Traditions and culture in Blackpool

Blackpool unashamedly has its roots as a tourist destination, with the major development commencing in the mid-18th century when a private road was built to the town.

At that time, people believed that the practice of sea bathing was useful for curing diseases and so the road was designed to provide ease of access for the wealthy.

This sparked the beginning for Blackpool the holiday venue, something which exploded during the inter-war years - by 1930, the seaside resort was welcoming seven million visitors every year.

Although the number of people flocking to its shores has diminished from the record 17 million per year - particularly with the advent of cheap flights to Europe - it still remains a popular destination for a weekend break.

Things to do in Blackpool

Blackpool has developed in line with the needs of anyone taking a holiday there, so don't be surprised to find plenty of entertainment.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach, which features a wide range of rollercoaster rides and similar sources of amusement, is still one of Britain's most popular attractions.

The town also plays host to a number of variety shows featuring comics such as Ken Dodd and Roy 'Chubby' Brown, while the Blackpool Dance Festival is an internationally-acclaimed ballroom dance competition.

The impressive lighted displays that make up the Blackpool Illuminations - which stretch seven miles across the sea front - also draw in Britons during the autumn to winter months.

Nightlife in Blackpool is comparable with that of many major cities in England in the sense that it is very lively, with revellers drinking the nights away and hen and stag parties normally in good supply.

Rumour also has it that there are more 'bed and breakfast' hotels in Blackpool than there are in the whole of Portugal, so finding a cheap hotel in the town shouldn't pose too much of a problem.

Weather in Blackpool

Blackpool has a moderate climate - which is typical of many northern English towns - although the summers have tended to be particularly sunny in recent years and the winters fairly mild.

The coldest months are between December and February (average temperature of 3C), while the greatest rainfall is expected between September and November.

Destination checklist for Blackpool

Blackpool has a population of 142,500.

The town is on GMT/UTC time.

The official currency is the pound.

English is the official language spoken.

The town's international dialling code is +44.