Children and bathing machines on the beach, with advertisements for 'J. Singleton & Co' and 'Hovis Bread: the best of all breads.'

Seaside

Seaside

The seaside is where it all began for Blackpool. Seeing families during the Victorian era flocking to the resort to enjoy the fresh air and beaches. Blackpool has seen many developments over the years and is now considered one of the most popular seaside resorts in the UK.

Our research gives us a deeper understanding of Blackpool in the early days during a time of intense development for the town.

Gallery Highlights

Sharon Heppell

In Conversation with Sharon Heppell

Learn more from historian, Sharon Heppell, about her Romany Gypsy ancestry in Blackpool.

Crowds on beach in front of shipwreck

The Wreck of the Sirene

The story of one of Blackpool's most dramatic shipwrecks, the day the Sirene struck the North Pier.

Children riding donkeys on the beach

The Tale of Two Donkeys

Blackpool is famous for its Donkeys, but did you know it used to host an annual Donkey Derby Race?

Other things to Discover

Related content

Charlie Cairoli performing

Circus

Discover more about the circus community and those people of significance who have made Blackpool Tower Circus the longest running circus in the UK.

Magic

Blackpool inspired so many magicians over the years but many of these stories have gone untold. Here we begin to unravel those significant links between Blackpool and the world of magic.

Entrance to the Blackpool Tower building with signs for 'Pavilion, Concerts, Dancing & Variety Shows.'

Stories from the community

More fascinating stories of Blackpool, researched by our volunteers and other members of the community, that all add to the town's rich heritage.