Blackpool and The Northwest Of England

Photo from Flickr by Jonesemyr

Enjoy views of the Irish Sea while visiting Blackpool and the northwest of England. The area remained sparsely populated until the eighteenth century, when sea water baths became popular with the English population. The area currently hosts a number of conferences and cultural events during the year.

Northwest England is one of nine official English regions. A number of residents were born in the United Kingdom, but a large immigrant population also resides in the area. English, Celtic, South Asian dialects and Spanish are among the commonly spoken languages.

After being connected with the rest of England via railway construction in the 1840s, Blackpool emerged as a tourist destination. New settlement increased city size and by 1876 the area was incorporated as a borough. By 1901 the area’s reputation as a seaside resort was firmly established. The promenade attraction included theatres, donkey rides and fortune tellers.

Today, Blackpool remains a favourite summertime destination for UK residents. Enjoy live performances at the Grand Theatre, as shows run regularly throughout the summer. Shall We Dance, a movie starring Jennifer Lopez, featured the Blackpool Dance Festival, an internationally recognized ballroom dance competition. From late August to early November, Blackpool Illuminations light up the sea front. The area is affectionately known as the gay capital of the North, providing a safe haven for alternative lifestyles. 


Additional attractions include the Blackpool Tower, designed after the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Three piers hold shops, arcade centres and various rides. Funny Girls, located on Dickson Road, is home to a drag cabaret burlesque show bar. Visit the chamber of horrors at Louis Tussaud’s Waxworks. Board the Blackpool tram, one of the oldest electrical versions in the world, for a leisurely, self-guided city tour. Many area attractions are accessible by train or bus.

During low season, Winter Gardens hosts a number of political and trade union conferences. Conference rooms, a theatre and ballroom are located inside the facility. Since 1994, the World Matchplay darts tournament has been held every July at the venue.

The northwest of England is a great part of the UK to experience by renting a holiday cottage, allowing you to really get a feel for the area or perhaps see a more homely side if you’re staying in one of the big cities. If you live here and have recently thought I could make a bit of money if I let my holiday home then a bit of internet research will show how you can open your home to visitors.

Aaron Bradford has written 498 articles. +Aaron Bradford is the leader, mentor and chief geek of HappyTimeblog. He put together the crack team of writers known by codename “The Firm“. He's a permanent traveller and a lifestyle hacker. Wanna know more? Check out my Bucket List or my About page... I'm here to show you how to live a Life Less Ordinary