They say the best things in life are free, and when it comes to Blackpool, we think that just may be the case. From walks along the glorious beach and piers to marvelling at some pretty iconic landmarks, no-one is short of things to see and do here. Downtime as a social worker doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg, in fact, it doesn’t have to cost anything at all. So if you’re looking for something fun to do with your friends and family this weekend, take them all to Blackpool, and go and enjoy yourselves.
Our Favourite Free Places In Blackpool To Have Some Fun
Penny Farm (Preston New Road, Blackpool, FY4 5JS)
Located just a 10 minute drive from the centre of Blackpool, Penny Farm is a rescue and rehabilitation centre run by the charity, World Horse Welfare. Home to 65 friendly horses, visitors can walk around the fields and paddocks, have horse rides and take part in activities that every horse lover would just revel in. Volunteers at Penny Farm will happily show you around and introduce you to the horses. Dale’s Trails are also fun – two great routes with lots of activities to keep the kids busy as you take in the countryside and wildlife. You’ll see horses and ponies grazing in the fields, and learn all about the birds that live there. Dogs are welcome too, so they can join in with the fun.
‘’This is a really nice place to go to see some wonderful horses who are being looked after so well by a brilliant team. A lot of the horses are rescued from bad situations and rehabilitated with lots of love and care. The stables are indoors and you can walk around and pat the horses as they look out from their stable doors. Information on the story of each horse is up by each stable so you can see what the horse is called and a bit about it. They do children’s birthday parties. You can go outside and see horses in the fields. It has a little gift shop and a recently renovated cafe area. The new cafe is really lovely, modern and has a fabulous veranda open up in sunny weather where you can sit outside. Overall such a brilliant sanctuary and amazing work to stop the suffering of these beautiful animals and look after them.’’ Ruby A.
Coronation Candy (Unit 3, Wellington Point, Amy Johnson Way, Blackpool, FY4 2RG)
We all deserve a little treat every now and then, so if you want that treat to be sweet, then we recommend a trip to Coronation Candy – the largest rock manufacturer in Blackpool. Famed for its sugary sweet lollipops, candy canes and unique rock stick creations, it welcomes visitors to the factory to see all of their products being made. Not only are the factory tours free of charge, but you’ll also be treated to a free lollipop too – a real winner in our eyes.
Fun Fact: To help promote Peter Kay: Live at the Top of the Tower in 2000, Coronation Candy built the world’s largest stick of rock, measuring 14 foot and weighing in at nearly 70 stone. We were trying to work out how long that would take us to eat here at Portman!
‘’We went here for a visit during our family holiday and I’m glad we did. When we in the viewing gallery of the factory it was great to look down and see how the rock is made. The smell is amazing! The lady who owns the factory was in the factory working as well. She popped up and said hello to us and explained the extent of their work, which is absolutely unbelievable. She brought us up 4 pieces of warm Irn Bru rock, straight from the factory and honestly…it was amazing! My children still talk about how lovely it was! We ended up buying lots of rock here, which I’m glad we did! Definitely go if you are in Blackpool on holiday!’’ Jamie L.
Walk Along The South, Central And North Piers
South Pier: Promenade, Blackpool FY4 1BB
Central Pier: Promenade, Blackpool FY1 5BB
North Pier: North Pier Promenade, Blackpool FY1 1NE
When you fancy a wander and don’t quite mind where you end up, then a walk along one of Blackpool’s piers is always a good shout.
On the South Pier, you will find:
- The Laughing Donkey Family Bar: Full of great acts including singer Emma, magician Aldini and clown Magic Malki.
- Rides: Crazy Coaster (the UK’s fastest, tallest spinning wild mouse), a logfume, waltzer and dodgems, among other great rides.
- Kiosks: Offering a range of shopping and entertainment experiences, including rock shops, ice cream parlours, toy shops and a palm reader.
Great nearby restaurants include:
On the Central Pier, you will find:
- Kings and Queens Show: The ultimate in tribute acts – featuring the ‘likes’ of Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston and George Michael.
- Rides: Dodgems, Rock ‘N’ Roll Express and the Big Wheel among other great rides.
- The Pirate’s Bay: A restaurant where you can grab delicious meals, including fish and chips, pizza, sandwiches and pies.
Superb nearby restaurants include:
On the North Pier, you will find:
- North Pier Theatre: A great place to catch a show of the comedic and musical variety.
- The Sunset Lounge: A Victorian sun lounge with lots of comfy seating and stunning views out to see. Live music enhances the experience, and you’re always promised a good time.
- Arcades: A great selection of video games, fruit machines, prize machines and much more.
Wonderful nearby restaurants include:
‘’This place has everything for kids and adults. There is not a dull moment as the place is family friendly’’ Renade F.
Come on. You know you deserve a day off. Go and explore Blackpool with the people that you care about the most. For more information on places to go, please give us a call on 0161 327 0936 and we’d only be too happy to help.