The Blackpool Tower Ballroom

A Century of Dance and Grandeur

The Blackpool Tower Ballroom stands as one of Britain's most celebrated cultural landmarks, with a history stretching back to 1894 when it first opened as a modest pavilion. The venue was dramatically transformed in 1899 under the visionary design of renowned theatre architect Frank Matcham, whose redesign is considered one of his most important surviving works. The ballroom's interior conveys an impression of staggering opulence, with its Baroque styling, gold-leaf ceiling adorned with intricate plasterwork, and ornate balconies creating an atmosphere of unparalleled elegance. The venue was officially designated as a Grade I listed building in 1971, recognising its architectural and cultural significance.

The Heart of British Ballroom Dancing

The ballroom's expansive dance floor measures over 12,000 square feet and is constructed from sprung wood that absorbs shock and supports a softer step, making it one of the world's most famous dance floors. Overlooking this magnificent space are more than 30,000 individual spectator blocks crafted from mahogany, walnut, and oak, providing audiences with stellar views of performances. The venue has earned its reputation as the home of ballroom dancing in the United Kingdom, hosting generations of dancers and continuing to serve as the iconic setting for the BBC's annual Strictly Come Dancing ballroom special. The welcoming atmosphere encourages participation from dancers of all ages and abilities, from seasoned professionals to complete beginners, with live organ music providing the perfect soundtrack for waltzes, quicksteps, and traditional Gay Gordons.

The Legendary Wurlitzer Organ

At the heart of the ballroom's magic lies the magnificent Wurlitzer organ, a 14-rank instrument that rises from beneath the stage to fill the venue with enchanting melodies. The first Wurlitzer was installed in 1929 and was replaced in 1935 with a new instrument specified by the legendary organist Reginald Dixon, who played the ballroom's organ from 1930 until his retirement in 1970, excluding his service in the RAF during World War Two. Dixon's 40-year tenure established the ballroom as a world-renowned venue for organ music. Phil Kelsall has been playing the famous organ since 1975, continuing the tradition of exceptional musicianship. The organist performs a range of classic ballroom tunes, popular melodies, and singalongs, with live music continuing until 30 minutes before the day's closing time.

Resilience Through Fire and Restoration

In December 1956, the ballroom faced its greatest challenge when a devastating fire destroyed the dance floor and the restaurant below. Rather than succumb to this catastrophe, the venue was meticulously restored over two years at a cost of approximately £500,000, with many celebrated designers emerging from retirement to assist in the project. The restaurant was rebuilt as the Tower Lounge, and the ballroom was returned to its former splendour. More recently, comprehensive restoration work has been undertaken to repair the ornate period plasterwork ceiling, with highly skilled craftsmen dedicating over 21,000 hours to the project. This ongoing commitment to preservation ensures that the ballroom continues to enchant visitors for generations to come.

A Venue for All Occasions

The ballroom offers diverse experiences to suit all visitors. Guests can dance on the legendary floor to live organ accompaniment, enjoy watching professional and amateur dancers from the balconies or seated areas, or indulge in traditional afternoon tea while soaking in the spectacular atmosphere. The venue regularly hosts themed dance nights, live organ performances, and special events. The ballroom's strict historical rules—such as gentlemen not being permitted to dance unless with a lady—have long since been relaxed, reflecting the modern, inclusive spirit of the venue. Visitors are encouraged to dress elegantly to match the ballroom's vintage charm, and many take advantage of the opportunity to experience this iconic setting in true style.

Architectural Splendour and Cultural Significance

The ballroom's architectural features are as remarkable as its cultural heritage. Sparkling chandeliers hang from the ornate ceiling, and the rectangular dance floor is surrounded by elegant balconies offering multiple vantage points. The venue's interior design reflects the grandeur of 19th-century music halls, with every detail contributing to an atmosphere of refined beauty. The names of 16 composers are inscribed around the ballroom, honouring the musical traditions that define the space. Originally, two sections of the roof were designed to open during hot weather, demonstrating the thoughtful engineering of the Victorian era. The ballroom's significance extends beyond dance, as it has become an integral part of British popular culture through its association with Strictly Come Dancing and its role as a beloved destination for tourists and dance enthusiasts worldwide.