ales, hearty meals, and lively atmosphere near Blackpool Tower.
Albert's Ale Micropub & Wine Bar
3.0 km
Cozy cellar micropub in Blackpool offering quality real ales, ciders, and wines in a friendly, dog-friendly atmosphere at great prices.
Scruffy Murphys
3.2 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality, hearty homemade food, and lively entertainment at Scruffy Murphy's in the heart of Blackpool.
Revolution Blackpool
3.2 km
Lively lounge and restaurant in central Blackpool, offering modern cocktails, vibrant nightlife, and a stylish party atmosphere.
Dirty Blondes
3.2 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Blackpool offering creative drinks, vegan-friendly eats, and a lively social atmosphere.
Brannigans
3.2 km
Experience Blackpool’s vibrant nightlife at Brannigans, a multi-level bar and club buzzing with energy and modern style on Market Street.
Shenanigans
3.2 km
Lively Irish pub on Blackpool Promenade offering spirited nights, friendly faces, and classic seaside fun with music and karaoke.
Yates - Market Street Blackpool
3.2 km
Lively sports bar and nightclub in Blackpool’s heart, blending casual pub dining with vibrant nightlife and unbeatable sports coverage.
Le Plonk Wine Bar
3.2 km
Cozy wine bar in Blackpool’s Cedar Square offering a warm atmosphere, diverse wines, and lively indoor-outdoor social spaces.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Adrenaline-pumping
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Skyline
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Viral Moments
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
