Getting around Blackpool

Things to do in Blackpool | Getting around

While Blackpool is a great town for walking, there was some artistic license used when they named the main promenade the ‘Golden Mile’. In reality, the distance from the Blackpool Pleasure Beach in the south to the Blackpool Tower is more like three miles long. Luckily, it’s super easy to jump on a bus or tram to save your aching feet. And, while there’s plenty to do close to your Blackpool hotel, if you fancy a day trip out of town, a world of outstanding natural beauty awaits. Pretty mill towns, quaint seaside villages and stunning walks are right on its doorstep! You just need to know how to get there and luckily, our guide is here to help.

Airport transfers

Blackpool once had its own international airport. Sadly this stopped offering commercial flights in 2017 (although some flights are still available to the Isle of Man). Now, if you’re hoping to pay a flying visit to the Las Vegas of the North, your only options are Manchester and Liverpool Airports.

Manchester Airport is closest, taking about one and a half hours to Blackpool by public transport. Take the train from the airport railway station to Blackpool North, either going direct or changing at Preston.

Liverpool Airport takes about two hours by public transport. Take the regular shuttle bus to Liverpool South Parkway station and get the train from there to Blackpool North, changing either at Liverpool Lime Street or Manchester Piccadilly. And if you’ve got a late or early flight, booking into a hotel near Liverpool Airport can really help soothe your stress levels.

Manchester Airport nearby

Public transport

You’ve made it to your Blackpool hotel, but how are you going to get around town now you’re here?

If you’ve brought the car, you’ll be pleased to hear there are great parking facilities in the town, with a mix of short and long-stay, and even parking for motorhomes. Expect to pay around £2.50 for leaving your car for 90 minutes

Blackpool has a fantastic transport system, with bus services that connect with most of the major hotels and attractions. If you’re planning on doing more than one bus trip a day, it makes sense to buy a day saver online at the Blackpool Transport website.

Public transport

No trip to Blackpool is complete without a ride on the tram. The town’s tram line is 12 miles long, and runs from Starr Gate to Fleetwood Ferry (perfect if you wanted to get to Affinity Lancashire shopping village) stopping near to all the major attractions. Most trams are modern but the vintage variety still run at weekends.

Blackpool is a great place to cycle, with several dedicated routes. Whizzing along the Promenade is popular, but you’ll need to watch out for strolling pedestrians. Cycling’s allowed everywhere in the town centre too, but the town’s trams and buses don’t allow unfolded bikes. There’s covered bike storage at Blackpool North railway station or just keep your wheels in your Blackpool hotel room, because all Premier Inn hotels are bike-friendly!

Train Stations

Blackpool has not one but three train stations: Blackpool North, Blackpool South and Blackpool Pleasure Beach.

Blackpool North is the main station and has a lot more services than Blackpool South and Blackpool Pleasure Beach, as it’s on a different line to the other two. The station is served by Northern and Virgin Trains, with one train per hour to Preston, Liverpool Lime Street, Manchester and Leeds, and four trains per day to London Euston. Staying in our hotel near Blackpool North station means you’ll be less than three miles away from your train.

Three train stations at Blackpool

Blackpool South isn’t connected to Blackpool North, and only has hourly services to Preston on weekdays and Saturdays.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach station has an hourly service northbound to Blackpool South only. Heading south it can take you to Preston, Blackburn and Colne.

Looking for a hotel in Blackpool?

Seaside kitsch, mountainous sticks of rock and an eye-watering electricity bill - it has to be Blackpool. Light up your visit to the Vegas of the North with a stay at the Premier Inn Blackpool (Beach). And our Premier Inn Hotel Blackpool Airport is right by the airport, yet within walking distance of the seafront.