The Heart of Blackpool: Central Pier
Experience the thrill of rides and entertainment at Central Pier, Blackpool's vibrant seaside attraction, home to the famous Big Wheel and live performances.
Central Pier in Blackpool is a vibrant hub of entertainment, where visitors can enjoy thrilling rides, delightful amusements, and captivating performances. This iconic seaside attraction offers family fun with its famous Big Wheel, arcades, and live shows, making it a must-visit destination for tourists seeking an unforgettable experience on the British coast.
A brief summary to Central Pier
- Promenade, Blackpool, FY1 5BB, GB
- +441253623422
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds for a more enjoyable experience.
- Check the schedule for live performances to catch a show while you're there.
- Take a ride on the Big Wheel during sunset for stunning views of the coastline.
- Don't miss out on trying traditional fish and chips from the nearby eateries.
- Bring a light jacket; it can get windy along the pier even on warm days.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving to Central Pier, head towards the Promenade in Blackpool. From the M55 motorway, take the A5230 exit towards Blackpool. Follow signs to the town center, and once you reach the Promenade, look for Central Pier which is located at FY1 5BB. There is limited street parking available, and you may need to pay for parking in designated areas. Expect to pay around £1.50 to £3.00 per hour depending on the location.
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Public Transport - Bus
Blackpool has an extensive bus network. You can catch any bus that goes to the town center or specifically to the Promenade. Look for services such as the number 1, 2, or 3, which frequently run through the city. Make sure to get off at stops near the Promenade. The fare is typically around £1.50 for a single journey. After disembarking, walk towards the seafront, and you will see Central Pier directly ahead.
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Public Transport - Tram
Blackpool's tram system is a convenient way to reach Central Pier. Board any tram heading towards the South Shore or Fleetwood, and get off at the Central Pier stop. Trams run frequently throughout the day, and a single fare is approximately £2.00. Once you step off the tram, Central Pier will be just a short walk away along the Promenade.
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Walking
If you are already in the vicinity of Blackpool's town center or the beach area, walking to Central Pier is a pleasant option. From the main shopping streets, head towards the Promenade, and walk along the seafront. Central Pier is about a 10-15 minute walk from the town center. The scenic walk along the seafront provides beautiful views and is a great way to experience the atmosphere of Blackpool.
Discover more about Central Pier
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Blackpool Town Hall
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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
1.0 km
A towering seafront cenotaph where Blackpool honours its fallen, blending solemn remembrance with the rhythm of the Irish Sea.
Everything Blackpool
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Blackpool's vibrant main artery connecting seaside charm with urban energy and LGBTQ+ pride.
Marsh Mill
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Lytham Windmill
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Rossall Point Watch Tower
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Discover stunning coastal views and rich maritime history at Rossall Point Watch Tower in Fleetwood, a must-visit destination for tourists.
Avenham and Miller Park
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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
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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
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National Trust - Rufford Old Hall
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Explore the historical beauty of Rufford Old Hall, a stunning Tudor manor offering rich heritage, beautiful gardens, and a glimpse into England's past.
Brock Valley Picnic Site
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Experience the tranquility of nature at Brock Valley Picnic Site – the perfect picnic spot in Claughton for families and nature lovers alike.
Lostock Hall Henge
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Brockholes
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Experience the beauty of nature at Brockholes Nature Reserve, a vibrant ecosystem perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and families seeking adventure.
Cuerden Valley Park
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Piel Castle
29.0 km
Explore the historical charm and stunning coastal views of Piel Castle, a medieval fortress on Piel Island, perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Unmissable attractions to see
Peter Rabbit™: Explore and Play - Blackpool
0.1 km
A magical indoor playground on Blackpool’s Promenade where young children explore, play, and immerse themselves in the world of Peter Rabbit™.
Madame Tussauds Blackpool
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Step into the spotlight at Madame Tussauds Blackpool, where lifelike wax figures and immersive zones bring your favourite celebrities to life on the Lancashire Promenade.
Blackpool Promenade
0.2 km
Experience the lively charm of Blackpool Promenade, where classic seaside fun meets iconic landmarks and vibrant entertainment.
The Gruffalo & Friends Clubhouse
0.2 km
A magical indoor playground on Blackpool’s Promenade, bringing Julia Donaldson’s stories to life with themed play zones, shows, and sensory spaces.
SEA LIFE Blackpool
0.2 km
Discover over 2,500 marine creatures and immersive underwater worlds at SEA LIFE Blackpool, a captivating family-friendly aquarium on the iconic Promenade.
Coral Island
0.4 km
Blackpool’s largest free-entry pirate-themed amusement arcade with rides, games, prize shops, and family dining where kids eat free daily.
Coral Island Casino
0.4 km
Blackpool’s largest indoor pirate-themed arcade and casino, offering family fun, thrilling rides, and adult gaming under one roof.
Showtown Blackpool
0.4 km
Dive into Blackpool’s dazzling entertainment history with interactive exhibits, live characters, and six vibrant galleries celebrating seaside showbiz.
The Blackpool Tower Circus
0.5 km
Experience the world’s oldest permanent circus arena with thrilling acts, iconic clowns, and a century of unforgettable entertainment inside Blackpool Tower.
The Comedy Carpet
0.5 km
Step onto Blackpool’s Comedy Carpet and walk through a monumental tribute to Britain’s greatest comedians and timeless humor.
The Blackpool Tower Ballroom
0.5 km
Dance where legends waltz: Britain's most iconic ballroom since 1894, where elegance meets timeless entertainment.
The Blackpool Tower
0.5 km
Experience breathtaking views, historic charm, and thrilling entertainment at Blackpool’s iconic Victorian landmark.
Blackpool Tower
0.5 km
A majestic Victorian landmark towering over Blackpool’s coastline, blending historic charm with thrilling views and timeless entertainment.
Houndshill Shopping Centre
0.5 km
Blackpool’s premier shopping destination with over 65 retailers, modern amenities, and a vibrant food court just behind the iconic Blackpool Tower.
Lower Promenade
0.5 km
A lively coastal promenade beneath Blackpool Tower, blending historic charm with festive events and stunning sea views.
Essential places to dine
The Buccaneer
0.4 km
Lively British pub dining with family-friendly classics and a playful pirate theme inside Blackpool’s Coral Island arcade.
Beach House Bistro & Bar
0.7 km
Stylish seaside bistro and bar in Blackpool offering fresh seafood, stunning Irish Sea views, and a vibrant Mediterranean-inspired atmosphere.
Vintro Lounge
0.8 km
Eclectic vintage charm meets inclusive dining with extensive vegan and gluten-free menus in the heart of Blackpool’s vibrant town centre.
West Coast Rock Cafe
0.8 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
0.8 km
A welcoming British café and grill in Blackpool known for hearty home-cooked meals, generous portions, and friendly service at great value.
Turtle Bay Blackpool
0.8 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavors and lively island vibes on Blackpool’s seafront at Turtle Bay, your destination for jerk chicken and bottomless brunch.
Amaro
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Authentic Italian flavors served generously in a stylish, welcoming setting near Blackpool’s Winter Gardens.
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Experience vibrant Indian street food with a modern twist in the heart of Blackpool’s lively Clifton Street.
La Fontana Ristorante Italiano
0.9 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm family hospitality in the heart of Blackpool’s vibrant dining scene.
Michael Wan's Mandarin
0.9 km
Experience authentic Cantonese cuisine in a vibrant, family-run Blackpool restaurant known for generous portions and exceptional vegan options.
Three Piers Cookhouse + Pub
0.9 km
Cozy British pub classics with generous portions and friendly service, steps from Blackpool’s iconic North Pier.
Sapori
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Experience authentic Italian flavours and lively atmosphere at Sapori, Blackpool’s beloved cosy Italian restaurant.
Michael Wan's Wok Inn • Pan-Asian Street Food
0.9 km
A lively Pan-Asian street food haven on Blackpool Promenade, blending bold flavors with a neon-lit, fun atmosphere.
Hauze
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Experience modern European dining in Blackpool with expertly crafted dishes and a welcoming atmosphere at Hauze.
Common Bar & Kitchen
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Golden Mile Gifts & Souvenirs
0.0 km
Affordable and friendly seaside souvenir shop offering classic Blackpool gifts along the vibrant Golden Mile Promenade.
Coronation Rock Co. Ltd.
0.5 km
Discover traditional British rock sweets and nostalgic flavors at Coronation Rock Co. Ltd., a charming sweetshop in the heart of Blackpool.
Menkind
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A fun, gadget-filled gift shop in Blackpool’s Houndshill Centre, specialising in unique presents for men, dads, and friends.
i CANDi
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Curated handbags and shoes with personalized service in Blackpool's town center.
Jawa Unique Toys
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Beau Belle Boutique
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Pink Poison
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Bubbles Den
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Henry's Nirvana Bazaar
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Blackpool's premier destination for locally crafted gifts and whimsical souvenirs with authentic character.
The Repository
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Hermosa Boutique
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Blackpool’s inclusive fashion boutique offering stylish clothing for women sizes 6-22 with a vibrant community and personalized service.
Scotties Got It
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Springfields
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ma Kelly’s
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Spyglass Bar
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THE HAPPY SCOTS BAR
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A lively Blackpool karaoke bar with cheap drinks, friendly faces, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
The Albert & The Lion - JD Wetherspoon
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Historic seafront pub offering classic British ales, hearty meals, and lively atmosphere near Blackpool Tower.
Albert's Ale Micropub & Wine Bar
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Cozy cellar micropub in Blackpool offering quality real ales, ciders, and wines in a friendly, dog-friendly atmosphere at great prices.
Revolution Blackpool
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Scruffy Murphys
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Brannigans
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Dirty Blondes
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Shenanigans
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The Bridge
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A lively Blackpool bar blending traditional pub charm with vibrant cabaret and karaoke nights for fun-filled evenings.
Yates - Market Street Blackpool
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Lively sports bar and nightclub in Blackpool’s heart, blending casual pub dining with vibrant nightlife and unbeatable sports coverage.
Le Plonk Wine Bar
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Hogarths
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Merrie England
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Hush Nightclub
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The Tache Rock Club
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Blackpool’s spirited rock nightclub offering authentic music, friendly vibes, and late-night energy in a casual setting.
Trilogy Nightclub
0.9 km
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Popworld - Blackpool
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Club underground
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Sanuk Nightclub
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Banff
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Switch Nightclub
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Energetic and affordable nightlife hub in Preston, popular with a middle-aged crowd and known for its lively atmosphere.
Popworld - Preston
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Popworld Preston: Where cheesy pop tunes meet vibrant nightlife and unforgettable party vibes in the heart of the city.
The Warehouse
24.4 km
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Park Hall Nightclub
30.8 km
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Hollywood Nightclub
35.5 km
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Manhattans Nightclub
35.5 km
Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.
The Lounge C9
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Pure Nightclub
40.6 km
Experience Wigan’s vibrant nightlife at Pure Nightclub, where energetic beats, stylish vibes, and unforgettable late-night memories come alive every Saturday.